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.
10 Voices of Vero: If you were to start a new business in Vero Beach, what would it be?
Voices of Vero: How do you plan to spend the holidays? 16 Movie Review: God’s Not Dead: In God We Trust
inside: Thanksgiving
I was doing research on Amish Thanksgivings and came across this poem on a site called Amish America written by author Erik Wesner. I think it's safe to say it does not reflect the Amish lifestyle, but it does highlight small everyday occurrences in our lives to be thankful for.
I am thankful:
For the wife who says it’s hot dogs tonight Because she is home with me and not out with someone else.
For the husband who is on the sofa being a couch potato
Because he is home with me and not out at the bars.
For the taxes I pay
Because it means I am employed.
For the mess to clean after a party
Because it means I have been surrounded by friends.
For the clothes that fit a little too snug
Because it means I have enough to eat.
For a lawn that needs mowing and windows that need cleaning, Because it means that I have a home.
For all the complaining I hear about the government Because it means we have freedom of speech.
For the lady behind me in church who sings off key Because it means I can hear.
For weariness and aching muscles at the end of the day Because it means I have been capable of working.
For the alarm that goes off in the early morning hours Because it means I am alive.
Photo: Rod Brogan (Bingham), Allison Elaine (Louise), Nate Janis (Justin) and Sandy York (Pamela)
‘We are humbled and appreciative’ – Navy wife
Gratitude. That’s the overwhelming response of our military and their families to Holidays for Heroes, the Military Moms Prayer Group’s annual gift-box outreach to deployed U.S. troops. Since 2006, more than 30,000 packages from residents of Indian River County have reached our servicemen and women stationed around the globe during the holidays.
Excerpts of letters from three women – a Navy wife, and two sailors on a destroyer somewhere in the Pacific – tell the story.
Thy is the sister of Mike Quach,
of Nail Art (near Five Guys). The nail salon is one of 35 pickup locations for the Military Moms’
Iabsolutely love
the support, consideration and effort that is given to those who wear a uniform. My husband David has been in the Navy since 2012, and I have seen firsthand how a care package or letter has brought his spirits up. From the very first time he received the packages, he was overwhelmed with the sheer amount and generosity. He was also able to share with so many others, and that also cheered them up during a time of loneliness, stress and uncertainty. To this day, we are so humbled and appreciative to know that there are people who care. It does not go unnoticed and we all thank you.
Amiyah Lee, 20, a Navy Petty Officer 2nd Class, graduated in 2022 from Sebastian River High School, where she was a member of Navy R.O.T.C. After joining the Navy, she was stationed at Naval Air Station Whidbey Island, WA. She is currently deployed to Asia.
A staunch Navy wife, Thy has kept the home fires burning during David’s multiple deployments throughout their nearly 14 years of marriage. David is currently deployed in the Pacific region.
owner
Holidays for Heroes mailing kits.
–Thy Wife of a Petty Officer 1st Class deployed to the Pacific Region
Hello!
I want to thank each person who takes time out of their day to give to us. We all very much appreciate it. Every box opening is accompanied with the smiles of many sailors. It makes deployment more bearable. The words of support fill our hearts. We appreciate the gesture. It really means a lot to every single one of us. It’s nice to hear every now and then that we are appreciated as well as having someone acknowledge our sacrifice. Thank you. Many blessings.
–Anonymous sailor
graduate of
Navy Petty Officer 2nd Class John Carter, 24, is a Fire Control Specialist deployed on the aircraft carrier USS Truman. He Joined the Navy after graduating from high school in 2019. A former Sea Scout and Eagle Scout, he is the grandson of Sue and Ralph Carter of Vero Beach.
David B. Carter (center) is the proud father of David (left) and John. At age 55, he’s a retired Navy Force Master Chief, whose career spanned more than 34 years. He now serves in local and state American Legion and VFW units in Tennessee.
Continued next page
A 2019
Virginia Military Academy, David, 28, is a Navy Flight Officer currently training in the States. Lt. Carter is the brother of John Carter.
Greetings,
The care packages people take time to send make a great difference.
Many of us are away from home for the first time in our lives, and having someone care enough for us to send us ANYTHING means the world. It’s a change from our routines underway, which is a great deal when you’re out to sea for months at a time.
Thank you so very much for taking time and money out of your day. We appreciate you!
–Anonymous sailor
Air Force Tech Sgt. Michael Buehrig, 39, is currently deployed to the Indo-Pacific region. In these photos, he’s pictured on a previous deployment to Sumatra, Indonesia, where he conducted field training with local special ops troops. The father of two, Michael took time during his last deployment to visit a school.
During his 18-year Army career, Sgt. 1st Class Michael Gallahue, 39, has served around the world, from Iraq, to Afghanistan, to Australia, to South Korea. A Vero Beach High School graduate, Michael is overseas in Eastern Europe, conducting NATO training maneuvers with local troops.
HOLIDAYS FOR HEROES PICKUP LOCATIONS
Barker Air Conditioning & Heating1936 Commerce Avenue
Eye Clinic of Vero - 634 21st Street
Vero Strength + Conditioning - 760 8th Court, Suite #4
Sailfish Brewing Company - 2855 Ocean Drive
Nail Art - 1355 U.S. 1, Suite #5
Sebastian Municipal Golf Course100 Brush Foot Drive, Sebastian
Pak Mail Beachside - 505 Beachland Boulevard
Postal Connections (year-round)1275 U.S. 1, Suite #2 (Behind Carrabba’s)
Studio 14/Zumba Works - 1962 14th Avenue
American Icon - 1133 19th Place
Barefoot Café - 2036 14th Avenue
Vero Fitness - 1060 6th Avenue
Elle 7 Twenty Salon + Spa2083 Indian River Boulevard (Behind Panera)
Vittorio’s Pizza - 2980 Oslo Road
Goodfella’s Pizza - 9615 U.S. 1, Sebastian
Sturgis Lumber - 4645 U.S. 1, Gifford
Charlotte Terry Real Estate Group - 2911 Ocean Drive
Craving’s -3149 Ocean Drive
The Beached Whale - 3143 Ocean Drive New
BigShots Golf - 3456 U.S. 1
CW Willis Family Farms/Savores Grill House3700 9th Street SW New
Busy Bee Lawn & Garden Center7445 U.S. 1, Winter Beach
Pareidolia Brewing Co. - 712 Cleveland Street, Sebastian
St. Lucie Battery & Tire - 10435 U.S. 1, Sebastian
Christ Church Vero Beach - 667 20th Street
Victory Center (Veteran’s Council) Indian River Mall (Near JC Penney) - 6200 20th Street
Pack Mart - 13537 U.S. 1, Sebastian
Calvetti & Company - 10 Royal Palm Pointe
Jimmy John’s - 5445 20th Street
Runner’s Depot - 436 21st Street (Miracle Mile) New
Gino’s Nutrition Shoppe - 680 21st Street (Miracle Mile near Wells Fargo) New
Lychee Nail Spa - 2033 Indian River Boulevard (Miracle Mile) New
21st Amendment Distillery - 2055 13th Avenue New
Olivia’s - 3400 Aviation Boulevard New
Twisted Lime - 710 South U.S. 1 (Near Publix on Oslo) New
VOICES
OF VERO
by Steve Glaser
November 19th is Entrepreneurs Day!
We celebrate the dreamers that turn their ideas into reality and the doers that turn setbacks into opportunities.
If you were to start a new business in Vero Beach, what would it be?
I would open a fashion boutique as we don’t have anything like that in Vero Beach.
Pat Thomas, PHOTOGRAPHER
I would create a coffee shop, a blend of cozy atmosphere, similar to the cozy atmosphere of Central Perk that you see in the show Friends. At the same time, it would have a literary vibe similar to Books-A-Million. A great place to relax, socialize, while enjoying a great cup of coffee.
Maria Alfaro, REALTOR, KELLER WILLIAMS OF VERO BEACH
I would start a large complex that includes a car wash, laundromat, and playground.
I would open a high end steakhouse or any other kind of a high end restaurant.
Lisa Seiler, ADVOCATE IN-HOME CARE
I always thought Vero Beach should have a Portillo’s Italian Beef Restaurant. I think it would be very popular.
Bart Mazzarella, AIR & RADIO PERSONALITY
An indoor playground for children up to the ages of eleven that permits people to provide their own food and beverages.
Crystal Barker-King, CLEAR VOICE IP BUSINESS SOLUTIONS.
A car wash!
Wesley Davis, IRC PROPERTY APPRAISER
I would start a business geared towards kids. I love the idea of an indoor trampoline park like DEFY. As we have many younger families moving into our area, we need more indoor activities for our children. .
Amy Lockard, SALES, D•R•HORTON HOMES
I would sell fresh squeezed lemonade. Chad Miller, BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT MANAGER, YELLOWSTONE LANDSCAPE
I would start a property management business to manage short term rentals and vacation homes.
I would start a lounge for the 30-andolder crowd. This is something that I am currently working on.
Lizzet Montalvo, VERO BEACH PHOTOBOOTH
Pat Thomas
Maria Alfaro Crystal Ploszay
Joann
Maturo Gallagher
Lisa Seiler
Bart Mazzarella
Crystal Barker-King
Wesley Davis
Camille Carnell Pronovost
Chad Miller
Lizett Montalvo
Amy Lockard
Supplementing Social Security:
TAKING CONTROL OF YOUR FINANCIAL SECURITY
by Danny Howes, EA, RFC
Last month, we discussed why Social Security’s future is in doubt and the possible reforms that may occur. This month, we’ll explore what you can do to help ensure a comfortable retirement regardless of what reforms may come.
Given the uncertainty surrounding Social Security, the key to a stable retirement is not relying solely on government benefits. Instead, you should look at Social Security as just one piece of the retirement puzzle. To secure your financial future, consider these strategies for supplementing your income:
1. Maximize Contributions to Retirement Accounts
Retirement accounts like 401(k)s and IRAs can be crucial for building a more reliable income stream. If you’re not already contributing the maximum allowed, now is the time to ramp up your contributions. Many employers also offer matching contributions to 401(k) plans, effectively giving you free money toward your retirement savings.
2. Diversify Your Investments
Don’t put all your eggs in one basket. A diversified investment portfolio can help you
mitigate risks and take advantage of market opportunities. Consider a mix of stocks, bonds, and other investment vehicles tailored to your risk tolerance and timeline.
3. Delay Claiming Social Security Benefits
While you can start claiming Social Security benefits as early as age 62, delaying until your full retirement age—or even later— can significantly increase the size of your monthly benefit. If you can afford to wait, this can be a smart strategy, especially if you are healthy and expect to live longer.
4. Explore Income Streams in Retirement
In addition to savings and investments, some retirees choose to generate additional income through part-time work, consulting, or rental properties. These income streams can help you cover expenses while keeping your savings intact for later in life.
5.
Consider Professional Financial Planning
Preparing for retirement is complex, and Social Security is just one piece of the puzzle. A professional financial planner can help you create a comprehensive retirement strategy that accounts for potential changes to Social Security while optimizing your savings and investments.
Take Action Today
While Social Security will likely still exist in some form, preparing for potential changes now can put you in a stronger financial position when retirement comes. By boosting your savings, diversifying your investments, and consulting a financial advisor, you can feel more confident in your ability to maintain your lifestyle in retirement— regardless of how Social Security evolves.
At East Coast Tax and Financial, we specialize in helping individuals plan for a secure retirement. Our team can guide you through the complexities of Social Security and help you create a customized strategy tailored to your needs. Don’t leave your retirement to chance—reach out to us today for a consultation and start building a brighter future.
Danny Howes, EA, RFC EAST COAST TAX AND FINANCIAL PLANNING
by Steve Glaser OF VERO VOICES
First I will be visiting with my son’s family in New York and looking forward to spending time with many of my old friends. Then I am off to Vegas to visit more friends. Maybe I can hit a jackpot! A great way to celebrate my birthday and the holiday season.
Mauri Waldman, PSYCHOTHERAPIST
How do you plan to spend the holidays?
My wife and I host a family Thanksgiving every year. We hope during Christmas to enjoy a family cruise.
Brandon King, KING CUSTOM DESIGNS
I am looking forward to spending both Thanksgiving and Christmas with my family on the west coast of Florida.
Kim Cybulski Small, KW LUXURY BROKER ASSOCIATE
The Sausie Pig will be spending the holidays filling the bellies of the less fortunate.
Beemer Brown, SAUSIE PIG CATERING, AND REALTOR, DALE SORENSON REAL ESTATE
I will be celebrating both holidays with my parents in Massachusetts.
Dahlia Gotzmann, BROKER ATLANTIC KEY REALTY GROUP
Honestly, my plans are to take the time and reflect and be grateful for how truly lucky I am to be living and working in this great community with my family, friends, colleagues, and clients. Where even when devastating tornadoes stomp through our area, we all dust off in a united way and help one another without question. We are surrounded by resilient, wonderful and gracious people. I feel this is the best place in the world to live!
Jennifer Bailey, BROKER ASSOCIATE
I always stay home for Thanksgiving as I enjoy cooking and making everything from scratch. By the way, I make the best cranberry sauce!
Luchian Bercea, REALTOR
DALE SORENSON REAL ESTATE
On Thanksgiving I am helping Team Success provide meals for the homeless. On Christmas Day, I am delivering gifts for the less fortunate before celebrating Christmas with family and good friends.
Darrell Rivers,
I will be cooking for my family for Thanksgiving and looking forward to a great time in Aruba for ten days during Christmas.
Terra Lillis, REALTOR EPIQUE REALTY
I will be spending both holidays with good friends and enjoying the holiday season.
David Brunton, REALTOR
LIZ SHERMAN REAL ESTATE
I am looking forward to celebrating Thanksgiving with my family. During the Christmas season, December 12-22, I will be performing at the Theater Guild’s production of Miracle on 34th Street.
Katherine Salvio, REALTOR
As our kids got married, I decided to do a Thanksgiving brunch so they could be with their partners’ families for dinner. Again it works out for Christmas because we celebrate Christmas on Christmas Eve and open our presents at midnight.
Cathi Nalzaro MESSAGE & FACIALS SKIN STUDIO
God’s Not Dead: In God We Trust
by Penny Cooke
REVIEWS G
od’s Not Dead is a series of Christian-themed movies that are based on a book written by Rice Broocks. In God We Trust is the fourth film in the series.
The plot. Six weeks before an election, congressional incumbent Rick West dies of a heart attack, leaving his opponent, State Senator Peter Kane (Ray Wise), to run unopposed. Kane is known for his strong stance on separation of church and state. When the press asks him about criticisms that he would restrict religious freedom and support bigger government, his campaign manager, John Wesley (Scott Baio), whisks him away. Later with his team he states that “religious superstition” has no place in government, then raises his glass and toasts, “Here’s to enlightenment, reason, and reshaping our nation’s core.”
Meanwhile, West’s campaign is clamoring about what to do to keep the country from socialism. In his office, Congressman Daryl Smith (Isaiah Washington) is watching a video clip of Reverend David Hill (David A.R. White) who previously helped with education hearings boldly speaking about the price others paid for our freedom and the power of the Constitution. He reminds leaders: “You work for us! America belongs to the people, Mr. Chairman.”
With no other options and slim
hope of winning, Congressman Smith decides to ask Reverend Hill to run against Kane. He tells his associates, “Remember, this is a fight for the soul of our nation.”
When asked, Reverend Hill turns it down. His passion is restoring a women’s shelter, but the government isn’t making it any easier. Several women at the center had a Bible study and the government pulled the grant money, saying it was being used for religious purposes. Hill tells his assistant Martin (Paul Kwo) that perhaps he’s just being paranoid. Martin reminds him what happened in his country 50 years prior—that the Chinese government blamed all the country’s problems on religion and faith, calling it the Cultural Revolution, to cover up the truth. Churches were destroyed and Christians were put into camps and countless were killed. He believes a similar revolution seems to be brewing here.
Congressman Smith contacts his past campaign manager, Lottie Jay (Samaire Armstrong), who he says is the best. However, she left her career after being defeated and humiliated by her opponent; getting her to accept
the position would be as challenging as convincing Hill to run. To add to the challenge, her former opponent is the campaign manager for Kane. Smith reminds her it’s not about her past, but our country’s future.
Jay accepts and convinces Hill to run. But it gets ugly. This film shows how nasty and cut-throat the political game can be. Kane manipulates, bribes, and bullies Hill. With a chilling look in his eyes, he calls his faith superstition, irrationality, fear of the boogeyman, and ignorance.
Hill keeps his integrity but is often scolded by campaign manager Jay for not playing by their dark rules, like digging up dirt on the opposing candidate. Though Hill refuses to expose dirt, Jay finds some anyway and it is leaked to the press. Opposing campaign manager Wesley set Jay up again, and she took the bait. While their campaign is falling apart and Reverend Hill is suspended from his church, Congressman Smith convinces him not to drop out, that our nation needs hope. But can he win?
This film does a great job of depicting many of the issues we face today, with reason. A star-studded cast and great acting, a captivating story line, and a very important message.
A chilling statistic brought out in this film is that 40 million Christians do not vote, and another 15 million aren’t even registered.
If those with a moral compass do not steer our country in a decent direction, who will steer it and to where? If those with knowledge of good and evil do not stand in the way of evil leading our government, who will keep the evil out? If people of religion do not protect religious freedom, what will become of it?
As stated in the film, “You have the power to change things…YOU!”
Voting biblical values isn’t letting religion into government – it’s preserving morality and decency for our children and their children.
GOD'S NOT DEAD: IN GOD WE TRUST
Cooke Penny Cooke is an award-winning author of Pursuing Prayer: Being Effective in a Busy World, The Wake-up Prayer children’s book, and her latest, Pursuing Prayer for America. She co-hosts the Seeds of Hope podcast with Del Bates on Wednesdays on Vero’s Voice Facebook page. Learn more at pennycookeauthor.com
Penny
• Aluminum and steel cansRinse & recycle in the blue cart.
• Aluminum foil & pansNOT recyclable- throw away.
• Glass, plastic bottles & containersRinse & recycle in the blue cart.
Think twice before you “stuff” your blue cart The Landfill and Convenience Centers will be closed Thanksgiving Day. Visit indianriver.gov to see if there are changes to your curbside collection services.
Here’s what to do with some Thanksgiving Staples:
Here’s what to do with some Thanksgiving Staples:
• Aluminum and steel cans - Rinse & recycle in the blue cart.
• Aluminum and steel cansRinse & recycle in the blue cart.
• Aluminum and steel cansRinse & recycle in the blue cart.
• Glass, plastic bottles & containers - Rinse & recycle in the blue cart.
• Aluminum foil & pansNOT recyclable- throw away.
The Landfill and Convenience Centers will be CLOSED Thanksgiving Day. Visit indianriver.gov to see if there are changes to your curbside collection services. Confusion at your cart? Download the CARTer’s Corner app to see what goes where or
• Glass, plastic bottles & containersRinse & recycle in the blue cart.
• Aluminum foil & pansNOT recyclable- throw away.
• Glass, plastic bottles & containersRinse & recycle in the blue cart.
The Landfill and Convenience Centers will be closed Thanksgiving Day. Visit indianriver.gov to see if there are changes to your curbside collection services.
Think twice before you “stuff” your blue cart
The Landfill and Convenience Centers will be closed Thanksgiving Day. Visit indianriver.gov to see if there are changes to your curbside collection services.
Here’s what to do with some Thanksgiving Staples: Think twice before you “stuff” your blue cart
Marianne Howell is a stylist based on the Treasure Coast. She is drawn to simplicity and believes that less is more. Find her online: www.treasurecoaststylist.com, instagram, facebook, & pinterest @treasurecoaststylist
Wood Tray with Metal Handles $27 | 80 Acre Market | 80acremarket.com
On our way home from Vermont we stopped in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, to visit the beautiful Amish countryside dotted with barns, silos, and farmland, clothes drying on the line, buggies and horses. And experience the Amish cooking.
While in Vermont we made friends with a nearby Mennonite family and were honored to be invited to their daughter’s wedding and reception (the only non-Mennonites attending). It was a joyous yet solemn occasion. All of the members of the local Mennonite community attended, including the children. I was amazed at how well behaved they were sitting so quietly for two hours, no electrical devices in sight.
There were no flowers, no fancy white dress or heels, no tuxedos, no bridesmaids either. It was a quiet exchange of vows interspersed with the frequent beautiful strains of a capella singing by the congregation.
I have to say we’re somewhat envious and curious about their simplistic way of life and it sparked our interest to visit the Amish community in Lancaster. And after a long day of driving in the car, it was nice to look forward to a good Amish home-cooked meal.
We arrived at Katie’s Kitchen for dinner, just in time as they close early at 7. When we sat down, they brought us rolls and a delicious rich and creamy peanut butter spread. We bought a small container and quickly devoured it before we got home. It was so good I wanted to find a recipe and make more.
One couple I found online described themselves as nontraditional Amish and explained. The Amish have church service every other Sunday in someone’s home or barn. Afterwards long tables and benches are set up and lunch is served for everyone consisting of homemade bread and buns, this peanut butter spread, cheese and lunch meats, bread & butter pickles, pickled beets, and cookies or pies.
She said they would spread the peanut butter on a slice of bread, place pickles or beets on top, and dunk it in hot tea. They agreed it sounds pretty disgusting but they love it.
This makes a nice holiday gift. It would make a good dip for apples, celery sticks, or pretzels, Put the spread in an airtight container or jar with tight lid and store in a cool dark spot. It doesn’t have to be refrigerated, but lasts longer if it is.
AMISH CHURCH
PEANUT BUTTER SPREAD
INGREDIENTS
1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
1 cup light Karo syrup
1/4 cup marshmallow fluff
INSTRUCTIONS
Place all ingredients in a bowl and stir until fully combined. It should have a gooey consistency similar to honey.
Using molasses instead of Karo is a popular variation.
INGREDIENTS
1 cup brown sugar
3/4 cups sugar
1/3 cup molasses
1 cup water
2 1/2 cups creamy peanut butter
3/4 cup marshmallow fluff
INSTRUCTIONS
1. Mix sugars, molasses, and water in a large saucepan and bring to a boil. Cook and stir over medium heat two to three minutes.
2. Completely cool the mixture. Add the peanut butter and fluff. Use a whisk or electric mixer and mix until smooth and creamy.
The Amish celebrate Thanksgiving much the same as we do with a day of rest, giving thanks, family gatherings and large meals. Peanut Butter Cream Pie is often served for dessert.
PEANUT BUTTER CREAM PIE
Peanut butter cream pie is an Amish favorite. We ordered a slice for dessert and see why. Creamy custardy filling with bits of sweet peanut butter…yum!
INGREDIENTS
1 9-inch baked and cooled pie crust (homemade or store bought)
For the crumbles:
1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
1/2 cup powdered sugar
For the pie filling:
3/4 cup sugar
1/4 cup cornstarch
1/4 teaspoon salt
3 cups whole milk
3 large egg yolks
2 tablespoons butter
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
For the topping: Whipped cream, homemade, or ReddiWip
INSTRUCTIONS
1. Make the crumbles. In a small bowl combine the peanut butter and powdered sugar. Use a fork to mix until small crumbly pieces form. Set aside.
2. Make the pie filling. In a medium saucepan, whisk together the sugar, cornstarch and salt until smooth. Place over medium heat and cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and begins to bubble, 8-10 minutes.
3. Temper the egg yolks. In a small bowl whisk the egg yolks. Slowly ladle about 1/2 cup of hot milk mixture into the yolks, whisking constantly to temper them. Pour the egg mixture back into the saucepan and continue to cook 2-3 minutes until thickened.
4. Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the butter and vanilla extract.
5. Assemble the pie. Sprinkle half of the peanut butter crumbles evenly over the bottom of the cooled baked pie crust. Pour the warm cream filling over the crumbles and smooth the top with a spatula. Sprinkle the remaining crumbles over the top of the cream filling.
6. Chill. Cover the pie with plastic wrap and refrigerate until fully set, at least 4 hours.
7. Serve. Top with whipped cream and enjoy.
Continued next page
This is my mother’s recipe. She would make small loaves and gift them to her neighbors at the holidays.
NORA’S CARROT CAKE
My mother loved nuts and used them at every opportunity. Lightly toasting the pecans that top the cake adds an extra special something to the flavor.
INGREDIENTS
For the cake:
2 cups sugar
1 1/2 cups vegetable oil
2 cups all purpose flour
2 teaspoons baking soda
1 1/2 teaspoons cinnamon
1 teaspoon salt
4 eggs, room temperature
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
3 cups grated carrots (about 4 large carrots)*
1 cup pecans, chopped
For the cream cheese icing:
8-ounce block full-fat cream cheese, room temperature
6 tablespoons butter, room temperature
2 cups powdered sugar, plus 1/4 cup
3/4 teaspoon vanilla
Pinch of salt
1 cup pecans, chopped, lightly toasted in a slow oven or large skillet
INSTRUCTIONS
1. Make the cake. Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Grease and flour 9x13 pan or three 4x8 loaf pans.
2. Using an electric stand mixer with paddle attachment, cream the sugar and oil together.
3. Whisk the dry ingredients together in a separate bowl.
4. Add 1/2 of the dry mixture to the sugar/oil mixture, scraping the bowl often.
5. Add the rest of dry mixture, alternating with eggs (one at a time), mixing well after each addition. Add the vanilla.
6. Mix in the carrots, then nuts. Batter will be thick!
7. Bake approximately 55 minutes.
8. Make the icing. Using an electric stand mixer with paddle or whisk attachment, beat the cream cheese and butter on high speed until smooth and creamy.
9. Add in the powdered sugar, vanilla and salt. Beat on low speed for 30 seconds, then high speed for 2 minutes. If you want the icing a little thicker, add up to 1/4 cup of powdered sugar.
10. Evenly spread pecans on top of your frosted cake.
* Grate your own carrots. Don’t use packaged pre-shredded carrots, they’re too dry and hard. I confess I’m too lazy to drag my food processor out and it’s too many pieces to wash. I use a box grater with handle. It really doesn’t take that long and it’s just one piece of equipment.
• Comprehensive Eye Care
• Cataract Surgery
• Cornea
• Glaucoma
• Oculofacial Plastic Surgery
• Macular Degeneration
• Diabetic Eye Care
• LASIK
• Optical Center
• Contact Lenses
• Aesthetics
Let’s Talk Turkey …and Wine
by Glenn Sudnick, CERTIFIED SOMMELIER
Thanksgiving is arriving soon and many of my conversations at this time of year are answering questions about what wine is best for the holiday turkey.
If you ask me about food and wine pairings, I inevitably ask, “What kind of preparation are you planning for the meal?” I take into consideration the herbs, spices, and fruits that are used in the dishes.
Before I get started with suggestions, it’s always important to remember that you are the final judge of the wine chosen. I’ve learned through the years that there are certain guidelines for food and wine pairings. However, if you love a certain chardonnay or cabernet sauvignon with a particular meal, then that is the wine for you.
Now, let’s get to the turkey-and-potatoes of some of my pairings for your holiday meal.
So my mother puts garlic on everything. I remember one dinner years ago garlic was in every dish on the table. We had vanilla ice cream for dessert, and when I asked for seconds, I requested some more of that garlic ice cream. Could that be how garlic ice cream got invented?
Anyway, if you’re like my mom, garlic with the turkey is an essential part of the formula. With the classic herb recipe of thyme, garlic, and rosemary, I recommend a jammy wine such as an Argentina Malbec or California Zinfandel with fruit flavors of plum, black cherry, and characters of smoke with white pepper.
The complex red Bordeaux wines of France made from blends of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot, and Malbec are an excellent choice for recipes that use sage, cinnamon, and northern fruits with apples, pears and a brown sugar glaze.
Some of us will be deep frying or smoking the turkey on the grill. For this I might suggest a chardonnay from the coolest vineyards of the central coast in California with aromas of jasmine, lychee, and flavors of Meyer lemon, ripe pear, and crisp green apple.
For those who are rooted (no pun intended) with serving turnips, beets, parsnips, fingerlings and sweet potatoes, I recommend one of our fabulous choices of Napa Cabernet Sauvignon. The luscious black cherry, blackberry fruit with licorice and vanilla on the palate make for an excellent pairing.
For the last course, the love of my life has promised me a very special dessert this year. I think it has to do with pumpkin. Well, I might need to serve one of my favorite black Muscat wines. This wine has a bouquet of red roses with exciting flavors of bosc pear and grape. I recall the first time I experienced this wine, I felt like I was in the middle of a rose garden.
And that reminds me, I have to pick up the flowers for our dinner table! To all of my readers, have a Happy Thanksgiving!
Cheers! –Glenn
Remembering
Gerry Lamothe
Gerry Lamothe was one of those true friends I could count on one hand. I am certain I got the better end of the deal. Gerry changed my life by listening to me for countless hours and counseling me for nearly 20 years. It is what he did as a professional, but it was also one of his many giftings.
He leaves behind a legacy of lives influenced by his intellect and wisdom, again gifts from the Lord above. He was such a blessed and wealthy man to have eleven wonderful children. He and Gwen certainly made a winning parental team. I have admired them all from afar and wish them the very best. I’m so thankful I had the opportunity to see him one last time and tell him that I loved him. My friend.
They say in the end you are blessed if you can count your true friends on one hand.
David Walsh was one of mine.
• Merchant Marine
• Auto dealership owner on Staten Island
• Sold his New Jersey home and came to Vero Beach at the age of 70.
• Overweight. Starts walking daily. Hires Lori as work-out coach. Gets in shape. Continues this until recently.
• Becomes a realtor, then broker, working in commercial real estate.
• Meets Charlene 25 years ago and she becomes his extraordinary administrative assistant. (David shared a story that she requested a raise. “How much?” he asks. She replies. He says, “Double it.”)
David was righteous and kind. An older widow in town was barely getting by and had to move from her affordable rental apartment. David quietly purchased a condo and rented it to her for half the normal rate.
He told me I was his best friend. What an honor. He is the only person in my entire life who said such a kind thing to me. He did not suffer fools easily so I was baffled, frankly, that I was exalted to such a lofty position.
David was my co-host on radio one day a week for over 20 years. He loved being on the radio and started his own broadcast. What a radio voice! Best voice of any “on air” personality I ever met. He’d get a kick out of running into people around town that said they recognized his voice.
The Extraordinary Life of David Walsh, My Friend
I’m the Mayor of the Airwaves, and he joked he was the Governor of the Airwaves.
We formed a corporation and flew in talent from Ireland for Christmas shows. We gave the profits to the “Help a Teacher Fund” giving checks to local teachers, then to St. Francis Manor.
He was a devoted husband. His wife Chloe was in an assisted living facility for years. He’d take her out for a drive, visit their beloved dog Princess, go to a restaurant, get her hair done, get a manicure, come visit us.
When I needed words of wisdom and advice, David was the one I went to.
He was hospitalized at 98 years of age. One procedure too many to bounce back from. When we got the news, I flew in to see him one last time from my summer residence in Vermont. So glad I did. Men don’t tell men they love them. I got to tell him I loved him, and indeed I did and do.
So long for now, my dear friend, who was quick to forgive others and quick to give to others. I’ll miss you.
SUDOKU
The aim with Sudoku is to place the numbers 1-9 exactly once in each region and in each row.
C N R Y A
MAZE R R B E
Begin at the green arrow and work your way out to the red arrow.
WARM
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?
FALL
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.
Pursuing Prayer for America
21 Battle Cries for Our Nation
There is hope for America.
But America’s healing will only come as a result of our persistent, fervent prayers. We the People must return to God’s ways, then He will bless America (Psalm 33:12).
Inside this book are 21 prayers based on various scriptures. Jesus used the Word of God, the sword of the Spirit (Ephesians 6:17), to fight the enemy, and we can, too. God’s Word does not return voice (Isaiah 55:11). The author’s own personal experience praying Scripture has proven powerful.
With this book, let’s join with our fellow Americans and agree in prayer for 21 days—and beyond. Together let’s ask God to “shed His grace on thee” once again. Let’s commit to pray these powerful scriptures for America for as long as it takes to heal our land.
“We must let the other adults in our lives face the world for themselves.”
by Beth Walsh Stewart
We love them, and because of that we want to help them. We don’t realize that our good intentions can sometimes interfere with their personal growth.
When the holidays come around, we get to spend time with family. Some of us have certain family members who struggle regularly and look to us to get them through the tough times. Being a support is one of the most important roles in family life.
What does it mean to be supportive? When we are overzealous in our desire to assist, instead of offering back-up, we may try to manage the difficult issues of life for them. For example, we may try to run interference for them or step in to interact with a contrary person. When we do that, we take on more than our share. Responsibility lines blur, and we may forget where we end and our loved one starts.
When that happens, we have dismissed healthy boundaries. Boundaries in love relationships are important. They may seem difficult to set, especially if they were unclear in our family of origin. Nonetheless, we must let the other adults in our lives face the world for themselves. We can lend support, but protection should come from themselves and God. When they look to us for that ingredient, we get in the way of their journey to wholeness and health.
This holiday, instead of fixing family issues, spend your time listening and loving. It may be uncomfortable at first if you’ve trained others to look to you for solution. Let them know you trust them to create their own realities. Pray for them and ask God to cover them with grace as they navigate their tough situations. Then, step back and let them find their way.
You will witness growth and struggle as you watch them step into their Truth. Let them grapple with their shortcomings, trusting that eventually they will find that the cost of negligence is greater than the reward of inaction.
Become a signpost on the way, not the vehicle driving them to their destination.
Boundaries are like fences. When we install them, we keep everyone safe.
Beth Walsh Stewart, MTh, is the Creator of BethWe, the nonprofit that was the impetus for this work. Dedicated to rescuing the stragglers lost in the shadows of the road of life, Beth is bestknown 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
Encouragement for what you face today, tomorrow and always.
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
Del Bates Penny Cooke pennycookeauthor.com delbates.com
Pastor Warren Kelly Brother Danny Lopez
Mind Games Answers
Puzzles on page 26
WORD LADDER: MAZE:
WORD WHEEL:
Some of the words that can be made from the wheel include: ace, any, arc, are, aye, ban, bar, bay, cab, can, car, cay, ear, era, nab, nay, ran, ray, yea, acre, bane, bare, barn, bean, bear, bran, bray, cane, care, crab, cyan, earn, nary, near, race, racy, rare, rear, yarn, year, beany, brace, carer, carny, carney, carry, crane, racer, rarer, rebar, reran, yearn, barren, bracer, brayer, nearby, errancy, recarry, cranberry
First Wednesday of Each Month 11:45AM
Italian-American Civic Association 1600 25th St. • Vero Beach Cost: $20 and includes a Delicious Lunch! Call Steve Glaser (954) 261-0544 for info
Thanksgiving Keep Giving Thanks
by Father Duffy
To be truly thanksgiving is “thanks” first, then “giving”
We are not as rooted to the soil as the first colonists who settled in Plymouth in 1621. We tend to think of our food supply in terms of the local supermarket. We find it difficult to understand the terrifying words of the prophet Jeremiah: “If the harvest fails, there is no hope.”
Thanksgiving Day is a good day to recall that our life as a nation depends on the rich soil that spans the continent of the United States. This soil is our life, and life is God’s greatest gift to us.
“
The fact that you and I are alive at all right now, at this particular moment, is an incredible long shot. Be thankful! The odds against the flame of life reaching us were astronomical. Countless strains and branches of the human family ended in cul-de-sacs, victims of war, pestilence and natural disasters. Yet the small flame of life passed through numberless hands in uncountable generations until now it flickers in us.
The fact that you and I are alive at all right now, at this particular moment, is an incredible long shot. Be thankful!
This irreplaceable day of thanksgiving is a day to rejoice in the gift of life, in the wonders of the world around us, the ever changing sky, the chirping of birds, the warm love of families and friends, the life-giving soil of mother earth, and the precious gift of faith. Let us respect our land, our lives, our environment, and our farmers and farm workers who work in the fields to put food on our tables.
Let us respect and reach out to those who are in need also. In spite of the abundance that Americans enjoy, poverty is on the rise. Nearly 37 million Americans live below the poverty line. One in eight Americans struggle to find affordable housing; they split their medications in half and work more than one job to make ends meet. The devastation caused by the national and international monetary crisis has caused even more people to enter the ranks of poverty, here and abroad.
Should these statistics and calamities lead us to lose hope? No way! The lesson to be learned from the first pilgrims who settled this land and who were given food by the native Americans is that there is always enough when people are willing to share. Life is so much better when people are thankful and are willing to share.
That is the lesson of the miracle of the loaves and fishes in the Gospel. It is the message of Thanksgiving Day.
May this day be a day to give thanks and share with one another. Happy Thanksgiving!
The Bible tells us to “be cheerful no matter what; pray all the time; thank God no matter what happens.” This is the way God wants you who belong to Christ Jesus to live. (1 Thessalonians 4:17-18).
We are encouraged to keep thanking God, no matter what. With His strength and grace we can be a thankful people. We don’t need to be grumpy, mean, arrogant and miserable.
Count your blessings and name them one by one. It will surprise you what the Lord has done for you.
Happy Thanksgiving and keep being happy giving thanks!
