PRSRT STD ECRWSS U.S. POSTAGE PAID PERMIT #724
*****************ECRWSSEDDM**** Local Postal Customer
DECEMBER 2017
A MONTHLY DIRECT MAIL MAGAZINE
Surfing Santas
IN COCOA BEACH
holiday
GIFT GUIDE CBHS STUDENTS MAKE US PROUD
BUNDLE UP
There’s a Snowstorm Coming to Cocoa Beach
Diamond Castle Jewelry & Coin Back Where They Belong
--------IN EVERY ISSUE-------Local, Live Music Calendar A Message from the Mayor Community Corner
Present this ad for a FREE Cupcake Candle. No purchase Necessary. * Limit one per family please.
EDITOR’S LETTER
Here we are right in the middle of the holiday season! Lights and decorations are going up, every store you go in is playing Christmas music, and it’s time to get those Christmas cards written and out in the mail! I love the way this time of year seems to bring friends and family together. It truly is a magical time of year! It’s hard to believe that this year is almost done and 2018 is upon us.
CONTACT INFO
With the new year right around the corner, it is the perfect time to start thinking of your New Year’s resolutions. What are mine going to be? Maybe that famous lose weight one or how about the save more money one? Both are viable options. It would be a lot easier to keep resolutions that were fun, like have dessert with every meal or take more days off work! Maybe this year my resolution with be not to make any resolutions. That way I know I will be on a path for success! We will see. Well it’s time to wrap this one up. Make sure to take a look at our Holiday Gift Guide inside this issue to get some great ideas for those perfect Christmas gifts. email: Remember to shop loDougbaker34@aol.com cal whenever you Traceepbaker@gmail.com can!! We will see you around town phone: at the Winterfest on 321-759-6064 December 2nd and Surfing Santas on Christmas Eve! Both Tracee and I wish you a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!! Talk to you next year!
Doug Baker 4
Cocoa Beach Explorer
CONTENTS (December 2017)
FEATURES 6 Surfing Santas In Cocoa Beach
8 Cocoa Beach Students Make Us Proud 10 Holiday Gift Guide 16 Diamond Castle Jewelry and Coin Back where they belong
19 Winterfest
Bundle Up - There’s a snowstorm coming to Cocoa Beach
EVERY ISSUE 14 17 20 22
LETTER FROM THE MAYOR COMMUNITY CORNER EXPLORER RECOMMENDED LIVE MUSIC & EVENT LINEUP
The Cocoa Beach Explorer is printed and mailed by:
Akaila Amara
Account Executive
C: 321.360.2400 P: 321.984.0301 E: aamara@digitalgraphics.com digitalgraphicsprinting
www.digitalgraphics.com
Articles and advertisements printed in Cocoa Beach Explorer do not necessarily reflect the opinion of the publisher. Explorer Multimedia, LLC and Cocoa Beach Explorer assume no liability for the content and shall not be held liable for any errors or omissions. ©2017. All rights reserved. Any reproduction, in whole or in part, is prohibited without written permission from the publisher. Explorer Multimedia, LLC P.O. Box 320773 Cocoa Beach, FL 32932
/CocoaBeachExplorer
The roots of Health First run deep in Brevard,
dating back to 1937, when Brevard Hospital first opened in Melbourne with 27 beds. Now, as your local, notfor-profit community healthcare system, we are more committed than ever to improving the health of our community. As we continue our mission to provide the community with excellent and compassionate health care, we rely on your support to help us create a healthier Brevard.
CAPE CANAVERAL
MELBOURNE
PALM BAY
VIERA
Please consider
giving the gift of health this holiday season. To learn more, call 321.434.7353.
HFgive.org
1350 S. Hickory Street | Melbourne, FL 32901
When is the Surfing Santas event this year? December 24 - 8:00 am - 12 noon. Surfing Santa starts his busy schedule on Christmas Eve, around nightfall. Sooo…He likes to spend his time off in Cocoa Beach enjoying his favorite past time…surfing, of course. Over the years, lots of his friends have come to Cocoa Beach and joined him to “Ride the Waves of Christmas Magic.” How and when did the Surfing Santas event get started? My wife always got me these surfing Santa Christmas Tree ornaments, and my mom always wore a surfing Santa sweater at Christmas time.
Surfing Santas
IN COCOA BEACH
photo credit: Amanda Stratford
an interview with the original Surfing Santa, George Trosset
In November 2009, I saw a Honda car ad on TV that showed a few surfing Santas riding some really fun waves. So, I called my son, George Trosset Jr., and asked him to get an elf costume for he and his wife, Britteny Trosset. I dressed as Surfing Santa and George and Britteny were dressed as elves. The Florida Today put a picture of Surfing Santa on the front page of the Christmas Day newspaper. Some of my friends approached me the following year and said they wanted to be a Surfing Santa. The next year, we had 19 Surfing Santas. Over the years friend of my friends have shown up. How many Surfing Santas did you have last year? Last year (2016) we had over 600 Surfing Santas. Now, Surfing Santas aren’t just dressed in red and white; we have had Frosty, Reindeer, Nutcrackers, Rasta Santa and dozens more very unique Surfing Santa outfits.
6
Cocoa Beach Explorer
VETERANS REALTY OF BREVARD
Residential & Commercial
RIZZO JEWELERS DIAMONDS – EMERALDS – RUBIES
1675 N. Atlantic Avenue Cocoa Beach, FL 32931
Senior, Veteran & Neighborhood Hero (Police, Fire, Medical & School Teacher) Discounts
(321) 868-1833 Call for your discount details
www.veteransrealtybrevard.com Merry Christmas & Happy New Year
Custom Jewelry Design Clock & Jewelry Repair Appraisals Watch Repair Estate & Consignment Jewelry
Celebrating 30 years on the beach
(321) 783-6242 Debi and Joe Roth Licensed Real Estate Brokers
Hours: Tues. – Fri. 10AM – 5:30PM 5360 N. Atlantic Ave. Cocoa Beach, FL 32931
photo credit: Ross Cruden
Any predictions on how many Surfing Santas you think will take part in 2017? With good weather and good waves, we could top 1,000 Surfing Santas this year. photo credit: Ross Cruden
If you want to surf as a Surfing Santa, do you need to sign up somewhere? Not really. All the Surfing Santas just show up and go surfing.
photo credit: Ross Cruden
Besides surfing, what else do you have planned for this year’s event? This year we will have Aquanuts playing
surf music in the morning, Balsa Bill playing Mele Kalikimaka on his Ukulele, Sam Sims singing some of his original Christmas songs, the Hawaiian dancers are coming back, and of course, Anna Lusk will be singing her newest surfing song for us.
tion out there. Who else is doing Surfing Santas? As luck would have it, some blokes from Australia have challenged us with who can have the most Surfing Santas. I don’t expect much to come of this because we will surely have the World Record again this year. I do admire these Aussies for trying though!
In a perfect world, what would your Where can I get a Surfing dream be for the Surfing Santas event? Surfing Santas has grown over the years to Santas shirt this year? Surfing Santas event shirts will be avail- a level I never could have imagined. The able at Secrets of Cocoa Beach, The Florida Key Lime Pie Company store, Ron Jon Surf Shop, and online at surfingsantas. org. Our Facebook page will have a Surfing Santas tee shirt link as well photo credit: Ross Cruden (facebook.com/Surfingexciting part for me is when the media gets Santas/). our story and shares it around the world. In What are the charities that benefit from 2015, our event garnered 40 million viewers on live TV news coverage in all 50 states! the Surfing Santas event? Surfing Santas supports Grind for Life Last year, I saw a report that Surfing Santas (grindforlife.org) which helps people with created 570 million impressions around the cancer. Surfing Santas also supports the world; that’s more impressions than PresiFlorida Surf Museum- Preserving Florida’s dent Trump has Twitter followers! Surfing Santas has been an amazing ride, Surfing History (floridasurfmuseum.org). and I hope that others will enjoy “Ridin’ I’ve heard that we have a little competi- The Surfing Santas Wave� with us. Cocoa Beach Explorer
Armstrong
CHIROPRACTIC
Dr. Lance Armstrong, DC
FCA “National Humanitarian of the Year�, 2015
SLIP OR FALL? CAR ACCIDENT? X-ray on-site Most insurance accepted USAF Veteran 1401 N. Atlantic Ave., Cocoa Beach | (321) 783-4455
G E N E R A L C O N T R A C TO R S commercial & residential construction
7
Dream B�i�d
STORM DAMAGE NEW CONSTRUCTION REMODELS
407-492-3048
F REE estimates CGC 1516417
COCOA BEACH STUDENTS MAKE Last month I shared the 23,000 hours of service that Cocoa Beach students have provided throughout the community, and quite honestly, the world, over this past year! This month, I want to share the far reaching academic success of our students. Schools in the state of Florida have been “graded” by the Florida Department of Education for 19 years. Cocoa Beach Jr./Sr. High School has been rated an “A” school for 17 of those 19 years including every year since
that it helps the community be attractive to homeowners as well as businesses. When new families are looking to move into the area, we hear from almost all of them that they’ve selected Cocoa Beach because of its “A” rating as well as the programs it offers all students.
What goes into a school grade? There are many, many categories that are measured which, when put into a statistical formula, give us our grade. As you can imagine, the traditional things which go into grading our school include testing students in English/language arts, math, science and social studies and determining how many of our students pass those tests. But, the grading formula takes into account not only Moody’s Megamath the number of stu2010. The dents who pass the test, but also the numgreat thing ber who get a higher score than the year about be- before, and the number who are among the ing an lowest scorers in the school doing better “A” rated one year to the next. But, it doesn’t stop school is there. School grades also consider things
8
like students earning industry certification, students taking the most rigorous courses and a school’s graduation rate. It looks at factors from high school and middle school. Our teachers work extremely hard every day to make sure students are learning material that will help them be successful not only here, but when they graduate Cocoa Beach High School. Our success doesn’t stop with the school grade. For example, this past school year, we had a team of students who competed in a national math competition. These students placed in the top 78 of more than 1000 teams across the country in Moody’s Megamath in a 14 hour competition of math problems. The team earned a $1000 scholarship. Participants were Austin Schlenker, Joshua Haddad, Seth Netterstrom, John Stotz, and Ryan Pletcher. And, here’s a fun fact about Cocoa Beach students. Did you know our JROTC academic team, this past summer, earned the #1 ranking in the WORLD among all Army JROTC academic teams? THAT’S NUMBER 1 IN THE WORLD!! The JROTC Academic Team participated in the international competition in Washington DC this past June. Earning a spot in DC by winning the Southeast Regional, CB JROTC partic-
Cocoa Beach Explorer
Selling or Purchasing Residential or Income property? Would you like a
A Beautiful Smile is Always In Style
Free and Confidential Estimate of Value?
Claudia Davis Utilizes Modern Technology and Marketing tools, combined with Old-Fashioned Customer Service!
CALL Claudia Davis 321-960-2577
www.ClaudiaDavisRealtor.com ClaudiaDavisRealtor@gmail.com
Dr. Erin Kahlon, D.D.S. NEW PATIENT INVITE Exam & X-rays $80 Cleaning, D0150, D1110, D0210
(321) 783-7415
30 Woodland Ave., Cocoa Beach
cocoabeachfamilydentistry.com
Music Lessons Music lessons available for the following instruments:
US PROUD!
Violin Cello Guitar Ukelele Mandolin Recorder Clarinet Voice Composition
written by: Karyle Green, Ed.D., Principal, Cocoa Beach Jr./Sr. HS
ipated in several rounds against teams from all over the nation before facing and defeating the Stuttgart, Germany’s JROTC Academic Team. That win made us #1 in the WORLD. Can you imagine how cool it is to be able to list #1 in the WORLD on your college brag sheet! Team members Seth Netterstrom, Jonathan Parent, John Stotz and Nicolena Weaver.
Viola Acoustic Bass Electric Bass Piano Banjo Flute Saxophone Percussion Theory
Digital Audio Recording
(321) 544-4062
Lynn & Joe Gray
Call today for more info
A-1-A Bike & Mower
#1 in the World
Cocoa Beach Explorer
9
1346 Hwy A-1-A | Satellite Beach | 321-773-2225 -- nex t to Da Kine Diego's --
The perfect beach cruisers “Newport”
Aluminum Frame & Rims Pedal Forward Design Rust Buster Chain Premium Quality Construction Stainless Steel Spokes
“Isla Vista” starting at
$249
A-1-A
A1Abikeandmower.com
BIKE & MOWERS
SERVICE
We have academic competitors in Future Problem Solving, Science Fair, Future Business Leaders of America, Brevard Academic Interschool, Robotics, Book Bash, le Congrès, Chess, Calculus, Algebra I, Speech and Debate, and Student Government. Our IB Program has helped make us one of the top public high schools in the United States, according to Washington Post’s “America’s Most Challenging High School.” Please know that NONE of this could be accomplished without our dedicated teachers and staff! At Cocoa Beach Jr./Sr. High School, academics remains our focus!
We service most brands of lawn mowers, generators & power washers
All Natural, Handmade Coconut Bicycle Drink Holder (Reg. $29.95)
FREE
with purchase of any bike Must present Coupon Expires 12/31/17
Sunday, December 24th 7 pm
Family Worship with lighting of the Christmas tree & Holy Communion
10 pm
Candlelight Service with Holy Communion, Hand Bell Choir, Adult Choir, instrumental music and candle lighting
www.lcorcb.org
Lutheran Church of the Resurrection
Merry Christmas from
Making
B
eauties on the each
BREVARD
Medi Spa
10% off
Any Service
by men�oning this ad
Advanced Aesthe�c Services Board Cer�fied Plas�c Surgeon Dr. Bernabe Vazquez Facials Peels Massages Botox & Injectable Fillers
321-392-0040
158 N. Atlan�c Ave., Cocoa Beach BrevardMediSpa.com
10
Cocoa Beach Explorer
holiday GIFT GUIDE
COCONUTS ON THE BEACH
COCONUTS FRESH CATCH MARKET
Located in the heart of Downtown Cocoa Beach. We are open Tues. -Sat. from noon till 7pm. We offer a variety of fresh fish such as; Mahi-Mahi, Grouper, Salmon, Tuna, Tripletail, Snapper and Haddock. We also have our award winning Corn and Crawfish chowder, bacon wrapped scallops, crab cakes, Key West pink shrimp as well as other specialty items. For the holidays we will be offering a free crab cake with a $20 purchase (1 per customer).
This holiday season your friends at Coconuts on the Beach are making your life easy! Don’t run around town looking for another gift that will just sit in the closet. Give the gift of sun, fun, ice cold drinks, and delicious food! Coconuts on the Beach gift certificates!
Buy a
Buy a
Get a
Get a
$25 Gift Certificate $10 Gift Certificate
$100 Gift Certificate $25 Gift Certificate
FREE FREE 2 Minutemen Causeway | Cocoa Beach | 321.784.1422
COCONUTS SURF & SOUVENIR SHOP
This holiday season give them what they really want! What’s better than the gift of surf and sand? Coconuts Surf & Souvenir Shop can help you check off everyone on your holiday shopping list. Stop in and grab some towels, beach balls, beach toys, cozies, hats, and of course T-shirts in tons of styles.
Call and ask about our gift certificates available only for the holidays.
Happy Holidays to all from us at the fish market. 33 S Atlantic Ave. | Cocoa Beach | 321.613.5981
COCONUT PROPERTIES HOME WARRANTY
Pamela Durkin with Coconut Properties would like to wish everyone a Merry Christmas! As a gift to you, she is offering to pay for a home warranty ($400 - $600 value) for sellers and buyers that list or buy with Coconut Properties!
Bring in this ad for a 15% discount off all merchandise.
Contact us for details!
25 S Atlantic Ave. | Cocoa Beach | 321.613.5615
Pamela Durkin | Surfing4Properties.com | 321.316.5950 Cocoa Beach Explorer
11
holiday GIFT GUIDE
PROFESSIONAL DETAILED CLEANING
Servicing luxury homes, business offices, model homes and move ins/outs. Give the special someone on your Christmas list the gift of time with a gift certificate for cleaning. Purchase a gift certificate and get one FREE* hour of cleaning. *
Please call for details.
Janet O’Donnell | crystalcleaning@cfl.rr.com | 321.258.6202
FOR THAT ONE SPECIAL PERSON
THE GIFT OF BEAUTY & RELAXATION 20% off
All Gift Certificates Purchased 12/1/17 – 12/24/17 Give yourself or that special someone the gift of beauty and relaxation. Advanced Aesthetic Services Botox & injectable fillers Facials, Peels, Massages
158 N. Atlantic Ave., Cocoa Beach | 321.392.0040
GIVE THE GIFT OF THE PERFORMING ARTS King Center gift certificates make perfect gifts for the holidays. Show someone you care by giving the gift of outstanding entertainment to an upcoming performance! Gift certificates may be used toward any ticketed King Center event. Purchase gift certificates at KingCenter.com or by calling the ticket office at 321-242-2219.
The Diamond Solitaire Pendant at
Rizzo Jewelers
1/6 carat round diamond Reg. $425, Now $225
5360 N. Atlantic Ave., Cocoa Beach | 321.783.6242
KingCenter.com | 321.242.2219
ALWAYS GET A SMILE
Almost Edible Gourmet Candles are so realistic they will fool any pastry chef.
Looking for a gift that will always get a smile?
Over 600 handcrafted, super scented original varieties.
Look no further than Fishlips Waterfront Bar & Grill.
Present this ad for a FREE Cupcake Candle, no purchase necessary, and a 20% discount on any purchases. Open 7 Days a Week 222 N. Atlantic Ave., Cocoa Beach | 321.522.2597
12
Medi Spa
May only be used on full-price services. Cannot be used with any other special promotions.
Classic elegance for that special someone.
ALMOST EDIBLE GOURMET CANDLES
BREVARD
Cocoa Beach Explorer
Grab that perfect gift like Fishlips apparel or give the gift that always fits - Fishlips Gift Certificates! 610 Gleen Cheek Dr., Port Canaveral | 321.784.4533
holiday GIFT GUIDE
SWELL LIFE APPAREL
GIFT OF GREAT FOOD & CRAFT BEER
From surfing to fishing, to yoga and diving, Swell Life is a lifestyle. We keep quality, flexibility, and comfort in mind for top athleticism. Get yours at Cocoa Beach Health & Fitness or on Facebook.
Give the gift of great food, craft beer, and gorgeous views!
www.Facebook.com/SwellLife | SwellLifeco@gmail.com
523 Gleen Cheek Dr., Port Canaveral
SPECIAL EVENT CUSTOM GIFT BASKETS
NOW AVAILABLE! Custom gift baskets for special events and holidays! Alcoholic and non-alcoholic available.
Port Canaveral’s newest dining establishment Rising Tide Tap & Table gift certificates make the perfect gift.
THE TIMELESS GIFT
Find that certain someone the timeless gift of jewelry.
20% off any purchase with this ad
Pre-made or you select contents and we wrap and deliver. Prices begin at $25. Call today!
Valid now thru 12/24/17 See store for details
87 Main Street Spirits | 321.506.0679
70 S. Atlantic Ave., Cocoa Beach | 321.783.9811
THE GIFT OF ADVENTURE Looking for a Fun & Exciting Gift?
PAMPER YOURSELF OR YOUR LOVED ONES
Lash-ology
Get a complimentary mini European facial with every full set of “Classic” lashes*.
Tours operate daily from Port Canaveral. From just $19.99/person, it’s the best way to see the sights! Carries up to 3. Gift Certificates available online. 321.392.4125 | CocoaBeachHelicopters.com
At Lash-ology & Spa “It’s all about you!”
& Spa
Gift Certificates are available. *Cannot be combined with any other promotion
41 N. Orlando Ave., Cocoa Beach | 407.750.3426 407-750-3426 m y l a s h o l og y . c o m Cocoa Beach Explorer Hours:
13
MALIK’S
MESSAGE
FROM THE MAYOR
C O C OA B E ACH U P DAT E
Christmas is upon us and I must say time is truly flying by! Our son is now a senior at Cocoa Beach High School and will soon be ready to go off to college to continue his journey to adulthood. Congratulations Chris Malik on making the CBHS Varsity basketball team, that work ethic and tenacity paid off (he is not 6ft tall but has blazing speed, ball handling skills and can shoot 3 pointers!). Mom and I are really proud of you (GO BEACH!). Change is constant in our lives, thinking back when I was in high school (in the Dark Ages), typewriters, no internet (you had to go the library for research), no cellphones, GPS, etc. Technology has moved rapidly in the last few years, and the next generation will see even greater advances. People are inherently resistant to change but not all change is bad. For example, people with coronary artery blockage 30 years ago would be required to have open-heart bypass surgery, with the advent of stents, you can avoid this risky procedure and have a quicker recovery (I am thankful for the 4 stents that kept me alive)! We as a City must discuss how to tackle our deferred maintenance and infrastructure projects. Cocoa Beach currently has over $35 million in capital projects planned for the next 5 years including over $2 million in sewer plant upgrades to replace the 30-year-old pumps that are past their useful life. This huge figure does not include over $9 million of unfunded projects such as replacing our storm damaged City Hall and resolving the - yet to be identifiednorth-end sewer system back-flow problem. Our city’s reserves have been hit with two storm events in one fiscal year; we are still waiting on FEMA funds of over $700,000 for damage from Matthew and our Hurricane Irma damages will be significantly greater with the amount of federal assistance unknown. The question we must now address is how do we pay for $45 million or more in near-term costs with a completely stagnant tax base and ever-increasing expenses over the last 10 years. While property values have recently begun to increase, with so much of our property base protected by Save Our Homes, property value appreciation will never fill the gap in our funding requirements. As we are all painfully aware, our Commission has been forced to increase property tax rates during the last two years and unless our tax base grows, we will be forced to consider additional increases. This conundrum is exacerbated by the fact that we have a large percentage of retired residents on fixed incomes and little appetite by anyone - me included - to pay more taxes. Avoiding our needed capital improvements is not an option. Therefore, the needed revenues to pay for them must come from either new development and an enlarged tax base, or higher tax rates.
14
Cocoa Beach Explorer
written by Mayor Ben Malik
The charter review committee is working on revisions to the City Charter for residents to consider. Any changes will require voter approval from the residents. This week the Charter Committee voted to further discuss the sections of our Charter that limit height and density in our City, which passed by referendum in 2002. While l will not support any high-rise developments and want to ensure we maintain the character of our small town, I firmly believe we can encourage some redevelopment in limited areas while preserving our residential neighborhoods and smalltown character in order to generate the revenues we so sorely need. Like our municipal infrastructure, a lot of private infrastructure in our City was built in the 1950s and 1960s and is now at the end of its useful life. The owners of many of these properties desire to redevelop them to modern standards. If redeveloped, these properties will dramatically increase in taxable value. No one can deny the impact that the height and density restrictions of 2002 had on construction in our City; there has been practically zero redevelopment of any property of any meaningful taxable value in over 15 years. In addition to the City’s dire need to generate more revenues, there are other benefits to allowing for sensible low to mid-rise development of older properties. Replacing a 1950s era hotel with $45 a night rates with a brand new development that can charge $180 a night will attract much more desirable visitors that will generate more economic impact and dramatically reduce the strain on our public safety resources. We must also acknowledge that building standards have changed and what was sellable in 1970 is not marketable in 2020 at current construction costs. Lastly, the risk of flooding due to rising sea levels and more severe and frequent storms must factor into how redevelopment occurs. The FEMA rating of the entire County and our collective ability to purchase affordable flood insurance is tied to our flood prevention planning and sensible land development regulations. I hope we as a community can have an open dialogue based upon facts (the 2017 Florida Building Code is in it’s 5th revision since 2002, FEMA flood requirements, market standards, and our City’s capital requirements) when we consider whether or not our Charter imposed development restrictions should change in parts of our City. I look forward to having an open and respectful discussion. If we as a City decide that it’s again time to consider these issues after 15 years, it will still be up to the will of the voters in 2018 as to what you want! See you at Surfing Santas on Christmas Eve, Merry Christmas and God Bless! Thank you for your support and allowing me to serve as your Mayor, please feel to contact me with any suggestions at bmalik@cityofcocoabeach.com or my cell at 321-794-6668.
Motorized, Completely Retractable Screens Hidden to be there only when you need them!
REDUCE ENERGY COSTS | REDUCE UV RAYS ALLOW AIR IN | KEEP BUGS OUT | PROFESSIONAL INSTALLATION
We also offer retractable screen doors and fixed panel screens.
Call for a FREE estimate!
321-231-2610
www.BlueWaterScreens.com
Diamond Castle Jewelry & Coin
Back Where They Belong
Diamond Castle Jewelry & Coin has been a staple of Downtown Cocoa Beach for years. We all fondly remember the castle façade’ as one of the first things you would see driving north on A1A coming into downtown Cocoa Beach. The original façade’, which was later replaced with a castle mural, has today been replaced by a beautiful new mural welcoming all to Cocoa Beach! On November 9th, Diamond Castle Jewelry & Coin celebrated their re-grand opening and ribbon cutting for their recently remodeled store. We had a sit-down conversation with Scott Levy, the owner of Diamond Castle Jewelry & Coin, a few days after their grand opening. When did Diamond Castle
16
Jewelry and Pawn originally open? It was originally opened in 1976, but I bought Diamond Castle in October of 2010. You are now back in your original building, why did you have to move? Hurricane Matthew did a substantial amount of damage to our old building. We had to move to a temporary location, just a few doors down, while we renovated the original building. When you first bought Diamond Castle, you were a jewelry and pawn shop. Why did you drop the pawn shop? Our passion has always been jewelry! We decided to become a full-service jewelry shop and move away from the pawn shop.
Cocoa Beach Explorer
During your ribbon cutting ceremony, we noticed a few new jewelry lines which you are featuring in the store. What are the new jewelry lines and pieces you now carry? We are excited to carry Alamea Jewelry which is a line out of Hawaii that features inlaid Koa Wood. We also now carry some higher-end watches, Larimar jewelry, and tons of diamonds in all sizes. We have truly stocked up for the holidays and have a great selection on all different kinds of gem stones. You must come in and see for yourself! I also noticed some beautiful estate jewelry pieces in your case. Do you buy jewelry? If so, do you only buy entire es-
tates, or can someone come in and sell you individual pieces? Yes, we carry a large assortment of estate jewelry and coins! We would be happy to buy whole estates or just a piece or two from anyone that is looking to sell. Lastly, Christmas is upon us now! Do you have any specials going on this holiday season? As a Christmas gift to all the Cocoa Beach Explorer readers, we are offering 20% off your entire purchase.* Just bring in the magazine and show us this article. *Not to be combined with any other discounts. Must show the article at the time of shopping.
COMMUNITY CORNER
FREE CHRISTMAS CONCERT The Lutheran Church of the Resurrection
December 17th 7pm in the Sanctuary
Nonprofit organi zations can submit information on upcoming events and fundra isers for inclusion in the Co mmunity Corner to dougba ker34@aol.com
SH IP EA RLY ! Make sure gifts get sent on time.
IN TE RN AT IO NA L send no later than
Priority Mail International
Please join us for this free event.
DEC 9
Priority Mail Express DEC 14 International
Global Express Guaranteed
01 Sat. 12/9 6pm at Marker 1 520) t R Starts a tennial Park on S (near Cen
EACH B A O C O C MAS T S I R H C ADE R A P T A BO
DEC 19
DO ME ST IC
send no later than First-Class Package Service - Retail
DEC 19
Priority Mail
DEC 20
Priority Mail Express
DEC 22
shipping dates courtesy of United State
s Postal Service
 ��
 � A thank you!
lunteers embers and vo m e th l al to al u tion snacks Huge thank yo or brought adVdieteran’s Day! s nd fu d te na who do autiful cake for food, and our be pe Canaveral Papa Vito’s, Ca coa Beach A NY Pizza, Co a Beach staurant, Coco Re a an av H le � Roberto’s Li Cocoa Beach Anacapri Pizza, coa Beach Tiny Turtle, Co ach way, Cocoa Be Jenna’s Breeze h coa Beac Thirty Oyster, Co coa Beach Co e, uc Coastal Prod co , Co a Beach Pig and Whistle
THE BEA CH
THIS HO L I D AY
SEASON
Reindeer R un 5K Saturday, D ecember 9 , 2017 Registra�o n race day is $30 w w w .r u n s ig n u p .c o m / h o li d a y
Sincerely, beachse
r ie s
10148 o, VFW POST hi cc te on F P lia E the Post and Member of er nd te ar B , ha Kes
$250
OFF
16 SEER or Higher System
Expires: 5/31/18 Coupon must be presented
Code:EXP0817
$50
OFF
Diagnostic Fee with repair
Expires: 5/31/18 Coupon must be presented
Code:EXP0817
WallaceAirHeat.com
BUNDLE UP
There’s a Snowstorm Coming to Cocoa Beach
Yes, you read that right. Snow! The 2nd annual Winter Fest, organized by Cocoa Beach Main Street, takes place from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. Saturday, December 2nd along 2 blocks of Minuteman Causeway in downtown Cocoa Beach. “This is an event for the community,” said Scott Jeavons, treasurer of CBMS and managing partner of downtown business SSlater Surf and Tackle. “This is a family/kids event.”
written by: Jan Wesner Childs
Winter Fest features a host of family-friendly activities including pictures with Santa, train rides, stilt walkers, food booths and food trucks. There are also crafts and vendors with great holiday gift ideas. And of course, the main attraction: Snow and a snow slide, right here in sunny downtown Cocoa Beach. A local ice company trucks in 25-30 tons of ice for the event and then uses a machine to turn it into “snow.” Jeavons said some kids came in parkas and mittens last year, and others in just their shorts and T-shirts. The activities are all free, although donations are welcome. This year’s event is sponsored by Waste Management, Cocoa
with warm drinks, quality products for sale and a family atmosphere. The inaugural Winter Fest last year kicked off a series of events throughout the year for the growing Cocoa Beach Main Street organization. “Winter Fest was really the first ‘signature event’ for Cocoa Beach Main Street,” said Beth Javens, Executive Director of the organization. “We are grateful to the volunteers who help put this and other events on. We count on financial donations, sponsorships and contributions from the community and businesses to help support us.” She added that CBMS is a non-profit organization. “Any proceeds garnered from the event help Main Street invest in programming and events throughout the year as well as costs incurred for advertising and promotion of various activities directed to downtown Cocoa Beach,” Javens said. “People can get involved with the program by contacting the Main Street office or joining our Facebook conversations.”
Beach Lodging Association and the City of Cocoa Beach. It’s also funded in part by Visit Florida.
photos courtesy of Secrets of Cocoa Beach
The event aims to create the ambience of a European-style Christmas market,
Booth space for vendors is still available. Interested vendors should email cbmsevents@gmail.com for details. Cocoa Beach Main Street is a community-centered, economic development program that advocates for economic vitality and quality of life issues for residents and businesses in downtown Cocoa Beach. Individuals can support Main Street for as little as $25. Search Cocoa.Beach.Main.Street to follow us on Facebook.
Cocoa Beach Explorer
19
explorer
87 MAIN STREET SPIRITS Where the Locals Gather on A1A north, next to Subway COCONUTS FRESH CATCH MARKET Fresh Seafood, never frozen Coconutsfreshcatchmarket.com | 321-613-5981 HILTON COCOA BEACH OCEANFRONT Book your holiday parties now! 321-799-0003
HOUSEHOLD SERVICES
FOOD & DRINK
RECOMMENDED
DIGITAL GRAPHICS Commercial Printing and Direct Mail Contact (321)360-2400 for a Free Quote! DR. SHANE C. HERNESMAN, MD.,P.A. Welcomes Cori Daniels, A.R.N.P. 321-453-5888 | Primary Care OLIVE BRANCH I.T. 321-288-0793 | Support@OliveBranchIT.com Turning a new leaf in Professional I.T. SINCLAIR LAW OFFICES Your Local Personal Injury Attorneys Call: 321-253-4200/Surf: sinclairlaw.com
20
Cocoa Beach Explorer
MISCELLANEOUS
PROFESSIONAL SERVICES
COCOA BEACH AREA REAL ESTATE Free Home Evaluation Call Claudia Davis 321-960-2577| ClaudiaDavisRealtor.com
DISCOUNT FLOORS & CABINETS 321-783-8453 All Your Flooring Needs!! STANLEY STEEMER AIR DUCT CLEANING Call 1-888-STEEMER(783-3637) Locally Owned & Operated since 1981 WALLACE AIR CONDITIONING & HEATING 321-773-7696 | Wallaceairheat.com Serving Brevard since 1960 DIAMOND CASTLE JEWELRY & COIN 321-783-9811 Your full service jewelry store
ARMSTRONG CHIROPRACTIC 321-783-4455 Most insurance accepted BREVARD MEDI SPA | 321-392-0040 Advanced Aesthetic Services Board Certified Plastic Surgeon
A Directory of Great Local Businesses
KITTY KRITTER SITTER 321-917-1530 / kittykrittersitter.com Loving in-home pet care for cats LUTHERAN CHURCH of the RESURRECTION 525 Minutemen Cswy | 321-783-0852 | www.lcorcb.org Facebook: Lutheran Church of the Resurrection RIZZO JEWELERS 321-783-6242 | Custom jewelry Watch, clock & jewelry repair
Bring in this ad for 1 FREE Bud Light draft
Hours: 11 AM to 11 PM Bar closes at 12 AM
(321) 799-0003 longboardstiki.com
HOLIDAY SPECIAL
YOUR FULL SERVICE JEWELRY STORE WE BUY GOLD!
*Not to be combined with any other discounts. Must show this ad at the time of shopping.
JEWELRY REPAIR BUY AND SELL GOLD SILVER COINS DIAMONDS
5
Back At Our Original Location
$ 00 *
WATCH BATTERY with this coupon
limit 3 *excludes high-end watches
(321) 783-9811 70 South Atlantic Ave. Cocoa Beach
DiamondCastleGoods.com
30 YEARS EXPERIENCE SHOP US
Etsy
December Juice - N- Java Cafe
Fishlips Waterfront Bar & Grill
Wednesdays - 7pm: every Wed. Kenny Cohen & Michael Boukedes Thursdays - 7pm: Ken Holt w/Mary Kay Brennan - 12/7 Jason Domulot - 12/14 The Beat Brothers Christmas - 12/21 Ed Mercer - 12/28 Fridays - 7pm: The Tree Frogs - 12/1 Howard & Pearl - 12/8 Separate Checks - 12/15 The Half Moon Band - 12/29 Saturdays - 7pm: every Sat. Open Mic with Michael Boukedes
Slow & Low BBQ Thursdays - 7pm: Matt Riley; every Thurs. Fridays - 7pm: Dave Meyers - 12/1, 12/29 John Burr - 12/8, 12/22 Buck Barefoot - 2/15 Saturdays - 7pm: Dave Meyers - 12/2 Andy Harrington - 12/9, 12/16 John Burr - 12/23 Buck Barefoot - 12/30
22
Tuesdays - 4:30pm: Micah Read - 12/5, 12/12, 12/26 Aaron Rhoades - 12/19 Thursdays - 4:30pm: Marcus Gullen - 12/7 Jc Jr - 12/14, 12/28 Micah Read - 12/21 Fridays - 3:30pm/7pm: Ryan Winford - 3:30pm; 12/1 Clay Evans - 3:30pm; 12/8 Jc Jr - 3:30pm; 12/15, 12/29 Brandon Wilson - 3:30pm; 12/22 Joshua Pearson - 7pm; 12/1, 12/15, 12/29 Aaron Rhoades - 7pm; 2/8 Ryan Winford - 7pm; 12/22 Saturdays - 7pm: Brandon Wilson - 12/2 Mickey Kelley - 12/9 James Johnson - 12/16, 12/30 Marcus Gullen - 12/23 Sundays - 11:30am: Freddie Grant; every Sun.
Lutheran Church of the Resurrection Sunday - 12/17 7pm: Vocal and Handbell Choirs
LIVE Coconuts on the Beach
Mondays - 7pm: Micah Read - 12/4, 12/18 Aaron Rhoades - 12/11 Thursdays - 7pm: Joshua Pearson - 12/7, 12/28 Micah Read - 12/14 Aaron Rhoades - 12/21 Fridays - 8pm: Goin’ Nutz every Fri. Saturdays - 8pm: Goin’ Nutz every Sat. Sundays - 2pm: Goin’ Nutz every Sun.
Winterfest - Downtown CB Saturday - 12/2 5pm: Christmas Music - 12/2
Sandbar Sports Grill Saturdays 8pm : Galaxy - 12/2 9pm : Red Tide - 12/9 9pm: Dj Sirius - 12/16 9pm: Love Valley - 12/23 9pm : Bailey Calahann - 12/30 Sundays - 9pm: every Sunday DJ Cerino & special guest DJ
Cocoa Beach Explorer
Mary Ann Thompson Broker Associate
r
Accident/Injury? Call Us
New Construction, Resale, Waterfront, Single Family & Condos Representing Sellers and Buyers!
Call Mary Ann @ 321.863.9757 321 - 253 - 4200
SINCLAIRLAW.COM
MUSIC & EVENTS
BROUGHT TO YOU BY
*subject to change
King Center for the Performing Arts Tuesdays 12/5 - 7:00pm: Michael Carbonaro Live! 12/19 - 7:30pm: The Ten Tenors Home for the Holidays Friday 12/15 - 8pm: Marchall Tucker Band Saturdays 12/2 - 2 & 7pm: The Nutcracker 12/9 - 7:30pm: Brevard Community Chorus in Concert 12/16 -8pm: 40th Anniversary of Saturday Night Fever 12/23 - 7pm: A Christmas Carol Sunday 12/10 - 2pm:a Garfield Christmas
Hilton Cocoa Beach - Longboards Fridays - 6pm: Mixstify - 12/1, 12/8, 12/29 Josh Whitaker Duo - 12/15 Everette Stephens - 12/22 Saturdays - 6pm: Allan Wood - 12/2, 12/16, 12/23, 12/30 Everette Stephens - 12/9 Sundays - 6pm: Cash Colley Duo - 12/3, 12/10, 12/17, 12/24 TBD - 12/31
keltecweapons.com 87 Main Street Spirits
Nolan’s Irish Pub Mondays - 7pm: Writer’s Night - 12/4 Irish Book Club Night - 12/25 Tuesdays - 7pm: every Tuesday Tuesday Trivia Wednesdays - 7pm: Nolan’s Ukulele Collective Night - 12/13, 12/20, 12/27 Thursdays - 5:30pm/7:30pm: Traditional Irish Music Session 5:30pm every Thurs. Dave Birks - 7:30pm; 12/7 Bill Mullen - 7:30pm; 12/14, 12/28 Justin Murphy - 7:30pm; 12/21 Fridays - 7:30pm: Cahir O’Doherty - 12/1 Brendan Nolan - 12/8 Shane Farrell - 12/15 Paul Rowan - 12/22 Saturdays - 7:30pm: Cahir O’Doherty - 12/2 Brendan Nolan - 12/9 Shane Farrell - 12/16 Paul Rowan - 12/23
Tuesdays - 7pm: Antonio York Wednesdays - 7pm: Joshua Keel Thursdays - 7pm: Tony Castro Fridays - 7pm: Antonio York Saturdays - 7pm: Paul Bech Sundays - 5pm: Chase Harvey
Cocoa Beach Library Saturday - 12/9 2pm: Space Coast Chorus - Holiday Harmony Barbershop Style!
Have Live Music? Email your monthly lineup to dougbaker34@ aol.com for inclusion in next month’s Cocoa Beach Explorer Cocoa Beach Explorer
Discount
Floors & Cabinets KITCHEN AND BATH REMODELING Family Owned
Tile Wood Laminate Carpet Vinyl
ALL FLOORING NEEDS discountfloorstore@yahoo.com
321-783-8453 358 N. Orlando Ave., Cocoa Beach, FL
23