Vero's Voice Magazine Issue 164 September 2024 by Vero's Voice Magazine

inside:

6 Voices of Vero: If you could have a billboard on State Rd 60 and I95, what would it read?

10 Grandparents, Through the Eyes of Children

14 Young Adult Voices of Vero: What are your aspirations in Life? 16 Movie Review: The Forge

18 Voices of Vero: What do you enjoy most about living in Vero Beach?

20 Wine Review: Barolo: the Wine of Kings - the King of Wines

Don't miss our Voices of Vero feature starting on page 6.

TC Stylist: Foyer Finds

You Just Can’t Make This Stuff Up

We visit Stowe, VT in the summertime and look forward to their weekly local paper. We especially enjoy reading the Police Blotter. Hope you enjoy these lighter postings.

A person was riding a skateboard on Stagecoach Road and yelling at passing cars, so police gave him a ride home

A vehicle reported for parking in a Winterbird Road driveway turned out to be a neighbor, after all.

Late night revelers on Pine Ridge Road were advised to quiet down.

The Department of Fish and Wildlife was contacted after a report of a bear in a tree on South Main Street.

Three large trucks were taking up parking spaces on South Main Street, but they were there doing utility work.

A vehicle reported stolen on Perkins Lane was not, in fact, stolen but being used by someone else.

A private dumpster was used by someone other than its owner on Mountain Road.

A driver called the police upset over the area of the Mountain Road near Topnotch Resort that’s still a bit raggedy following it being torn asunder in the recent back-to-back heavy rain event. Police said the Agency of Transportation is already aware of the issue.

A tree fell on Maple Street power lines.

Some clearly underage kids tried to buy alcohol at the Irving Oil gas station on South Main Street but were not identified.

A dead duck was moved to the side of Mountain Road.

The suspicious figure a Wade Pasture Road resident reported for possibly walking on a construction site was, in fact, a worker at said construction site.

Vero’s Voice Magazine is published monthly. Copyright © Vero’s Voice Magazine 2010 - 2024, 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

REALTOR, KELLER WILLIAMS OF VERO BEACH

by Steve Glaser OF VERO

Tori

Planes Dental Arts Presents

through the eyes of children… Grandparents,

Agrandmother was telling her little granddaughter what her own childhood was like. “We used to skate outside on a pond. I had a swing made from a tire that hung from a tree in our front yard. We picked wild blueberries in the woods.” The little girl was wide-eyed, taking this all in. At last she said, “I sure wish I’d gotten to know you sooner!”

I didn’t know if my granddaughter had learned her colors yet, so I decided to test her. I would point out something and ask what color it was. She would tell me and was always correct. It was fun for me, so I continued. At last, she headed for the door, saying, “Grandma, I think you should try to figure out some of these colors yourself.”

When my grandson asked me how old I was, I teasingly replied, “I’m not sure.” He said, “Look in your underwear, Grandpa. Mine says I’m 4 to 6.”

A second-grader came home from school and said to her grandmother, “Grandma, guess what? We learned how to make babies today.” The grandmother, more than a little surprised, tried to keep her cool. “That’s interesting,” she said. “How do you make babies?” “It’s simple,” replied the girl. “You just change ‘y’ to ‘i’ and add ‘es’.”

A six-year-old was asked where his grandma lived. “Oh,” he said, “she lives at the airport, and when we want her, we just go get her. Then, when we’re done having her visit, we take her back to the airport.”

“Give me a sentence about a public servant,” said a teacher. The small boy wrote: “The fireman came down the ladder pregnant.” The teacher took the boy aside to correct him. “Do you know what pregnant means?” she asked. “Sure,” said the young boy confidently. “It means carrying a child.”

Grandparents’ Day is September 8th, a time to celebrate your grandparents or to remember them. I have fond memories of time spent with mine and hope to create special memories with my new granddaughter.

She was in the bathroom putting on her makeup under the watchful eyes of her young granddaughter, as she’d done many times before. After she applied her lipstick and started to leave, the little girl said, “But Grandma, you forgot to kiss the toilet paper good-bye!”

When my grandson Billy and I entered our vacation cabin, we kept the lights off until we were inside to keep from attracting pesky insects. Still, a few fireflies followed us in. Noticing them before I did, Billy whispered, “It’s no use Grandpa. Now the mosquitoes are coming after us with flashlights.”

…and a few quotes

The idea that no one is perfect is a view most commonly held by people with no grandchildren

– Doug Larson

On the seventh day God rested. His grandchildren must have been out of town. – Gene Perret Elephants and grandchildren never forget.

– Andy Rooney

A grandmother pretends she doesn’t know who you are on Halloween. – Erma Bombeck

Beautiful young people are accidents of nature, but beautiful old people are works of art. – Eleanor Roosevelt

Why Vote No on Amendment 4?

If this Amendment passes, ABORTION WILL BE

AND TEENS COULD GET

Read full text of the Amendment:

This amendment: has no definitions of key words “viability” or “healthcare providers”. (unlike other amendments). This means dangerous loopholes! says any healthcare provider (not OBGYN doctors) could determine when abortion is necessary for the patient... i.e. tattoo artists, opticians, dentists and other Regulated Professions by The Florida Department of Health. would make abortion the only medical procedure minors could have without parental consent! pretends to bring things back to how it was before Roe v. Wade was overturned, but it actually creates a constitutional state right to abortion throughout the entire pregnancy with no protections for the unborn baby.

Vero East

1602 US Hwy 1 (Next to Waves Auto Spa) (772) 562-6007 Steve & Janice Milesic, Family owned and operated business, serving the Treasure Coast for over 20 years.

Retirement Planning Amidst Economic Uncertainty: Strategies to Help Secure Your Future

by Danny Howes, EA, RFC

Retirement planning has always been a critical aspect of personal finance, but in today’s world, it has become even more vital. With economic uncertainty looming large—whether due to market volatility, inflation, or global events—many individuals are rethinking their retirement strategies. The key question is: what can you do to help secure your retirement income amidst such unpredictability?

Understanding Economic Uncertainty and Its Impact on Retirement

Economic uncertainty can stem from various factors, including fluctuating interest rates, rising inflation, and unpredictable market conditions. These factors can have a significant impact on retirement savings. For example, high inflation erodes the purchasing power of your savings, meaning that the money you have set aside may not stretch as far as you initially planned. Meanwhile, market volatility can reduce the value of your investments, potentially lowering your retirement nest egg.

Given these challenges, it’s essential to adopt strategies that can help mitigate risks and help ensure your retirement is financially secure.

1. Diversify Your Investment Portfolio

Diversification can be one of the most effective ways to manage risk, especially during times of economic uncertainty. By spreading your investments across different asset classes—such as stocks, bonds, real estate, and commodities—you can reduce the impact of any one asset’s poor performance on your overall portfolio.

For retirees or those nearing retirement, it’s particularly important to strike a balance between growth-oriented investments and more conservative options. While stocks offer the potential for higher returns, they also come with greater risk. On the other hand, fixed-income investments can provide stability and a predictable income stream, which is crucial during retirement.

Consider incorporating a mix of domestic and international investments to further diversify your portfolio. This approach can help protect your retirement savings from country-specific economic downturns and provide exposure to growth opportunities in different regions.

2. Focus on Income-Generating Investments

As you approach retirement, you’ll want to start to consider shifting from accumulating wealth to generating a steady income stream. Income-generating investments, such as dividend-paying stocks, real estate investment trusts (REITs), and annuities, can provide a more reliable source of income during retirement.

Annuities, in particular, offer the advantage of guaranteed income for life, depending on the type of annuity you choose. While they may not offer the same growth potential as other investments, their predictability can be a valuable component of your retirement plan, especially in uncertain economic times.

3. Reevaluate Your Retirement Budget

Economic uncertainty often requires a reassessment of your retirement budget. With rising inflation and potential changes in your income, it’s essential to ensure that your retirement plan aligns with your current financial reality.

Start by reviewing your expected expenses during retirement. Factor in the cost of living increases, healthcare expenses, and any other significant costs that may arise. It’s also wise to consider the possibility of living longer than expected, which could require additional funds.

Once you have a clear understanding of your anticipated expenses, compare them with your

projected income from Social Security, pensions, and other sources. If there’s a gap, you may need to adjust your savings strategy or consider alternative income sources.

4. Consider Inflation-Protected Investments

Inflation can erode the value of your retirement savings, making it essential to consider investments that offer protection against rising prices. Treasury Inflation-Protected Securities (TIPS) are one such option. These government-backed bonds are designed to increase in value with inflation, providing a safeguard for your purchasing power. Manny annuity type products offer guaranteed income that can increase annually to account for inflation. If you are blessed to have pension options through your work, they often have options for electing a smaller starting pension for the benefit of increasing income to hedge against rising costs.

Another option is investing in assets that tend to appreciate in value during inflationary periods, such as real estate. While these investments and income options can come with their own set of risks, they can offer a hedge against inflation and potentially help preserve your retirement savings.

Consult a Financial Advisor

Given the complexities of retirement planning in uncertain times, seeking professional advice is more important than ever. A financial advisor can help you navigate the challenges of economic uncertainty by providing personalized strategies tailored to your unique situation.

An advisor can assist with portfolio diversification, tax-efficient investing, and creating a withdrawal strategy that minimizes the risk of outliving your savings. Additionally, they can help you stay on track with your retirement goals, even as market conditions change.

Danny Howes, EA, RFC EAST COAST TAX AND FINANCIAL PLANNING

by Brad Scott OF VERO YOUNG VOICES

What are your aspirations in Life?

Where do you see yourself in 15 years?

I would like to be a full-time dog groomer and working towards some sort of job in animal rehabilitation, like wildlife services. It’s really interesting to me. I’m hoping to use a job as a dog groomer to put myself through college. I don’t know if veterinary work is right for me, but specifically working in wildlife rehabilitation.

Jessica Lyzak ASSISTANT DOG GROOMER

I see myself with a family, I see myself getting closer to God and having a good career. I’m planning on going back to school to study criminal justice. I started but haven’t finished. So hopefully that can take off, and in 15 years I can see myself as a police officer.

Cris Gallardo SERVICE ADVISOR

VERO BEACH MITSUBISHI

I see myself in 15 years opening my own business, doing what I do now but in my own name, on my own license. Hopefully I can just get out of that nine-to-five and have my own home thing going and travel the world.

Manny Vasquez

I see myself being a day trader, just living life through Christ. I have a mentor online, Keven Grego, and I’ve just been following his lives every morning. I trade indices, like stocks. I’m finally done with practice and now I’m doing real deals, real live money. It’s been a journey.

Bryan Flores, PAINTER

I see myself making photography and filmmaking. I can learn from friends as I go along the way and hopefully within the next two or three years, I can make something big out of it.

Stefano Vasquez CONSTRUCTION

I want to go into the medical field. Not as a doctor, because of how the current environment within the medical field is, but maybe either research or as a radiation tech. And outside of that, I’d probably want to get some traveling under my belt while I still can.

Victoria Pearsaul

That’s a great question. I definitely want to be signed to a record label. I see myself with a wife and kids by then. And traveling.

Bobby Demario SINGER-SONGWRITER

Well, at the moment I own a coffee truck, and in 15 years I hope to be owning a brick and mortar version of that. I’d like to open at least two more restaurants in my life and possibly maybe a bookshop. That’s all in the future, and I’m really hoping to get there.

I see myself rich. Nice family, couple of friends, you know, with money to spend when I please, how I please.

Marlee Houck

MARLEE’S COFFEE & COCOA

Juan Salazar STUDENT WORKER

REVIEWS

The Forge

by Del Bates

The Kendrick Brothers have done it again; they have written and directed another life-changing faith-based movie, The Forge, a spin-off of their earlier movie The War Room. This film is intended to help save the next generation. The tagline the Brothers created for the movie says it all: “Whoever wants the next generation the most will get them.” Because of our culture, it’s easy for kids to be steered in the wrong direction, especially when a father figure is absent.

Aspen Kennedy plays the role of Isaiah Wright, a nineteen-year-old who just graduated from high school with no plans for the future. His love and relationship with the Lord in real life enables this uprising star to play the role with his heart.

Like many kids today, he is hooked on video games and baseball. Although it seems like the perfect pastime to him, his mom Cynthia (Priscilla Schier) disagrees. Being a single mom, she calls him out and gives him an ultimatum: get a job or move out.

To honor and obey his mother, Isaiah heads out and finds a job working for Joshua Moore (Cameron Arnett), a successful businessman, who takes a special interest in him. As their relationship evolves, Joshua, led by the Lord, becomes Isaiah’s mentor and surrogate father. He disciples him as he walks beside him, leading Isaiah to become the man God has called him to be and discovering that God’s purpose for his life is much more than he could have imagined.

From scene to scene, look for many actors who have played in previous Kendrick Brother movies such as

Fireproof, War Room, Courageous, and Overcomer

The Brothers share why they have chosen each of these men in The Forge. It’s all about their relationship with God. They noted that to influence Isaiah Wright, they must first walk with the Lord to set an example for him. Throughout the movie, I could see how each of their lives reflects their true love for God.

I attended The Christian Worldview Film Festival at the Kendrick Brothers Church in Albany, Georgia. There, we got a peek behind the scenes of this movie and what inspired them to create it. Their heartfelt desire is for what will happen after the movie. Their prayer is that those who watch the movie will leave with a new passion to become a Christ follower and to pour into others what they have gleaned in their own Christian walk. Through laughter and tears, I was inspired and realized how blessed I was to have had a mentor and how it impacted my life. I pray that after you see this movie you, too, will feel a desire to reach out and become a mentor to someone who needs what you have. I encourage everyone to pray for whom you can Forge for Christ and lead others into the godly person He created them to be.

THE FORGE

With discipleship being the underlying theme in this movie, the Kendrick brothers offer a variety of books as a follow-up after viewing the movie.

Fully Devoted, and eight-week Bible Study to learn how to follow Jesus and “Come as you are.”

I Surrender All ~ An inspiring book for women with personal stories by Priscilla Schier.

The Forge 5-week Bible Study ~ Bible study with clips from the movie to inspire and disciple.

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. She co-hosts the podcast, “Seeds of Hope,” with Penny Cooke, Wednesdays at 12:12pm on Vero’s Voice.

Del Bates

by Steve Glaser OF VERO

What do you enjoy most about living in Vero Beach?

I love our senior population and feel so blessed to have met so many wonderful people here since childhood. I love that we enjoy a laid-back and freespirited community.

Linda Morgan COMMUNITY ADVOCATE

Many things come to mind. The close proximity of our community to the water. So many nonprofits dedicated to make our community a better place. Always a great variety of restaurants and cultural experiences.

Pedro A. Bernabe

REALTOR, EXIT RIGHT REALTY

Vero Beach offers so many wonderful outdoor opportunities to become closer to nature and calm the soul. From kayaking the river, volleyball, golf, hiking and biking the Jungle Trail. Also, great opportunities to learn and enjoy pickleball and sailing. The simple things life has to offer can be found in Vero Beach.

Carol DeFazio

OCCUPATIONAL THERAPIST

Community spirit! So many local businesses thrive while residents support each other. Love the vibrant cultural scene highlighted by Riverside Theater, Vero Beach Museum of Art, and so many local galleries. There are also so many art shows and festivals throughout the year. Also, we are fortunate to have a great farmer’s market. I always appreciate the low-key lifestyle and laid-back atmosphere of our awesome community.

Stacy Gradel

OWNER, SOUTH PAW CANINE COUNTRY CLUB

I love that as our community continues to grow, it remains a special place. It’s the people that make it so special.

Jerzi Olivia

OWNER, JERZI OLIVIA ENTERTAINMENT, LLC

I love the small town feeling with great restaurants and pristine beaches.

Steven Prowett

SALES CONSULTANT

LINUS BUICK GMC

Small-town charm and it’s great that you can get anywhere in fifteen to twenty minutes.

J. Scott Kelly

PHOTOGRAPHER ISLAND IMAGES

It’s

a great feeling to know someone wherever you go.

Kim Sue Wagner

MIDFLORIDA CREDIT UNION

Love the slower pace and charm here as compared to living in a big city.

Bonnie A. Walker

CLINICAL SOCIAL WORK/THERAPIST

ORCHID ISLAND WELLNESS & COUNSELING

The sense of community here in Vero is unlike any other in America. It’s a wonderful place to live and own a business.

Jeff Palleschi CEO/PRESIDENT 21ST AMENDMENT DISTILLERY

It’s all about the people. The paradise of Vero Beach feeds my soul with sunshine and hospitality.

Linda Webb-Jenkins

REALTOR

There are six degrees of separation. In Vero Beach there are only two. You always know somebody that knows somebody.

Lynda Gibson

KELLER WILLIAMS OF VERO BEACH

BAROLO: the Wine of Kings - the King of Wines

by Glenn Sudnick, CERTIFIED SOMMELIER

arolo is the most powerful and dramatic expression of the Nebbiolo grape which takes its name from the village of the same name in the region of Piedmont in northwest Italy. Barolo is typically a dry wine that is rich and heady with defined tannins and acidity.

The wine has a style all its own, yet there are major differences between Barolo wines. The area the grapes come from determines the type of wine it will become. The first soil type located in the northwest of Barolo is calcareous. This wine is softer, fruitier, and aromatic with certain elegance.

The second soil type found in the southeast is more like compressed sandstone that is iron rich and less compact. These wines tend to be more intense and structured and full-bodied. The wine does share certain common traits between the two areas. With age, the wine becomes almost a deep brick color that is complex with aromas of plums, roses, tar, liquorice and truffles.

To make things even more complex, there are even different ideas of how the Nebbiolo grape should be produced to make a such creamy vanilla taste and softer wine, but the “traditional method” produces wine with hints of tobacco, tar, and a smoky aroma.

There are plenty of suggestions of what would go best with such a demanding wine, but I believe such a wine deserves a hearty yet simplistic meal such as a spaghetti Bolognese made with ground veal, pork and beef in a sauce made from San Marzano plum tomatoes, topped with plenty of grated Parmigianino Reggiano. Give me a huge serving of crusty spoleto covered with roasted garlic mixed with a first press extra virgin olive oil. Finally, a little pepperoncini on the side to complete the feast fit for a king.

Reservations, anybody?

Ciao!

Dinner & Dessert

Ilove Chicken Marbella. I started making it when I bought my 1982 “Silver Palate” cookbook. It’s easy and delicious, a great dish to prepare for company that looks like you fussed. This Pork Marbella variation has a shorter marinating time but has the extra step of browning the tenderloins before baking. Chicken or pork, you’ll love it!

PORK MARBELLA

INGREDIENTS

2 1-pound pork tenderloins

2 teaspoons salt

1 cup dry white wine

1/2 cup pitted prunes, cut in half (I use a little more)

1/3 cup packed light brown sugar

1/4 cup capers (small jar), plus 1 tablespoon brine

1/2 cup pitted Spanish green olives

1/4 cup red wine vinegar

4 garlic cloves, peeled and smashed

2 bay leaves

1 tablespoon dried oregano

1/4 cup plus 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil

1 tablespoon butter

1/3 cup chopped parsley or cilantro

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Season pork with salt and let it sit 15 minutes.

2. In the meantime, combine the wine, prunes, brown sugar, capers/ brine, olives, vinegar, garlic, bay leaves, oregano, and 1/4 cup oil in a large resealable plastic bag. Add the pork and seal the bag, pressing the air out. Turn to coat all of the meat. Chill at least 2 hours or up to overnight.

3. Preheat to 325 degrees.

4. Remove pork from the marinade and pat dry. Reserve the marinade.

5. Heat remaining 1 tablespoon oil in a 12” oven-safe pan over medium-high heat. Cook pork, turning occasionally, until golden brown all over, about 6–8 minutes.

6. Remove pan from heat and let cool 1 minute. Pour the reserved marinade over the pork. Transfer the pan to the oven and bake, basting the pork once halfway through, until the thickest part of the tenderloin registers 145 degrees, 22–26 minutes, depending on thickness.

7. Transfer the pork to a cutting board and let rest 10 minutes. Return the pan to medium-high heat. Add butter and cook, swirling pan occasionally, until slightly reduced, 3–5 minutes. Remove from heat.

8. Slice tenderloin crosswise against the grain. Transfer to a platter and spoon the pan sauce over top and garnish with parsley or cilantro.

Adapted from Bon Apetite

KENTUCKY CAKE

I was first introduced to this incredibly moist and delicious cake by my neighbor, Anne Ross. I’m more inclined to make it if I use a box cake, but you can use your favorite scratch cake recipe, substituting a coffee and Kahlua mix for the water. This cake is all about the buttery coffee/Kahlua glaze that seeps into the cake.

INGREDIENTS

For the cake:

1 package yellow cake mix

4 eggs, room temperature

1 4-ounce package instant vanilla pudding mix

3/4 cup room temperature coffee

1/4 cup Kahlua

1/4 cup oil

For the glaze:

1/2 cup butter (1 stick)

1/2 cup sugar

1/2 cup coffee

1/4 cup Kahlua

DIRECTIONS

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Generously grease a Bundt or tube pan. (I use nonstick baking spray.)

2. Mix the cake ingredients according to the cake mix directions.

3. Pour the batter into your cake pan and bake 50 minutes, or until done.

4. Let the cake rest (in the pan) 5 minutes and then poke holes in what will be the bottom of the cake. The small end of a chopstick works well. Poke about 45 holes 3/4 of the way down - don’t go all the way through.

5. Put glaze ingredients in small saucepan, bring to boil and simmer slowly 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Remove about 1/4 cup for brushing the top of the cake.

6. Slowly pour or spoon the rest of the glaze into the holes of the cake (still in pan). Add slowly so it seeps into the holes and doesn’t pool and drip down the edges of the cake. Patience ... this will take a few minutes.

7. Let the cake sit for 30 minutes. Run a knife around the edges of the cake and tap the outside of the pan until you feel the cake is loose, then invert onto a plate or cake stand.

8. Brush the top of the cake with the reserved glaze. Go slowly so it seeps in.

9. Cake keeps well for a couple days and is best on the second day. It also freezes well. Sprinkle with some powdered sugar or a dollop of whipped cream if desired, or heat a slice in the microwave a few seconds and serve with ice cream. I like it plain for breakfast!

Marianne Howell

SUDOKU

The aim with Sudoku is to place the numbers 1-9 exactly once in each region and in each row.

PERCEPTION

R E E E M T I N D

Wavy Squares?

LOGIC RIDDLE

scientificpsychic.com

A bear walks south for one kilometer, then it walks west for one kilometer, then it walks north for one kilometer and ends up at the same point from which it started. What color was the bear?

WORD WHEEL

How many words of three or more letters can you find in the wheel? Each word you find must use the central letter and each letter can only be used once. Can you find a word that uses all nine letters?

SEED

WORD LADDER

Change one letter of the top fourletter word to create a new word below. Continue the process, ending with the word on the bottom rung.

TREE

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.

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.

LetLetGo,God

by Beth Walsh Stewart

Fear and resentment change the way we think. But don’t despair. Transformation is possible, and it happens with mind renewal. Can you open your mind to the idea that restored thinking is possible? Truth has a way of finding those who seek, and solution follows as a natural consequence.

To let go of fear and resentment often leads us to choosing to forgive. Forgiving can be tough, because giving up our right to punish someone who has hurt us takes courage and effort. Yet, without forgiveness, we are doomed to carry the load of brokenness with us through every new stage of our lives.

Pain and suffering are real. Not dealing with pain and suffering in conscious ways only creates more pain and suffering. Some of us avoid the feelings or the people that we think created them. Some of us have honed defense mechanisms like blame to walk us out of accountability, relieving us of the need to take action. Some of us have decided to keep our world small, boxing ourselves in with the memories of pain, grief, distrust, or heartache. Constantly re-living that discomfort, we rarely allow others inside. We were created for connection, and isolating causes loneliness and agony.

pole. Forgiveness is not reconciliation. Reconciliation means that we will form a new relationship with the person we are forgiving. That is not always a safe option. We do not have to maintain connection with abusers, for example. We can

“Forgiveness is not a feeling. It is an act of our will.”

forgive and not be in further relationship with the wrongdoer.

The secular or worldly approach to forgiveness makes the practice a self-centered endeavor. “Forgive, because it’s good for you.” The incentive here is to take care of your own emotional well-being. This motivation reiterates that forgiveness is just a tool to make your life easier. Statements that back this ideology include, “Resentment is like taking poison and waiting for the other person to die,” or, “To forgive is to set a prisoner free and to discover that that prisoner is you.” These statements are true, and they encourage forgiveness, but mainly because not-to-forgive is self-destructive. This path eliminates love as part of the process.

What if forgiveness was initiated in love? What if the spirit nature compels us to “let go and let God?” Instead of being selfish and holding onto bitterness, the hurt one decides to “love anyway.” Initially, some will experience anxiety when asked to consider loving a perpetrator of injury “even though” they have hurt us. Let’s settle that restless heart with some ideas that may help the suspicious among us feel more confident.

Forgiveness is not denial of the offender’s responsibility. It doesn’t change the perpetrator at all, or his stance in the universe. He is still responsible. Forgiveness is not minimizing or justifying the wrong that was done. The past is over, and forgiveness does not change the past in the physical realm. The wrong was done. Forgiveness is not approval or excuse for the wounding. The reality of the experience has not changed.

We are not “letting them off the hook” when we forgive. We are walking away from the fishing

was

The biggest truth about forgiveness is this last one. Forgiveness is not a feeling. It is an act of our will. Forgiveness won’t remove bad feelings immediately, but without forgiveness these feelings will never go away. Worse, these tainted emotions can grow and change into bitterness. Bitterness is deep-rooted and can change our character and affect almost every area of a person’s life, and the lives of those around them.

When we forgive, we must face painful emotions with courage and endure the initial pain those feelings bring. In that moment of emotion, let’s allow ourselves to feel the discomfort within us. Pause. Breathe. Engage our Spirit natures and talk about how we feel with God. As we step out of ego and choose love as our way of life, our thinking will be transformed.

God will do for us what we could not do for ourselves.

Dedicated to rescuing the

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, MTh, is the Creator of BethWe, the nonprofit that

the impetus for this work.

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

Beth Walsh Stewart

Pastor Warren Kelly Brother Danny Lopez

Mind Games Answers

Puzzles on page 26

REV’S VERSES

by Pastor Rich Ienuso

Read the Word

1 Timothy 4:13 states that we are to give “… attendance to reading, to exhortation, to doctrine.”

Jesus stated that we do not “live by bread alone” but by the words that God has spoken (Matthew 4:4)

The Word of God, the Bible will not pass away (Matthew 24:35)

It is truth (John 17:17), it’s forever (Isaiah 40:8), and it is powerful and living (Hebrews 4:12)

Daily read a chapter in the Old Testament and a chapter in the New Testament. Start with Genesis and the Gospel of John. Stay in God’s Word. It is your daily spiritual food. Blessings, Pastor Rich WORD

LOGIC RIDDLE:

The bear was white because it was a polar bear. The only place on earth where a bear can go south, west and north equal distances and end up where it started is the North Pole.

Some of the words that can be made from the wheel include: deem, deer, deet, dent, derm, diet, dime, dine, dint, dire, dirt, eden, edit, mend, mind, need, nerd, reed, rend, ride, rind, teed, tend, tide, tied, denim, deter, dimer, diner, ender, indent, meted, mined, mired, rimed, timed, tired, treed, trend, tried, dement, mender, metred, minder, minted, mitred, redeem, reined, remind, rented, retied, teemed, tender, termed, terned, tiered, tinder, demerit, entered, merited, metered, mitered, needier, reminted, determine

PERCEPTION:

WORD WHEEL: No!

The background of concentric circles makes the squares appear distorted.

he Patriot Church’s goal is to educate you about the truth of our country’s founding and empower you to engage in the Battle for the Heart and Soul of America. Join the Sacred Cause to Save our Republic! Tune in Wednesdays, 11:00am-12:00noon

4th Sunday in Sebastian, 50 S. Wimbrow Dr, 10:00am 5th Sunday in Vero Beach, 4425 71st St, 10:00am

Pastor Rich Ienuso

Seeking

God

Recently I had a personal experience of wanting to connect with God during prayer on a more personal level, in a deeper way, which led me to research the power of seeking God in the scriptures.

In Psalm 42:1, there is reference to the psalmist soul’s longing for God like a deer’s thirst for water. This vivid imagery underscores the intensity and desperation which I felt when I began to seek God. The Hebrew word for “pants” in this context means to crave or long for, illustrating a deep, almost desperate desire for God’s presence.

Seeking God is not a passive activity but an active pursuit. The Hebrew meanings for the word “seek” conveys a sense of calling on, searching for, and desiring God. This pursuit requires a personal decision and a heartfelt desire to know and encounter God.

Psalm 27:4 highlights and shows the focus of the psalmists’ desire to dwell in the house of the Lord and behold His beauty. This desire to meet with God in His temple reflects the ultimate goal of seeking Him: to experience His presence and glory.

There are some distractions and hindrances that prevent a person from desiring to seek God according to scripture. Pride, self-reliance, and the pursuit of worldly desires can lead a person away from God. Psalm 10:4 and Isaiah 31:1 illustrate how these attitudes can cause neglect in seeking God.

The Bible gives numerous promises associated with seeking God. Hebrews 11:6 assures me that God rewards those who diligently seek

Him. Psalm 119:2 promises blessings for me if I seek Him with my whole heart. Lamentations 3:25 declares that the Lord is good to me if I seek Him.

The ultimate promise, as highlighted in Proverbs 8:17 and Jeremiah 29:13, is that we will find God if we seek Him. This assurance should be a powerful motivator for us to earnestly seek God, knowing that He desires to be found and to have a deep, personal relationship with us.

In conclusion, if we prioritize seeking God above all else, we will find not only His presence but also His blessings, provision, and joy. Seek the Lord while He may be found, and experience the fullness of life that comes from knowing Him intimately.

Pastor Alex Pappas

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.

VERO’S VOICE MAGAZINE

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

Delivery Locations

IN TOWN

iThink 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

AMAC | Alex MacWilliam

Real Estate

Charlotte Terry Real Estate

Di Mare Restaurant

Marine Bank

Ryder’s Market

Asian Fusion

Calvetti’s

Manatee’s La Tabla

Rhonda’s Seafood

Mattress Market – US1

Postal Connection

Vero Beach Book Center

Dunkin Donuts

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

Vero Beach Main Street

Gallery 14

CVS –17th

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

Kelley’s Irish Pub

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