Vero's Voice Issue 143 December 2022

Every day, we help turn dream smiles into a reality. As one of the most soughtafter 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 stateof-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.

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Interesting Christmas Tidbits

FROM AROUND THE WORLD

E very year at 3 pm on Christmas Eve, about 40% of Sweden sits down to watch the 1958 Disney’s special From All of Us to All of You Since 1959, the show has been airing without commercial interruption at the same time every December 24 on Sweden’s main public television channel and is one of the three most popular TV events each year. Lines of the cartoon’s dialogue have become common Swedish parlance.

“Do You Hear What I Hear” was inspired by the Cuban Missile Crisis. The line about the star “with a tail as big as a kite” isn’t the Star of Bethlehem: it’s a missile.

Christmas decorating sends nearly 15,000 people to the ER.

“Jingle Bells” was originally written for a Thanksgiving celebration.

The letter “X” in X-mas is not an abbreviation. It stands for “Chi” meaning Christ in Greek.

The first Christmas in America land was in 1539 in Tallahassee, Florida. There were no trees or presents, just a religious mass. Elvis recorded “White Christmas” in 1957. Composer Irving Berlin tried to get it banned from the radio.

The first Salvation Army collection kettle was at San Francisco’s Oakland Ferry. It was a large crab pot with a sign that read “Keep the Pot Boiling.”

A Charlie Brown Christmas defied expectations upon its release in 1965, with nearly half of the TVowning public tuning in to watch the cartoon.

An estimated 3.6 million Japanese families treat themselves to a bucket of Kentucky Fried Chicken for Christmas.

Alabama was the first state to officially recognize Christmas as an official holiday.

We have Coca-Cola to thank for the jolly image of Santa we recognize now. In 1931 they hired an illustrator to depict Santa for magazine ads.

Black Friday, the day after Thanksgiving, sees lots of shoppers, but the most hectic shopping days of the year are the Friday and Saturday before Christmas.

Santa has his own Canadian postal code: HOH OHO.

udolph was almost named Rollo or Reginald, and the remaining reindeer Flossie, Glossie, Racer, Pacer, Scratcher, Feckless, Ready, Steady and Fireball.

Australians have their own version of “The Twelve Days of Christmas” where all of the animals are replaced by wildlife from Down Under.

“Silent Night” is the most recorded song.

It only took four days for A Christmas Carol to completely sell out 6,000 copies. The book was so popular that it was reprinted 13 separate times within the year.

Vero’s Voice Magazine is published monthly. Copyright © Vero’s Voice Magazine 2010 - 2022, all rights reserved. Reproduction of contents in print or electronic transmission in whole or in part in any language or format must be by express written permission of the publisher. All articles, descriptions and suggestions in this magazine are merely expression of opinions from contributors and advertisers and do not constitute the opinion of the publisher, editor or staff of Vero’s Voice Magazine, and under no circumstances constitutes assurances or guarantees concerning the quality of any service or product. Vero’s Voice Magazine specifically disclaims any liability related to these expressions and opinions. The advertiser agrees to hold harmless and indemnify the publisher from all liability.

Christmas traditions

Bring Joy to the World

by Susan Atherton

Pies and Pudding in England

Much like we do in the United States, Christmas Eve in England is a day full of anticipation for children and adults alike as they wrap presents, bake cookies, decorate the Christmas tree, and hang stockings over the fireplace.

Children write letters to Father Christmas and then toss them into the fireplace, believing their wishes fly up the chimney for him. Children in England also leave out a much more adult version of cookies and milk for Father Christmas in the form of mince meat pies and brandy, plus a carrot for Rudolph.

Presents are opened the next morning, and the main meal is served early afternoon. The dinner table is decorated with a Christmas “cracker” for each person – tubes covered in crepe paper that “pop” when you break them open revealing a paper hat to wear at dinner, small toys, and a riddle or joke to be read to

everyone at dinner. First introduced in the mid1800s, the Christmas cracker’s popularity has soared throughout Britain, with more than 120 million crackers popped open each Christmas!

Food remains an important part of Christmas traditions across the globe. The main meal in En gland is similar to our Christmas dinner: turkey with all the trimmings, chestnut stuffing, gravy, brussel sprouts are likely to be served, roasted vegetables, and crispy potatoes. In years past, roasted beef was tradition fare in northern En gland, while roasted goose was served in London and southern England.

Desserts might be tubs of chocolate candies, trifles, mince pies, the famous (or infamous)

As the magic of the Christmas season is felt all over the world, festive celebrations reflect local cultures and cherished traditions that are passed down from one generation to the next. Many of these traditional customs and practices offer historical significance, as well as providing the opportunity for holiday trivia from countries around the world.

Popping open crackers

fruitcake, and the traditional Christmas pudding, topped with a sprig of holly. Whoever finds the silver coin baked in their serving of pudding will have good luck the coming year. It’s also traditional for everyone who lives in the household to simultaneously hold onto the wooden spoon, stir the batter for the pudding, and make a wish.

A wassail bowl filled with hot spiced cider, ale or wine, tops off the day’s festivities. It is said that all quarrels stop when people drink wassail!

Fun fact: Throughout the holiday season, people in England wish each other a “Happy Christmas.” The simple reason for using this term is because the word “Merry” is British slang for being drunk!

Holidays in Holland

In Holland, children eagerly await the arrival of St. Nicholas, or Sinterklaas, a kindly bishop with a white beard, red robes and a tall, pointed mitre on his head, who carries a long curled shepherd’s staff. He travels with helpers called Zwarte Pieten, who have a book that tells whether children have been bad or good. In November, they all travel to Holland by ship thought to be coming from Spain and when they arrive, local church bells ring and Sinterklaas leads a parade on his white horse, bearing a huge sack full of gifts.

That evening chil dren across the country leave a clog by the door or fireplace and sing songs. They fill the clog with hay and carrots for Sinterklaas’ horse. Children believe one of his helpers will climb down the chimney and fill their shoe with presents and candy.

Sounds very similar to our traditions here in the United States, with Sinterklaas looking very much like our own version of Santa Claus.

Families celebrate St. Nicholas Eve, December 5th, with lots of good food, hot chocolate, and a letterbanket, a “letter cake” made in the shape of the first letter of the family’s last name.

Sweden and Santa Lucia

To the north in Sweden, Christmas festivities begin on December 13th with St. Lucia’s Day. The celebration comes from stories told by Monks who brought Christianity to Sweden. St. Lucia was a young Christian girl who was killed for her faith in 304. It’s believed she secretly brought food

to persecuted Christians living in the catacombs of Rome, and wore candles on her head so she had both hands free to carry the food; hence, she is known as the patron saint of light.

St. Lucia’s Day celebrations started in the 1700s, and are recognized in neighboring countries as well.

Today, the eldest daughter gets up before dawn and dresses as the “Queen of Light” in a long white dress with red sash and wears a crown of leaves. Singing “Santa Lucia,” the Lucia Queen goes to every bedroom to serve coffee and treats to each member of the family. Breakfast consists of Lussekatts, buns flavored with saffron and dot ted with raisins. (In some parts of Italy children are told that St. Lucia brings them presents, and they leave out a sandwich for her and the donkey that helps carry the gifts.)

The main Christmas feast is served on Christmas Eve. It’s usually a buffet called a julbord, offering a wide assortment of cold fish and meats, liver pate, meatballs, sausages, stuffed cabbage rolls, jellied pigs’ feet, pork ribs, and a variety of vegetables. Janssons frestelse, a potato casserole, is also served during the meal, and for dessert, there are homemade pastries and pepparkakor, or gingerbread cookies.

After the meal, excitement reigns as presents are opened from under the Christmas tree. Many still adhere to the tradition that each present should have a rhyme written on the wrapping paper, to hint at the contents without revealing them.

Santa Claus does not come down the chimney here, but knocks on the door and asks, “Finnsdetnågrasnälla barn här?” (“Are there any nice children here?”)

In Holland children fill a clog or shoe with hay and carrots for Sinterklaas’ horse. Children believe one of his helpers will climb down the chimney and fill their shoe with presents and candy.

Sinterklaas

Delivering lusskatts to each member of the family.

Ancient Cities and Traditions

Now we travel east, across the globe to look at traditions in southern Asia. Compared to other religious celebrations in India, Christmas is a relatively small festival. Only about 5% of India’s population is Christian according to a recent census – but that being said, the population is 1.4 billion, so there are over 68 million Christians in India. As such, many Christmas traditions remain from the time when India was a British colony.

Christmas is celebrated in different ways throughout the country. The state of Goa, for instance, has a strong Western influence: Christians go Christmas caroling and attend a Christmas Eve Midnight Mass service. They hang giant paper lanterns shaped like stars between the houses so the stars float above the people walking by.

Christmas here is a community event and is celebrated in the form of public feasting known as Lengkhawm Zai. Families enjoy the huge commu nal feast before walking to mass. The feast includes Sorpatel, a pork curry of Portuguese origin – a popular Christmas dish in Goa, as is spicy pork vindaloo. Plum cakes made with orange peel and various fruits soaked in rum are specially prepared for the occasion.

The churches are decorated with poinsettias and candles. Instead of a traditional Christmas tree, other native trees are decorated, such as a ba nana or mango tree. Many Christians in Goa also celebrate Epiphany, and remember the visit of the three Wise Men and display nativity scenes.

Christmas is called Badaa Din, meaning the Big Day, and Santa Claus, who is called Christmas Baba, gives gifts to children.

Heading northeast we come to China, where Christmas is called Sheng Dan Jieh, which means Holy Birth Festival. Christians decorate their homes with evergreens, posters, and bright paper chains. The fam ily puts up a Christmas tree, called “tree of light,” and decorate it with beautiful lanterns, flowers, and red paper chains that symbolize happi ness. They cut out red pagodas to paste on the windows, and light their houses with paper lanterns.

Christmas trees in China are typically made of plastic. Ironically, most of the world’s plastic Christmas trees and decorations are made in China, yet the people making them may not know what they’re for!

Warm-Weather Wonderlands:

In Australia, Christmas comes in the middle of the summer because of their location south of the equator. Decorations include Christmas bushes, plants with small red-flowered leaves native to Australia, and people decorate their homes with Christmas trees and other traditional decorations and ornaments. Santa Claus delivers the presents and fills the stockings. Various parades are staged, the most famous being the Adelaide Christmas Pageant.

While Christmas dinner can be casual and suited to the warm weather, such as an outdoor barbeque, many people still enjoy a more traditional meal like roast turkey or chicken with stuffing, and other trimmings such as small sausages wrapped in bacon and a wide variety of vegetables. Christmas pudding and mince pies are a traditional dessert served with brandy butter.

The weather is also warm and mild in Mexico during the Christmas season. Families shop for gifts, ornaments, and good things to eat in the market. They decorate their homes with lilies and evergreens. Family mem bers cut intricate designs in brown paper bags to make lanterns, or farolitos, placing a candle inside, and then set the far olitos along sidewalks, on windowsills, and on rooftops and outdoor walls to illuminate the community with the spirit of Christmas. Mexican customs and traditions include the Las Posadas festival, which begins Decem ber 16th and ends December 24th, with Epiphany (January 6th) marking the end of the festivities.

Also south of the equator, Christmas in Brazil, the largest Catholic country in the world, is a blend of all the spirit of Christmas and all the spirit of Brazil. Imagine Father Christmas in Brazil or Papai Noel arriving by helicopter on the rooftop of a shopping center, Christmas gifts while sunbathing on the beach, Christmas carols mixed with samba rhythms, Secret Santa, Panettone. It’s a tropical event in the land of samba, full of traditions, imagery and food. Brazilian Christmas is fascinating and joyful.

Brazilians choose to honor the Nativity scene in a special way during the Christmas holiday.

Large star-shaped lanterns hang between the houses in Goa, India

Christmas caroling is a popular tradition in many parts of the world

The Nativity is a vital part of the Christmas story. Brazilians choose to honor the Nativity scene in a special way during the Christmas holiday. Called preseios, these scenes are created en masse in Brazilian cities at Christmastime and are extremely popular during this time.

Accompanying some of these Nativity scenes are Christmas plays that tell the tale of the Nativity as it is widely recognized in the Bible. However, the Brazilian play adds a small twist, including a woman or a shepherdess who attempts to steal the baby Jesus.

Christmas Eve is the main event of the holiday season and many fam ilies recognize midnight to be the true beginning of the official Christmas holiday. It is traditional for families to gather that night and enjoy a large meal, which is typically served around 10 at night: turkey with Brazilian

ganache. And of course, the beloved Italian Panettone bread made with raisins, candied fruit peels, almonds and brandy.

Misa de Gallo, the Mass of the Rooster, is a very important event during Brazilian Christmas. The Brazilian midnight mass adds a bit of excitement, as it is traditional for fireworks to be set off when the clock strikes midnight to celebrate the coming of Jesus. The Brazilian mass has earned its name because it can sometimes last through the entire night, or until the rooster crows.

The tradition of Secret Santa is a staple of Bra zilian Christmas. Known as Amigo Secreto, friends and family typically give one another gifts anony mously. The gift-giver has the opportunity to play a short game with the recipi ent as well as the rest of the family. The gift-giver takes this time to describe the person receiving the gift, making everyone attempt to guess who the gift is for. Once a correct guess has been made, the gift-giver reveals their recipient and hands over their gift. Brazilians love this game and it can sometimes last for hours.

However, while the Amigo Secreto tradition is perfect for adults, children’s presents are still known to be brought by Santa Claus. Some Brazilian children leave a sock at their window, which Papai Noel is said to exchange for a gift.

Brazil’s imagery of Santa Claus fits the popular imagery we’re familiar with. Tales are told among Brazilian children of a Papai Noel who makes a costume change into red silk when making his stop in the hot climate.

sides – beans, rice, farofa temperada (a cassava semolina, fried in butter and mixed with raisins, bacon and olives), couve (collard greens), shrimp soups, sliced tomatoes, and the famous bacalhau (cod).

A few favorite desserts for Christmas include rabanada, a Brazilian French toast with sugar and cinnamon; brigadeiro, a chocolate truffle with a caramel texture; pacoca, made up of groundnut, cassava flour, sugar, and salt, one of the most loved desserts of Brazil; and torta holandesa, a pie made of a layer of wafers, wrapped in cream, garnished with dark chocolate

Many Brazilians choose to hit the beach on December 25th, enjoying the holiday and spending time with their friends and family. Brazilians recog nize the Epiphany which is revered as the true heart of the holiday, making it a sacred day among many.

In contrast with the global traditions that serve to make us different from one another, one tradition remains the same throughout the world – the celebration of the season and all that it brings, which truly makes it the most wonderful time of the year!

The world's largest floating Christmas tree in Rio de Janeiro

Torta Holandesa

"Secret Santa" is a much loved gift-giving tradition in Brazil

VOICES

OF VERO

by Steve Glaser

What is your favorite holiday memory?

One of my favorite holiday memories was going skiing with my whole family!

Cynthia Ryan, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, VETERAN’S COUNCIL OF IRC

Christmas is the one time a year that we are always able to get my entire family together.

Robyn Berry, SPECIAL EVENTS COORDINATOR, HERITAGE CENTER

I was so surprised on Christmas morning to receive a G.I. Joe Base as a gift for my 6th Christmas.

David Imler, SHACK SHINE

I remember when I was 15 years old and was so surprised waking up on Christmas morning to see two gold Schwinn bicycles for my brother and me.

Jim Kordiak,

KIWANIS OF VERO BEACH

My favorite Christmas memory was going to a festival called Overly’s Country Christmas!

It was snowing, a large bonfire was going, and everyone was singing Christmas carols around the fire as I was drinking hot chocolate.

Trisha Cloyd, MARKETING MANAGER, TWO MEN AND

TRUCK MOVING & STORAGE

A

I have very fond memories of my mom making cookies and homemade gifts. She always tried to make the holidays very special, especially while my dad was in Vietnam.

Terri L. Sellon, USAF, RETIRED

I remember my first Christmas in Canada. Very different than my previous holidays in Cuba.

Niurka Barroso, PHOTOGRAPHER

Years ago, I was together with my entire family and I was honored to light my great grandmother’s Menorah.

I was six years old and was so happy to find Patti PlayPal as my special gift.

Elaine Florence, INTERIOR DECORATOR

Years ago we moved in with my stepdad and it was a wonderful time as two families came together, and we danced.

Kevin Beber, MOSQUITO JOE

My favorite holiday memory is walking down Main Street in Disney World with my two young kids, hand-in-hand, seeing the Castle shining brightly. I will never forget the sparkle in their eyes as they took all of the magic in.

Crystal Rhiannon, THE BRANDED COLLECTIVE

I remember from my childhood looking forward to going downstairs and seeing what Santa brought me and my brother around our Christmas tree.

Keith Kramer

Dahlia Gotzmann, BROKER/OWNER, ATLANTIC KEY REALTY

The holidays’ are a special time of year to enjoy time with family and good friends, creating everlasting memories while reminiscing about cherished past memories.

Marianne Howell

One of the most honored musicals of the American theater, Man of La Mancha was inspired by Miguel de Cervantes’ 17th Century masterpiece, Don Quixote. Winner of five Tony Awards®, including best musical, Man of La Mancha is a powerful, funny, and heartbreaking musical celebrating the perseverance of one man who refuses to relinquish his ideals, and who is determined to see life “not as it is, but as it ought to be.”

OF VERO VOICES

by Steve Glaser

Last month Powerball exceeded two billion dollars to a single winner.

If you were the winner, WHAT WOULD YOU DO WITH THE MONEY?

First, before I claim my winnings I would hire a great attorney. I would probably purchase a few homes and open a bank account in Switzerland.

Chris “Hoppy” Hopkins, DBJ HOME INSPECTIONS

My sons, nieces and nephews would all be taken care of. I would start a few nonprofits, one for MS, and another would be a Woman’s Shelter.

Colleen VanAuken, 4TH GRADE TEACHER

I would give half to the church to help those in need. I would buy a new house and do what I can to help my children.

I would establish multiple after-school programs getting kids off the streets and involved in supervised and safe activities.

Wendy Subasic, PA EMERGENCY UROLOGIST

Jim Sullivan, FDNY, RETIRED

I would be so happy to help family members and others who are in need of help.

I would just be happy living off the interest!

Delaney

I really do not need or want anything special. I’m grateful for my good health.

I may use a lot of my winnings to end world hunger.

Bernadette Sinnott

I always wanted to help other aspiring artists reach their dreams.

My dream is to open up a center for domestic violence victims and their children focusing on their recovery. It would be very rewarding to see them regain their lives and become successful.

Shelly Fitzpatrick, INVESTOR

I would most likely buy a new house and a new car. I always wanted a Jeep Rubicon.

Jim Adsit

I would probably spend a lot of it. Possibly buying a new home, a new car and a yacht.

Rex Thompson, IRISH AMERICAN CLUB

I would love to help family and friends. I would also invest in multiple businesses.

Colleen Jordan, LOCAL ENTERTAINER

Marlin Martinez, SENIOR, VERO BEACH HIGH SCHOOL

Billy

Sven Frisell, REALTOR, COMPASS REALTY

REVIEWS

The Christmas Candle

Rated PG – Amazon Prime, Roku by Del Bates

Do you believe in miracles? Have you ever wanted to be lieve but something in your past held you back from having the faith to believe in the im possible?

If so, you’re not alone; Pastor David Richmond, played by Hans Matheson, is right there with you. He’s recently accepted a position at a church in the tiny 1890’s English village of Gladbury and is the main character in the 2013 production of The Christmas Candle This touching family movie is based on a novel by award-winning author and pastor Max Lucado.

Candlemakers Edward Haddington, played by Sylvester McCoy, and his wife Bea (Lesley Manville) make can dles for their village. Every 25 years an angel comes to bless one of the can dles, and the candlemakers give that candle to a special person in need, tell ing the person to light the candle and pray and they will be granted a miracle.

On this 25th year, the rack of candles acci dentally tips over and the candlemakers don’t know which candle is the “special” candle. So Bea has this idea to hand out every candle to various needy villagers with the same instruc tions to light the candle and pray.

Remaining skeptical about the miracle of this “special” candle, Pastor Richmond tries to mod ernize the town by installing electric lights in the church and do away with the candles altogether.

Sadly, his plan backfires. As he has everyone extinguish their candles at the yearly na tivity service, he proceeds to pull down

the newly-installed levers on the side wall – one, two, and three.

Instantly electric lights illu minate the church, front, back, and even a brilliant star above the manger – only to hear snap, crackle, and pop! Bulbs were bursting every where and before they knew it the manger sud denly became a bed of flames. Chaos erupts as everyone tries to escape.

Sadness overwhelms the town as Eleanor Hopewell, played by Susan Boyle of Britain’s Got Talent fame, stands at the gravesite of her husband Herbert who died of a heart attack trying to extinguish the fire.

This turn of events, and Pastor Richmond’s quest to modernize the town, sets him at odds with the old-world candlemaker. The pastor does a bit of soul searching and must face his past, los ing his wife and child many years ago. Maybe it’s time to let go and try to believe again.

The Christmas Candle is both a touching hol iday tale and meditation on the value of using one’s faith to create everyday miracles.

Take time during this Christmas season to increase your faith and watch this Hallmark-like movie. Yes, you will find a bit of romance as the lovely Emily Barstow (Samantha Barks) remains his unlikely ally. What is a Christmas movie without love?

See what happens in the exciting climax and discover who really got the “special” Christmas candle and how it becomes a miracle for one and all.

THE CHRISTMAS CANDLE:

Del Bates is an award-winning author and speaker. Her latest book “Walking in a Minefield -- A Sojourner’s Guide to Overcoming Life’s Obstacles” is available on Amazon. Del co-hosts the podcast Seeds of Hope with Penny Cooke Thursdays at 11:00 AM on Vero’s Voice. You can find more at Delbates.com.

Del Bates

Sponsored by the Military Moms Prayer Group

Post Office for mailing to an APO or FPO address is $20.00.

ALL VENUES IN VERO BEACH UNLESS OTHERWISE NOTED.

American Icon Brewery, 1133 19th Place

Barefoot Café, 2036 14th Ave.

Barker Air Conditioning & Heating, 1936 Commerce Ave.

Barker Air Conditioning & Heating, 825 U.S. 1, Sebastian

BigShots Golf, 3456 U.S. 1

Busy Bee Lawn & Garden Center, 7445 U.S. 1, Winter Beach

Charlotte Terry Real Estate Group, 2911 Ocean Drive

Christ by the Sea United Methodist Church, 3755, A1A

Christ Church Vero Beach, 667 20th Street (corner 6th Ave.)

Cravings, 3149 Ocean Drive

CW Willis Family Farms, 3700 9th St. SW

elle 7 twenty salon + spa, 2083 Indian River Blvd. (behind Panera)

Eye Clinic of Vero & Optical Boutique, 634 21st St. (Miracle Mile) Nail Art, 1355 U.S. 1 (near Five Guys)

PackMart, U.S. 1, Sebastian

Pak Mail Beachside, 505 Beachland Blvd.

Pareidolia Brewing Co., 712 Cleveland St., Sebastian Perfect Way Pavers, 470 4th Lane SW, #101

Postal Connections, 1275 U.S. 1, 12th St. Plaza (behind Carrabba’s)

Sailfish Brewing Company, 2855 Ocean Drive

Sebastian Municipal Golf Course, 100 Brush Foot Drive, Sebastian St. Lucie Battery & Tire, 10435 U.S. 1, Sebastian

Studio 14/Zumba Works, 1962 14th Avenue

Sturgis Lumber, 4645 U.S. 1, Gifford

Surface Design Studio, 3960 U.S. 1

The UPS Store, Treasure Coast Plaza (Miracle Mile)

Vero Fitness, 1060 Sixth Avenue

Vero Strength & Conditioning, 760 8th Court, Ste. #4

Victory Center Military Store, Indian River Mall (near JC Penney)

Vittorio’s Pizza, 2980 Oslo Road

Vittorio’s Pizza, 9615 U.S. 1, Sebastian

by Barbara Freund

COOKIES!! COOKIES!!

Gabriela was a regular contributor to our magazine when she was in high school. Her love for food was evident in her writing and we looked forward to her delightful articles each month. "Cookies" was written ten years ago. She has since earned her undergraduate degree from the University of Notre Dame, DDS degree from the University of Florida College of Dentistry, and is now in a Dental Residency Program in Tampa. We wish her much happiness and success!

ZIMTSTERNE COOKIES

INGREDIENTS

3 egg whites

1 pinch salt

2 cups powdered sugar

2 ²/3 cups ground almonds

1 1/2 tablespoons cinnamon

2 tablespoons lemon juice

INSTRUCTIONS

• Preheat oven to 475 degrees. Line two cookie sheets with parchment paper.

• Beat the egg whites and add pinch of salt and the powdered sugar. Continue beating until stiff. Set aside 1/2 cup for icing the cookies.

• Knead the ground almonds with the cinnamon and lemon juice. Mix well with meringue mixture to make a stiff dough.

• Dust work surface with powdered sugar. Roll the dough to 1/2 inch, adding powdered sugar as needed. Cut into star shapes and place on cookie sheets.

• Carefully top the cookies with the remaining meringue using the back of a small spoon. Make sure meringue goes to the tips of the stars.

• Bake for 4-5 minutes, until bottoms are lightly golden and meringue is set, but not brown.

• Let the cookies cool and dry out before removing them from the cookie sheet. They will firm up and the meringue will crisp as they cool.

"Some things never change, like my excitement for the holiday season. It has been ten years since I wrote this piece about baking cookies and this week I signed up to bring Zimtsterne cookies for a holiday party at the clinic where I am doing my residency in general dentistry."

- Gabriela Portmann

by Gabriela Portmann

I’m guilty of eating more cookie dough than cookies themselves. My sister shares this same problem: every December, we eat ourselves sick with delicious dough. The trick is to grab a piece when my mom isn’t looking. And there’s a lot of time for that when you’re all baking for six to eight hours!

It’s impossible to resist the Swiss-German recipes that are hidden in my mom’s secret Christmas cooking book. I anxiously wait for the Saturday when she pulls out her book from the back of her closet and indicates that it’s time to begin our delectable work.

Always the first cookie made on the Portmann’s Incredible Baking Day is the Mailänderli. I started baking the Mailänderli as a little girl because its recipe is the easiest to follow. Flour, butter, sugar, and lemon are pretty much the only ingredients. The dough is soft, and so I don’t have to press too hard on my angel or Christmas tree cookie cutters to make a shape.

The same cannot be said for the Zimtsterne cookie. I have to lean all my weight on the cookie cutters for the Zimtsterne because there are still many embedded almond chunks, even though we’ve tried to crush most of them in our mixer. The dough is made out of cinnamon, almonds, egg white, and a TON of sugar. “Zimt” means cinnamon in German and “Stern” means star, so these cookies are only supposed to be pressed into the shape of stars.

Perhaps my favorite cookie is the Basler Brunsli, which comes from Basel, Switzerland, which is where my godmother lives. Basler Brunsli cookies are made with dark chocolate, sugar, flour, and almonds (but many fewer almonds than in Zimtsterne, so the cookie-cutting comes more easily).

The Swiss combine their talent for making chocolate with their ability to bake cookies to create this Christmas delight!

Yum!

Portmann

Family

Portmann Family

BASLER BRUNSLI

INGREDIENTS

1 1/2 cups almonds (8 ounces)

1/2 teaspoon cloves

1 1/2 cups sugar

2 egg whites

2 tablespoons flour

5 ounces melted dark chocolate

1 1/2 teaspoons cinnamon

INSTRUCTIONS

• Preheat oven to 475 degrees. Line two cookie sheets with parchment paper.

• In a food processor pulse almonds and sugar until fine. Mix in spices.

• With mixer, beat egg whites until stiff and mix in chocolate. Add to almond mixture and knead with hands.

• Dust work surface with powdered sugar. Roll the dough to 1/2 inch. Cut with a cookie cutter and place on cookie sheets.

• Bake 5 minutes. Do not overbake or cookies will be hard.

MAILÄNDERLI

Described as one of Switzerland’s most popular Christmas cookies, this Swiss cookie is almost impossible not to like. Mailänderli generally contain equal parts butter and sugar, lemon zest, and a bright yellow coating brushed on their surface.

Makes about 3 dozen cookies

1 stick plus 2 1/2 tablespoons butter, softened (150 grams) 3/4 cup sugar (150 grams)

1 egg 1 egg yolk

1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract Zest of 1 lemon

2 cups all-purpose flour (250 grams)

1/2 teaspoon salt

1 egg yolk

1 teaspoon milk

1/4 teaspoon sugar

INSTRUCTIONS

• In a stand mixer, beat the sugar and butter together until it’s creamy.

• Add the egg, egg yolk, vanilla extract and zest and mix until light and somewhat fluffy. Set aside.

• In another bowl, whisk together the flour and salt; gradually add to the butter mixture and mix just until a dough forms.

• Flatten the dough into a disk. Wrap in plastic and refrigerate 30-60 minutes.

• Preheat oven to 350 degrees and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.

• On a floured work surface using a floured rolling pin, roll out the dough to about 1/4” thick. Cut into desired shapes and carefully place on the lined baking sheets.

• Whisk together the egg yolk, milk and sugar. Brush a thin even layer on the cookies.*

• Bake 10-13 minutes, just until the cookies begin to turn a light golden brown on their edges.

• Let them cool on the baking sheet for about 10 minutes, and then place them on a wire rack to cool. Store in an air-tight container.

Note: If the cookies are too soft, put them in the refrigerator for 10 minutes before baking.

COOKIES!! OK IE S!!

These gooey little fudge balls coated with sprinkles are amazingly delicious and easy to make. It’s no wonder it’s a classic Brazilian party treat!

INGREDIENTS

1 14-ounce can sweet condensed milk

1/2 cup chocolate powder - Nesquik or Brazilian Nescau*

1 Tablespoon butter, plus more for greasing Sprinkles, chocolate or colored for the holiday

INSTRUCTIONS

• Mix the condensed milk, chocolate powder and butter in a heavy bottom medium saucepan.

• Cook over medium heat approximately 8-10 minutes, and with a spatula stir and scrape the sides and bottom of the pan continuously to avoid burning.

• They’re ready when you can see the bottom of the pot for 2-3 seconds when dragging the spatula through – or when the mixture reaches 205F-208F.

• Pour the hot brigadeiro into a greased dish and let cool, about 2 hours.

• Place sprinkles in a bowl.

• Lightly butter your hands to avoid sticking.

• Scoop about 1 tablespoon into your hands, roll into little balls, then roll in the sprinkles.

• Refrigerate until thoroughly chilled, 90 minutes.

• Serve in festive mini cupcake liners if desired.

* Use a chocolate powder that you would put in your milk, not baking cocoa.

LEBKUCHEN

These spicy gingerbread-like bars, native to Nuremberg, Germany, are a traditional holiday treat with their hard sugar glaze and bite of crystallized ginger. They keep very well when a piece of apple or a marshmallow is placed into their airtight container to soften them. They’re perfect with a cup of hot tea.

INGREDIENTS

3/4 cup honey

1/2 cup light brown sugar, packed

1 large egg

2 teaspoons each finely grated lemon peel and orange peel; or 1/4 teaspoon each lemon oil and orange oil*

2 1/4 cups unbleached all-purpose flour

1/4 teaspoon baking soda

1/2 cup finely chopped blanched almonds*

2 teaspoons cinnamon

1 teaspoon ginger

1 teaspoon nutmeg

1 teaspoon cloves

1/4 cup mini diced ginger, finely ground*

1 cup confectioners’ sugar

2 Tablespoons water, brandy or apple juice (or a combination)

INSTRUCTIONS

One day ahead

• Bring the honey and brown sugar to a boil in a medium saucepan, stirring occasionally. Remove from the heat and cool until lukewarm.

• In a large bowl, beat together the cooled honey mixture, egg, and the lemon and orange peel or oil.

• Add the flour, baking soda, almonds, spices, and ground mini diced ginger, and stir until well combined. The dough will be stiff and very sticky. Cover the bowl and refrigerate overnight.

The next day

• Preheat the oven to 350°F. Lightly grease and line a 9” x 13” pan with parchment. The parchment will ease removing the bars in one complete piece.

• On a lightly floured surface, roll the dough into a 9” x 13” rectangle. Carefully transfer the dough rectangle to the prepared pan, either by wrapping it around the rolling pin and then unfolding it into the pan, or using a giant spatula. Don’t press hard on the edges, or these areas will be dense and tough.

• Bake the bars for 20 to 22 minutes, or until a cake tester inserted in the center comes out clean.

• While the bars are baking, prepare the glaze. Stir the brandy or apple juice into the confectioners’ sugar and mix until smooth.

• Transfer the baked bars to a cooling rack and immediately brush on the glaze with a pastry brush. Let the glaze soak into the bars somewhat before applying another layer.

• Let cool completely before cutting into 1” x 2” bars.

• Store the bars in an airtight container with a slice of apple (for its softening powers). If you make the lebkuchen 2 to 3 days ahead of time, they’ll taste even better. They’ll last for several weeks.

Notes:

• If you prefer candied citrus peel, you can replace the grated lemon and orange peel with 1 cup diced candied peel.

• You can pulse the mini diced ginger and blanched almonds in a food processor together.

• Oils available at Amazon

Recipe adapted from King Arthur Baking

MOLASSES

CRACKLE COOKIES

INGREDIENTS

1 cup canola oil

1 3/4 cups

DIRECTIONS

• Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Line 2 baking sheets with parchment paper.

• Cream the canola oil and 1 3/4 cups sugar in a large bowl.

• Add in molasses and egg and mix until blended.

• In a medium bowl, combine the flour, baking soda, ginger, cinnamon and clove.

• Add dry ingredients to the molasses mixture and mix until combined.

• Put remaining 1/2 up sugar in a small bowl.

• Form 2-inch balls using your hands, and roll in sugar.*

• Place on baking sheet 2 inches apart. Bake 10 to 12 minutes, until golden brown.

*Note: After rolling in granulated sugar, roll in

HUNGARIAN WALNUT ROLLS

These cookies have a similar cream cheese dough as kiflis and kolaches and are filled with a delicious walnut filling, popular in Hungarian desserts. My aunts were excellent bakers and I have fond memories of these treats.

INGREDIENTS

For the Walnut Filling:

1/2 pound walnuts (finely ground)

1 cup sugar

1/2 cup milk, boiled

2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

For the Dough:

2 1/4 cups all purpose flour

1/2 teaspoon salt

8 oz cream cheese, room temperature

1 cup unsalted butter, softened

1/2 cup granulated sugar for rolling

DIRECTIONS

To make the Walnut Filling:

• Mix filling ingredients in a medium bowl using only 1/4 cup of the boiled milk. The mixture should be thick.

• If the filling is not spreadable, use the rest of the milk. It will thicken as it sits.

For the Pastry Dough:

• Sift flour and salt together in a medium bowl and set aside.

Using a stand mixer, beat the cream cheese and butter together until completely incorporated and creamy, 3-5 minutes. Reduce the speed of the mixer and slowly add in the flour in batches, completing mixing the flour each time. The dough will be soft but not sticky.

Divide the dough into 4 equal parts and flatten each to 3/4” thick. Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate until hard, at least 2

Assembling the Walnut Rolls:

Pre-heat the oven to 375 degrees and line two baking sheets with parchment paper. Move the oven rack one setting higher than center. Dust each side of the dough with flour. Generously coat your work surface with the granulated sugar. Plop the dough on top and press gently to push some crystals into the dough. The sugar will keep your dough elevated off the rolling surface enough to keep it from sticking. Lightly coat your rolling pin with flour throughout the process, using as little as possible.

• With a pastry wheel or sharp knife, trim the dough into a square and then cut the square into 16 smaller squares. You want 1 1/2“ squares. (I find using a square rippled cookie cutter is easier!)

• Place about 1/2 teaspoon of filling in one corner of each square. Starting in the corner with the filling, roll the dough around the filling from corner to corner, gently pressing down as you roll. Grab the roll on both sides and pinch as you bend the roll to create a crescent shape. Carefully move it to a baking sheet, placing the rolls 1” apart.

• Repeat with all remaining squares.

• Sprinkle the middles of the rolls with a pinch of granulated sugar.*

• Bake 12-14 minutes or until the bottom edges are golden and you can smell them. They should puff up slightly in the middle. With experience you can see when the dough is cooked.

• Let cool slightly on the pan, then carefully move them to a wire rack to cool completely.

• Repeat with all remaining dough. Refrigerate and re-roll your scraps.

* Traditional cookies are dusted with powdered sugar when completely cooled, omitting the granulated sugar … but I prefer the granulated sugar.

From Disney’s Wilderness Lodge

by Beth Walsh Stewart

True Treasure

��

hat makes a treasure worth seeking?

One hundred thirty years after Columbus sailed the ocean blue, Spain sent a flotilla to the Americas in search of riches. A superpower in the 1600’s, Spain’s world reach was magnified by the fact that her landmass was sur rounded by water and her navy was strong. Queen Isabella was known for her prowess in sending her fleets to far-reaching parts of the world in search of land, riches, and political control.

In September of 1622, the Tierra Firme Flota consisting of 28 ships was caught in a hurricane in the Florida Straits. Eight ships were lost, one of them the rearguard known as Nuestra Senora de Atocha. Five crewmen of the Atocha survived and marked the spot where she went down.

One month later, on October 5, 1622, a second hur ricane hit the area and destroyed the wreck, scattering the remains. The Atocha had been carrying Colombian gold, Peruvian and Mexican silver, and pearls from Venezuela.

Every region has its folk heroes, and the Treasure Coast of Florida is no different. One of the larger-than-life characters known to this area is Mel Fisher, treasure hunter extraordinaire. In 1969, Fisher started looking for the treasure left behind by those shipwrecked Spanish explorers 347 years ago. He got a map, he gathered tools, he convinced a crew to follow him, and he set off in hopes of uncovering the mother lode.

Treasure hunting is not for the faint of heart. It’s hard work trying to discover the most valuable hidden articles in the world. You’ll suffer losses. You’ll be fed false hopes. Your tenacity will wane at times, and others will have to hold you up so you can continue on your journey.

In 1973, Mel Fisher’s team found three silver bars. It was an excit ing day, but the excitement had to last for two years before there was another find. The crew uncovered five bronze cannon balls, clearly signaling they were on the right track.

The joy of that 1975 discovery was overcome later that year with the news that Mel’s son Dirk was killed in a dreadful diving accident. Nonetheless, the crew persevered, now determined to make the dis covery to honor Dirk’s memory.

Beth Walsh Stewart

Reporters termed it “the find of the century” in 1985 when the team finally discovered the mother lode off Key West, Florida. Sixteen years of searching had finally paid off!

Then the real work began. Excavating treasure demands discipline. It also requires muscle. As the crew was lifting the heavy silver bars, they were complaining.

They were excited to find personal items that the Spanish crew had used. One diver expressed his delight when he uncovered a fork and a comb, his two favorite finds. Others found seeds which were planted, 350 years after those seed were lost on the ocean floor. Weeds common in Spain grew on the Trea sure Coast of Florida.

Mel Fisher and his team worked hard because the treasure was valuable. They followed a map. They used tools – some they created themselves – to assist with the hunt. They developed as a crew, leaning on the strengths and experience of the group to suc ceed. Once they struck gold, they continued

to work. They excavated and plunged deeper, dedicated to uncovering all they could.

Then they gave back. They opened a museum about their journey so others could learn, and they supported charities dear to their hearts.

What about you? Do you have what it takes to be a treasure hunter? What kind of value have you placed on the treasure known as your family and friends? Are they pearls of great price? Are you willing to do the work necessary to uncover the riches that lie before you?

That’s what this life journey is about. We’re here to explore the brilliant and the mundane, just as Fisher did, and we’re going to uncover treasure that is within reach if we’re diligent. Like our folk hero treasure hunters, we will need some tools to get the job done efficiently.

We will become the crew, focused on supporting and encouraging the greatest work of our lives.

As you gather with friends and family this holiday season, remem ber that Christmas was founded on the greatest love the world has ever known.

Emulate that love. Don’t get caught up in the commercialism and chaos but focus on the wonderful faces around you. You’ll see the smiling ones, the tired ones, and the ones that pull away. Let them all sense the homecoming of being in your presence. Cozy up to them and listen to their stories with rapt attention. Give each one their own turn at being your favorite. Instead of packages, wrap them into your loving embrace, and you will realize that they are the real treasure on our coast.

Beth Walsh Stewart, MTh, is the visionary behind the WeCovering Project and 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.

Mel Fisher and “golden crew” diver Ed Hinkle with gold and emeralds from the Atocha

It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year!

by Pastor Alex Pappas

It is hard to believe how quickly a year has come and gone. December is one of my favorite months of the year. It finally cools down in Florida, and we get the opportunity to put some of our winter clothes on.

The nights are absolutely beautiful. As a family we decorate our house and put up the Christmas tree. Some nights we sit around the fire and enjoy a delicious cup of hot cocoa, roast some s’mores and tell stories.

This is the time that everyone seems to be a little calmer and a little nicer and most people seem to have what they call the “Christmas spirit.”

This is all wonderful and truly a lot of fun, but we should never forget the real reason for the season.

God in all His splendor and majesty sent His only Son to save the world from sin. To give us a future and a hope. Jesus truly is the greatest gift we could ever have! Unto us a Child is born, unto us a Son is given; And the government will be upon His shoulder. And His name will be called Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.

Let us always remember the goodness of God and give thanks to Him for giving Jesus to us, His only begotten Son. Always keep this in remembrance while stringing the lights and decorating your Christmas tree. When you give gifts to your loved ones, remember we celebrate Christmas because of the greatest gift of all.

I pray you all have a peaceful joyful Christmas and that you never forget the real reason for the season. May Jesus’ light and love shine brightly this Christmas in your home.

Merry Christmas!

REV’S VERSES

by Pastor Rich Ienuso

Unto Us a Child is Born

The prophet Isaiah states that “… unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder. And his name shall be called Wonderful, Counselor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace.” (Isaiah 9:6)

This prophecy was given 700 years before the Messiah, Jesus would be born.

Also Isaiah said, “…his name will be called Immanuel, which being interpreted is God with us...” (Isaiah 7:14, Matthew 1:23)

Christ-mas celebrates the birth of our Messiah and Savior Jesus. Put your trust in Him. He is God with us.

Merry Christ-mas to all and to all a good life –Pastors Rich & Kathie 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.

Pastor Alex Pappas

Pastors Rich & Kathie Ienuso

The Meaning of Christmas

Rhett Palmer: We’re talking with Pastor Greg Sempsrott with Vero Bible Fellowship about the meaning of Christmas. Let’s go back historically. How did all this come to pass, that one time a year the whole world stands still in a spirit of giving?

Pastor Greg Sempsrott: The timing of Christmas has its roots in Europe. There were many pagan winter festivals in Europe ages ago. The Christians were able to take these festivals and turn them towards the birth of Jesus Christ. Today, what we’re seeing in America is a repaganization of Christmas, where they’re taking it back by removing Jesus. I think that’s the origin. Explain what happened. Was there really a light in the sky that night? What was that star in the sky and how did these Wise Men know that they were going to find this baby that supposedly was the Messiah of the world, the Savior? Interestingly enough, when the Wise Men finally found the Christ child, he wasn’t a baby. He would have been a couple of years old by that time.

The story we’ve seen on TV and in the theatre is not based on the facts? I wouldn’t say so. I don’t think there were three at all. We don’t know how many came. Anyway, I think the story finds its roots in the angel that appeared to the shepherds who were watching their flocks at night who said, “Hey, glad tidings! Good news! The Savior of the world is born.”

Why didn’t they declare this to the big shots, the kings of the day? Isn’t it interesting that God would come for those who were lowly. You would think He would go straight to the embassy, straight to the most important people on the globe, but He actually went to the lowly shepherds in the field. That’s the heart of God; He doesn’t treat one person better than the next.

So being a shepherd was a lowly job during that time? Sure. Shepherds were never around people; they were always with the sheep. When they came to town they probably smelled terrible. But those were the ones that God appeared to. Throughout the Old Testament and the New, God uses shepherds. It’s a very common theme that runs through scripture. We’re even

called sheep in the Bible. Sheep aren’t really smart animals, but they can follow leadership. God sent Jesus to be our leader.

Now, Josephus, who was a famous Jewish historian, was not necessarily a follower of Jesus, but he spoke about Jesus. This wasn’t just some made-up tale, was it? Absolutely not. Jesus really lived on the earth. We have all kinds of Hebrew history that records the life of Jesus Christ.

What about the people who say He was a good teacher and just a wise man?

You have to go with what He said, what Jesus said about himself. He didn’t claim to just be a teacher or philosopher; He claimed to be God. He said, “If you’ve seen me, you have seen the Father.”

That’s what infuriated the Pharisees. Jesus actually told them that “I saw Abraham in his day.” That was blasphemous to them.

Soit sounded ludicrous because Abraham was long gone off the face of the earth. That’s exactly right.

He was suggesting that maybe He was somewhere else, viewing Abraham? No. He actually appeared to Abraham in a Christophany. What’s a Christophany? Well, Jesus made himself known in the Old Testament by appearing as an angel. He spoke with Abraham about the fact that his wife would bear a child. That’s why Jesus told the Pharisees that Abraham rejoiced when he saw him.

And who were the Pharisees? The teachers of the day? They would have been those who were the experts in the law of God, the Pentateuch, and the scriptures of the Old Testament.

They were waiting for this guy to appear and there’s all these prophetic words of how the Messiah is going to come and where he is going to be born. Why was he not recognized and embraced by his people? He wasn’t embraced because He didn’t come and establish an earthly kingdom. That’s what the Jews were wanting.

The Romans were oppressing them at that point; right? Absolutely. They were looking for a messiah who would come as a king. But Jesus didn’t come to establish an earthly

kingdom. He came to save men in their hearts, to set them free spiritually, so they rejected him.

What do you recommend people be thinking about this holiday

season? I think that it has to be that Jesus Christ the Savior has come to us. The light has shown into the darkness. Christmas is all about recognizing the light, the light of Christ, and the fact that God sent Him to earth.

Did He come just for those that are righteous, who are clean, who are living purportedly upright lives and doing everything right? It’s interesting how you pose that question. Did he come for only those? He didn’t come for any of those who are righteous. The only person that He came for is not the righteous, but the sinner, to lead them to repentance.

We have all sinned and that is why He came. The fact that He was first presented to the shepherds says that God doesn’t look at certain people and go, “They are way ahead of other people, therefore that’s the one I’ll go after.” God doesn’t treat people the way we treat other people.

Jesus came to the earth to die for the unsaved. That’s me, that’s you, and that’s the whole human race. That’s the story of Christmas.

If people want to read the story of Christmas from the Bible, what’s the best place to go? Luke. The Gospel of Luke beautifully expresses the story of Christmas.

You can also find the message of Jesus’ birth in the Old Testament, in the Book of Isaiah, Chapter 9, Verse 6: “For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given. The weight of the government will be upon His shoulders, and His name will be called Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. And upon His increase there will be no end.”

Thank you, Pastor Greg Sempsrott.

If people want to come out to Vero Bible Fellowship, where is it? Sunday services are held at 10:00 AM at Storm Grove Middle School, 6400 57th Street in Vero Beach. Our church is open to everyone, and we accept you just the way you are.

Greg Sempsrott is Lead Pastor and Elder Team Member at Vero Bible Fellowship.

Rhett’s Interview of Pastor Greg Sempsrott

Pastor Greg Sempsrott

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