Senior Life, November 2022

BOOMER

scheduled

10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Space Coast Convention Center in Cocoa.

“We’re excited to gather and let loose,’’ said Jill Blue, the publisher of Bluewater Creative Group’s Senior Life, Boomer Guide and Viera Voice. “Wear bright colors as we put together another great expo. There will be a variety of exhibitors and fun programs to lead boomers and seniors to resources to stay active and have fun.’’

Dave Burford of Viera, a model for this year’s Boomer Guide, is known for his 14 colorful suits that range from confetti, to a red, white and blue patriotic suit, a Christmas suit, a silver suit, a pink suit and several multi-color suits.

“I’m honored to be on the cover of this upcoming issue of Senior Life,’’ Burford said.

During the Nov. 17 expo, potential models for the 2023 Boomer Guide will have an opportunity to have their photos taken for the popular publication.

Models 50 and older are encouraged to participate in what will be the first photo shoot to select models for the next Boomer Guide

The resource guide has sections on business resources; health and wellness; sports, games and activities; clubs, groups and meetings; veterans; senior centers; a senior living tour; support groups; volunteering; local and state government listings; and emergency contacts.

The expo will have live music, Humana MarketPoint will sponsor the free coffee bar, Alura Senior Living will provide snacks and there will be bottled water to stay hydrated. Tote bags and other surprises will be handed out. For information, call 321-242-1235. SL

SENIOR LIFE staff photo

Dave Burford loves his colorful suits. He was a model for the 2022 Boomer Guide.

Fall back, honor veterans and celebrate Thanksgving

It is November and the Florida heat is beginning to subside, there is a little bit of a fall weather feel and daylight time is shorter. Daylight saving time ends Sunday, Nov. 6. That’s when clocks are turned back one hour.

And, early in the month, we also begin thinking of Veterans Day, which originated after World War I and is a time set aside to salute the troops and honor those who served.

We remind you in a story what Veterans Day is, to salute the troops and honor the men and women who served in the United States military branches. In each edition of Senior Life, we honor those who served with a profile story on a veteran and a column about veterans’ advocates. You can read other veterans and military related stories in our Stripes section of Senior Life

So, if you have that long Veterans Day weekend off from work, celebrate the end of summer, but remember what the day is set aside for and honor the veterans.

Did you know that the Brevard Library System is 50 years old. We will tell you some of the history in a story in this edition.

I for one, always look forward to our Behind the Beat feature. In fact, as I read the story, I like to do an internet search and listen to the featured song. I remember the words to a lot of the songs.

As usual, we bring you a couple of stories about health and wellness. The aim is to bring you information that might be helpful and beneficial to your family. One such story is about cholesterol. I hope it will give a better understanding for some who are trying to control their cholesterol and stay healthy.

Our newest feature, which we hope to bring you for several more months — Games People Play, seems to be well received. I know that we enjoy bringing it to you. This time it is bocce ball and mah-jongg. Maybe one of these is a game you would like to try after reading the stories.

As we approach the end of November, of course, it is Thanksgiving Day. We will tell you how you can share with some of your fellow Brevard County residents. There are several organizations that collect food to share with those in need. It is a wonderful way to share your Thanksgiving.

R. Norman Moody norm@myseniorlife.com

Visitors can explore nature, history at Tallahassee Museum

BY MARIA SONNENBERG

Part living history, part nature sanctuary, part farm and part aerial attraction, the Tallahassee Museum provides the perfect excuse to visit Florida’s leafy capital.

The little jewel of an attraction educates both locals and tourists on North Florida’s unique wildlife and history.

Take the grandkids, or explore with a partner or friends, for the 52-acre attraction, less than 15 minutes away from the Florida Capitol building, offers plenty for all ages.

“The Museum has approximately

150,000 annual visitors, with 30% of those being tourists, and has a vibrant educational program including an on-site preschool,” said Russell Daws, the president and CEO.

If visiting on weekends, overnighting downtown makes sense, for hotels such as the Doubletree by Hilton Hotel Tallahassee are attractively priced when the politicos have returned home. A rooftop restaurant with outdoor dining helps refuel nicely after the five-hour journey from Brevard County and the hotel’s eclectic décor should satisfy young and not so.

Refreshed, head to Tallahassee

Museum the next morning.

Start with a taste of southern living long ago by visiting authentic structures relocated to the museum grounds. The 1851 Bethlehem Missionary Baptist Church was the first regularly organized black church in the state. Concord School, built in 1879, was in Leon County before being moved to the museum. The 1920s Seaboard Airline Caboose crossed North Florida helping to take crops from field to market. From 1854 to 1867, Bellevue Plantation was the home of Catherine Murat, a relative of George Washington and a French princess by marriage.

Stroll to Big Bend Farm, where visitors can experience the sights, sounds and smells of the seasons as the 1880s Florida pioneers once did. The mules, sheep, cows and other farm animals will greet you.

In the garden, there is corn, cotton, sugar cane and sweet potatoes, just like the old days. Peek into the farmhouse complex and stop to see demonstrations of Florida’s rural industries of old, from turpentining to milling.

From the farm, it’s just a few steps to the elevated boardwalks where

SENIOR LIFE Maria Sonnenberg

Visitors like to stroll through elevated boardwalks that meander through a cypress swamp at the Tallahassee Museum.

from page 2

visitors meander among native animals in their natural setting. From the rare Florida panther to tree-climbing gray foxes, these wild ambassadors tell the tales of natural Florida.

At Tallahassee Museum, climbing trees isn’t just for kids. Visitors can choose from three very different courses that compose the Tree-to-Tree Adventures. Canopy Crossing, the beginner course, features ziplines high above buildings, paths and natural areas. Soaring Cypress extends the fun to 16 ziplines. For children, Treemendous Adventures is lower to the ground but carries all the excitement of the “big boy” courses.

Visitors find themselves returning to this gentle museum where time stands still.

Museum member Andy Ashler has visited the museum since he was a child. Now with a family, he still enjoys going back.

“I became a member of the Tallahassee Museum because I wanted a place for myself and my family to explore and enjoy being in nature together while learning about the history and wildlife of the Tallahassee region,” he said.

A perfect time to get acquainted with the museum — and Tallahassee — happens Dec. 3 and 4, when North Florida Fairgrounds, not far from the museum, will host Market Days with more than 300 arts and crafts vendors. SL

Tallahassee Museum

Where: 3945 Museum Drive Tallahassee Call: 850-575-8684 Website: tallahasseeemuseum.org

Hours: Open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Mondays through Saturdays 11 a.m. to 5 p.m on Sundays

Admission: Adults: $14.50

Seniors 65+ and college students: $13.50

Children 4 to 15: $10

Children 3 and younger: free with family

There are additional fees for zipline courses.

ESTATE PLANNING BOOKLET

SENIOR LIFE Maria Sonnenberg

The 1851 Bethlehem Missionary Baptist Church, left, was relocated to the Tallahassee Museum. It was the first regularly organized black church in the state. The 1920s Seaboard Air Line caboose, which crossed North Florida taking crops from field to market, is a children’s magnet.

GIVE THE

OF FAMILY

PEOPLE PLAYGames

Challenging but easy on the body, bocce gains popularity among seniors

BY LINDA JUMP

Agnes Gray, 86, and Ovid Serrano threw two-pound balls toward a small white ball on a court in front of the Palm Bay Senior Center last month, beginning another season of bocce there.

Gray coordinates the play each Monday and Friday from 9 to 11 a.m. “We get about 25, but some snowbirds haven’t returned yet,” she said.

Sylvia Fels, president of the center’s board, said, “bocce offers another form of exercise and it’s something that our members asked for more than 10 years ago.”

Bocce, the Italian word for ball, is a lawn game played on a long narrow court about 10 feet wide and 90 feet long. Two teams of up to four players take turns tossing, rolling or throwing underhand hard balls to try to get closest to the smaller white game ball, called pellino or jack.

The pellino is sent by a player at least halfway down the court past white lines to be good. Each team on opposite ends of the court has four balls to try to get closest to the pellino

to score a point. Players can try to block the pellino or bank their shots to improve their play.

Games are won with from nine to 13 points, winning by two points. Original balls were wood or baked clay; now hard plastic composite.

The game’s origins are murky. Some claim 10,000-year-old stone balls in Turkey are remnants; others point to Egyptian tomb paintings from 5,200 B.C. depicting two boys throwing small balls. Caesar played and spread the game around the Roman empire. The game is the second most popular sport in Italy after soccer. Italian immigrants are credited with bringing the game to America.

Gray said the original clay court was replaced pre-pandemic with a coquina-sand base. Bocce courts can be on grass, sand, asphalt or clay.

“It’s a challenge, but it’s easy on the body. We have people play with canes or walkers. It’s fun,” Gray said. She said when she was widowed in 2013, she joined the senior center and learned to play.

“You take the ball and throw it down the court. It’s easy, but you’re at the mercy of the court. There are high and low spots, so the ball can go where it wants to. To be a winner is a challenge,” Serrano said. SL

Popular Chinese game, mah-jongg requires fast-paced strategy

BY BRENDA EGGERT BRADER

A game of skill, strategy and luck, mah-jongg is a popular Chinese match played with sets of tiles. One variation to have surfaced is an American version that is played at the Greater Palm Bay Senior Center.

On a recent Thursday afternoon, a group of players gathered for games under the direction of leader Lois Robinson of Indialantic.

The basic game, played with four players, has 136 tiles. The goal is to get mah-jongg, which consists of getting all 14 of the player’s tiles into four sets and one pair (two identical tiles).

“Different tiles have suites like cards consisting of crack, bam, dot and dragons,” Robinson said. “National Mah-Jongg puts out an annual mahjongg card to go by in play.

In setup, all the tiles are shuffled face down in the center of the table and players build a wall of 34 face-down tiles in front of themselves, 17 tiles long and two tiles high. The result should be a large square wall of tiles in the center

of the table.

“Each player receives 13 tiles from the wall,” Robinson said. “The dealer starts with an extra 14th tile.”

Each player arranges his own tiles so they can see them, and others can’t. The dealer discards one extra tile and play begins to the left of the dealer.

Before the turn, each player must be given a few seconds to claim the most recently discarded tiles and priority goes to any player who can claim the

discarded tile to complete a mah-jongg. The player claiming the tile must reveal the winning hand of 14 tiles. Failing to do so, other players have their opportunities. If a discard doesn’t complete a set, then the player draws the next tile from the wall. If there is no mah-jongg, then discard the tile face-up.

The hand ends when somebody declares mah-jongg and reveals the complete 14-tile hand of four sets and a pair. If no mah-jongg is claimed by the

end of tile wall depletion, the game is a draw and the dealer deals again.

American mah-jongg is played Thursday at noon and Asian mah-jongg the first and third Tuesday at 1 p.m.

“I’ve been playing mah-jongg since 1977,” Jane Lawson said. “Besides meeting a lot of people, I find the game challenging.”

Agreeing to the joy of playing, the local players say the fast game keeps their brains working.

SENIOR LIFE Linda Jump Ovid Serrano tosses a bocce ball at the Palm Bay Senior Center.

The Free Boomer Guide features bocce locations and listings of other sports and games.

SENIOR LIFE Brenda Eggert Brader

Members of the Greater Palm Bay Senior Center share conversation and challenges by playing American-version mah-jongg. From left are Rachel Noveska, Loretta Sandy, Barbara Grassel and Carmela Megale.

“I’ve been playing mah-jongg since 1977. Besides meeting a lot of people, I find the game challenging.”

Jane Lawson

BY MARIA SONNENBERG

With names like the Progressive Culture Club, pockets of literacy-minded individuals throughout Brevard County launched the seeds of knowledge known as the public libraries.

Although some individual libraries, such as the Catherine Schweinsberg Rood Central Library, can trace its roots to the late 1800s, it was not until 1972 that the county finally unified all these depositories of learning.

The Brevard Library System will be in party mode come Dec. 1 as it celebrates its half century of service with a party from 3 to 5 p.m. at the Catherine Schweinsberg Rood Central Library. Speakers, historical displays and refreshments will be part of the festivities, as will a chance for attendees to record their library memories on video. A new section on the system’s website will detail the history of individual libraries.

Then there is the nifty new card.

“One of the big things at the event will be the unveiling of the specially designed anniversary gold library card, which people will be able to get for the first, and limited, time,” said Michael Boonstra, a genealogy librarian/archivist at the Central Library.

The gold card features a rocket, the steel bird that made Brevard County, replicating the image used in library stationery during the 1970s.

The county’s first five public libraries — Cocoa, Cocoa Beach, Eau Gallie, Melbourne, and North Brevard in Titusville — began life thanks to eclectic groups such as AVILAH, or A Village Improvement Library Art History, an organization formed to promote culture in the county. With $5, AVILAH in 1895 found library space in a building in Cocoa. Now all they needed was books.

“Citizens donated books, chairs and tables and until 1942 they paid $1 a year to use this little library,” said Boonstra, who adds that community volunteers took turns as librarians.

Five years later, library supporters went so far as to move an existing building to a new lot for the growing library. It proved not to be a good move, since the floor gave out during the move and the book collection ended strewn around the road. The mishap did not deter the friends of the library, who collected a $500 deposit from innumerable bazaars to build a $2,500 building, the second concrete building in Cocoa.

The story repeats itself with variations through the different municipalities. By 1959, Florida Statute 150 gave county funds to the five original libraries, as long as they were to serve all county residents. As the population skyrocketed during the space program in the 1960s, four more libraries followed.

Demand grew, and so did the need for more funds. On Nov. 7, 1972, citizens voted for a tax referendum that established the countywide Library Tax District that funds Brevard Public Libraries.

“What was once a series of smaller, scattered individually-run libraries became a united system dedicated to meeting the needs of the tens of thousands of hardworking and inquisitive people who moved here during the space boom of the 1960s,” said Wendi Jo Bost, the county’s director of

library services.

The original five little libraries with the donated books have evolved into 17 libraries that serve from Scottsmoor to Micco with 1.2 million books and other media, plus energetic programming that crosses the generations. SL

SENIOR LIFE Courtesy of the Brevard County Historical Commission Cocoa’s original library, top, was two stories. Melbourne’s original library was one of five in the county.

THE BLAKE AT VIERA IS Now Open For Tours!

time machine

In November...

Nov. 2, 1947

The first and only flight of Howard Hughes’ “Spruce Goose” flying boat occurs in Long Beach Harbor, California. It flies about one mile at an altitude of 70 feet. Costing $25 million, the 200-ton plywood eight-engine Hercules is the world’s largest airplane, designed, built and flown by Hughes.

Nov. 18, 1928

Walt Disney Studios premiers Steamship Willie. This black and white animated short film is especially notable, being one of the first cartoons with synchronized sound, as well as one of the first cartoons to feature a fully post-produced soundtrack, which distinguishes it from earlier sound cartoons.

Nov. 26, 1789

Nov. 9, 1965

At 5:16 p.m., the Great Blackout of the Northeast begins as a tripped circuit breaker at a power plant on the Niagara River. It causes a chain reaction knocking out interconnected power companies down the East Coast, affecting more than 30 million people.

also fails in Ontario and Quebec.

Nov. 13, 192

The Holland Tunnel is open to traffic. The tunnel runs under the Hudson River between New York City and Jersey City and is the first underwater tunnel built in the U.S. It is comprised of two tubes, each large enough for two lanes of traffic.

The first American holiday occurs, proclaimed by President George Washington to be Thanksgiving Day, a day of prayer and public thanksgiving in gratitude for the successful establishment of the new American republic. His opponents declare that he had overstepped his constitutional bounds.

Nov. 29, 1972

TECH KNOW TIDBITS

Hearing aids are now available without prescription

BY PHIL GALEWITZ Kaiser Health News

Consumers will be able to buy hearing aids directly off store shelves and at dramatically lower prices as a 2017 federal law finally takes effect.

Where for decades it cost thousands of dollars to get a device that could be purchased only with a prescription from an audiologist or other hearing professional, now a new category of over-the-counter aids are selling for hundreds of dollars.

The over-the-counter aids are intended for adults with mild to moderate hearing loss — a market of tens of millions of people, many of whom have until now avoided getting help because devices were so expensive.

“From a conceptual point of view, this is huge that this is finally happening,” said Dr. Frank Lin, director of the Cochlear Center for Hearing and Public Health at Johns Hopkins University in Baltimore. He predicts it could take a couple of years for the new market to shake out as manufacturers and retailers get accustomed to selling aids and consumers become familiar with the options.

Hearing care experts say they are pleased to see the lower prices. Lin said he believes prices will fall further as more competitors enter the market in the next two years.

Prices and features will vary for the new OTC hearing aids — much as they do for prescription aids. A pair of prescription devices typically sells for $2,000 to $8,000. Some of the technology found in the pricier prescription aids will be available in the cheaper OTC aids.

The OTC aids cost less partly because they do not bundle the services of an audiologist for a hearing evaluation, fitting and fine-tuning the

device. Instead, the new devices are intended to be set up by the consumers themselves, although manufacturers will offer technical assistance through apps and by phone.

Some new companies have entered the market, including Sony. It will sell its lowest-cost, self-fitting OTC hearing aid for $999 at Best Buy and other retailers.

Walmart said it will offer an assortment of OTC hearing aids, including some at $199 to $299 per pair from the South Africa-based company hearX, which also makes Lexie devices.

Walgreens will offer the Lexie Lumen OTC hearing aid for $799

a pair. The offerings at Walgreens, CVS, Best Buy, and Walmart will also include a Lexie hearing aid developed in partnership with Bose.

the new category of hearing aids bypasses state dispensing laws.

Audiologists, who could lose business, caution that the new category won’t help people with severe hearing loss. And over-amplifying sound can damage hearing, said Sarah Sydlowski, the past president of the American Academy of Audiology.

However, Nicholas Reed, an audiologist and assistant professor at the Bloomberg School of Public Health at Johns Hopkins, said the devices are likely less dangerous than listening to music with earbuds turned up too high. The regulations require the new aids to have safe maximum audio levels to help protect consumers’ hearing.

Reed recommends looking for OTC hearing aids with generous return policies, exceeding a month. Consumers may want to try a device for a few weeks to see how it works. If one brand doesn’t work, they should try another.

Reed also said consumers should look for devices labeled as self-fitting because it shows the companies have proved to the FDA that people can set up these devices themselves about as well as if they had professional help.

“If you are tech savvy, then I say jump right in,” Reed said, though noting “there is nothing wrong with talking to a trained audiologist.”

Some consumers may want to see an audiologist either in person or online to get their hearing tested before buying an OTC aid, Lin said. An audiologist could also recommend which hearing aid is best for their kind of hearing loss. Traditional fee-for-service Medicare and most health insurers cover routine hearing tests. But Medicare and most private insurers don’t cover the cost of hearing aids, although many private Medicare Advantage plans do.

Consumers can also take hearing tests online or through an app on their phone or computer, Lin said.

Another factor that could fuel demand for the new devices is that the stigma of wearing a hearing aid is diminishing because people commonly use ear devices to listen to music.

More than 37 million American adults have trouble hearing, and only one in four adults who could benefit from a hearing aid have used one, federal health officials estimate.

Spurred by decades of complaints

Nancy M. Williams, president of Auditory Insight, a hearing health care management consulting firm, said she reviewed eight major OTC hearing aid products from $499 to $1,299. Some look like earbuds or are nearly invisible, while some look like traditional hearing aids that wrap around the ear. The OTC aids she reviewed largely have limited or no Bluetooth connectivity, a feature that allows users to customize the devices, and only about half have rechargeable batteries. But all eight allow the user to personalize the devices based on the results of their hearing test.

She recommends that people try at least three OTC aids to see which works best for them.

Barbara Kelley, the executive director of the Hearing Loss Association of America, said consumers should take their time looking at new options. “This is all going to be a little confusing,” she said.

But the new options, will lead to more people getting help with their hearing. “The benefits outweigh the risks.” SL

KHN (Kaiser Health News) is a national newsroom that produces in-depth journalism about health issues. Together with Policy Analysis and Polling, KHN is one of the three major operating programs at KFF (Kaiser Family Foundation). KFF is an endowed nonprofit organization providing information on health issues to the nation.

“From

Dr. Frank Lin

PES

Brevard Veterans News

JROTC, veterans team up to take relief to hurricane victims

Once more, Brevard County veterans, residents and nonprofit organizations came together to help others in need.

More than 200 volunteers were ready to help homeless veterans and veterans on the verge of homelessness through an event called Stand Down to Stand up.

But before the event, scheduled for Oct. 8, could be held, Hurricane Ian struck the state, causing catastrophic damage in Southwest Florida. The event, at which about 300 veterans in need were expected, was to be held at the Florida National Guard Armory in Cocoa.

Because many of the National Guard troops had responded for hurricane relief, the event had to be postponed from its Oct. 8 date. It is now scheduled for January.

When it was postponed, a few of the same volunteers switched gears and began collecting items that are

being sent in several shipments to help victims of the hurricane in Southwest Florida.

I have said this before, Brevard is always ready to celebrate, honor and help those who served in the U.S. Armed Forces. But they also are always willing to help others in need as they have demonstrated with the hurricane relief effort.

The group was joined in collecting needed relief items by Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps cadets from Brevard County high schools in what was called Operation Brevard JROTC

to the Rescue.

JROTC cadets helped to collect and pack some of the items. The final shipment was scheduled to be sent Nov. 5 to Southwest Florida.

The veterans and other volunteers said they would regroup in January for the 25th annual Stand Down to Stand Up.

During the Vietnam War, exhausted combat troops were given an abbreviated time of rest and recovery in relative safety. That rest and relaxation time was called Stand Down. The troops took care of personal hygiene, got clean uniforms and enjoyed warm meals. They also received medical and dental care and were able to enjoy some camaraderie away from combat.

The Stand Down to Stand Up event allows the community grassroot organizations to connect with veterans in need and help take care of some of their needs.

While homelessness among veterans has been greatly reduced in Brevard County during the past few years, there are still homeless vets and many on the verge of homelessness. Helping them now might lead to them avoiding homelessness and getting them back on track.

The 2022 Point in Time Count, done in January, shows that there were 902 homeless people living in Brevard County. Of those, 147 were veterans, according to the Brevard Homeless Coalition count. There are many more veterans living in poverty and on the verge of homelessness.

Hurricane relief items can be dropped off at the Veterans Memorial Center at 400 S. Sykes Creek Pkwy. on Merritt Island on weekdays between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m. Call 321-453-1776 or 757-871-6576 with questions about the relief effort and items needed.

SL

Couple share success in civilian life after admirable military careers

BY MARIA SONNENBERG

They share similar first names, plus long military careers in the same service branch. They are Paula and Paul Zima.

The Air Force couple, residents of Palm Bay since 2004, also have subsequent jobs that continue serving their community, albeit in very different ways.

He amassed seven Air Force Meritorious Service Medal, two Air Force Commendation Medals with one Oak Leaf Cluster for heroism, the National Defense Service, the Humanitarian Service, plus many more kudos. Then in 2002, Paul Zima retired as command chief master sergeant for the 45th Space Wing at the former Patrick Air Force Base, now Patrick Space Force Base. His second career subsequently led him to his current position as manager of the Eastern

Range team, a job where he leads more than 400 represented and exempt personnel at the world’s busiest Spaceport.

“If there is ever an emergency, I want Paul to lead the way, the go-to guy in any crisis situation,” said Cindy Hilburn, the Eastern Range manager/ LISC deputy program manager.

Like her husband, Paula Zima has earned her share of recognition from the Air Force, including the Air Force Meritorious Service Medal, Joint Service Commendation Medal with one Oak Leaf Cluster, the National Defense Service Medal and the Air Force Outstanding Unit Award for Valor with seven Oak Leaf Clusters.

While Paul Zima veered towards a second career in launching rockets, Paula preferred launching people into homeownership.

“I’ve always loved the idea of selling real estate since we moved so

often and bought/sold several homes throughout our military career,” she said.

When it comes to real estate, Paula Zima, a military certified residential specialist for RE/MAX Elite, is, like Paul, no slouch in the awards department, earning, among others, The International President’s Circle Award in 2014 and 2015 and the International Diamond Society Award 2011 to 2013.

One of her pet initiatives is raising awareness of the excellent opportunities provided by VA loans for active or retired military and their families. Because they lack familiarity with this type of loan, some realtors eschew them as too difficult and in the

process do a disservice for qualifying homeowners. Paula begs to differ and she has walked the walk with this product, for Paul and her have obtained several VA loans throughout their careers.

“VA loans are very dear to my heart, and it is a benefit they have earned for service to their country,” she said.

A significant number of Paula’s clients include military service in their resumes, and many of these individuals seek her help with VA loans, once she has explained its many benefits.

“On average, 27 percent of my clients are military vets and VA loans make up on average 23 percent of my sales,” she said. SL

SENIOR LIFE Courtesy of the Zima family Retired Chief Master Sergeant of the Air Force Sam Parrish, right, poses with Paul and Paula Zima in 1999.

Veterans Day — community set to honor those who served

BY MARIA SONNENBERG

Before he left the Army and became involved with the Brevard Veterans Center and Museum, Donn Weaver thought of Veterans Day as a time when he could enjoy a family outing.

“To me, it was always a holiday with the kids, but Veterans Day means so much more to me now that I realize how many generations of veterans are touched by the day,” said Weaver, the chairman of the Brevard Veterans Council and vice president of the Brevard Veterans Memorial Center.

Veterans Memorial Center fellow volunteer Joe Davie, the organization’s librarian, notes that the holiday is not really a celebration.

“It’s a remembrance of how much

veterans have done for this country,” said Davie, a Vietnam-era Air Force veteran.

Armistice Day, which celebrated the end of the “War to End All Wars” on the 11th day of the 11th month of 1918, later transformed into Veterans’ Day in 1954 as a day to honor veterans from all wars. Never a floating holiday, Veterans’ Day is always observed Nov. 11, regardless of the day of the week on which it falls in any particular year.

In veteran-rich Brevard County, more than one day is needed to pay homage to servicemen and women, and this year is no exception.

“We want to honor the sacrifices all vets have made,” said Dean Schaaf, the Veterans Memorial Center president, Navy vet and NASA retiree. VV

Events honoring veterans

Saturday, Nov. 5

9 to 11 a.m.

Palm Bay Veterans Day Parade begins at City Hall on 120 Malabar Road and heads east on Malabar Road then south on Emerson Drive to end at Co pley Street SE. For more information, call 321-952-3443.

Wednesday and Thursday Nov. 9 and 10

7:30 p.m.

Melbourne Municipal Band celebrates veterans with “The Greatest Generation,” a pair of free patriotic concerts at Melbourne Auditorium, 625 Hibiscus Blvd. For more information, call 321-724-0555.

Friday Nov. 11

9:30 a.m.

Brevard Veterans Memorial Center at 400 S. Sykes Creek Pkwy. on Merritt Island. Theme: “Veterans Throughout History.” Groups such as the Sons and Daughters of the American Revolution dress in period costumes of heroes of long ago. The Civil War soldiers, both the Union and the Confederacy, will also be represented. Activities also include the planting of a memorial tree in remembrance of the POWs and MIAs from the Vietnam War, as well as an official thanks to Sheriff Wayne Ivey for the $61,000 gift the Sheriff’s Office provided with funds from “Dancing for the Space Coast.”

At 11 a.m. lunch is courtesy of Chick-fil-A. Texas Longhorn will offer desserts for $5, with all proceeds directed to the Veterans

Memorial Center. For more, visit veteransmemorialcenter.org.

Nov. 9 to 14

The Veterans Memorial Center will turn into an art gallery, when veteranthemed art from area high schools is displayed in a project orchestrated by Merritt Island High School.

Friday, Nov. 11

Starting at 5:30 to 6 p.m., the American Legion Post 22 at 241 Peachtree St. in Cocoa will hold a dinner and 1930’s throwback party. It will include a reenactment ceremony to celebrate the post’s first meeting at their present location on Nov. 11, 1930. Cost depends on the dinner menu. Call 321-338-7076.

Saturday, Nov. 12

8 a.m. to noon

St. Francis Reflections Lifestage Care’s “D.A.S.H. in Life.” The 5K run/walk/march/skip starts and ends at the Veterans Memorial Center. The event benefits St. Francis’ We Honor Veterans program that helps veterans on their sunset journey. For race details, visit runsignup.com/Race/FL/ MerrittIsland/5KDASHHonoringVete rans.

Saturday, Nov. 12 and Sunday, Nov. 13

9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

The Valiant Air Command Warbird Air Museum, 6600 Tico Road in Titusville, will host an open house weekend to honor veterans. Admission to the museum, its three

display hangars and both memorabilia museums is free to all veterans, active-duty military and Florida residents. Visitors may bring nonperishable food for donation to a local food pantry. Call 321-268-1941 or visit valiantaircommand.com for more information.

Saturday, Nov. 12

10 a.m.

The American Legion Post 1 in Titusville will host a Veterans Day ceremony at Veterans Memorial Park at 8 Broad St. in Titusville. Other organizations will take part. Call 321269-9959.

Saturday, Nov. 12

10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Veterans Appreciation Party will take place at Space Coast Harley Davidson, 1440 Sportsman Lane NE, Palm Bay. Veterans eat free. Events include a car show, 50/50 raffle, vendors and live music.

Call 321-259-1311.

Saturday, Nov. 12

12 to 4 p.m.

American Legion Post 1, at 1281 N. Washington Ave. in Titusville, will host Honoring Our Veterans, with live music, vendors and military equipment on display. Veterans and a guest eat free inside the pavilion. Call 321-269-9959.

Saturday, Nov. 12

1 to 4 p.m.

Muscle Car Museum, 3500 Sarno Rd. in Melbourne will host a free open house for veterans, active duty military and their families. Call 321-914-4322.

Sunday, Nov. 13

The National Veterans Homeless Support “Home Stretch,” annual 5K run to help homeless veterans. Visit nvhs.org for more information.

SENIOR LIFE photo

There are many events in Brevard County this Veterans Day honoring those who served.

Road naming honors the late Sgt. George Taylor Sr.

BY LINDA JUMP

Two miles of West King Street in Cocoa was renamed Sgt. George Lee Taylor, Sr. Memorial Highway to honor a once homeless Vietnam veteran who then worked tirelessly to get fellow homeless veterans into shelter.

“He’s credited with reducing the number of homeless vets in Brevard County alone by 90 percent,” said his son, George Taylor Jr. of Satellite Beach. He was elected president and board chairman of the National Veterans’ Homeless Support that his father formed in 2008, headquartered on the road with his father’s name. State Route 520 between Clearlake Road and Fiske Boulevard has also been adopted for cleanup by the NVHS, the younger Taylor said. “It’s impressive that two years after dad died, he still left a big enough impression to be memorialized this way.”

awareness raising events, and now I’m the resource coordinator. I’m a disciple to do whatever the organization needs,” she said.

The State Legislature, which had long recognized George Taylor’s advocacy for veterans, made recognition permanent with the highway renaming.

“People like the late George Taylor Sr. represent the very best of our country,” State Rep.Tyler I. Sirois said. “George’s work will be an example to future generations about the importance of supporting those who defend our freedom.”

State Sen. Debie Mayfield said that renaming a portion of SR 520 was one small way to honor Taylor’s achievements.

George Taylor Sr., known for his signature black cowboy hat, died of a heart attack in May 2020, and the State Senate this year approved the designation approved by the governor effective July 1.

Dana Blickley, the Brevard County Property Appraiser, said that working with Taylor for a decade to help the homeless has changed her life.

“George Taylor was the face of veteran advocacy in Brevard County. I’ve been with him in the woods trying to find vets, done fundraising, been at

George Taylor Sr was a problem solver and a visionary,” Mayfield said. “He saw a need in our community and decided to take action. The organization George Taylor Sr. formed in 2008, National Veterans Homeless Support, mission was to ensure that every veteran received the benefits they earned and deserved; including a place to live.”

Taylor Jr. said his father was a member of the 173rd Airborne Brigade during the Vietnam War, earning a Purple Heart, Bronze Star and Combat Infantry Badge.

“Thirty years ago, he battled acute PTSD (post-traumatic stress syndrome) at the Miami Veterans Administration for several months and was homeless. Once on his feet, he used his voice to

help his colleagues.”

The younger Taylor said military service is a family trait. He is assigned to Air Force helicopter maintenance with the 920th Squadron at Patrick Air Force Base. Taylor’s wife Jennifer is NVHS chief operations manager and his father’s widow Jan is the housing coordinator.

The NVHS does street outreach for unsheltered veterans and referral and direct support for vets at risk of becoming homeless. At Thanksgiving and Christmas, veterans are provided warm-full-safe events. Four locations around the county provide temporary

beds for 17 veterans with individualized plans for life skills, employment and veteran claims. The organization also provides PTSD awareness, and lobbies elected officials to improve veteran services.

“We average 350 to 400 veterans a year,” Taylor said.

NVHS is participating in the Florida Department of Transportation’s AdoptA-highway program and has adopted the two-mile section of the Sgt. George Lee Taylor Sr. Memorial Highway. Adopt-A-Highway volunteers do periodic litter removal to maintain designated sections of roadways.

SENIOR LIFE Linda Jump George Taylor Jr., left, wife Jennifer, and the late George Taylor Sr. have long advocated for homeless veterans.

SENIOR LIFE Linda Jump

Brevard County Sheriff Wayne Ivey, George Taylor Sr.’s wife Jan, and the late George Taylor Sr. pose in front of an NVHS vehicle.

SENIOR LIFE Linda Jump

George Taylor Jr. is president and chairman of NVHS, which is headquartered off the Sgt. George Lee Taylor Sr. Memorial Highway.

Competition brings best police K9, plush counterparts to Viera

BY MARIA SONNENBERG

The annual Space Coast K-9 Competition is returning to the USSSA Space Coast Complex in Viera.

On Nov. 19, the Cocoa Police Department and the Brevard Kennel Club will welcome Brevard residents to attend the showcase for free. The gates will open at 4 p.m.

Since the competition is free to the public, there will be food, beverages, prizes and merchandise available for purchase to benefit the organization.

And this year, those who wish to support law enforcement and their furry friends can in a new, cute and cuddly way. In addition to event T-shirts, patrons can purchase plush replicas of their favorite K-9s.

Some of the top dogs from the Cocoa Police Department K-9 Unit, including Maverick, Kyra, and Draco, now have plush counterparts available for purchase. Each stuffed German shepherd is fitted with its very own CPD police badge, collar and a vest with their name on it.

The event is a fundraiser for the Space Coast Police K-9 Foundation Inc., a nonprofit dedicated to supporting police K-9 programs and police officers across

be purchased on the event website and at the competition on Nov. 19.

Those who join the Cocoa Police Department and Brevard Kennel Club at the USSSA stadium for the event will be supporting law enforcement along with some of the best and brightest K-9s in Brevard County.

For information, check out Spacecoastpolicek9competition.com SL

As food prices rise, pantries struggle

BY FLORA REIGADA

has been to the

in seven Central Floridians

struggling with hunger and food

according to the Second

boxed stuffing, boxed mashed potatoes and canned items such as cranberries, corn, green beans and gravy.

in

Food Bank in Central Florida.

many are turning to local food pantries. These organizations are feeling the pinch, especially as they scramble to put Thanksgiving dinners on tables.

North Brevard Charities in Titusville is facing challenges. “Our food pantry is in short supply of, not only holiday foods, but everything,” said Leah Smith, the client services manager. “Like any home we have a food budget. The more costs rise, the less we are able to buy.”

Food and financial donations are welcome and appreciated. Thanksgiving-specific foods include

North Brevard Charities is at 4475 S. Hopkins Ave. in Titusville. Call 321-269-6555 or visit northbrevardcharities.org/.

The Salvation Army of North Central Brevard in Cocoa has also seen an increase in need. “We provide baskets with a Thanksgiving meal,” said Kathy Broome, the business administrator. “Our need is for perishable items such as turkey, chicken and ham.”

The Salvation Army is at 919 Peachtree St. in Cocoa. Call 321-6326060 or visit salvationarmyflorida.org/ ncbrevard/.

Thanksgiving is one of four key holidays that Daily Bread in

PANTRY

HISTORIC TITUSVILLE MAIN STREET

AIR FORCE BASE

Shores

Shores

SENIOR LIFE Dan Reigada Helen Mark, the North Brevard Charities pantry supervisor, points out sparse shelves brought on by increasing food insecurity and the need for additional food donations.

Meet

Alura Senior Living

Aquatic Health and Rehab Autumn House

Bethesda on Turkey Creek

Brennity of Melbourne

Buena Vida Estates, CCRC

Chateau Madeleine Senior Living ClinCloud Research

Counseling Resource Services

Courtenay Springs Village

Discovery Village at Melbourne

Estate Planning & Elder Law Center of Brevard

Dr. Edgardo A. Hernandez Pons, MD

Florida Health Care Plans

The Fountains of Melbourne

Inspiritas of West Melbourne Market Street at Viera

Melbourne Terrace Rehabilitation Center

Merritt Island Medical Research

National Cremation Society Oceans Realty Florida

Oceans Lending

Palm Cottages Assisted Living & Memory Care

Personal Hearing Solutions

Raymond James Financial Services, Inc,

Reverse Mortgage Funding

Rhodes Law, PA - Ruth C. Rhodes, Esq.

Rockledge Health and Rehabilitation Center

Senior Living Guide

Senior Partner Care Services, In-Home Senior Care and Care Management

Senior Scene Magazine

Serenades Memory Care Shell Harbor Retirement Community Sonata Viera

Sonata East

Szuba Guardian Care Solutions TaxMasters of Brevard Vascular & Interventional Physicians

Victoria Landing Assisted Living & Memory Care

Viera Health and Rehabilitation Center Viera Insurance Professionals

VITAS Healthcare William A. Johnson, P.A.

Presented by April Boykin, MS, LCSW Counseling Resource Services Friday, Nov. 4 at

Presented by Dr. Visa Srinivasan Health First Aging Services Tuesday, Nov.

at

Presented by James DeLaura Financial Advisor, Raymond

Tuesday,

Presented by Dr. Derek Mittleider Vascular & Interventional

Monday, Nov.

at

Behind the Beat

By Randal C. Hill

‘I Can See Clearly Now’ — Johnny Nash

I can see clearly now, the rain has gone

I can see all obstacles in my way

Gone are the dark clouds that had me blind

It’s gonna be a bright, bright sunshiny day

While the now-classic song was not autobiographical for Johnny Nash, his recording is one of the most iconic tunes of the 1970s — or any decade — and the ultimate feel-good work about overcoming adversity and reveling in the joy of new hope and courage, and the determination to move forward.

Look all around, there’s nothing but blue skies

Look straight ahead, nothing but blue skies

“I Can See Clearly Now” has been described as soulful pop powered by a gentle undercurrent of reggae, a musical genre from Jamaica that blended local folk music with such instruments as the guitar, banjo and hand drums. Yet little is known about the talented (and pretty much forgotten) originator of the song that ushered in a form of music new to a mainstream American audience.

John Lester Nash Jr., was born in Houston in 1940 to a homemaker and

Focus

Are you in the Fifth Quarter of your life? Have you just retired? Are you challenged by the daily routines and overload of activities? Are you comfortable with your life as it unfolds? Whatever the situation, good time management helps to meet the challenges.

Early in our adult lives, we were encouraged to have goals. If you wanted to succeed, you had to have a plan with measurable objectives. Yes, at 65 or 95 years, it still is good to have goals.

Some of us have long-range goals looking out five or 10 years. Others take one year at a time and plot out what they want to accomplish in each month. Still others operate with a Bucket List goal plan. They focus on what they want to do before they are dearly departed.

Goals are difficult to complete without some type of detailed plan. Some of us use a month-by-month calendar. Others prepare a daily to-do list. Writing a monthly column and meeting deadlines involves marking the monthly calendar and adding the task to the to-do list two weeks ahead of the due date.

Using a daily to-do list helps to keep focused on what is important today. As you begin the day, ask “What must I complete today?”

That becomes the priority. If your list includes: cut the grass, go to the heart doctor, shop for ground meat

a chauffeur. A good-looking, wellmannered child, he was raised on gospel and sang at the neighborhood Progressive New Hope Baptist Church. At age 13, Nash began performing on Matinee, a Houston afternoon program that helped to break down the color barrier on local television. Within three years, he was earning more money than his father.

Signing on to the ABC-Paramount label, Nash became a successful recording artist at 17. His first release fizzled, but his second single of “A

Very Special Love” rocketed into the national Top 25 on the Billboard charts. Movie work soon followed. In 1958, he won the lead role in a film called Take a Giant Step, in which he portrayed a Black high schooler struggling in a white neighborhood. Two years later, Nash appeared as a gang member in the movie “Key Witness.”

Back in the recording studio, he

eschewed rock ’n’ roll in favor of urbane ballads much in the style of Johnny Mathis. By the mid-1960s, though, Nash found himself out of work and pretty much overlooked.

In 1965, he and his manager/ business partner Danny Sims moved to Jamaica in hopes that a new locale might rekindle Nash’s stalled career. Here, Nash met Bob Marley, a dreadlocked reggae artist who was admired but little known outside of his Kingston neighborhood. Nash immediately acknowledged Marley’s songwriting talent, and an introduction to Sims resulted in Nash and Sims becoming the future superstar’s managers.

Nash loved the new style of music that was everywhere in Jamaica.

(“Reggae represented to me a layer of rhythm that was totally infectious.”) His later 45s became UK winners, and in 1968 he reached the American Top Five with his reggae-fueled “Hold Me Tight.”

Four years later came the disc that would catapult him to global stardom when he wrote, sang and produced “I Can See Clearly Now,” which sold in the millions.

Could there be a better legacy for any musician? SL

Challenges of Living to Age 100

Ed Baranowski

and pay bills; it is obvious that the heart doctor visit is the priority.

If you have a lot of items on your daily list, you may want to mark them A, B, C. Yes, A is a priority; C is a low value task.

Some of us start off with C’s to reduce the number to things to do or to feel we have accomplished many things. You should focus on the priorities when you are fresh and full of energy.

As we approach a new year, accept the challenge. Look ahead to how you will manage your time in the future.

Write down five or more goals, but not more than 10. Pick the priorities. If you only had six months to live, what would you want to accomplish?

Draft a Bucket List. Begin today by making a to-do list. Accept the challenge. Manage your time for the time of your life. SL

Ed Baranowski is an award-winning writer, artist, speaker and seminar leader. He lives in Melbourne and can be contacted at fast75sr@gmail.com.

SENIOR LIFE Creative Commons Johnny Nash’s “I Can See Clearly Now” sold millions of copies.

William A. Johnson,

Distressing anxiety symptoms — some might be unexpected HEALTH & WELLNESS

BY KIMBERLY BLAKER

Imagine, out of the blue, you feel your brain spin 180 degrees at lightning speed as if fueled by an electrical current. This bizarre feeling isn’t lightheadedness, dizziness or anything you’ve ever experienced. You panic and wonder, am I going crazy? Or worse, am I going to die? You try to brush it off when suddenly, it happens again.

Nearly one in five Americans will experience an anxiety disorder in a given year, according to the National Institute of Mental Health.

What’s more, there are more than 100 possible symptoms, many of which you’d never expect to be caused by anxiety.

For that reason, when they occur, they often exacerbate anxiety because of the worry caused by the symptoms.

Unusual symptoms of anxiety

Some of the more bizarre symptoms of anxiety are not uncommon. If you experience symptoms that persist, seek medical attention to rule out a medical cause since all the symptoms of anxiety can also be associated with various medical conditions.

Indigestion. Anxiety can cause temporary or even chronic indigestion. Burping, passing gas, diarrhea and heartburn can all be symptoms.

Phantom ringing. Tinnitus, which is a ringing in the ears, can be a sign of stress or anxiety and can be experienced in several ways, according to anxietycentre.com

Burning sensation. This unusual anxiety symptom can be felt on your skin, lips, tongue, and even in your eyes. It can feel like a sunburn despite no sunburn being present, a prickling sensation, or even shooting sparks.

Heart irregularities. Skipped heartbeats, palpitations, or a racing heart can all be symptoms of anxiety. What’s so troublesome is that it can be difficult to tell the difference between heart irregularities caused by anxiety versus a heart attack. When in doubt, seek medical treatment right away.

Physical numbness or tingling.

These feelings can occur in your hands, feet, arms, legs or face. It may also feel like physical weakness.

Excessive yawning. During anxiety attacks, hyperventilation is a common response leading your body to feel it isn’t getting enough oxygen. As a result, you might experience frequent yawning.

Phantom smell. Phantosmia, an olfactory hallucination, sometimes occurs with anxiety. It can cause you to smell something that isn’t there, or rather, a neutral smell becomes unpleasant.

Brain shivers or zaps. Most often, this bizarre sensation is caused by antidepressants or withdrawal from them. However, sometimes it’s associated with anxiety.

Brain shivers can range from mild to severe and feel different from person-to-person, though they usually last only a brief time. Brain shivers or zaps, explains anxietycentre.com, can feel like an electrical jolt or a shaking, vibration, or tremor in the brain,

Phantom vibrations. If you’ve ever felt your phone vibrate, only to discover it didn’t, attachment anxiety may be the cause. This is a genuine phenomenon, according to a 2016 study reported by the University of Michigan.

Tremors. Anxiety can cause numerous types of tremors. In addition to shaking or trembling, other typical forms, according to calmclinic.com, include arm or leg spasms, cramping, or longer or slower shaking than usual.

Derealization. This experience feels like not being in reality. Anxietybc.com says it can be experienced in several ways.

You may feel disconnected from the world and people around you, sort of like being in a dream state. You may have a distorted perception of space, time, and the size of things. Everything might feel foggy or fuzzy or that you’re very ill or going crazy. Globus hystericus. With this anxiety symptom, it feels like a lump in your throat, or you might have difficulty swallowing. Some people

also feel a tightness in their throat.

Eye problems. Blurred vision, dilated pupils, watery eyes, and shapes that float in front of the eyes can all be a result of anxiety.

Skin rashes. Stress can cause hives, itching and rashes. If you already have rosacea or psoriasis, anxiety and stress can exaggerate it.

Shooting pains. You may experience these in several areas of your body, including your face, abdomen, arms and chest.

Freezing hands and feet. Stress and anxiety can decrease circulation. As a result, your hands and feet may feel icy.

How to alleviate anxiety

Depending on whether you have an actual anxiety disorder or the severity of the symptoms, anti-anxiety or antidepressant medication may be the solution. But there are other things you can do as well to reduce anxiety and alleviate symptoms.

During periods of high stress, get plenty of rest. This will help keep anxiety under control and result in fewer or less severe symptoms.

Also, practice slow breathing. Alice Boyes, Ph.D., in her article “Breathing Techniques for Anxiety,” says the key is to focus only on breathing out. While concentrating on slowly, steadily and gently breathing out, allow the tension to flow out of your body and relaxation to flow in.

Mindfulness meditation is another useful technique for reducing anxiety according to a growing body of research.

You can start by meditating for just a few minutes each day and gradually increase it to more extended periods. For complete instructions, visit mindful.org/mindfulness-how-to-do-it/ Get some exercise. It doesn’t have to be a lengthy, hardcore workout. Even a 10-minute brisk walk can provide several hours of anxiety relief, according to psychologists from the Anxiety and Depression Association of America.

If your doctor has told you your symptoms are anxiety-related, remind yourself of this when symptoms strike.

Healthy diet, exercise are important for controlling cholesterol

BY BRENDA EGGERT BRADER

More than 102 million American adults, 20 years or older, have total cholesterol readings above healthy levels. That puts them all at a greater risk for heart disease, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Cholesterol is a waxy, fat-like substance found in the body and many foods. Even though the body does need cholesterol to function normally it makes all the body needs and is one of the markers that can cause heart disease associated with strokes. Cholesterol is a fat (lipid) in your blood. Highdensity lipoprotein (HDL) (good cholesterol) helps protect your heart, but low-density lipoprotein (LDL) (bad cholesterol) can clog the arteries of your heart. Some cholesterol tests also measure triglycerides, another type of fat in the blood.

“Your total cholesterol level should be 200 mg/ dL or less,” according to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). “You should try to keep your

LDL values less than 100 mg/dL, your HDL values greater or equal to 40 mg/dL, and your triglyceride values less than 150 mg/dL.”

A simple blood test is all it takes to have the cholesterol count checked in the doctor’s office to establish the high and low numbers. If your parents had it, it can be inherited, regardless of obesity.

“A heart healthy diet, regular physical activity and maintaining a healthy weight are all very important components of a lifestyle that can help lower cholesterol and reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke,” said Dr. James P. Smith, the deputy director of the Division of Metabolism and Endocrinology at the USDA. “But other factors that are out of our control, such as genetics, also play a

SENIOR LIFE Shutterstock

Nearly one in five Americans will experience an anxiety disorder in a given year.

insured by NCUA.

BCOA

Brevard Commission on Aging

Santa Project seeks community assistance

Brevard County TRIAD is working on the 23rd annual Senior Santa Project. The project provides elderly nursing home residents with a personal gift for the holidays. Recipients of these gifts are residents who have no family or support in the area and would not

otherwise receive a special gift.

For this holiday season, TRIAD adopted approximately 1,000 Brevard County nursing home residents to receive gifts. TRIAD is asking the community to help by choosing a Santa face ornament and buying a gift for the senior it

History

BCOA meetings are open to the public and are held the second Thursday of each month at the government center in Viera. For information, contact Cindy Short at 321-6332076, FAX 321-633-2170, cindy.short@brevardfl.gov, brevardf l.gov/HumanServices/CommissionOnAging or at 2725 Judge Fran Jamieson Way, B-106, Viera, FL 32940.

Aging Solutions, Inc., Office of the Public Guardian is calling all Elves

represents.

The Santa face ornaments with specific items these seniors want or need have been placed on Senior Santa trees located at One Senior Place at 8085 Spyglass Hill Road in Viera, the Titusville Police Department at 1100 John Glenn Blvd., Parrish Senior Solution Center at 805 A Century Medical Drive in Titusville and Palm Bay Police Department at 130 Malabar Road. The tree locations will have a list of gift dropoff locations.

All gifts purchased must be returned by Monday, Dec. 5. Please — return all gifts in a shopping bag with the Santa head ornament of the recipient inside.

Donations are welcome, and TRIAD will do the shopping. Mail donations to Brevard County TRIAD, Inc. P.O. Box 410518, Melbourne, FL 32941. For more information, contact Terry Stone at 321-537-6752.

Brevard County TRIAD, Inc. is a nonprofit organization. TRIAD and its many organizations and community partners work together to develop programs that address the issues of the growing senior population.

The local Brevard County TRIAD, Inc. is a partnership agreement between the Brevard County Sheriff’s Office, local law enforcement agencies and the State Attorney’s Office. SL

Then and Now

It is time to remember those among us in our communities who have suffered life-changing events, injury, illness, or those who are disabled. These individuals, requiring care, will spend the season in care facilities.

Elves for Elders is a program created to provide these seniors, veterans and disabled adults with the items they need, as a gift, so that they too can share in the spirit and joy of the season.

The items that they need replaced are simple items that we often take for granted such as new clothing items, hygiene items, shoes, sensory and social stimulation items, books to read and activity books.

Please visit our website aging-solutions. org/elvesforelders.html or contact Aging Solutions, Inc. at 321-768-7997.

Amazon Wish List

In addition to the individual wish lists, we created a special Amazon wish list that includes items our individuals need year-round such as clothing, shoes and toiletries. We understand the holidays are a busy time for all, and this list can provide you with a fast and easy gifting experience. Please use the link to the wish list on our website to start shopping. To identify which individual(s) you choose, please put their name in the gift message portion at checkout.

There is also a gift fund if you would like to make a monetary donation. Those funds are utilized to cover the cost of medications, transportation and other harder-to-find personal items or adaptive equipment. Send your check payable to Aging Solutions, Inc., P.O. Box 410832, Melbourne, FL 32941-0832.

SENIOR LIFE photo

home of Harry T. and Harriette V. Moore was bombed on December 25, 1951.

SENIOR LIFE Don Reigada

replica stands at the site at the Moore Memorial Museum and Park.

What’s really being accomplished for the Indian River Lagoon?

I hear a lot about the need to restore the Indian River Lagoon and about money being collected — what’s actually being done?

The answer is: A lot.

As shown by the two thermometers in the figure, the halfcent Save Our Indian River Lagoon (SOIRL) sales tax will raise $542 million during its 10-year life by 2026 (paid in part by tourists); it is being spent on 372 projects.

These projects will decrease nitrogen pollution in the IRL by approximately 33% (more than 1.2 million pounds a year) and phosphorous by 39% (more than 100,000 pounds a year).

Already, the SOIRL Program has completed 63 projects, including septic to sewer upgrades, enhancements to sewage treatment facilities, installation of stormwater cleaning systems and removal of

Lagoon Straight Talk

From the Brevard Indian River Lagoon Coalition

muck coating the lagoon floor. And 143 additional projects are currently underway. Together these projects will remove some 1 million pounds a year of nitrogen and 67,000 pounds a year of phosphorous. We’re making progress.

You can follow the progress at the public SOIRL Citizen Oversight Committee meetings every third Friday of the month. You can attend in person or watch on your computer or TV visit Brevardfl.gov/ SaveOurLagoon/CitizenOversight Committee.

And, there’s more.

The SOIRL Program is not alone. The St. Johns River Water Management District is also busy with projects to restore the IRL. So far, it has contributed $38 million in funding to more than 60 IRL projects leveraged with additional $43 million from other sources. We are fortunate

role.

be

That is where statins

“Statins are a class

Smith said. “Most

amount of cholesterol made by the liver and by helping the liver remove cholesterol that is already in the blood.”

Too much cholesterol in your blood can lead to buildup on the walls of your arteries (called plaque) putting you at higher risk for heart disease and stroke, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Heart disease is the leading cause of death for both men and women in the United States.

Children’s book strives to raise funds to help older and ailing dogs find good homes

BY NANETTE HEBDIGE

“Farkle Finds a Furever Home” is a children’s book based on an adopted dog that suffered from narcolepsy. The objective with the book is to raise funds to help Touch of Grey find homes for older dogs like the one described in the story.

It’s tragic to learn that dogs seven years or older have slim chances of being adopted or fostered. And statistics show that only 56% get a new home, with most being euthanized.

Younger pups are contenders and older animals are often discarded without getting a second chance.

She’s the author of “Farkle Finds a Furever Home,” the first in a series of children’s books based on her adopted dog that suffered from narcolepsy.

“We endeavor to rescue as many animals as we can from being euthanized, but they must be a senior or require special needs to get into our foster care program.” Johnson said.

At Touch of Grey, it focuses on older and special-needs dogs, making their senior years comfortable.

Wendy Johnson, the founder of Touch of Grey, started the nonprofit in 2019 when she moved to Florida with her family and her two older dogs, who were 12 and 13 at the time. Together with many devoted volunteers, they provide their homes to foster these unique cases and elderly dogs.

“Most senior dogs in shelters are scared and confused by their circumstances,” she said. “They’ve been surrendered to shelters because of their age or special needs, and some may have endured a life of abuse. Our nonprofit isn’t a shelter; our volunteers provide a foster-based program for all dogs rescued from local shelters out of their homes. They ensure that these wonderful animals have a caring and comfortable environment for their final years with many getting adopted into loving homes”.

Johnson has always been passionate about animals with special circumstances and started Touch of Grey when she realized older dogs weren’t getting the care they needed.

LAGOON

continued from page 24

to have many other organizations also investing in the recovery of the Indian River Lagoon.

As a final note, it is worth observing that the water has been clearer with limited fish kills and algal blooms this year. Also, there have been reports of seagrass beginning to return in several locations; unfortunately, not enough for our beloved manatees.

We are by no means finished restoring our piece of paradise, but a lot is being done and there are signs of progress.

For more and to help, visit HelpTheLagoon.org, Facebook. com/BIRLC/ and Twitter.com/ HelpTheLagoon. SL

“There are so many dogs that still have plenty of life and love to give after seven (years old).”

To donate to Touch of Grey, see the website touchofgreyrescue.com

To purchase the book, go to Amazon or farkleandfriends.com. SL

SENIOR LIFE Courtesy of Wendy Johnson Farkle is the star of the book “Farkle Finds His Furever Home” that was written to raise funds and find homes for older dogs.

you for being an important part of our practice family. We consider you among

greatest

“(Touch of Grey) ensures that these senior dogs have a caring and comfortable environment for their final years with many getting adopted into loving homes.”

—Wendy Johnson

SENIOR LIFE Courtesy of Wendy Johnson

Wendy Johnson, the founder of Touch of Grey, sits with Farkle.

BREVARD

Volunteer opportunities increase during holidays

BY FLORA REIGADA

As the holidays approach, people often want to know where they can volunteer to help others. Especially from Thanksgiving to Christmas, many organizations depend on volunteers to make it all possible to serve others.

The Salvation Army is among them. Whether national or local, whenever they see a need, the organization is on the scene.

Neal Hagglund, the chairman of the North/ Central Brevard Salvation Army advisory board, said that The Salvation Army Red Kettle Campaign raises about 70% of the annual donations that The Salvation Army uses to fund local programs such as emergency assistance (rent, utilities, food), food pantry, summer camp for children, school backpack program, disaster response and other social services programs.

“While The Salvation Army has used paid workers to ring the bell at Red Kettles, we prefer to use volunteers as much as possible,” Hagglund said “By using volunteers, the entire money raised within each Red Kettle goes to provide services. Also historically we have found volunteers generally generate more than twice the revenue in the Red Kettle than a paid worker. We look to local churches, service clubs, other groups, as well as individuals to volunteer to ring a bell at the Red Kettles.”

As a Kiwanis Club member, Bill Rushing of

Titusville has volunteered as a bell ringer since 1962. He plans to volunteer this year as well.

“The Salvation Army is a well-structured organization that does a tremendous amount of good,” Rushing said.

He encourages volunteerism. Without enough volunteers the Salvation Army has to hire people to fill the slots.

Churches are rising to the cause, enlisting members

to help with bell ringing.

“If we ask, they almost always supply volunteers,” Rushing said.

“Folks are more likely to give if they see a familiar face at the kettle. When my wife and I ring the bells around town, we see many people we know. We wave, say hello and sometimes talk.

This helps fill the kettle. Others, who volunteer with the Kiwanis Club or churches, agree.”

According to Marshal Payne, the assistant manager at the SPCA of Brevard thrift store in Titusville, volunteers keep things running smoothly.

“Volunteers answer customers’ questions, help them find what they want and assist with sales,” he said.

They also lend muscle, carrying heavy items to customers vehicles.

Rushing encourages bell ringers to keep candy canes on hand to give to children with their parent’s approval.

“The child will remember that and the parent may tell them about The Salvation Army and all the good it does,” he said.

Rushing has heard of gold coins and other valuables being dropped in the red kettles.

“We never found a diamond ring or a winning lottery ticket in the kettle, but we know that every cent is helping someone,” he said.

The Salvation Army in North Central Brevard County is at 919 Peachtree St. in Cocoa.

For information about volunteering, call 321-632-6060 or visit salvationarmyflorida.org/ ncbrevard.

“We are very thankful for those within our community who generously support The Salvation Army during the Red Kettle Campaign as well as throughout the year,” Hagglund said. “We are also very thankful to all those who volunteer to ring a bell at a Red Kettle.

Brevard County volunteer opportunities

Aging Matters in Brevard 3600 W. King St., Cocoa 321-639-8770

agingmattersbrevard.org/

Brevard County Enchanted Forest Nature Sanctuary 444 Columbia Blvd., Titusville 321-264-5185

brevardfl.govEELProgram/ Sanctuaries/Enchanted forestSanctuary

Brevard Humane Society 1020 Cox Road, Cocoa 321-636-3343 brevardhumanesociety.org

Daily Bread 815 E. Fee Ave., Melbourne 321-723-1060 dailybreadinc.org

Habitat for Humanity 4515 S. Babcock St., Palm Bay 321-728-4009 brevardhabitat.com/

Harry T. and Harriette V. Moore Memorial Park & Cultural Center 2180 Freedom Ave., Mims 321-264-6595 harryharriettemoore.org/

Hope for North Brevard Thrift Store

2214 Garden St., Titusville 321-383-8638 hopenb.org

Hummingbird Pantry 3000 Jolly St., Bldg 4, Titusville 321-225-4075 hummingbirdpantry.org/contact

National Veterans Homeless Support 1436 W. King St., Cocoa 321-208-7562 nvhs.org

North Brevard Charities 4475 S. Hopkins Ave., Titusville 321-269-6555 northbrevardcharities.org

The Salvation Army North Central Brevard 919 Peachtree St., Cocoa 321-632-6060 salvationarmyflorida.org/ ncbrevard

The Salvation Army of Melbourne

1080 Hickory St., Melbourne 321-724-0494 facebook.com/SalArmyFlorida

South Brevard Sharing Center 17 E. Hibiscus Blvd., Melbourne 321-727-8581 mysbsc.org

SPCA of Brevard 6035 Sisson Road, Titusville 321-567-3615 spcabrevard.com

“While

prefer

much as possible”

Hagglund

SENIOR LIFE R. Norman Moody

There are many volunteer opportunities leading up to the year-end holidays for adults and children in Brevard County.

ART & CULTURE

ArtWorks brings together select artists, art festival to Eau Gallie

BY BETTY PORTER

The 26th annual ArtWorks of of Eau Gallie Fine Arts Festival will take place the weekend before Thanksgiving, Nov. 19 and 20, along Highland Avenue in the Eau Gallie Arts District.

“ArtsWorks Festival is for art lovers, casual festival-goers and families,” 20-year ArtWorks committee member Sharon Dwyer said. She reminds festival goers, “No pets please at ArtWorks.”

Dwyer, past president, publicist and artists’ coordinator for the event said she expects 8,000 festival-goers to attend this year’s ArtWorks event which runs from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 19 and from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 20. The festival will include live music and a food court in Eau Gallie Square.

“Artworks, like other art shows, is a place where artists sell their original art. At Artworks, artists will also be creating new works of art in their booths. ArtWorks is truly an opportunity to see how art comes together,” Dwyer said.

“Student artists are also an important part of the festival,” she said. “Space is provided for local high school art students to show their works of art and to demonstrate and create works on site. These emerging artists will be on St. Clair Street. There will also be hands-on art activities for kids of all ages.”

Eighty artists will participate in this year’s festival.

“Approximately 60 percent of the artists live in Brevard County,” Dwyer said. “The other artists are from Florida and out of state as well. Many of the artists participate in art shows locally and nationally. Media include: painting, drawing, digital art, photography, sculpture, ceramics, jewelry.”

One of the selected artists is Eyca Moticska. Her mediums are clay

and pottery to which she adds glass.

She was born and raised in Caracas, Venezuela and moved to Merritt Island in 1997 at age 26. She started making pottery as an apprentice in 2003 and began her own business in 2006. She partnered in 2010 with artist Harry Guthrie Phillips at their pottery-sculpture studio-gallery until 2018. He inspired her love of sea life and marine sculpture. With his influence, she began incorporating sea life into her pieces.

Moticska learned to scuba dive five years ago and has achieved the rank of Master Diver. She does deep diving and wreck diving. Often she finds the sea glass while on dives which she uses in her art pieces.

“I find sea glass fascinating,” she said. “I like incorporating it in my common pottery and it creates beautiful pieces.”

She sketches out ideas and makes them come to life.

“On dives, I often marvel at the beauty of the fish and coral and spend time underwater observing them,” she said. “I study the marine life and add nature’s art and designs to enhance the beauty of my clay art. I find myself waking up at night with ideas for designs, so I keep a notepad by my bed.”

Each of her pieces of hand-thrown pottery and glass art is unique and personally made, not reproduced. She sketches out the idea then puts the pottery on a wheel, trims, decorates and bisque fires, then glazes and glaze fires to 2,400 degrees. She has three kilns at her home on Merritt Island. All pieces are fully functional, safe, and durable to use in the oven, microwave and dishwasher.

“I enjoy creating pieces that are functional and decorative with a unique design,” Moticska said.

Her sculptured pieces are detailed and complex and often feature three dimensional images of creatures floating in a colorful sea.

Eyca Moticska is holding a wind chime which she created from pottery and sea glass that she found while diving. Moticska’s uniquely-crafted art pieces will be featured at the 26th annual ArtWorks of Eau Gallie Fine Arts Festival.

Her work can be viewed at the ArtWorks festival as well as online at eycaartstudio.com and Instragram @eyca_pottery. The Fifth Avenue Art Gallery in Eau Gallie will

display her work in November and December. More information about the ArtWorks festival is available at artworksofeaugallie.org and at facebook.com/artworksofeaugallie. SL

SENIOR LIFE Betty Porter

Thankful for November

Diabetes -

1:30 - 4 p.m.

One Senior

8085 Spyglass Hill Road Viera, 407-514-1806

Bingo 11:30 a.m.

Palm Bay Senior Center 1275 Culver Drive NE Palm Bay, 321-724-1338

Community Support Advocate 10 a.m.

Melbourne Public Library 540 E. Fee Ave. Melbourne, 321-952-4514

Parkinson's Education Symposium 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. Panel discussions and more for Parkinson's patients and caregivers Center for Collaboration 1100 Rockledge Blvd. Rockledge, 321-751-6771

Estate Planning Seminar 10 am.

Presented William A. Johnson. RSVP One Senior Place 8085 Spyglass Hill Road Viera, 321-751-6771

Friday Night Dancing 7 - 10 p.m Veterans Memorial Center 400 S. Sykes Creek Parkway Merritt Island 321-453-1776

Fall Back Happy Hour 3:30 - 5 p.m. Celebrate daylight saving time while sipping drinks and chatting with friends. RSVP Shell Harbor 2855 Murrell Road Rockledge, 321-252-4882

Operation Shred 2022 8 - 10:15 a.m. Shred your personal and sensitive documents for free. Rockledge City Hall 1600 Huntington Lane Rockledge, 321-221-7540

"Brassy & Sweet" 3 p.m. Central Florida Winds presents music by Schubert, Holst and Respighi Rockledge Presbyterian Church 921 Rockledge Drive Rockledge, 321-405-2359

7 8 9 10 11 12

33rd annual Fall Fundraiser for At Risk Youth

1 - 4 p.m.

Space Coast Convention Center 301 Tucker Lane Cocoa, 321-752-3200

"Brassy & Sweet" 3 p.m.

Central Florida Winds Suntree United Methodist Church 7400 N. Wickham Road Viera, 321-405-2359

Cornhole 11:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.

Wednesdays Palm Bay Senior Center 1275 Culver Drive NE Palm Bay, 321-724-1338

Shuffleboard 1- 2 p.m. Palm Bay Senior Center 1275 Culver Drive NE Palm Bay, 321-724-1338

Bingo 11:15 a.m. - 2 p.m. Wickham Park Senior Center 2785 Leisure Way Melbourne, 321-258-8837

Ask the Doctor Lunch & Learn 11:30 a.m. - 1 p.m. Benefits of early detection with memory loss. One Senior Place 8085 Spyglass Hill Road Viera, 321-751-6771

The Greatest Generation Honoring Our Veterans 7 p.m.

Patriotic concert by the Melbourne Municipal Band. Melbourne Auditorium 625 E. Hisbiscus Blvd. Melbourne, 321-724-0555

Open House 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. Shell Harbor 2855 Murrell Road Rockledge, 321-252-4882

Health Insurance Made Easy 10:30 - 11:30 a.m. Medicare 101 educational presentation. RSVP Sunflower House 777 Merritt Island Cswy. Merritt Is., 321-452-4341

Chef for Seniors 11 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. Thanksgiving dinners Wickham Park Senior Center 2785 Leisure Way Melbourne, 321-255-4494

Celebrating Veterans Throughout History 9:30 - 11 a.m. Remembering veterans who created and maintained this great country. Guest speakers, art show, lunch, exhibits and booths. Veterans Memorial Center 400 S. Sykes Creek Parkway Merritt Island 321-453-1776

Gala and Games 6 - 10 p.m.

Indian River Preserve Golf Club 3950 Clubhouse Drive Mims, 321-269-6555

Honoring Our Veterans Noon - 4 p.m. Live music, vendors and hot dogs. American Legion Post #1 1281 North U.S. 1 Titusville, 321-604-2900

Indialantic Chamber Paul Polanski Quartet in Concert

2 p.m.

Saxophonist Paul Polanski Veterans Memorial Center 400 S. Sykes Creek Parkway Merritt Is., 321-453-1776

Fay Lake FestiFALL 2 - 6 p.m. Fay Lake Park 6300 Fay Blvd. Port St. John 321-633-7499

CardioFit: Senior Fitness 9 a.m. Community Center 7920 Orange Ave. Cape Canaveral 321-868-1220

Scottish Country Dancing 6:30 - 9:30 p.m. All ages welcome, no partner necessary. The Springs of Suntree Clubhouse 8300 Holiday Springs Road Suntree 321-4327-3587

Medicaid Planning Seminar 10 a.m.

Elder Law Attorney William A. Johnson. RSVP One Senior Place 8085 Spyglass Hill Road Viera, 321-751-6771

Social Media for Beginners 1 p.m.

Cocoa Beach Library 550 N. Brevard Ave. Cocoa Beach 321-868-1104

Paychecks for Patriots Job Fair 10 a.m. - 1 p.m. Viera Community Center 2300 Judge Fran Jamieson Way Viera, 321-433-4891

Poetry Slam 5 - 9:30 p.m. EFSC Palm Bay campus 250 Community College Parkway SE Palm Bay, 321-433-5284

Take

Senior Life's Livin' Out Loud Boomer Senior Expo 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. Space Coast Convention Center Tucker Lane Cocoa, 321-242-1235

St. Francis Reflections Lights of Life 6 - 7 p.m. Cocoa Riverfront Park 401 Riveredge Blvd. Cocoa, 321-269-4240

Tinnitus (and Hearing Loss), Lunch and Learn Seminar 11 am. - 1 p.m.

Presentation on, “Ringing in your ears,” and what can be done to improve it. Boxed lunch provided.

RSVP

One Senior Place 8085 Spyglass Hill Road Viera, 321-751-6771

19

ArtWorks 10 a.m. Nov. 19 and 20 Eau Gallie Arts District 1423 Highland Ave. Melbourne, artworksofeaugallie.org

Space Coast Police K9 Competition Gates open at 4 p.m. USSSA Space Coast Sports Complex 5800 Stadium Parkway Viera, 321-243-7812

25th annual

10 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Brevard Humane Society 1020 Cox Road Cocoa, 321-636-3343

Sunday Jazz in the

11 a.m.- 2 p.m.

Michael Harris Jazz

The Avenue Viera Central Park 2261 Town Center Ave. Viera, 321-634-5390

"United

John the Evangelist Catholic Community 5655 Stadium Parkway Viera, 321-750-4462

Basic Computing/Ask

1- 3 p.m.

Sunflower House 777 Merritt Island Cswy. Merritt Island 321-452-4341

Shine Counseling 9 a.m.

Wickham Park Senior Center 2785 Leisure Way Melbourne 407-514-1800

Beginners Crochet 1 p.m.

Palm Bay Library 6475 Minton Road SE Palm Bay, 321-952-4519

Conversational French 3:30 p.m.

Cocoa Beach Library 550 N. Brevard Ave. Cocoa Beach 321-868-1104

Cocoa Beach Turkey Trot 8 a.m.

Cocoa Isles 20 Brevard Ave. N. Cocoa Beach runsignup.com/ TurkeyTrot5k

Space Coast Turkey Trot 5K 6:15 a.m. Eau Gallie Square 1453 Highland Ave. Melbourne runsignup.com/Race/ SpaceCoastTurkeyTrot

Senior Law 2 - 4 p.m. Wickham Park Senior Center 2785 Leisure Way Melbourne 321-757-5701

"We Gather Together" 7 p.m. Space Coast Symphony presents music of gratitude and Thanksgiving, with pianist Jeffrey Biegel Scott Center for the Performing Arts 5625 Holy Trinity Drive Melbourne, 855-252-7276

51st annual Space Coast Marathon 6 a.m.

Cocoa Riverfront Park 401 Riveredge Blvd. Cocoa, 321-751-8890

Caroling at the Avenue Viera 6 and 7 p.m. The Avenue Viera Central Park 2261 Town Center Ave. Viera, 321-634-5390

AARP Smart Driver Course 9 a.m. - 4 p.m.

The class will be taught by certified volunteer instructor Ernie Edwards.

RSVP One Senior Place 8085 Spyglass Hill Road Viera, 719-648-1058

Chair Yoga 3 - 4 p.m. Wickham Park Senior Center 2785 Leisure Way Melbourne, 321-757-5701

"A Ceremony of Carols" 7 p.m.

The Brevard Chorale presents Benjamin Britten's Christmas work, plus traditional carols and sing-along.

The Great Outdoors Community Church 144 Plantation Drive Titusville, 321-501-833

National Chinese Take Out Day

Corps

National Day of Community Service

Play Monopoly

restaurant

homelessness,”

Jeffrey Njus, the executive director of Daily

comes complete with five-star service

area

a

Dignity Dining holidays also include Easter, July 4 and Christmas. Otherwise, the dining hall is open for lunch 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. every day.

volunteer hours, as well as financial and food donations, make it possible. Canned goods remain an ongoing need since Daily Bread serves as a distribution center.

also need jackets, coats and blankets as the weather gets colder,” Njus said.

is at 815 E. Fee Ave. in Melbourne. Call 321-723-1060 or visit dailybreadinc.org/.

above services and others are in addition to the numerous churches and civic organizations that love and feed their neighbors during holidays and each day of the year.

Model Search

Owner: Dan McAteer

SENIOR LIFE Elaine Moody

SENIOR LIFE Dan Reigada

days

(in-network)

(out-of-network)

Cost-Sharing

(in-network)

(out-of-network)

(in-network)

(out-of-network)

days 1-7 (in-network)

per stay (out-of-network)

Preferred Retail Network

(in-network)

rating system. CarePlus Health Plans, Inc. complies with applicable Federal Civil Rights laws and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, disability, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, ancestry, marital status, or religion in their programs and activities, including in admission or access to, or treatment or employment in, their programs and activities. Any inquiries regarding CarePlus’ non-discrimination policies and/or to file a complaint, also known as a grievance, please contact Member Services at 1-800-794-5907 (TTY: 711). From October 1 - March 31, we are open 7 days a week, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. From April 1 - September 30, we are open Monday - Friday, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. You may always leave a voicemail after hours, Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays and we will return your call within one business day. Español (Spanish): Esta información está disponible de forma gratuita en otros idiomas. Favor de llamar a Servicios para Afiliados al número que aparece anteriormente. Kreyòl Ayisyen (French Creole): Enfòmasyon sa a disponib gratis nan lòt lang. Tanpri rele nimewo Sèvis pou Manm nou yo ki nan lis anwo an.