Vero's Voice Magazine Issue 151 August 2023

Cosmetic and Implant Dentistry

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.

A First Class Experience

4 Traveling Mamãe: Celebrating São João

12 Voices of Vero: How do you overcome struggling with a bad day?

16 Voices of Vero: What past or present celebrity would you invite to dinner, and why?

18 Movie Review: Operation Toussaint

20 Recipes: Refreshing Summer Salads

24 TC Stylist: Home Organization for Back to School

26 New! Mind Games

28 Encouraging Words

friends and neighbors

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Barbara Freund 772-538-2718 barb@verosvoice.com

CREATIVE DIRECTOR

Sandy Carlile sandy@verosvoice.com

ADVERTISING SALES

Brad Scott 772-643-4522

page 14.

Things to Ponder

• A sharp tongue can cut your own throat.

• If you want your dreams to come true, you mustn’t oversleep.

• Of all the things you wear, your expression is the most important.

• The best vitamin for making friends … B1.

• The happiness of your life depends on the quality of your thoughts.

• The heaviest thing you can carry is a grudge.

• One thing you can give and still keep … is your word.

• You lie the loudest when you lie to yourself.

• If you lack the courage to start, you have already finished.

• One thing you can’t recycle is wasted time.

• Ideas won’t work unless YOU do.

• Your mind is like a parachute … it functions only when open.

• The 10 Commandments are not multiple choice.

• The pursuit of happiness is the chase of a lifetime!

• It is never too late to become what you might have been.

• Friends are like balloons: once you let them go, you might not get them back.

VOICES OF VERO

Steve Glaser 954-261-0544

MAGAZINE DELIVERY George Pevarnik

PRODUCTION ENGINEER

Noah Woodrow noah@verosvoice.com

PUBLISHER

Rhett Palmer 772-473-7777 rhett@verosvoice.com

To Advertise Please call Rhett Palmer at 772.473.7777 or email us at advertising@verosvoice. com. Space deadline is the 1st of each month. Camera Ready deadline

Number of copies printed varies with time of year.

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Vero’s Voice Magazine is published monthly. Copyright © Vero’s Voice Magazine 2010 - 2023, 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.

MAMãE

by Adaline Carlile

Celebrating

Olá a todos! Tudo bom? Traveling mamãe here, and I’m excited to bring you on yet another adventure in the beautiful country of Brazil.

This month, I want to share with you about a very special Brazilian holiday called São João (or Saint John). It is a month-long celebration in the Northeast of Brazil that draws people from all around the country. Bursting with food, music, dancing, and plenty of festas, the month of June is an exciting time for anyone who wants an authentic Brazilian holiday experience.

São João is specifically celebrated on June 24th, but the festival takes place the entire month of June with parties almost every night. The Brazilian holiday dates back all the way to the colonial period of history and celebrates the feast day of St. John the Baptist. Its roots combine Catholicism from the Portuguese settlers in Brazil with indigenous and African customs. The festival’s origins can be traced back to a midsummer celebration, marking the end of the rainy season and the beginning of the harvest.

Today, São João celebrates the rural history and community, with people often dressing in traditional costumes inspired by farmers and poorer folk (called matutos). Throughout the years, it has evolved to accommodate the Brazilian climate and customs, making it a vibrant and inclusive celebration for all. Gus was actually born near the holiday, so we celebrated his first birthday with São João as the theme and dressing him up as a little matuto!

The biggest São João celebration takes place in a city called Campina Grande, which is just a couple of hours away from my city,

João Pessoa. People flock to Campina Grande from all over the country, and the city becomes alive with excitement. The main hub of the festivities is Parque do Povo, or “People’s Park,” a vibrant and colorful space filled with various vendors, food stalls, stages for musical performances, and handmade crafts. Seriously, the colors are magnificent during this time of year. Little colorful flags and lanterns decorate every store and many streets. But the party doesn’t end there; similar, smaller celebrations are spread throughout the city, making it a true city- and regionalwide event.

Another significant aspect of São João is the regional music known as forró. Forró is a genre of music that originated in the northeastern region of Brazil and is characterized by its lively rhythms, accordion melodies, and lyrics that often depict the rural lifestyle and romantic themes. There is a specific, simple two-step dance to ac company the music that even the most unskilled dancers (like me) can manage. When walking around the festivities, everyone seems to be dancing to the music that is painting the air. It surely is infectious!

Continued page 8

Gus dressed in a classic matuto costume for his São João themed first birthday.

Lively traditional quadrilha dance.

Cocada

Speaking of dance, one cannot talk about São João without mentioning the lively and colorful quadrilha dance. Campina Grande’s São João celebration is known for hosting one of the most spectacular quadrilha competitions in Brazil. This traditional dance is a delightful reenactment of a rural wedding party, complete with dancers in traditional costumes and intricate choreography. The quadrilha is a fun display of culture and community spirit, and you’ll find yourself captivated by the rhythm and energy of the dancers. Gus was absolutely enthralled when watching this take place, and so were we!

Prepare your taste buds for a feast of traditional Brazilian delicacies during São João. The food offerings in Campina Grande are a highlight of the celebration. From treats like munguzá (or canjica in other regions), a creamy sweet corn pudding, similar to creamed corn; pamonha, a mouthwatering corn cake similar to a tamale but sweet; and cocada, a delicious coconut dessert made with sweetened condensed milk, you’ll be indulging in some of the most traditional foods this region of Brazil has to offer. With food stalls and street vendors in abundance at Parque do Povo, you won’t go hungry while you dance the night away.

So, if you’re looking for a truly memorable adventure in the northeast countryside of Brazil, pack your bags and head to Campina Grande next June. This month-long festa offers an exciting opportunity to immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of the northeast, while enjoying the warmth and camaraderie of the Brazilian people. From the lively quadrilha dance to the traditional cuisine and the captivating rhythms of forró, São João promises an authentic Brazilian holiday experience like no other.

Até proximo!

Munguzá

Parque do Povo, Campina Grande

Pamonha

Vero’s Voice Teen Writer Dhyana Mishra Selected as Bank of America Student Leader

By Bank of America East Central Florida

Dhyana Mishra, a recent graduate of Holy Trinity Episcopal Academy, dedicates her time to working with Promise in Brevard as a piano instructor for special needs adult residents. (You may remember our article about Dhyana in Vero’s Voice’s Issue 133-February 2022.) After three years and 300 lessons, she has grown as a teacher and advocate to introduce students to music’s transformative power.

Dhyana also served as the principal violist for her school’s chamber orchestra.

In addition to her musical pursuits, Dhyana worked as a contributing writer for Vero’s Voice and began writing for the “Teens Who Care” column during the COVID-19 pandemic, interviewing and featuring local teens and their service efforts.

As a result of her achievements, Dhyana was selected as a Bank of America Student Leader, an eight-week paid summer internship that provides students with first-hand experience in serving their communities. As part of the program, the students develop leadership and practical workforce skills while working with local nonprofits, all while earning $17 per hour. Dhyana is one of two area students selected.

“By providing the pathways and resources for young adults to gain the foundational work skills and leadership experience they need to succeed, we are investing in our area’s long-term economic growth,” said Peter Mannino,

president, Bank of America East Central Florida. “The teens selected for this paid summer intern program are truly extraordinary but may not have had access to opportunities like this until now.

“The Student Leaders program is just one example of how we connect people to meaningful employment resources that also builds a stronger pipeline of diverse talent for our local workforce.”

Started in 2004, the Student Leaders program recognizes 300 community-focused juniors and seniors from across the U.S. annually.

As part of the program, Dhyana and her fellow Student Leaders traveled to Washington D.C. for a week-long, all-expenses-paid, national leadership summit focused on the power of cross-sector collaboration and community advocacy. At the first in-person Summit since 2019, Student Leaders from across the nation discussed the importance of civic engagement and met with members of Congress.

At the end of her summer internship, Dhyana will continue her education as a Freshman at Princeton University.

Dhyana Mishra (left) collaborates with an executive at the Space Coast Health Foundation, where she develops practical leadership and career-building skills while serving a local non-profit.

Dhyana Mishra (right) smiles alongside her colleagues at the Space Coast Health Foundation. This eight-week paid summer internship provides students with first-hand experience in serving their communities through local non-profits.

by Steve Glaser

How do you overcome struggling with a bad day?

Diana Peña-Stein, FAMILY SUPPORT SPECIALIST CHILDCARE RESOURCES

Alfonse Alexander ALEXANDER INSURANCE

Shannon Starr

CAPITAL TITLE COMPANY

It’s best to turn negative situations positive by admitting and dealing with your mistakes, always acting with respect and integrity.

Hal Khayyat,

I read scriptures and pray, connecting and strengthening my connection with God.

I take a moment to reassess what’s causing the bad day, and work on adjusting my attitude and emotions.

To overcome a bad day, I spend time in prayerful meditation, thanking God for my many blessings. I find focusing on the good things in my life makes them multiply.

Jane McNulty, DIRECTOR OF DEVELOPMENT

Meditating by myself and taking deep breath while I reflect on the many positives in my life. Deep breaths help lower my blood pressure and help me in refocusing my day.

Sgt. Clifford J. Labbe Jr., STARTEAM COORDINATOR

Find a good act to do to help others. Most of us feel good when we can be a blessing to others.

Andrew

First and most importantly, I pray. I then think of my previous accomplishments and my mindset improves.

Dan Valllee

Meditation and deep breathing work for me. Also, free writing!

As I let my thoughts flow in writing, I can better understand where my head is at and have a better perspective to deal with the situation I am faced with.

Syring

Enjoy a peaceful walk in the park.

I take a moment to reflect on the positives in my life and my mindset becomes more positive.

Keith Bastian COASTAL SEAMLESS RAIN GUTTERS

IRC SHERIFF’S OFFICE

Captain Kelvin Garcia THE SALVATION ARMY/VERO BEACH CORPS

BENEFITS SPECIALIST THE MCCABE CONNECTIONS CENTER

Paige Suermondt, ADVOCATE SAFE SPACE

McBrinn, COMMUNITY LIAISON SOUTH FLORIDA NEW SEASON TREATMENT CENTER

Charlene Morris, LMHC THE SOURCE

ZOOM REALTY GROUP

UNITED AGAINST POVERTY

Molly

ROYAL HORIZON VISUALS

by Steve Glaser

What past or present celebrity would you invite

?

I would invite Rubén Blades, a Panamanian singer, composer, actor and activist. Very interesting man. In 1994 he ran an unsuccessful campaign for the Presidency of Panama. His music always told a story reflecting social justice. He truly always expressed himself in a very special way.

Robin Williams, American actor and comedian. Back in August 2014 Robin Williams passed away from suicide and the world lost a beloved artist and great human being. What led Robin Williams to the point of suicide?

Harry Styles, English singer, songwriter and actor. He is a four-time Grammy award winner and formerly with the band One Direction. I am sure he has many interesting stories to share.

Peyton Snarey, BOX OFFICE ASSISTANT MANAGER RIVERSIDE THEATER

Alecia Beth Moore Hart, known professionally as “Pink.” Pink is an American singer, songwriter, and actress. She is very authentic with an eclectic style.

Misty Walsh

HEALTHY

Michelle Obama, lawyer, writer, mother, and wife of our 44th president. I love everything about her! She exudes elegance. She is a great mother and always stresses the importance of family and continues to inspire many people throughout our world.

Kimberly Wright, DOULA COORDINATOR IRC HEALTHY START

Oprah Winfrey has been influential to me my entire life. She is a great communicator; she is innovative and always puts other people

Oprah Winfrey has been influential to me my entire life. She is a great communicator; she is innovative and always puts other people first. She has overcome so many barriers and continues to impact the world.

Samantha Tiernan, SPECIAL EVENTS COORDINATOR RIVERSIDE THEATER

Denzel Washington, a great actor with a very successful career spanning over four decades. He is down to earth, charitable, and a great family man.

Officer Rich Chimenti

VERO BEACH POLICE DEPARTMENT

Jim Caviezel, American actor, recently starring in the Sound of Freedom I would love to chat with him and see how he can sleep at night after hearing so many sex trafficking stories.

Angela St. Mary

Barbara Walters, broadcast journalist whose successful career spanned over six decades. She interviewed more world leaders than anyone in the world.

Paul Barattini MANOR AUCTIONS

Jennifer Lawrence, a wonderful young American actress. She is very down to earth and had a tough life growing up, often considering herself a “social misfit.” Her films have grossed over six billion dollars worldwide.

Kathleen Saxon, REALTOR

Celia Cruz, a singer from Havana, Cuba. Years ago my grandma sang with her on the radio and I would love to hear stories about that experience.

Leydiana Collins, HUMAN RESOURCE DIRECTOR COSTA D’ESTE

MTV UK, CC BY 3.0 <https://creativecommons.org/ licenses/by/3.0>, via Wikimedia Commons

The Internet & Television Expo, CC BY 2.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0>, via Wikimedia Commons

Genevieve, CC BY 2.0 <https://creativecommons.org/ licenses/by/2.0>, via Wikimedia Commons

Rubenstein, CC BY 2.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0>, via Wikimedia Commons Gage Skidmore from Peoria, AZ, United States of America, CC BY-SA 2.0 <https:// creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.0>, via Wikimedia Commons

Ibrahim Arce (Narcy Studios photographer), most likely, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

LIVING BY MISTY

ALEX MCWILLIAMS REAL ESTATE

Operation Toussaint: Operation Underground Railroad and the Fight to End Modern Day Slavery

by Del Bates and Penny Cooke

Operation Toussaint is a documentary of hope. It is light in the midst of darkness.

The film is actual footage from hidden cameras (not reenactments) of sting operations done by Operation Underground Railroad, the organization Tim Ballard (Sound of Freedom) started to fight child sex trafficking.

This documentary gets its name from the Haitian general Toussaint Louverture, who liberated the Haitian people from slavery in 1791. Though it was made in 2018, we wondered if people had seen it. If you’ve seen the movie Sound of Freedom, we thought you might like insight to help understand the behind-thescenes operations of the rescuers.

Operation Toussaint shows the intense training the rescuers must go through to be able to step into “the belly of the beast.” The danger they have to encounter is life threatening, and every step has to be precise.

The film takes you into a supposed orphanage where kids were being sold. The rescuers had to pretend to be perpetrators and buy children in order to get the others out. They rescued 28 children. Traffickers were also arrested.

Unfortunately, those arrested paid off the right people and were released. But good people in Haiti rose to help, and out of those, one became Attorney General and fired the judges who had freed the traffickers. The documentary shows how Ballard, his team, and his Haitian brothers, finally brought those traffickers to justice.

Tim Ballard, who studied terrorism and weapons, had his dream job as a terrorism expert with the government. Then, when he was asked to be part of a new anti-child trafficking group, his and his wife’s reaction was absolutely not

However, they decided that the very reason they thought they should say no—their own children—was the very reason they knew they had to say yes. The couple decided they couldn’t be afraid of their own pain because the trafficked children’s pain was far worse. In time, the bureaucracy and laws of government were too restricting, and Ballard left that job to start Operation Underground Railroad.

Operation Underground Railroad has since been involved in over 4,000 rescues and over 6,500 arrests. Although a single sting operation costs $12,000 to $50,000, the gratification of seeing children freed is worth it. Tim Ballard has even adopted two of the Haitian children rescued during Operation Toussaint, giving him a total of nine children.

Operation Toussaint is a very interesting documentary, and it is encouraging to see the difference these heroes are making in our world, where there are more people in modern-day slavery than every before.

Though this film highlights a sting operation in Haiti, just as Sound of Freedom highlights one in Columbia, let’s keep in mind the United States is the highest producer and consumer of pornography, which creates the demand for trafficking. The US is also one of the top

destinations for human trafficking. Sadly, we are the ones who can afford it the most.

In addition to Operation Toussaint, look for Operation Triple Take, a documentary showing the actual sting operation depicted in Sound of Freedom, which will be out later this year.

Let’s remember to pray against this evil and its results on the rescued children. If you’d like to support the effort financially, you can go to ourrescue.org/give-now.

Update on Sound of Freedom

Last month we told you about the movie Sound of Freedom, which hit the box office on July 4th. Since its extraordinary opening and at the writing of this article, it has grossed nearly $125 million, doing better its third weekend than its first.

In spite of being ousted by Hollywood and Disney, this crowd-funded film has become the biggest box office surprise of the year. And this happened with many less theaters than its Hollywood competitors and scarce media coverage (unless you want to call the media’s accusing the film of being part of a conspiracy theory coverage).

If anyone still doubts whether Sound of Freedom is true or exaggerated, you can watch actual footage of rescues made byTim Ballard’s organization, Operation Underground Railroad, in documentaries on their website, ourrescue. org/films (including the one reviewed above). You can also search for news stories going back several years.

host the podcast, “Seeds of Hope,” Wednesdays at noon on Vero’s Voice.

Penny Cooke

Del Bates

AMAZON PRIME AND YOUTUBE

Penny Cooke is Certified Biblical Life Coach and award-winning writer and author of Pursuing Prayer – Being Effective in a Busy World, available on Amazon. Learn more at pennycookeauthor.com. 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. You can find more at delbates.com. Together they

For

by Barbara Freund

Refreshing Salads Summer

Greek Cabbage Salad

This dish is called Lahanosalata in Greek – lahano meaning cabbage, and salata meaning salad. It’s a flavorful coleslaw using vinegar instead of mayonnaise.

Serves 4

INGREDIENTS

5 cups cabbage, finely shredded

2-3 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice

1 tablespoon white wine vinegar

1 teaspoon coarse salt

1 tablespoon fresh dill weed, chopped

1 cup arugula leaves

1 teaspoon Greek seasoning*

2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes

1/2 cup pitted kalamata olives

Four 4-ounce grilled chicken breasts or other protein (optional)

INSTRUCTIONS

1. In a large bowl, combine the finely chopped cabbage, lemon juice, vinegar and salt.

2. Massage the cabbage with your fingers until reduced by about half.

3. In a separate bowl, combine the arugula, fresh dill, olive oil, Greek seasoning, and crushed pepper flakes.

4. Combine cabbage and arugula mixture and stir to mix.

5. Spoon into bowls and top with olives and sliced chicken.

6. Serve with pita slices and hummus.

NOTES:

• Use a food processor or mandoline slicer for fine strips of cabbage.

• Massaging the cabbage is an important step – don’t skip! The cabbage will be tasteless and harder to digest otherwise.

• You can make a few hours before you need it. Keep covered in the refrigerator.

* Cavender’s All-Purpose Greek Seasoning is available in Publix. It does contain MSG, though, so you can make your own if you want to avoid it, or you can substitute Italian seasoning.

Greek Seasoning

This takes a few minutes to gather the ingredients, but comes together quickly after that. Mix it with olive oil for a dip for bread or pita chips, or use it to make a Greek salad dressing.

INGREDIENTS

2 teaspoons salt

2 teaspoons garlic powder

2 teaspoons Greek oregano

2 teaspoons dried basil

1 teaspoon dried onion

1 teaspoon ground black pepper

1 teaspoon dried parsley

1 teaspoon dried dill weed

1 teaspoon dried marjoram

1/2 teaspoon ground thyme

1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Thoroughly combine all ingredients together in a bowl and store in an airtight container for up to one month.

2. For a smoother texture, purée all the ingredients for 30-45 seconds in a food processor or spice grinder.

Lentils and Summer Vegetables Salad

This is a tasty healthy side dish or lunch using lentils.

INGREDIENTS

For the salad:

1 cup brown lentils

2 garlic cloves, smashed

1 bay leaf

Handful of parsley stems, tied together with a string

2 1/2 cups water

3 stalks celery, diced small

1 yellow pepper, diced

1 pint grape or cherry tomatoes, halved

1/4 cup minced red onion

1 cup baby arugula

1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese, if desired

3 radishes, sliced, for garnish

For the salad dressing:

3 tablespoons lemon juice

3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil

1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped

Zest from 1/2 lemon

1/2 teaspoon kosher salt

1/4 teaspoon dried oregano

1/4 teaspoon sugar

1 tablespoon shallots, finely chopped

Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

INSTRUCTIONS

1. In a medium pot, combine the lentils, smashed garlic cloves, bay leaf, and parsley stems. Add enough water to cover the lentils by 1 1/2 to 2 inches (about 2 1/2 cups).

2. Bring to a simmer and cook uncovered for about 25 minutes. The exact time will vary. When you get about 10 minutes out from the finished cooking time, start sampling the lentils to check for doneness—when cooked, they should be tender yet still intact. Continue sampling every 5 minutes until they’re ready.

3. When the lentils are done, drain them and discard the bay leaf, garlic, and parsley stems.

4. Meanwhile, in a large bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, parsley, lemon zest, salt, oregano, sugar, and shallots.

5. Add the hot lentils to the dressing and stir to coat. (By combining the dressing with the lentils while they are still hot, the lentils will absorb more of the flavor from the dressing.) Refrigerate and allow to cool completely.

When you’re ready to serve, add the arugula to the salad. (If your arugula is large, stack it and slice it into thick short ribbons before adding it to the salad.) Stir to combine.

Add more salt and pepper to taste and finish with a drizzle of good quality extra-virgin olive oil. Sprinkle with crumbled feta, if using, and top with sliced radishes. Best served cold.

Grilled Romaine Lettuce Salad

If you’ve never experienced the smoky flavor of grilled romaine lettuce, you’ve got to give this a try the next time your grill is fired up. It’s quick and easy to make and oh-so-good! Ti Amo Sempre Restaurant served it and I ordered it each time we went.

INGREDIENTS

2 heads of romaine hearts

Olive oil

Balsamic vinegar

Kosher salt and fresh ground black pepper

Parmesan cheese

Caesar dressing, if desired

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Preheat the grill. Wash and dry the romaine, peeling off the darker colored leaves.

2. Cut each romaine heart in half lengthwise. Drizzle each side liberally with olive oil and balsamic vinegar, and add several pinches of salt and pepper on the cut side.

3. Place the romaine hearts on the grill cut side down, and cook for about 3 minutes until slightly charred. (You’re looking for a char –not wilted lettuce.)

4. Drizzle on a little Caesar dressing, if using, and top with shaved Parmesan cheese.

5. Serve immediately.

Chicken Salad with Fresh Dill

A healthier version using a combination of mayonnaise and plain yogurt. Experiment with your favorite fruits, vegetables and herbs. (I love the sweetness of the grapes and crunch of the celery and walnuts end up adding way more than called for!) Scoop it on top of fresh salad greens or toasted bread and garnish with sprigs of dill.

INGREDIENTS

1/2 cup nonfat plain Greek yogurt

1/3 cup mayonnaise

2 tablespoons minced shallot

2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill

2 teaspoons lemon juice

1/2 teaspoon salt and pepper

1/2 teaspoon pepper

3 cups shredded or chopped cooked chicken

3/4 cup halved red or green grapes

3/4 cup diced celery

3 tablespoons chopped toasted pecans or walnuts

Sprigs of dill for garnish

DIRECTIONS

1. Combine yogurt, mayonnaise, shallot, dill, lemon juice, salt and pepper in a large bowl.

2. Stir in chicken, grapes, and celery, then add the chopped nuts. Garnish with sprigs of dill.

3. Serve at room temperature or refrigerate until cold, about 2 hours. NOTE: You can make in advance and refrigerate for up to 3 days.

by Marianne Howell

MIND

SAMURAI SUDOKU

8 9 7 8 7

3 3

WORD LADDER

BEER

ENGLISH REASONING

Only one of the four words below is listed with the correct spelling - can you work out which it is? And how should the other three words be spelled?

a) guerrilla

b) extatic

c) fillament

d) harrass

LATERAL THINKING

In a sprint race, John ran the 100 meters quicker than all the other competitors. Yet he didn’t win the race. Can you think how this could be possible, given that he wasn’t disqualified?

PERCEPTION

Can you find the matching key?

1 2 3 4 5 6 7

WORD WHEEL

How many words of five or more letters can you find in the wheel? Each word you find must use the central letter. Can you find a word that uses all eight letters? N L I T L R

A B I

“Think

The Dark World of The Dark

by Beth Walsh Stewart

Here we sit, perched at our vantage point, sometimes certain and other times questioning. Most of us have grown up around family, learning mores, manners, and strategies to go forward in life. Depending on our socioeconomic and cultural histories, some have learned to work hard, others to count on contacts, and still others to scramble to get needs met using whatever manipulations will achieve that goal. Each of us in this scenario grew up in Middletown, USA, but some lived on the other side of the tracks, or the river, or whatever line was used to divide us from one another.

Comparing with others is not uncommon. According to psychologist Leon Festinger, as many as ten percent of our thought processes involve comparisons of some kind. Through his research, Festinger developed social comparison theory, which basically suggests that individuals determine their social and personal worth based on how they measure up with others. This self-evaluation tends to play out by judging how we compare in the areas of wealth, good looks, brainpower, and success.

Though some are able to utilize this information as motivation for improvement, other people use comparison to develop prejudice, envy, and self-condemnation. Coming up short on comparison can lead to depressive thought patterns and self-pity. Theodore Roosevelt called comparison “the thief of joy” with good reason.

Each of us was created with unique talents and skill sets. When we learn to celebrate these differences and applaud the gifts we see in others, we can build winning partnerships and stronger relationships.

Looking at the face of America, we are grateful to see these skills come together to offer us all we need for good living. For example, we are quick to share the name of a skilled mechanic with a friend in need or to recommend a fantastic eatery to enhance an anniversary dinner.

In our daily give and take, we intuitively know that the varied abilities of the masses make life better. Yet, in the privacy of our own minds, we may denigrate ourselves or others for lacking proficiency in a given area. These deficits are part and parcel of humanity. Thankfully, the Creator made sure we each possess acuity in a specific area because someone else will be lacking in that department.

Examining when we are prompted to make comparisons can help us curb the behavior and choose a better way. Does the need to compare arise with a certain person or personality? Are we feeling the need to compete because we admire this person or because we feel left out of their circle? What do we hope to attain by the comparison? If it is a question of self-esteem, we are off-track and can recognize the need to do a personal inventory.

How will a personal inventory help us? Most of us are quick to spout off our flaws and errors. Our self-talk is sometimes degrading and punishing. When we take the time to quantify the positive traits we possess, we do ourselves a great service.

A written personal inventory that lists our gifts and talents will become tangible proof that we are whole and worthwhile, and that we add zest to life. Gratitude for these traits will lead to recognizing and valuing the traits of others, instead of envying those traits. Also, when we see a trait in another that is attractive, we can seek to adopt it in our own lives.

Now, the person with whom we first compared can become a mentor. Let them know that you admire the given trait and ask them to share their experiences that made that trait a natural part of their persona. This moves us from judgment to motivation.

Comparing with others comes naturally to most of us. If this behavior darkens our moods or brings us to condemnation of self or others, it is time for a change. Minimizing the impact of this comportment can rob us of the joy of living. Let’s bring this defeatist thinking to the light and find our place among others with gifts and talents that will enhance our own.

Finally, when we seek to enjoy our lives and live from a “glass half-full” mindset, it is time to learn the wonder of identification. While comparison points out our differences, identification shows us our commonalities.

When we identify with others, we are moved to share our experience, strength, and hope with them. We see ourselves in them and have compassion when they are struggling or a good laugh when they are making merry. Identification connects us with others in ways that promote belonging and emotional safety. It is living at its best.

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.

Beth Walsh Stewart

“Each of us was created with unique talents and skill sets.”

Mind Games Answers

Puzzles on page 26

WORD WHEEL:

Words that can be made from the wheel include: air, alibi, bail, bait, bill, bin, bit, brain, brilliant, ill, lain, lair, liar, lilt, lint, lira, lit, nail, nib, nil, nit, rail, rain, rib, rill, tail, tibia, till, tin, trail, train, trial, tribal, trill

TARGET: 19

GOOD: 26 EXCELLENT: 31

ENGLISH REASONING:

a) is correct!

b) should be ecstatic

c) should be filament

d) should be harass

LATERAL THINKING:

JJohn didn’t hear the starting gun so started almost half a second after the other competitors. Therefore although he *ran* the 100 meters quicker than anyone else, because of his slow reaction time at the start, he didn’t cross the line first.

PERCEPTION: Key 6

REV’S VERSES

by Pastor Rich Ienuso

Gathering Together

The book of Hebrews states in chapter 10:25: ”Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is, but exhorting one another; and so much the more, as you see the day approaching.”

Remember, as believers we are to gather together for encouragement, support, prayer and ministry.

Here are some thoughts:

• Evangelism that brings people to church and not to Christ is marketing.

• An evangelist pointing people to church without pointing them to Christ is a marketer.

• A church with an air conditioner without a fire conditioner is a conference hall.

Let’s meet, greet, eat and, after fellowship and ministry, retreat.

Control Your Thoughts

by Pastor Alex Pappas

Every one of us can be affected by things that occur in and around our lives. Many of these external influences can cause us to have times where we suffer from worry and anxiety.

With many of the crazy changes in our culture, making our minds up on where we stand or trying to figure out what the correct way to think is, can seem overwhelming to some.

There are so many different opinions in this world, how do we navigate through them and how do we form solid opinions about all the different beliefs out there?

The Bible teaches us how to be able to handle all these things running through our minds.

2 Corinthians 10:5 (ESV)

We destroy arguments and every lofty opinion raised against the knowledge of God, and take every thought captive to obey Christ.

We are supposed to take our thoughts captive to the obedience of Christ. In other words, every suggestion, idea, or thought that comes your way that does not line up with God’s Word must be taken captive and it needs to be judged according to the Word of God.

Let’s use a practical example. You sit on your patio with a cup of coffee, tea or juice and your mind begins to wander. The thought entering your mind starts with being concerned about your old age. You are worried that one day you are going to be alone and grow into a person that has no one in your life to care for you.

Almost immediately you need to take a hold of your negative thoughts, take them captive, in other words reject those words, because the Bible tells me:

Hebrews 13:5 (NKJV)

Let your conduct be without covetousness; be content with such things as you have. For He Himself has said, “I will never leave you nor forsake you.”

Therefore, I chose to submit myself to God’s Word, not the thoughts of the enemy, or the world.

The Word of God will be your strength and your help no matter what you are going through in life if Jesus is the Lord and Savior of your life.

Pastor Rich Ienuso

Delivery Locations

BEACHSIDE

Riverside Theatre

Cliff Norris Real Estate

Village Beach Market

CVS-A1A

Planes Dental Arts

Vero Beach Hotel & Spa

Cobalt

Seaside Grille

Corey’s Pharmacy

Lemon Tree

Ocean Grill

Holiday Inn

Treasure Lane Boutique

Red Onion

The Tides

Ryder’s Gourmet Market

AMAC | Alex MacWilliam

Real Estate

Charlotte Terry Real Estate

Di Mare Restaurant

Marine Bank

John Michael Matthews

Fine Jewelry

Asian Fusion

Ryder’s Market

IN TOWN

Think Financial, 1340 US 1

1420 Coffee House, 2001 14th Ave

ACT Computers

Vero Beach Chamber of Commerce

Habitat for Humanity

Certus Memory Care

CVS –53rd

Center for Advanced Eye Care

Big Shots Golf

Mental Health of IRC – 37th PL

Springhill Suites

Regency Park

Oak Harbor Club

Crab Stop

Calvetti’s Manatee’s

La Tabla

Rhonda’s Seafood

Mattress Market – US1

Postal Connection

CVS –17th

Sweet Kiss Ice Cream

Vero Beach Book Center

Dunkin Donuts

Vincent’s Italian A & A Insurance

First Watch Restaurant

Hampton Inn

S.T.A.R. Pilates

Ceviche

Michaels on 7th

The ARC

Wooden Spoon - Oslo

IRC Chamber of Commerce

Vero Beach Theatre Guild

County Administration Office

Carole Jean Jordan, IRC Tax Collector

Cultural Council

Beach Bum Bagel

Main Library

Renaissance Senior Living

Vero Beach Airport Lobby

CJ Cannon’s Restaurant

Perkins Pharmacy – Route 60

Oceans Unite Christian Center

Oceans Cafe

Mattress Market – Route 60

Brackett Library, IRSC

Larry’s Roadside Restaurant

Image 360

Kelly’s Irish Pub

Hemp Nook

Salt & Pepper BBQ

Mrs. Mac’s Fillin Station

Seacoast Bank

Joey’s Seafood

Golf Carts of VB

Majestic Theatre

Einstein Bagels

Touch of Class Dry Cleaners

Green Marlin Restaurant

Molinari Pools

American Legion

Orthopaedic Center of Vero Beach

Orthopaedic Center Physical Therapy

Dean Wellness Center

American Grill

Center City Pizza

Vero Beach Chamber of Commerce

The Red Wok Chinese Restaurant

The Rowe Gallery and

George Pevarnik