Senior Life, April 2019 by Viera Voice • Senior Life • Boomer Guide

NEW PROGRAM HELPS VETERANS RELAX VOLUME 21

Page 15

OF FLORIDA

ISSUE 12

April 2019

myseniorlife.com

‘ROLLING TRIBUTE’

Veteran honors fallen heroes with patriotic themed truck SENIOR LIFE Courtesy of Rick Beech

Rick Beech’s “rolling tribute” to the Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom veterans will go on a grand tour this summer. See story, Page 17.

Magazine unveiled, page 3

Stay in touch, page 8

Impressive sculptures, page 23 Theatres align, page 26

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E ditor

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Keep that Boomer Guide handy for all sorts of area pursuits

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Along with your Senior Life issue this month, you will find your 2019 copy of Boomer Guide magazine, the most comprehensive guide to Brevard County for seniors. The magazine was released March 1 at the Boomer Guide Senior Expo. Now it is being distributed free along with your Senior Life newspaper. Inside Boomer Guide, you will find information about health and fitness, businesses, clubs, groups, sports, activities, veterans’ resources and more. It is the kind of resource magazine you will want to keep handy all year for references. And as usual, your issue of Senior Life this month is packed with information you can use, stories you come to expect from us. This time, we tell you where you can get beginners and even custom computer classes. Want a neat way for staying in touch with grandchildren? We tell you how in a story about FaceTime and other video telephony systems that will allow you to do that easily. Did you know that Harmony Farms has a program for veterans and that it offers seniors an opportunity to volunteer to help others? It could be a rewarding experience. Check out our story on Harmony Farms and another on how you can take a tour of Cape Canaveral Lighthouse. There is so much more in Senior Life, like our cover story about how one veteran is using his patriotically painted antique truck to honor fellow veterans around the nation. We also are bringing you stories about a community ukulele group and how to start a small garden. And as always, we look forward to hearing from you, our readers and advertisers.

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Deena Miles of Rockledge and Betty Hunt Webb of Merritt Island enjoyed the Boomer Guide Senior Expo at the Space Coast Convention Center in Cocoa.

Record crowd attends Senior Expo in Cocoa BY ERNEST ARICO

a smiling 75-year-old Jim Phillips of Michigan, who makes his “snowbird” home in Viera. “This is the third time I’ve been here and it gets better every year. They put on a good program.” Phillips said he likes to visit the travel vendors because he’s interested in the cruises and short-term trips around Florida. About 60 vendors filled the convention center and adjacent hallways, including some of the expo’s major sponsors — Cedar Creek Life Center on Merritt Island; elder law Attorney William A. Johnson of Melbourne, and Brevard Eye Center (the expo’s video sponsor). “We’re proud of being part of this great event,” said Jason Rodriguez, Cedar Creek’s executive director. “I think it’s very important for the community to see what’s out there. That’s why we’re here.

More than 1,000 people — the largest crowd ever — packed the Space Coast Convention Center in Cocoa for the eighth annual Boomer Guide Senior Expo on March 1. The expo included live music, educational exhibits, demonstrations, limited free medical screenings and the unveiling of the 2019 Boomer Guide, published by the award-winning Bluewater Creative Group. The group, which organized the expo, also publishes the Viera Voice and Senior Life of Florida. The 2019 Boomer Guide is a comprehensive fact book of everything boomers and seniors need to know about what’s going on, things to do and places to visit in Brevard County. “We had a full house and we got a lot of wonderful compliments,” said Bluewater Creative Group CEO Jill Blue. “The vendors were awesome. The SENIOR EXPO band and dancers were awesome. Many continued to page 29 of the vendors said it was the best expo we’ve ever put on.” One of the highlights of this year’s expo was the live entertainment provided by Lanakila’s troupe of Polynesian dancers. “We take people on a musical journey to Polynesia,” said Nathan Pokipala, who started Lanakila’s 29 years ago. A native of Maui, Hawaii, Pokipala said Lanakila’s has its beginnings as the first traveling Polynesian By Attorney entertainment company on the TRUMAN SCARBOROUGH Eastern Seaboard. 239 Harrison Street, Titusville, FL The live For A Complimentary Copy performances included musicians, Phone 321 267 — 4770 hula dancers and a male knife dancer. “I came to watch the hula girls,” said

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Touch of Grey Rescue extends a new leash on life BY JEFF NAVIN Puppies aren’t for everyone, and there’s nothing wrong with that. Touch of Grey Rescue, which was created in February as a non-profit organization, rescues senior dogs (7 years or older) who have been left behind by owners or who are residing in shelters. They hope to provide these dogs with foster care, re-homing assistance and hospice care. “I do some volunteer work at the shelter,’’ said Wendy Johnson, who founded Touch of Grey Rescue in Melbourne Beach with her husband Pete Chunka. “People fight over puppies all the time. A puppy needs training and they need to be spayed or neutered. A new owner often doesn’t consider the damage they can cause. They chew up things and they pee in the house.’’ Someone obtaining a dog for the first time often would be better off adopting an older dog. Older dogs are house trained, past the point of chewing anything other than a bone and are content to sleep while their owners are at work. Veterinarian bills might become a problem if the senior dog is 12 years old, but a 7- or 8-year-old dog still has a lot of spunk to go with a healthy profile. “People are overwhelmed by how cute puppies are,’’ said Johnson, who moved to Florida from Syracuse, New York in 2015. “These first-time owners might have trouble training the puppy and end up surrendering the puppy.

Volume 21, Number 12 Senior Life of Florida 7630 N. Wickham Road, Suite 105 Viera, FL 32940 321-242-1235 myseniorlife.com jill@myseniorlife.com Publisher Jill Blue

SENIOR LIFE Courtesy of Touch of Grey Rescue

Wendy Johnson, left, and her husband Pete Chunka founded Touch of Grey Rescue in February. That’s a real problem.’’ Since Florida is a retirement state, many senior dogs become homeless after the death of their elderly owners. Too many adult children are happy to inherit the money while sending the beloved dog to the shelter for an almost-certain death. “Every family situation is different,’’ Johnson said. “They might have pets that don’t get along with that dog. This is why seniors need to make plans for their pets ahead of time.’’ On its website, Touch of Grey

VOLUME 21

OF FLORIDA

ISSUE 11

March 2019

myseniorlife.com

VETERAN USES BOXING TO RELAX

It’s a Colorful Life

Page 15

Editor R. Norman Moody Copy Editor Jeff Navin Feature Writers Ernest Arico Ed Baranowski Marcia Booth Brenda Eggert Brader Sammy Haddad Jennifer H. Monaghan Flora Reigada Austin Rushnell Maria Sonnenberg Julie Sturgeon John Trieste Darrell Woehler Photographers Darrell Woehler

Senior Life of Florida is published on the first of each month. The entire contents of this newspaper are copyrighted by Senior Life of Florida with all rights reserved. Senior Life of Florida is not liable for errors or omissions in editorial, advertorial or advertising materials. Distribution of this newspaper does not constitute an endorsement of products or services herein. Reproduction or use, without permission, of editorial or graphic content in any manner is prohibited.

myseniorlife.com See the story about the 2019 Boomer Guide, page 18

SENIOR LIFE Keith Betterley

Winnie Bowcock, left, Michael Dalton, David Spurlock and Joanne Woodward were models for the 2019 Boomer Guide. Bowcock, a 93-year-old resident of Indian River Colony Club, loves to wear hats. Dalton and Spurlock play the bagpipes for the Space Coast Highlanders. Woodward keeps busy playing pickleball and boating.

We encourage organizations to contact Senior Life by the 15th of each month prior with information and dates regarding upcoming community-oriented events by email and mail. Come see us at Brevard Medical City State-of-the-art Medical Facility • Everything under one roof Conveniently located on Wickham Road in Suntree

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6 8 10-11 15-17 21-22 25-27 28 30-31 35

APRIL 2019

NEIGHBORS TECH KNOW TIDBITS SENIOR LIVING TOUR STRIPES VETERANS HEALTH & WELLNESS COLUMNISTS CALENDAR NORTH BREVARD NEWS BOOMER SENIOR SENTIMENTS

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LISTINGS & MORE: Business Activities I Sports Clubs • Groups • Meetings Veterans Resources Senior Living Tour Hurricane Safety Health & Wellness Support Groups

Celebrating 21 Years

They need to have a comfortable bed, people who give them attention and mowed grass where they can play and do the things that dogs do.’’ Since Touch of Grey Rescue is in its infancy, the group could use help with fostering; donations of dog beds, leashes, bowls and collars; grant writing; transporting dogs; partnerships with high-kill shelters or veterinarians; organizing fundraising events; social media; and marketing. For information, go to touchofgreyrescue.com. SL

Table of contents

Office Manager Sylvia Montes Design & Media Joan Sofet Hannah Peterson

Rescue highlights data from the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) showing that dogs 7 or older have only a 25 percent chance of being adopted from a shelter. Only 56 percent of senior dogs have a live-release rate, which means many of these dogs in shelters end up being euthanized. “Mentally, it’s really rewarding to find permanent homes or foster homes for the senior dogs,’’ Johnson said. “I hate to see how uncomfortable they are on cold cement and in a tiny cage.

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Cape Canaveral Lighthouse included as part of new tour BY AUSTIN RUSHNELL With so much to see around Brevard County, it can be easy to forget how beautiful the natural Florida scenery really is. Canaveral Tours has conducted wildlife tours of Merritt Island Wildlife Refuge, Canaveral National Seashore and the Indian River, an area that is home to hundreds of species of birds and animals. Now, the company offers a tour of the Cape Canaveral Lighthouse. “It’s about a three-and-a-halfhour tour when we go to the Cape Canaveral Lighthouse,” said Shelley Parker, who owns Canaveral Wildlife Tours with her husband Gerry. “Volunteers do a guided tour of the lighthouse. We stay there for about an hour. For the rest of the tour, we visit various areas of the (Cape Canaveral) Air Force Station, we visit launch complexes 14 and 34, where the original Mercury, Gemini and Apollo missions flew from. “(There are also) memorial photo opportunities,” Parker continued. “We get to see some of the current launch complex infrastructures; Blue Origin’s facility is along our drive.” The final stop of the tour is at the Sands Space History Center, which is just outside of the south gate of Cape Canaveral Air Force Station. The new tours to the lighthouse are conducted in a 10-seat Mercedes. With the seating offered by Canaveral Lighthouse Tours, excursions can always be run without the risk of late cancellations. While the tour showcases some of

321-242-1235

SENIOR LIFE Courtesy of Canaveral Tours

Shelley and Gerry Parker, owners of Canaveral Tours, take guests on tours that include the Cape Canaveral Lighthouse. Cape Canaveral’s somewhat hidden spectacles, Parker talked about her own favorite part of the tours. “As a guide, I would say (my favorite aspect of the tours) are the people we take out,” Parker said.

“Everybody is just very excited, and it doesn’t matter if they’re lighthouse people, or if they’re space-geek people, they have an enjoyable time doing both. They get to see things that they don’t normally get to see, and all of

our feedback has been tremendous about all aspects of the tour.” For more information about the tours, go to canaveralwildlife.tours or go to the lighthouse website at canaverallight.org. SL

SENIOR LIFE • APRIL 2019

Neighbors Tree sale proves to be fruit of local club’s labor BY MARIA SONNENBERG Asit Ghosh owns a pocket Garden of Eden. It’s easy to spot Ghosh’s garden in his very traditional development in Rockledge. Just look for the yard brimming with luscious fruit trees. Ghosh, a member of the Brevard Tropical Fruit Club, has more than 60 mature fruit trees of an amazing number of varieties stuffed into a quarter-acre lot. That’s proof that a place in the country is not necessary to have a significant orchard. The fruits of Ghosh’s labor abundantly satisfy his family’s needs, as well as those of neighbors and friends. In fact, it borders on an embarrassment of riches. “I get so many mangoes that I share with my neighbors that it gets to the point that when they see me coming with a box of mangoes, they shut the doors,” he joked.

Many of the varieties in Ghosh’s backyard paradise were found at the Fruit Club’s annual tree sale, an event that draws experienced fruit tree fanciers and casual gardeners alike. This year’s sale, scheduled for Saturday, April 27, will start with approximately 3,000 trees. By the end of the day, almost all will have been sold. “It’s your chance each year to buy many different kinds of exotic tropical and subtropical fruit trees with varieties that have been cultivated for our local climates and are cold-hardy,” club spokesperson Brian Wright said. Avocados, bananas, blackberries, blueberries, coconuts, grapes, lychees, mangos, mulberries, miracle fruit and passion fruit will be available in abundance. Other lesser-known species, all at reasonable prices, will run from $10 for a small common fruit tree to a shade under $100 for unusual trees in 20and 30-gallon containers.

Asit Ghosh is proud of the fruit on his sapodilla tree. Ghosh probably won’t buy anything this year, simply because he has no room. But then again, there might be room in his Eden for one more tree.

SENIOR LIFE Courtesy of Ayan Ghosh

The Brevard Tropical Fruit Club’s Tree Sale will be held from 8 a.m. until 4 p.m. April 27 on the southeast lawn of Melbourne Auditorium at 625 E. New Haven Ave. The rain

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Tech Know Tidbits Computer classes leave seniors savvy about technology BY JULIE STURGEON Computer savvy is just a click away, and it is much cheaper than many might think. Check out a class in the area for affordable computer classes. These classes are geared toward seniors. South Brevard In south Brevard, check out the Greater Palm Bay Senior Center at 1275 Culver Drive NE in Palm Bay for its current computer class series. Classes started March 25 and run for eight weeks, meeting from 1 to 2:30 p.m. every Monday and Thursday. Anyone is welcome to join the class during the second week, which began April 1, to get caught up on the basics from week one. “We teach basic computer skills,’’ said Frank Joslin, the IT manager for the Greater Palm Bay Senior Center. “Right now, we are teaching Windows 10, Edge Explorer. We also teach whatever email application members are using.” The eight-week session costs $25 in addition to a $25 membership fee to join the GPBSC. Another eight-week session will be offered in the fall. JoAnne DeRitter and several other teachers make the classes enjoyable for all levels of computer users. “We have three different levels, but most students take the basic computer class,” Joslin said. “Some people take the same class again because they will learn something new every time.” The Thursday class is a lab with hands-on laptop experience. For information, call Joslin at

the Palm Bay Senior Center at 321-724-1338. Central Brevard The Martin Andersen Senior Center at 1025 Florida Ave. in Rockledge offers computer classes from 2 to 3 p.m. on the first Wednesday of each month. Classes cost $6 for members and $7 for non-members. “What I like to do is go around the room and ask what everyone has trouble with,” Bob Beck said. “I make a list of those things, and then we spend the class helping out with those computer problems.” To attend the classes, sign up in advance by calling Beck at 321-6335987. Beck said he will hold the monthly class if at least two or three people are signed up. North Brevard The North Brevard Senior Center at 909 Lane Ave. in Titusville offers computer classes on Tuesdays by appointment. The cost is $3 for members and $4 for non-members. According to the NBSC, the classes include basic computer skills such as email set up, how to navigate a computer and how to set up a password. It is best if users bring their own laptop if they have one. Attendees can get answers to specific questions such as how to get from point A to point B, as well as internet usage. Of note is having a cell phone to set up an email for verification purposes. For information, interested seniors can call the NBSC at 321-268-2333. SL

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Distance is not a barrier to connecting with children or grandchildren for those who have a video chat app.

Video telephony brings long distance family members closer BY JULIE STURGEON

A grandchild’s laughter is contagious, as all grandparents know. Sometimes, there’s just a need to hear that magic giggle. For those who can’t visit their grandchildren often, the next best thing now is video telephony. It is far cheaper than an airline ticket or a tank of gas. These days, video chatting is almost as easy as calling, and it is much more fun. FaceTime is just the Apple version of video chatting. It is specifically for Apple product users. It will not work with Android or Windows. FaceTime can be used on an iPhone, iPad, iPod or Mac computer. To use it, simply open up the FaceTime app, and then tap the plus sign. Next, type the person’s phone number, or if saved in contacts, the name will appear when typing begins. FaceTime also can be accessed during a voice phone call by tapping the FaceTime icon. To reach someone on FaceTime with an iPad, iPod Touch or Mac computer, type in the email address. For those who have FaceTime, grandchildren can quickly gain access. Skype is one of the staple video chatting products. It has been around for years. The uniqueness of Skype is that it works on any type of device with a Microsoft account.

Skype is compatible with computers, tablets, mobile devices, even the Xbox One console. Skype to Skype calls are free anywhere, which is another perk. To use Skype, just download it to a phone or computer, create an account and sign in. Loved ones will need a Skype account as well. There are some premium Skype features that are extra such as SMS texts, landline calls and voicemail. Users can transmit text, video, audio and images through Skype. For more information, go to skype. com and search for how do I get started. For those who have an Android and want something for their phone, just go to apps on the phone and access the menu icon. Once at the menu bar, tap the call settings and a video calling option should become available. One of the most common Android apps is Duo, which enables users to chat with contacts on a phone. To use Duo, download it from Google Play. Allow Duo to take pictures and video, access contacts, record audio and view and send text messages. There are many Android and Apple apps available such as Houseparty, which can be used by several family members at the same time. A Wi-Fi connection or mobile data plan is required for all video phone products. SL

Stay connected with us! Go to Facebook/SeniorLife

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SENIOR LIFE • APRIL 2019

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The BOOMER GUIDE is Here Pick up your copy at the locations below.

BOOMER CELEBRATING 13 YEARS AS

BREVARD CO UNTY’S MOST COMPREHENS IVE GUIDE FO R EDITION 20 19 NO. 13

BOOMERS & SE NIORS

BOOMER

FREE COPY

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LISTINGS & M ORE: Business Activities I Sp orts Clubs • Group s • Meetings Veterans Reso urces Senior Living Tour Hurricane Sa fety Health & Wel lness Support Group s

Celebrating 21

Years

How to TH R I V E past 55 PAGE 66

Boomer Guide 2019 is a ‘manual’ on how to build a great life Find everything you need to live your best life on the Space Coast, from clubs to activities, to health care and recreation, the best places to live and everything in between.

A few of our pick-up locations: TITUSVILLE • Titusville Chamber of Commerce, 2000 S. Washington, Titusville • Titusville Adult Social Center, 909 Lake Ave., Titusville

MERRITT ISLAND/COCOA BEACH • Freedom 7 Senior Center, 5000 Tom Warriner Blvd., Cocoa Beach • The Sunflower House inside Merritt Square Mall, Merritt Island

ROCKLEDGE • Martin Andersen Senior Center, 1025 Florida Ave., Rockledge

VIERA/SUNTREE • Senior Life, 7630 N. Wickham Road, #105, Suntree • One Senior Place, 8085 Spyglass Hill Road, Viera • William A. Johnson PA, 140 Interlachen Road, Suntree • Viera Discovery Center, The Avenue Viera, Unit 105, Viera

MELBOURNE/PALM BAY • Wickham Park Senior Center, 2785 Leisure Way, Melbourne • Greater Palm Bay Senior Center, 1275 Culver Drive NE, Palm Bay • Melbourne Regional Chamber, 1005 East Strawbridge Ave., Downtown Melbourne

BEACHSIDE • 55+ Club, DRS Center, 1089 S. Patrick Dr., Satellite Beach

For a pick-up location near you, or bulk delivery of 30 or more guides, call 321-242-1235. 321-242-1235

SENIOR LIFE • APRIL 2019

Plan ahead to find a home you’ll love for the rest of your life and you will never want to leave. Share fun activities and interests with friends who have shared points of reference. Enjoy delicious food you don’t have to prepare for yourself (unless you want to). You’ve worked hard. Now, put your feet up and let your hair down in one of our local communities that are the best in the nation!

BOOMER BOO O MER OO BOOMER CELEBRATING 13 YEARS AS BREVARD COUNTY’S MOST COMPREHENSIVE GUIDE FOR BOOMERS & SENIORS EDITION 2019 NO. 13

CELEBRATING 13 YEARS AS BREVARD COUNTY’S MOST COMPREHENSIVE GUIDE FOR BOOMERS & SENIORS EDITION 2019 NO. 13

BOOMER

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How to How to

THRIVE THRIVE past55 55

PAGE PAGE 66 66

Celebrating 21 Years Celebrating 21 Years

See the full SENIOR LIVING TOUR listings in the 2018 Boomer Guide, available at Chambers of Commerce and Senior Centers or call Senior Life at 321-242-1235.

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SENIOR LIFE • APRIL 2019

For more information on living communities in Brevard, call 321-242-1235

myseniorlife.com

Senior Living

Culinary expressions popular with Victoria Landing residents BY JULIE STURGEON Victoria Landing now offers residents a chance to view the creation of the delicious, unusual meals they enjoy eating each day. During a live cooking demonstration, residents watch as recipes are concocted by dining room hospitality director Sara Beth Marsala. “Culinary expressions is a way for residents to see how the cuisine is prepared,” said Julie Iris, the resident services director at Victoria Landing. During this event, Marsala offers a weekly demonstration of culinary recipes for residents with tasty samples for participants to enjoy. “We so appreciate the creations she comes up with,” Iris said. “She literally puts on a cooking show every week for all of us.” Recently, on National Cereal Day, Marsala made cereal from scratch, then used the cereal in a crust for mini lemon cheesecakes. The residents were treated to the freshly made delicacies, which received rave reviews. “No other assisted living in the county offers this,” said Gwyneth Shick, the marketing executive for Victoria Landing. The food creations can be found in the dazzling new demonstrational chef’s kitchen at Victoria Landing. Residents will soon be donning aprons and participating in the cooking themselves.

SENIOR LIFE Courtesy of Victoria Landing

Chef Sara Beth Marsala delights residents during a cooking demonstration. Marsala offers a weekly demonstration of culinary recipes for residents to enjoy. Victoria Landing residents also are expanding their horizons with weekly excursions around the county every week. On Fridays, Iris provides a fun way for residents to enjoy special outings to some of Brevard’s treasured destinations. In March, excursions to Sebastian Inlet, the Barrier Island and the Veterans Memorial Center provided a time where residents were inspired to engage in conversations about their own lives.

“During these outings, folks really converse with each other and have more in-depth discussions about their lives and experiences,” Iris said. Victoria Landing prides itself on continually striving to enrich and expand the horizons of residents with an evolving pallet of activities and unique events. Its waterfront location provides a peaceful setting for residents to enjoy each other’s company at the end of the day.

A Friday evening spent roasting marshmallows with the river breeze recently has become a favorite for residents. The scene creates an intimate atmosphere where casual conversations evolve as people come and go throughout the evening. “We do things that really enrich the lives of our residents, not just scheduled activities,” Shick said. “We make it personal and interesting for our residents.” SL

TOP 10 REASONS TO CHOOSE DR. KUTRYB FOR YOUR CATARACT SURGERY KUTRYB EYE INSTITUTE

730 S. Washington Ave. Titusville, FL 32796 321.267.2020 | www.KutrybEye.com Hours: 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. Monday-Friday

1. Dr. Kutryb has been performing cataract and laser surgery for over 20 years and is one of Central Florida’s most experienced Cataract Surgeons having performed over 20,000 procedures. 2. Dr. Kutryb is Board Certified by the American Board of Ophthalmology and is an active member of the American Academy of Ophthalmology and the American Board of Cataract and Refractive Surgeons. 3. Dr. Kutryb performs the simplest and most complex cataract procedures including referral cases from other doctors across Central Florida. 4. Dr. Kutryb has a special area of emphasis on complex cases, particularly cases with Corneal Dystrophy, glaucoma, previous vitreoretinal surgery, and previous LASIK surgery. 5. Dr. Kutryb is one of a select group of doctors in Central Florida to utilize Alcon’s ORA (Optiwave Refractive Analysis) to optimize intraocular lens selection real-time during cataract surgery. This technology is

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most important for cases with astigmatism and prior LASIK surgery.

Dr. Michael Kutryb is a Magna Cum Laude graduate of St. Louis University and a Cum Laude graduate of the 6. Dr. Kutryb utilizes both Alcon Acrysof lenses University of Missouri-School of (including the Acrysof Restor and Restor Medicine where he completed a Toric) and Abbott Tecnis lenses (including research fellowship at the Mason the Symfony and Symfony Toric) in order to Institute of Ophthalmology and received the Outstanding choose the optimum implant for each patient. Ophthalmology Student Award. He completed his 7. Dr. Kutryb performs an extremely thorough Ophthalmology training at the Ochsner Clinic, where he preoperative exam on each patient in order served as Chief Resident. Since being in practice he to identify and adapt to the particular special has received the Secretariat Award and the LEO Award conditions or problems that may exist. from the American Academy of Ophthalmology and the Physician Recognition Award from the American Medical 8. Dr. Kutryb personally conferences with each patient before surgery to identify which Association. His research on Multifocal Lens Implants has appeared in EyeWord and the Journal of the American intraocular lens would best suit their needs. Academy of Ophthalmology.

9. Kutryb Eye Institute has a dedicated professional staff chosen by Dr. Kutryb, and one of the most modern and technologically advanced offices in Brevard County, with an Ambulatory Surgery Center located right next door.

10. Dr. Kutryb has in-depth experience utilizing the Glaukos Istent drainage implant during cataract surgery to help manage glaucoma. New Office Opened at 730 S. Washington Ave.

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New centenarian celebrates with positive, grateful attitude BY JENNIFER H. MONAGHAN

Why Are We Different? SENIOR LIFE Jennifer H. Monaghan

Jean White turned 100 on March 7.

five times a week and takes her turn hosting two-table games at her home. “I don’t know what I’d do if I didn’t play bridge,” she said. A regular at her community pool during the summer, White participates in a 40-minute water exercise class on weekdays. A fervent church member and Brevard County resident for more than 25 years, White has lived alone since her husband of 72 years died five years ago. With the assistance of her son, who lives in Palm Bay, White maintains her independent lifestyle. In a world that is “different” than yesteryear, White remains active, positive and grateful for her “blessings.” SL

10th Annual Brevard County

W.E.A.A.D World Elder Abuse Awareness Day

Community Information Fair Melbourne Auditorium 625 E. Hibiscus Blvd., Melbourne, FL Free Admission -‐ Free Parking

Friday, June 14 10 am - 1 pm FreeBreakfastandFreeLunchwillbeserved HourlyDoorPrizeDrawings•Exhibitor’sInclude Big Red Bus – Blood Mobile Memory Screenings & Caregiver information Local Law Enforcement & Public Safety Providers

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Because we are the ONLY Retirement Community in Brevard County licensed to offer you a TRUE continuum of care.

Insights into why we moved to Buena Vida Estates – “We originally visited Buena Vida

for lunch as members of the Pennsylvania School Retirees organization. We came back for a personal tour and each of our children visited separately. After many conversations about Buena Vida, we decided to get on the waitlist. Getting on the waitlist gave us the opportunity to become more familiar with Buena Vida, enjoy some very good meals and join residents for various parties. At one of the parties, a resident whispered, ‘Don’t wait too long.’ With that wise warning and getting to know some obviously satisfied residents better, we decided to make the move. We have lived here for seven months and are immersed in a big new family. Friday afternoon music continues to let us enjoy our new friendships. We‘ve danced more in the past six months than in the previous six years. We feel the acceptance and relaxation of knowing we are home. Our family continues to grow as new residents arrive. Although we are in our 70s and in good health, we did not want to be a future burden on our children, so it just made sense to move now! Buena Vida Estates fulfills its promise to seniors, being here is the ‘Good Life’. ” — Larry & Peggy

W NO AI W TL T IS AK T D IN EP G OS IT

Jean White celebrated her 100th birthday March 7. What a glorious celebration it was! White reveled in the aura of the “amazing” surprise party hosted by her family, who flew in from Texas and Pennsylvania. Her local friends lavished her with lunches, floral bouquets and unexpected gifts. “It was fantastic,” she said beaming. White acknowledged that she was overwhelmed by the overflow of love and attention. Nonetheless, she appreciated that her experiences, memories, family, friends and community were honored. “I’ve had a wonderful life,” White said. “It wasn’t all peaches and cream, but it was good, and it is good.” It is not uncommon for someone living past age 90 to receive queries as to the reason for their longevity, or their own contemplation. “I have no idea why I lived this long,” she said. “For the past couple of years, whenever anybody asked me, I say, I just keep reading. The library is one of my favorite places. At one point, I read a book a week, but now less.” Her friends would probably say White’s long life is partly due to her lifestyle, in particular her rich social interactions. Patti Rinabarger remarked: “I find Jean very interesting to talk to on a variety of topics and have the utmost admiration for her attitude to old age.” An avid bridge player for more than 70 years, White plays duplicate bridge

For a complimentary tour and lunch, call Teri or Debbie at (321) 724-0060.

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SENIOR LIFE • APRIL 2019

How to start, maintain and enjoy a small garden BY JULIE STURGEON Small gardens can be created in the tiniest of spaces. What makes small gardens special is the versatility they lend to gardening. Planters can be arranged side by side, in rows or in terraced columns on a garden “shelf.” As far as plant selection, herbs and vegetables are popular small garden choices during Florida’s winter months. “It would really depend on what you want to do,” said Sally Scalera, a University of Florida Institute of Food and Agriculture Sciences (IFAS) extension agent. “Just make sure not to use too many large plants, because they can cast shade on other plants.” Planning the garden is an important step, and it also is part of the fun. There is no limit to how creative a garden can be. Perhaps one of the easiest gardens to maintain is an herb garden. Basil, parsley, oregano and thyme all grow well during the winter months in Florida. Positioning a garden near the backdoor makes it more visible. Herb leaves can be snipped daily and added to recipes. In the yard, a raised bed garden means that you can use enriched soil, and plants will not have to compete with yard landscaping. On the porch or patio, containers make ideal pots for herbs. “The biggest thing to keep in mind is to match the watering conditions to the type of plant you are using,” Scalera said. “You also need to consider the amount of sun the area gets.” A gardening plan should start with

SENIOR LIFE Julie Sturgeon

Small, sunny spaces are ideal for container gardening. Let your imagination be your guide in planning a garden. deciding what type of garden you want, such as vegetables or herbs. Next, locate the ideal space for your garden, in an area that gets enough sunlight. Determine the watering needs for your garden and plan around sprinklers if in the yard. Design your garden by drawing a sketch or outlining it with

cord in the yard. Stumped for ideas? Talk to experts at the extension agency or your local gardening store. When you are satisfied with your plan, set out to buy plants or seeds from your local gardening center. Buy containers or barrier material, if

necessary. Prepare the soil and plot. Finally, dig in and get your hands dirty by planting your garden, and check on it daily. For general gardening questions, call 321-633-1702, contact brevard@ ifas.ufl.edu or go to sfyl.ifas.ufl.edu/ brevard/ SL

Insights On Eyesight Our Vision is your Vision for 2020 and beyond.

Call our Vision Concierge to reserve your space at 321-984-3200. Dr. Trespalacios Medical Director & Lead Surgeon

Join the Revolution

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Friday, April 19th at 3 pm at One Senior Place 8085 Spyglass Hill Road Melbourne, FL 32940

SENIOR LIFE • APRIL 2019

myseniorlife.com

SeniorLife

STRIPES Brevard Veterans News

Harmony Farms enlists veterans, seniors for new programs BY MARIA SONNENBERG Being around horses can make even the worst day a good day. Harmony Farms, an equine-assisted therapeutic riding facility in Cocoa, is launching two programs aimed at veterans and seniors. For veterans who might be struggling with loneliness, stress or other issues, Harmony Farms offers special volunteer opportunities. “We go through the screening process and medical clearance with them, just as we do with our other clients,” said Pam Rogan, the founder and executive director of the riding facility that has served riders with disabilities for 27 years. Veterans are encouraged to participate on Mondays or Wednesdays — slower days at the farm. But, they are welcome at any time if those days are not suitable to their schedules. “We give them the opportunity to spend all the time they want with the horses and teach them to groom and lead them if they want, or they can just spend time helping out in the stalls,” Rogan said. Rogan hopes to eventually form a veterans’ drill team from these volunteers. Harmony Farms also plans to start a Senior Program that allows older volunteers time with the 12 gentle horses at the stables. “We’re putting feelers out in the community to see if this is something of interest,” Rogan said. Rogan is looking to include minihorses, those dog-sized bundles of equine charm, in the Senior Program since the tiny creatures might prove less intimidating than the full-size variety. All the horses at Harmony

Farms are donated and each animal is vetted for good nature and the patience to deal with inexperienced riders and handlers. Harmony Farms already offers a donation-based “Bucket Wish List Program” that has drawn participants from all age groups.

“We’ve had 90 year olds who wanted to get back on a horse, or just pet, groom and walk a horse, and 30 year olds with terminal cancer who wanted one last ride,” Rogan said. The amazing horses at Harmony Farms can do amazing things for humans, be they young or old, and

Rogan wants to make them as accessible as possible to all age groups. For more information on these Harmony Farms programs, call Rogan at 321-704-3853. The stables are located at 2205 Pluckebaum Road in Cocoa. For more information, go to harmonyfarmsinc.com. SL

SENIOR LIFE Courtesy of Harmony Farms

Art Berger, a veteran, volunteers at Harmony Farms. Harmony Farms offers special volunteer opportunities for veterans and seniors. Harmony Farms is located on Pluckebaum Road in Cocoa.

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Non-smoking Veteran posts become popular During my years of reporting on military and veterans issues, I would sometimes go into Veterans of Foreign Wars and American Legion Posts’ canteens. I can tell you that it was much more of a pleasure going into the posts after many of them decided to not allow smoking inside anymore. That’s also when some of the posts began attracting non-smoking veterans who before did not go into their canteen because of the smoke. Now that smoking cigarettes seems to be less popular, many of the posts are smoke-free. When that trend was starting in Brevard a few years ago, Duane Podhola took up the mantle for a new VFW post of which he was commander. The post no longer exists,

but he also encouraged other posts that are now non-smoking. “A lot of them have gone nonsmoking,” said Podhola, who is a member of American Legion Post 117 and VFW Post 4206. “We go in, have a beer and chat with the guys.” Podhola of Palm Bay, who served in the Air Force in Vietnam in 1970 and 1971, can name off a list of posts that do not allow smoking inside any longer. Going into a canteen or even a bar to puff on a cigarette while nursing a beer is becoming a thing of the past. Most indoor smoking is banned in public places in Florida and in other states. Some organizations and businesses do not allow smoking anywhere on their property, even outdoors. For some time now, the

covered outdoor areas for those who smoke. While I rarely visit a post any more, it is easier for me as a non-smoker to feel more comfortable inside interviewing someone. Post commanders said they wanted to go non-smoking to attract some of the young veterans who were returning from serving in Iraq and Afghanistan and their families. That has not really occurred in large numbers. However, the posts report that in recent years they have attracted veterans who are non-smokers. Now, smokers who puff outside and non-smokers can all be a part of the camaraderie veterans share at the posts. SL

Veterans’ Advocate R. Norman Moody

veterans posts had been the exception. It is not clear how many posts are now smoke-free because the local posts set their own smoking policy, though their national offices have encouraged non-smoking to help attract the non-smokers among the veterans. Non-smoking post canteens still do accommodate the smokers. Most have

Renaissance life appeals to military veteran BY MARIA SONNENBERG

No one can ever accuse Chris Porro of leading a boring life. Marine, architect, meteorologist, restaurateur and award-winning salsa maker — Porro has done it all. The Boston native followed his family’s desire to serve and enlisted in the military. “My sister was in the military and both of my grandfathers were in, too,” Porro said. His mother credits his maternal grandfather, who was killed in Italy during World War II, for keeping watch over Porro’s safety during his 15 years in the service. During his junior year of studying architecture, Porro went into the Navy before transferring to the Marines and later the Army, where he settled in for 10 years as a staff sergeant. Connected to an artillery unit, his duties included meteorology. “We would drive over to the side with the “bad guys, and relay information such as wind direction and temperature back to the Howitzers and the other big guns,” Porro said. The job taught him to travel light and fast.

“You only carry your weapon and your meteorology kit,” Porro said. After his military service, Porro finished his degree in architecture and proceeded to provide interior design for his father’s cabinetry manufacturing company. “Mom is an executive chef and dad typically designed kitchens. So, when I was growing up, I wasn’t helping my dad build kitchens. I was in the kitchen helping mom,” Porro said. Porro eventually decided to strike out on his own, but he wanted to stay in the kitchen. He and wife Jenny became owners of a unique hot dog cart that worked the local farmers’ markets. “We sold specialty sandwiches, breakfasts, sausage and pepper sandwiches, everything but hot dogs,” he said. The couple also began a small catering business out of the local commissary kitchen in Suntree. Here, they also created their Tropical Spices Hot Sauces. The business thrived to the point that three years ago, the Porros opened Over the Top Sammies gourmet sandwich shop in Palm Bay. Most of the items on the menu include the Porro’s distinct hot sauces, which

SENIOR LIFE Courtesy of Chris Porro Restaurateur Chris Porro has served in three different branches of the United States military.

this year took two top prizes at the World Hot Sauces Awards in Louisiana. “We’ve completed and won four times out of five years,” Porro said. Last year, Porro’s sauces won against entries from 12 different countries. This year, Porro’s Sing Sing Sauce won for the third year in a row and his Imperial Sauce won in the Asian Division.

Last year, the Porros published “Getting Sauced,” a cookbook inspired by their award-winning sauces, so author can be added to Porro’s eclectic list of accomplishments. Over the Top Sammies is at 2524 Palm Bay Road, Unit 2 in Palm Bay. For further information, call 321-5864343 or go to tropicalspicesllc.com SL

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SENIOR LIFE • APRIL 2019

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Is it true that Varicose Veins are a sign of a medical issue? Yes. Please do not ignore signs of leg varicose veins. If you notice bulging veins, you have a significant medical condition. Bulging indicates a chronic medical condition. Constant dilation causes blood to stop blood flow back through the legs, leading to further damage. This includes swelling with tissue damage, legs swelling, aching legs, permanent skin pigmentation changes, along with ulcers.

SENIOR LIFE Courtesy of Rick Beech

Rick Beech stands beside his “rolling tribute” to the fallen veterans of Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom.

Veteran honors fallen heroes with patriotic ‘rolling tribute’ BY AUSTIN RUSHNELL

With areas like Patrick Air Force Base, the Cape Canaveral National Cemetery and veteran-focused communities, there are plenty of opportunities for veterans to feel at home in Brevard County. One Brevard resident decided to honor these veterans with a unique project. Rick Beech has fully restored a 1957 Chevrolet Task Force 3200, complete with custom paint-jobs, reupholstered seating in red, white, and blue, and even military medallions that represent each of the branches of the U.S. Armed Forces. Having retired from active duty in the Air Force in 1993, Beech spent the next 26 years serving in diplomatic missions for the U.S. State Department. “I (also) served at a forward operating base in Iraq and Afghanistan in direct support of our troops in 2011 and 2013,” Beech said. “I built the truck to honor those who did not return home. I wanted to dedicate it to the families of our fallen, knowing it would be some time before we had a

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national monument.” The “rolling monument” began as a father-and-son project in 2012, when Beech and his son bought the 1957 Chevy from a goat farm in North Carolina. “We had a two-car garage that was reduced to one during the build, but

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SENIOR LIFE Courtesy of Rick Beech

Medallions line the sides of the bed of Rick Beech’s “rolling tribute” to the Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom veterans.

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SENIOR LIFE • APRIL 2019

Project Breathe helps save pets during fires BY MARIA SONNENBERG Every year, more than 40,000 pets die in fires in the United States. They primarily die due to smoke inhalation because first responders lack the specialized equipment needed to resuscitate and save these animals. Pet oxygen masks can make the difference between life and death for the creatures. To address the need for the masks, Invisible Fence created Project Breathe, a program that provides pet oxygen mask kits to fire departments across the country. To date, the program has donated more than 25,000 masks to fire departments in the United States and Canada. Brevard County Fire Rescue (BCFR) is the latest recipient of the program’s generosity. The department recently received 174 pet masks from Invisible Fence and participating local veterinary hospitals. The donation allows for all fire rescue units to be equipped with a pet mask kit that will enhance BCFR’s response to all victims, including the four-legged variety. “By providing us

with this generous donation, our agency will be better equipped to help and treat your furry family members if the need ever arises,” Fire Chief Mark Schollmeyer said. Each mask kit is outfitted with three reusable masks to encompass pet sizes from Great Danes to Beagles, Chihuahuas and cats. The masks and tubing are attached to existing oxygen tanks. Fire Rescue had used pet masks in the past, but the masks had deteriorated and had to be thrown away. “We haven’t had pet masks in the last several years,” Schollmeyer said. While they haven’t had pet masks, they have had pet rescues. Making do with human oxygen masks was not a good solution, particularly with canines. “The human masks don’t really work, particularly with dogs, because of the shape of the animals’ noses,” explained Schollmeyer. Although the masks can be used on many species of animals, Schollmeyer anticipates that dogs will benefit the most from them. “Cats seem to make it out of fires a lot better than dogs,” he said. Fire Rescue also has

SENIOR LIFE Courtesy of Brevard County Fire Rescue

A Brevard County Firefighter demonstrates how to use a pet respirator. saved smaller pets such as guinea pigs and rabbits. But, in those cases, human oxygen masks seem to best do the trick. The availability of the pet oxygen masks will give

rescuers better options for helping. “A lot of people think pets are more resilient than humans during fires,’’ Schollmeyer said. “But, in fact, they’re more fragile.” SL

Our aging community is a sacred asset that we should learn from, honor, and support.

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Love Your Campus makes strides ahead of Earth Month

From Feb. 1 to March 1, Merritt Island High School (MIHS) participated in a campaign to Reduce Litter, Reuse Bottles and Recycle Better. The campaign, born from the initiative of environmental science and biology teacher Teresa Nick and developed by Recycle Brevard, aimed to improve campus practice of the 3Rs. Nick and her Earth Club students spearheaded the campaign at MIHS. Recycle Brevard provided signs and put together a trivia game for students to learn what to recycle on campus. At the end of the week, students who participated in the trivia game received snacks provided by Recycle Brevard and were randomly selected to receive prizes such as reusable straws generously donated by a local business, Softer Sip (softersip.com). Besides learning about recycling, students participated in a campus cleanup and tracked the number of water bottles saved by using the bottle filling stations at MIHS. The results? The campus cleanup picked up and filled about 10 grocery bags of litter from the campus grounds. Tracking the bottle-filling stations showed that there was a usage increase of about 3 percent per week, helping to prevent 1,338 disposable plastic bottles from being used. Recycling in the cafeteria has not shown as much progress. Contamination still was an issue. Nick reported a steady improvement

BEYOND the CURB Marcia Booth

President & Founder, Recycle Brevard

in classroom recycling — participants were doing an estimated 20 percent better by the end of the campaign. Those are promising results considering the challenge of the campaign to disseminate the message of what to recycle on campus to all teachers and as many students as possible in a period of just one month. Teachers received a copy of the sign identifying recyclables. Students were exposed to the same information via infomercials and signs on the cafeteria walls. Only 153 students, which represents about 10 percent of the students at MIHS, had the opportunity to directly engage in the trivia game brought to the school once a week. According to the Stages of Change or Transtheoretical Model, “change occurs gradually and relapses are an inevitable part of the process of making a lifelong change. People are often unwilling or resistant to change during the early stages, but they eventually develop a proactive and committed approach to changing a behavior.” That model only confirms what

we knew before we started. It will take time and a lot of practice to get everyone to recycle better. Awareness is just the start; small and gradual improvement is what we should look for. So, I am proud of MIHS for taking the first step into this journey. In order to achieve long-lasting change, one needs to keep at it. The power also is in numbers and getting more individuals — not only students, but staff and teachers as well — involved and committed to the process. That will be a key for MIHS to continue on the path of improvement. Love Your Campus started a process at MIHS that Recycle Brevard would like to help all schools in Brevard County to begin. After all, for a community to change, the whole community must get involved. The more schools we help, the higher the chance we have in making a difference in our community. Lucky’s Market in Melbourne wants to support that effort through its Impact Days program that will donate 10 percent of its sales on April 23 to Recycle Brevard. During this Earth Month, consider investing in a better community by shopping for groceries at Lucky’s on April 23. Recycle Brevard volunteers sincerely appreciate your support. Happy Earth Day! SL Email Marcia Booth at Marcia@ RecycleBrevard.org.

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SENIOR LIFE • APRIL 2019

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Health & Wellness Senior Life

Take stroke symptoms seriously, act quickly to get treatment BY BRENDA EGGERT BRADER A stroke can occur at any age. It is a medical condition in which poor blood flow to the brain results in cell death. There are two main types — ischemic, due to lack of blood flow; and hemorrhagic, due to bleeding. Both result in parts of the brain not functioning properly. Signs of a stroke include a sudden severe headache, weakness, numbness, vision problems, confusion, trouble walking or talking, dizziness, leg feels heavy or slurred speech. “African American and Hispanic women are the No. 1 target to die from heart disease,” said Secily Wilson, an African-American journalist who has had two strokes early in life. “For every 10 years you are alive, your risk of stroke doubles,” said Robyn Laforest, a registered nurse who is the stroke program coordinator for Rockledge Regional Medical Center. “The key to strokes is time is of the essence. If you have signs or symptoms of a stroke, you have less than four hours to treat an ischemic stroke. “Twenty years ago, 20 percent of patients were under age 65 when they

had a stroke. Today, 38 percent of strokes are patients under 65. So people have, with good reason, been talking about Luke Perry (an actor who died recently of a stroke at age 52). We should talk about it and talk about it more. “Strokes happen quickly. If you have any two of the symptoms, take it seriously,” Laforest said. “We would rather you overreact. Not all strokes are a droopy head or face. No matter

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what, call 911. We have a very limited window to treat you.” Prevention includes eating healthy, monitoring blood pressure and cholesterol, if obese or diabetic, losing weight, and to quit smoking. “Don’t eat so much sugar, limit fat and salt,” Laforest said. “Drink just a couple of glasses of wine. The higher the blood pressure, the higher chances of stroke and heart attack.” SL

SENIOR LIFE • APRIL 2019

utis af iction affects one in every 59 individuals BY BRENDA EGGERT BRADER All forms of Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) include communication/language difficulties, sensory issues and social deficits. That being considered, whether an adult or child with the affliction, autism is a developmental disability that typically appears during the first three years of life. Autism and its associated behaviors occur in about one out of every 59 individuals, according to the Autism Society of Florida. “We know that there is not one autism but many subtypes, most influenced by a combination of genetic and environmental factors,” said Janelle Moore of AutismSpeaks.org. “Because autism is a spectrum disorder, each person with autism has a distinct set of strengths and challenges. The ways in which people with autism learn, think and problem-solve can range from highly skilled to severely challenged. Some people with ASD may require significant support in their daily lives, while others may need less support and, in some cases, live entirely independently. “Because of that, not everyone with autism has signs that can be clearly recognized simply by looking at someone walking down the street.”

Some signs to look for in a person who might have autism include lack of or delay in spoken language, repetitive use of language and/or motor mannerism as in hand-flapping or twirling objects as in repetitive body movements; little or no eye contact, lack of interest in peer relationships, lack of spontaneous or make-believe play (as in a child), and facial expressions. “Autism interferes with the normal development of the brain in the areas of reasoning, social interaction and communication skills,” said Moore, whose group will observe Autistic month with a walk/family fun day from 8 a.m. to noon April 20 at the Orange County Convention Center. ADS special arrangements are available at various attractions. Disney World offers advance registration to be placed at the front of the ride lines and has quiet areas in firsts aid areas, Legoland Florida offers a quiet room with sound-proof headphones and games and a place for ASD individuals to get used to bright lights and noises. Dollywood, TN has a calming room. The Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex provides online information for parents about sensory and other stimulations to help minimize surprises and potential areas of upset for someone with ASD. SL

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PATRIOTIC TRUCK continued from page 17

were still scattered throughout the interior of the house in various stages of completion,” Beech explained in an online journal entry for LMC Truck Life. “We had cataloged all the old parts and they too were stored wherever we could find room. Finally, in 2014, it all began to come together and take shape. The paint design was completed, parts were ordered, and the reconstruction began.” The truck will serve as a “rolling tribute” to the fallen heroes overseas

and will commence on a tour of more than 25 military installations, starting in July. The tour also will include being a part of the July 4 parade in Washington, D.C. During the tour, the truck will collect signatures of veterans that have served in Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom. “(One of) the biggest challenges was (finding) a fitting design to honor our fallen heroes,” Beech said. SL

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SENIOR LIFE Austin Rushnell

The metal sculpture of the hippo is near the entrance to the Brevard Zoo.

African sculptures hidden throughout Brevard Zoo BY AUSTIN RUSHNELL Zoos are typically home to animals often associated with the African landscape, such as meerkats, giraffes and monkeys. The Brevard Zoo not only features these exotic animals, but also new to the zoo are metal statues made by African artists. There are 16 metal sculptures in various spots throughout the zoo. “These sculptures were all made from recycled materials by a group of 19 young artists in Nairobi, Kenya,” Brevard oo officials said in an online presentation. “The artists, called Ark Collective, were recruited from disadvantaged, impoverished backgrounds and given the opportunity to learn valuable skills such as design, metal cutting and welding — all of which were used to create the sculptures now housed at the zoo.” The sculptures at the Brevard Zoo are called Sculpture Safari and are found all over the zoo. Some are in hard-to-spot areas. “These sculptures were at the Botanical Garden Center in Vero Beach, and they purchased the statues from (Ark Collective),” said Elliot Zirulnik, the communications

“People (also) like the giraffe. It’s the easiest one to find, but they’re all very (interesting).” — Elliot Zirulnik manager at the Brevard Zoo. “When they were done exhibiting them, (the Brevard Zoo) purchased them with other zoos in Florida: the Jacksonville Zoo, the Naples Zoo and the West Palm Beach Zoo.” The statues are not a permanent installation in the Brevard Zoo. By the fall of 2019, the statues will move on to the next zoo in Florida. When all of the zoos within the agreement have had a chance to display the sculptures, the sculptures will be split four ways between the group. “I think the most popular one is the elephant family; elephants are really popular animals,” Zirulnik said. “There are two adults and two or three calves. People (also) like the giraffe. It’s the easiest one to find, but they’re all very (interesting).” There is no map for finding the

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sculptures, so guests will have to be on the lookout for each of the 16 metal animals. Also new to the Brevard Zoo is a bear, which is a 2-year-old, full-

grown female. For more information about the sculptures and about the Brevard Zoo, go to brevardzoo.org/special-events/ sculpture-safari. SL

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Behind the

Beat

‘Aquarius/Let the Sunshine In’ — The Fifth Dimension BY RANDAL HILL When the moon is in the seventh house, and Jupiter aligns with Mars Then peace will guide the planets, and love will steer the stars *** The Fifth Dimension would never have made their best-known record if not for a wallet inadvertently left behind in a taxicab. The quintet started as a mid-1960s Los Angeles pop/soul outfit called the Versatiles. When they signed with Johnny Rivers’ nascent Soul City label, Rivers demanded that they update their name; thus was born the coolerthan-cool title Fifth Dimension. Fast-forward to the fall of 1968. The outfit, by then hit-making headliners, were performing at New York’s Americana Hotel. Group member Billy Daniels Jr. took a cab to do some shopping one afternoon before the evening’s show and forgot his wallet on the taxi’s back seat. The next person to enter the cab was one of the producers of the groundbreaking Broadway rock opera “Hair,” which had been playing to packed houses since April. Before long, Daniels’ phone rang with the good news that his wallet had been found and that the caller wanted to return it. The relieved Daniels

invited the producer and his wife to see the Fifth Dimension in concert; the producer, in turn, invited Daniels’s group to see “Hair.” At the show, the Fifth Dimension members were so taken with the music that they declared “Aquarius,” the musical’s uplifting opening number, to be a work that they absolutely must record. But their Los Angeles-based producer, “Bones” Howe, felt otherwise. He was concerned about a possible overexposure of the song. The original Broadway cast album had been out for a while and had soared to the top of the Billboard LP charts, where it had stayed for 13 weeks. Howe harbored another issue, as well. “I said (that) it’s half a song,” he recalled. “It’s an introduction. It needs something on the back end.” He jetted to New York to evaluate the 33-tune musical for himself and decided that the last three bars of the show’s closing (and decidedly antiwar) tune “The Flesh Failures” would make a perfect ending, especially after witnessing the audience joyfully singing along with the line “Let the sunshine in” over and over. The single’s instrumental tracks were recorded in Los Angeles when the Fifth Dimension was the opening show for Frank Sinatra at Caesar’s

Palace in Las Vegas. At a primitive Sin City recording studio where trains rumbling by would stop recording sessions mid-song, Howe cut the group’s soon-to-be-signature tune using two microphones for the five singers. “Aquarius/Let the Sunshine In” ran long, so Howe edited it to less than 5 minutes — a better fit for radio

playlists of the time. As the Fifth Dimension’s eighth Top 40 single, it spent six weeks at No. 1 on the charts and sold three million copies. In 1968, the Fifth Dimension had earned a Grammy for Record of the Year for their hit “Up, Up and Away.” Two years later, “Aquarius/Let the Sunshine In” brought them that same coveted honor. SL Comprehensive Range of Treatments

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Bowling might just be the perfect sport after all I finally found a sport that is right up my alley — bowling. Yes, my whole life I’ve been into athletics. I do love to play sports. I’ve enjoyed playing baseball, football, golf, tennis and pingpong. But, until now, I never really found a sport that I loved. Why bowling and not golf? Well, I’ve never lost a ball in bowling. In fact, you throw it down an alley and they keep sending it back. You throw anything else down an alley and you’ll never see it again. And, you wouldn’t want to go find it. On the golf course, you have to be dead silent when someone is swinging. In bowling, it’s so loud you can hear a pin drop. Huh? Well, what did you think all that noise was? In NASCAR, when you hear the crash, it’s very upsetting. In bowling, after a crash, everyone screams for joy. Well, what about baseball? In baseball, if you strike out they send you to the bench. In bowling, if you strike out, they send you to the Hall of Fame. And how many sports are held in an environmentally controlled atmosphere with a full bar in sight and they encourage you to drink while playing the sport?

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Funny thing is... Sammy Haddad Think about it. While you’re bowling, if you’re not drinking enough alcohol, they send a server to you. You don’t even have to go stand in line at the bar! Now, how many sports do they actually deliver the drinks to you while you’re playing? OK, golf maybe. But, let me ask you this. How many sports do they encourage you to drink and consume a cheeseburger or pizza while you play? And, how many sports do you see the boys playing with the girls and they don’t mind striking out with each other? Yeah, they never want to split and they have plenty of time to spare! Man, if I could have dreamt up the perfect sport this would be it. So, if you can spare the time, split from your boredom, avoid the gutter of despair and roll on down to your local lanes, you just might find a turkey with your name on it. SL

SENIOR LIFE • APRIL 2019

ife s difficult decisions often filled ith dou t

Clear thinking and evaluation could help to avoid post-decision doubt. When did you last experience buyer’s remorse? You decide to buy something or move forward with an event or activity. Within a short time, you think differently. You have regrets. The payments for the new car are more than will fit your budget. The time commitment spent owning a boat might exceed your energy levels. You feel overburdened. Sales people encourage your decision. Nothing happens until someone sells something. You look at the benefits and features of the product or service. You see the value and decide. Emotions often enter the process. Mind, heart and gut mix with economic considerations. Do I sell the house and move to a retirement community? Do I keep the

burial plot in Cincinnati, sell it and contract for cremation? Do I lease a car or buy one? Have I considered the pro’s and con’s? Take time to evaluate but avoid analysis paralysis. Why did you make the decision? What were the actual or perceived benefits? Seniors are subject to many challenges in the decision-making process. Look at the examples that focus on your fears, enjoyment, pleasure and life’s final activities. Insurance agents focus on benefits while appealing to your fears. Some sales strategies result in elder abuse. Often home improvement and repair service vendors take advantage of situations such as natural disasters and other crisis conditions. Now you want to get out. You think you made a wrong decision. List your reasons for making the decision. Check the resources in the

Challenges of Living to Age 100 Ed Baranowski

2019 Boomer Guide and the latest issue of Senior Life newspaper. Contact local governmental agencies for assistance. A new relationship might become emotionally and physically taxing. You might be spending too much time with that special person. You get advice from others. Decisions about status changes range from being a friend, companion, significant other or spouse. There might be deal breakers. Family

members, particularly children, become concerned about “their inheritance.” Combining assets, merging households and moving in together often creates doubt. A review of Florida family law and property rights of spouses often muddy the waters. Legal advice might conflict with matters of the heart and religious beliefs. Consequences of marriage might include the loss of a spouse’s retirement benefits and changes in Social Security benefits. Your life is filled with challenges. Wise decisions include a clear process to eliminate doubt. SL Ed Baranowski is president of Topics Unlimited, a Melbourne-based education, seminars and consulting company. He can be contacted at topicsed@aol.com

Facilities, management updates breathe excitement at Henegar Center BY AUSTIN RUSHNELL

SENIOR LIFE Courtesy of The Henegar Center for the Arts

Jane and Tarzan were the recent stars at the Henegar Center.

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“The entire management and creative team is changing and we are also evaluating a remodel of the facility and will be establishing a phased plan to completely refurbish the Henegar Center.” — Steven Heron Broadway entertainment across Brevard County; between the two organizations we have all of Brevard covered,” Heron said. “The Henegar Center offers amazing entertainment with a broad selection of activities in the downtown area. We also will be offering very diverse programming that will cover every age group and demographic.” The Henegar Center also will soon feature “West Side Story,” a

HENEGAR CENTER continued on page 27

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Celebrating the arts is easy in Brevard County, where there are plenty of opportunities to see plays, live bands and even local orchestras. The Henegar Center for the Arts in Historic Downtown Melbourne has recently undergone changes in management, and it will be updating its facilities in the coming months. It also entered a new management agreement with Titusville Playhouse. “The entire management and creative team is changing, and we are also evaluating a remodel of the facility and will be establishing a phased plan to completely refurbish the Henegar Center,” Executive Artistic Director Steven Heron said. “This, of course, takes a lot of money (... and) we do hope we have enough money after ‘West Side Story’ and the newly added ‘Rent’ (so that) we can do small amounts of sprucing up with paint while (gathering) monies for extensive refurbishments.” The Henegar Center planned the announcement of the shows within the 2019-2020 season at a March 29 gala. The focus of this year’s shows will be popular Broadway classics. “The new management agreement with Titusville Playhouse will allow both organizations to offer more robust

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New Elliott Museum in Stuart full of treasures

After undergoing a $20 million re-building, the Elliott Museum in Stuart now is open. The museum is dedicated to art, history and technology. It is now featuring a new permanent exhibit called “Wheels of Change,” which features more than 50 Ford Model A commercial vehicles. Many have never before been viewed in public. The museum has an elaborate high-tech fully automated robotic parking and self-storage system for these 50 vehicles. This robotic threestory stacking system allows you to select one of the vehicles for a closer viewing and you can watch as it moves from its storage slot onto a custom turntable. The custom turntable then rotates the vehicle for your viewing. On the first floor of this multistory building, the 3,000 squarefoot Changing Exhibition Gallery allows the Elliott Museum to bring significant, national touring exhibitions to the region. When I first visited the museum, they were featuring the outstanding and gifted Leonardo da Vinci exhibit. Our group at that time truly experienced first hand the creativity and designs of the world‘s father of invention, innovation and creativity. Also on the first floor and soaring overhead is an exact, full-scale replica of the Pelican Hydro-Aero plane that Hugh Willoughby of Stuart designed in 1910. This spectacular exhibit inspired the Museum’s marketing slogan, Let your Mind Soar. In the Stuart Main Street Gallery, there are recreated highlights of the historic city of Stuart and vehicles that were then part of people’s lives, here and across the nation. On the second floor, enjoy the Baseball Gallery. There’s a comprehensive signed collection of baseball-related items, including autographed baseball cards, baseballs, bats and other artifacts. The exhibit is

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excellent and brought back memories of attending games at the various stadiums in New York. There are many more fine exhibits at the Elliott Museum that should not be missed. We also had a delightful lunch at the Museum’s Frances Langford Outrigger Café. Senior Life readers will remember Langford for her signature song, “I’m in the Mood for Love.” Langford starred in 28 Hollywood films and became famous for appearing in Bob Hope’s USO Tours to entertain troops overseas during World War II and the Korean and Vietnam conflicts. Original Frances Langford memorabilia from her successful career adorns the walls and tables. The Elliott Museum is at 825 Northeast Ocean Boulevard in Stuart. For information, call 772-225-1921 or go to elliottmuseum.org. It is open daily throughout the year. There is an admission charge. There are discounts for seniors and AARP members. From I-95, take exit 101 to State Road 76 East. Turn right on Monterey Road. Keep left at the fork, cross U.S. 1 and the railroad tracks and go approximately one mile to the end. Turn right on East Boulevard and continue east across two bridges to reach Hutchinson Island. Turn right on MacArthur Boulevard from east Ocean Boulevard at the Marriott Indian River Plantation Resort. From U.S. 1, take East Ocean Boulevard over the two bridges to Hutchinson Island. SL

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And It’s Predicted Home Values Will Rise 4.2% In 2019

According to the National Association of Realtors®, inventory hovers at near alltime lows in Brevard County, driving home prices up. *Because there are not enough homes for sale on the market, well-priced homes are getting snatched up quickly with multiple offers. HOW MUCH EQUITY DO YOU HAVE? You will need to know your home value. Using online valuation sites are not always accurate. I offer free home valuations. Contact me today at (321)960-0140 to run a free comparative market analysis for the best value estimate on your home.

FIND A HOME THAT FITS YOUR LIFESTYLE Consider how well your home meets your everyday needs. Empty Nesters may feel a need to find a smaller home, or Retirees may be ready to find that dream vacation home. Whatever your lifestyle is, the equity in your home can be used toward the next chapter of your life.

SENIOR LIFE Courtesy of The Henegar Center for the Arts

The Henegar Center recently presented “Tarzan” on its stage.

HENEGAR CENTER continued from page 26

classical Broadway feature, as well as “Rent” which will be featured for two weekends. “(We’re) very excited about bringing these two amazing shows to the

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Henegar stage,” Heron added. The Henegar Center for the Arts is located at 625 E. New Haven Ave. #119 in Downtown Historic Melbourne. For more information about the Henegar as well as tickets and prices, go to henegar.org. SL

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SENIOR LIFE • APRIL 2019

SUNDAY

APRIL 1

MONDAY

April Fools’ Day

TUESDAY

Peanut Butter and Jelly Day

Parkinson’s Support Group Line Dance Class 10 - 11:30 a.m. One Senior Place 8085 Spyglass Hill Road Viera, 321-751-6771

9 - 10 a.m. Titusville Adult Social Center 909 Lane Avene Titusville, 321-537-9459

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Living with Alzheimer’s

3 - 4:30 p.m. Palm Bay Library 1520 Port Malabar Blvd. N.E. Palm Bay, 321-952-4519

April 5, 3 - 9 p.m., April 6 & 7 - 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. 4580 1st Street Grant, 321-674-5723

9 a.m., Mon., Wed. & Fri. Martin Andersen Senior Center, Building 3 1025 Florida Ave. Rockledge, 321-631-2749

National No Housework Day Annual Grant BBQ Festival

Singer Marilyn O’Day

6:45 p.m. Buena Vida Estates 2129 W. New Haven Ave. Melbourne, 321-724-0060

National Zoo Lovers Day Bone Builders

2 - 3:30 p.m. Tuesdays Freedom 7 Senior Community Center 5000 Tom Warriner Blvd. Cocoa, 800-272-3900

Cherish an Antique Day Boomers Aerobics with Christina

Zumba Gold for 50+ Crowd Bingo 1:30 p.m. - 3:30 p.m.

9:30 - 10:30 a.m. One Senior Place Freedom 7 Senior Center 8085 Spyglass Hill Road 5000 Tom Warriner Blvd. Viera, 321-751-6771 Cocoa Beach, 321-783-9505

5 p.m. Titusville Adult Social Center 909 Lane Avene Titusville, 321-268-2333

Federal Income Tax Day

Space Coast Classic 15K & 2 Mi. Spanish Class Mondays 5:45 a.m. Quest Elementary School 8751 Trafford Drive Viera, 321-242-1411

National Orchid Day

Easter Sunday

Earth Day

Ballroom Dance Lessons

Easter Brunch

6 - 7 p.m. Titusville Adult Social Center 909 Lane Avene Titusville, 321-269- 0357

Poker

National Find a Rainbow Day

Hooks and Needles

10 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. Titusville Adult Social Center 909 Lane Avene Titusville, 321-917-1108

Bingo

11:30 a.m. Greater Palm Bay Senior Center 1275 Culver Drive N.E. Palm Bay, 321-724-1338

Learn About CBD Oil

National School Librarian Day

Safe Driving Course

8:30 a.m. - 4 p.m. Buena Vida Estates 2129 W. New Haven Ave. Melbourne, 321-698-2311 5:30 p.m. Kiwi Tennis Club 30 Tradewinds Drive Indian Harbour Beach, 321-877-1855

2 p.m. Movie Night Buena Vida Estates 2129 W. New Haven Ave. 6:30 p.m. Melbourne, 321-724-0060 Greater Palm Bay Senior Center 1275 Culver Drive Palm Bay, 321-724-1338

National National Siblings Day Pet Day Total Brain Workout Class Strength and Balance

American History

National Picnic Day

Tai Chi

1 - 2 p.m. Titusville Adult Social Center 909 Lane Avene Titusville, 321-268-2333

Pathfinders Travel Club

FRIDAY National Deep Dish Pizza Day

Book Sale

Apr. 5 & 6, 9 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Apr. 7, 1 - 4:30 p.m. Catherine Schweinsberg Library 308 Forrest Avenue Cocoa, 321-633-1792

Next Generation StemCells & Poetry Slam PRP Seminar

6 - 8 p.m. Books-A-Million 2251 Town Center Avenue Melbourne, 321-242-1235

GPF Trio

7:30 p.m. St. Mark’s UMC 2030 N. Highway A1A Indialantic, 321-213-5100

3rd annual Wild About Wildlife

11:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m. Fundraiser for Florida Wildlife Hospital. Music, seafood feast. Wild Ocean Market 710 Bluewater Drive Cape Canaveral, 321-254-8843

Wine Tasting Charity Gala

5:30 - 8:30 p.m. The Oasis at Palm Shores 2950 Pineda Plaza Way Palm Shores. 321-298-3316

Illuminate the Night, Light Up Las Vegas

6:30 p.m. Eau Gallie Yacht Club 100 Datura Drive Indian Harbour, 954-214-6781

Confessions of an Urban Archeologist

Yoga for Boomers

Viera Wetlands Nature Festival

Shrimp Feast 2019

5th annual Brewmasters Invitational Beer Festival

2:30 p.m. 3 p.m. Buena Vida Estates 2129 W. New Haven Ave. Cocoa Beach Library Melbourne, 321-724-0060 550 N. Brevard Avenue Cocoa Beach, 321-868-1104 7:30 - 9:30 p.m. Apr. 10 & 11 Melbourne Auditorium 625 E. Hibiscus Boulevard Melbourne, 321-724-0555

6 - 10 p.m. Cruise Terminal 5 9245 Charles Rowland Dr. Port Canaveral, 321-323-9886

What a Wonderful World

National Love Our Children Day

National Day National of Silence Scrabble Day Tea Party & Fashion Show Cocoa-Rockledge Garden Club’s 2 - 4 p.m. Home & Garden Tour 2019

2:30 p.m. Fridays Viera Regional Comm. Park 2300 Judge Fran Jamieson Way Viera, 321-693-5005

National Haiku Poetry Day

SATURDAY

9:30 a.m. - 10 a.m. Freedom 7 Senior Center Courtenay Springs 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. 5000 Tom Warriner Blvd. 1200 S. Courtenay Pkwy. 1320 Highland Ave. Cocoa Beach, 321-783-9505 Merrit Island, 321-452-1233 Melbourne, 321-543-7130

National High-five Day

VA – Aid & Attendance Wii Bowling The Creation of “A Girl Seminar by Elder Law Attorney 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. Named October” Titusville Adult Social Center 11 a.m. William A. Johnson

Intermediate 1 - 2 p.m. Advanced 2 - 3 p.m. Martin Andersen Senior Ctr., 10 a.m. 1025 Florida Ave., Bldg. 1 One Senior Place Space Coast Jazz Society Jazz Rockledge, 321-453-5098 8085 Spyglass Hill Road Viera, 321-253-1667 Concert: Joel Greenblatt Giulia Nesi: “A Spiritual 2 p.m., Second Sundays Scrapbooking/Crafts Revolution, the Quest to Rockledge Country Club 10 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. Experience God” 1591 S. Fiske Boulevard Freedom 7 Senior Center 7:30 - 8:30 p.m. Rockledge, 321-327-3728 5000 Tom Warriner Blvd. First Church of Christ Cocoa Beach, 321-783-9505 2019 Charlie Corbeil 235 N. Indian River Dr Amateur Radio License Class Conservation Awards Banquet Cocoa, 321-636-8110 6:30 p.m. 8 Weeks 6 p.m. Florida Institute of Technology Brevard Zoo-Nyami Nyami River Lodge 2950 Science Circle 8225 N. Wickham Road Melbourne, 603-502-6433 Viera, 321-242-1235

THURSDAY

2:30 - 3:30 p.m. 11 - 12 p.m. $5/class Freedom 7 Senior Center Viera Regional Comm. Ctr. 5000 Tom Warriner Blvd. 2300 Judge Fran Jamieson Way Cocoa Beach, 321-783-9505 Viera, 732-512-8548

Dinner & a Movie

Palm Sunday

WEDNESDAY

Good Friday

Peak Performance Stem Cell Therapy Seminar

10 a.m. - 2 p.m., April 13 & 14 Ritch Grissom Memorial Wetlands 10001 N. Wickham Road Viera, 321-255-4500

3 p.m. Port Canaveral 9050 Discovery Place Port Canaveral, 321-613-4805

National Look Alike Day

Vegan Edition Farmers Market

10 a.m. - 3 p.m. 9 a.m., April 10 & 19 Riverview Park Duran Golf Club 2301 Irwin Street Cocoa Beach Library 7032 Stadium Parkway 550 N. Brevard Avenue Melbourne, 321-759-3713 Cocoa Beach, 321-868-1104 Viera, RSVP 321-432-4122

909 Lane Avene Titusville, 321-383-1609

Chair Yoga

11 a.m. Wednesdays Water Color Group Freedom 7 Senior Center 1 - 4 p.m. 5000 Tom Warriner Blvd. Cocoa Beach, 321-783-9505 Cocoa Beach Library 550 N. Brevard Avenue Tap/Jazz Class Cocoa Beach, 321-258-2011 3:30 - 4:30 p.m. Titusville Adult Social Center Joint Movement for Seniors 9:30 - 10:15 a.m. 909 Lane Avene Greater Palm Bay Senior Center Titusville, 321-264-2776 1275 Culver Drive Palm Bay, 321-724-1338

Brevard Eye Center CataLaze Vision Seminar 3 p.m. One Senior Place 8085 Spyglass Hill Road Viera, 321-984-3200

Earth Day Festival

10 a.m. - 3 p.m. Enchanted Forest Sanctuary 444 Columbia Boulevard Titusville, 321-255-4499

BREVARD SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA Joys of Reaching a Certain Age Put Spring in Your Step Dance 2 p.m. Lesson 7 p.m. Dance 7:30-10:30 p.m. LIVE IN CONCERT Buena Vida Estates Melbourne Auditorium 2129 W. New Haven Ave. 625 E. Hibiscus Blvd Melbourne, 321-724-0060 Melbourne, 321-724-0555

, 2019 at27 8 p.m. 24SATURDAY 25April 626 National Pigs-in -a-blanket Day

KING 2 p.m. Freedom 7 Senior Community Center 5000 Tom Warriner Blvd. Cocoa, 321-783-9505 Book Club

Take Your Child to Work Day

Arbor Day

National Prime Rib Day

Bingo Living Strong Health Expo Melbourne Art Festival CENTER FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS 9 a.m. - 2:30 p.m., April 27 & 28 9 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Titusville Adult Social Center Brevard County Health Dept. 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. 909 Lane Drive 2555 Judge Fran Jamieson Way Wickham Park Titusville, 321-268-2333 2500 Parkway Drive Viera, 321-735-6492 Melbourne, 321-255-4307 Medicaid Planning Seminar

HAYDN

Fiesta Brevard The Representation of Chaos from The Creation

with Elder Law Attorney Cocoa Beach Uncorked 5 - 8 p.m. Noon - 4 p.m. April 27 & 28 William A. Johnson 4:30 p.m. Doors open Riverfront Park, Cocoa Village Alan Shepard Park 10 a.m. 6 p.m. Early Bird 401 Riveredge Boulevard 4400 Ocean Beach Blvd. 6:30 p.m. Regular games One Senior Place Cocoa, 321-459-2200 Cocoa Beach, 813-477-6111 8085 Spyglass Hill Road Tuesdays & Wednesdays Slip ‘n Knit Group Viera, 321-253-1667 Next Generation Cribbage Knights of Columbus Craft Brews in the Park! 3 - 4:30 p.m. FromTinithe Earth to theStemCells Moon and Beyond & PRP Seminar 3450 Kilmarnoch Lane 3 - 4:30 p.m. 1 - 5 p.m. Easter Dinner Thursday 5:30 p.m. Titusville,with 321-268-2764 5Guest - 9:30 p.m. $5 martinis Scott Palm Bay Library TheAstronaut Avenue Viera Central Park 12:30 p.m., 2:30 p.m. & 4 p.m. Palm Bay Library Special Winston – former NASA 1520 Port Malabar Blvd. N.E. 1520 Port Malabar Blvd. N.E. Brevard Family Walk-in Clinic 2290 Palm Shores Bistro Pizza Gallery & Grill Town Center Ave. Palm Bay, 321-952-4519 1205 N. Courtenay Pkwy. Viera, 321-633-6665 5060 N. Highway U.S. 1 2250 Town Center Ave. Palm Bay, 321-952-4519 C ONSORTIUM C OMMISSION C ELEBRATING THE Merritt Island, 321-877-1855 Palm shores, 321-752-5222 Viera, 321-633-0397 Seatings: 10 a.m., 10:30 a.m., 1 p.m., 1:30 p.m., Reservations required at DuranGolf.com Duran Golf Club 7032 Stadium Pkwy. Viera, 321-504-7771

National Superhero Day

Accordion Club Meeting 2 - 5 p.m. Elks Lodge #1532 315 Florida Avenue Cocoa, 866-455-2322

6 - 9 p.m. Mondays Titusville Adult Social Center 909 Lane Avene Titusville, 321-268-2333

National Honesty Day

Introduction to Essential Oils Senior Living Options 10:30 a.m. Cocoa Beach Library 550 N. Brevard Avenue Cocoa Beach, 321-868-1104

Space Coast Flute Orchestra Pinochle 3 p.m. Eastminster Presbyterian 106 N. Riverside Drive Indialantic, 321-723-8371

National Zipper Day

2 p.m. Front Street Civic Center 2205 S. Front Street Melbourne, 321-720-9948

11 a.m. - 2 p.m. Mondays Freedom 7 Senior Community Center 5000 Tom Warriner Blvd. Cocoa, 321-783-9505

Noon Freedom 7 Senior Community Center 5000 Tom Warriner Blvd. Cocoa, 321-783-9505

Bingo

4:30 p.m. Doors open 6 p.m. Early Bird 6:30 p.m. Regular games Tuesdays & Wednesdays Knights of Columbus 3450 Kilmarnoch Lane Titusville, 321-268-2764

Bingo

BECKEL

50TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE MOON LANDING

BREVARD SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA RACHMANINOFF LIVE IN CONCERT Symphony No. 2

SATURDAY April 6Director , 2019 at 8 p.m. Christopher Confessore – Music & Principal Conductor KING CENTER FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS For Tickets visit BREVARDSYMPHONY.COM or Call the King CenterHAYDN Box Office at 321.242.2219

The Representation of Chaos from The Creation

BECKEL

From the Earth to the Moon and Beyond with Special Guest Winston Scott – former NASA Astronaut Between Kohl's and Office Depot

CONSORTIUM COMMISSION CELEBRATING THE Between Target & Buffalo Wild Wings 50TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE MOON LANDING

RACHMANINOFF

Symphony No. EXPIRES 2 95/15/19 • CODE 0402

Christopher Confessore – Music Director & Principal Conductor

SENIOR EXPO continued from page 3

Rodriguez said the emphasis is on keeping the body, mind and soul as healthy as possible. And the food at Cedar Creek strives to be the best, thanks to the talents of his culinary team. “This is not hospital or institutional food. At Cedar Creek, we cook from our hearts.” he said. Rodriguez and his staff showcased their culinary skills with bite sizes of barbecue meats, a popular stop for many expo visitors. Johnson said being an expo sponsor was a great opportunity to meet with the community, get our name out there and connect with the demographics. Johnson talked about elder care issues such as estate, incapacity and long-term care planning, guardianships, probate, Medicaid and wills and trusts. He also made available copies of his 2019 Brevard County edition: The Florida Long Term Care & Nursing Home Answer Book. “It’s never too young to start preparing,” he said. “The point is to know the rules and plan accordingly. If you don’t plan ahead, you can end up in a really bad situation.” Johnson is an expert on elder law. The Melbourne attorney is the only one in the county to be board certified in elder law by the Florida Bar Association. Few attorneys achieve this high level of expertise. In 2017 and 2018, he was named Member of the Year by the Elder Law Section of the Florida Bar Association. Kevin Garrity, CEO of the Brevard Eye Center and Medical City Eye Center, said he’s glad his company was the expo’s video sponsor.

“It’s a great event,” he said. “It’s a see all the exhibits. great way to introduce the Brevard Eye For 91-year-old Mary Falanga of Center to the community and to meet Rockledge, the expo is a great place to some of the folks because our primary meet people. population is boomers.” “I wouldn’t miss it for anything in the The company has been in business in world,” she said. “It’s a great opportunity Brevard County for 35 years, with three to get out and have a wonderful time.” locations — Suntree, Melbourne and SL Merritt Island. Its surgery center is in SENIOR LIFE DARRELL WOEHLER Melbourne. The hit of the Boomer Guide Senior Barbara Franklin, the referral Expo was the Lanakila’s troupe of specialist at One Senior Place in Viera, Polynesian band and dancers that and one of the vendors that manned an kept the audience spellbound the information table, said the expo gave her entire day. Several performances an opportunity to let seniors know who were given, all with different music they are and what they do. and colorful costumes from the many “Many seniors are not aware that outh a ifi islands. After ea h we are a resource center,” she said. “We set, the troupe invited members of have so many events that educate seniors the crowd to join in for some of the as well as activities for them that are traditional dances. They even posed fun.” with members of the audience for Kristie Meade, the community pictures afterward. outreach coordinator for Hospice of St. See additional photos on page 20. Francis, said the expo is an important venue to reach out to the community. The world’s trusted source for non-medical companionship “The expo is a one-stop shop place for seniors,” she said. “We want to and home care for seniors. educate and answer questions about our organization such as who pays for Ask ourpatients move-in hospice, where weabout serve our andspecials how can I volunteer.” Harry Beaver, the director of public relations at the Brevard Veterans Memorial Center on Merritt Island, said the expo was a great way to connect with veterans. “I really enjoy doing this,” he said. “I meet veterans that don’t even know we • Transistional Care exist. I tell them to come in, check us out • Medication Reminders and take a look around. It’s free and tells • Personal Care the story about us and our services.” Call for Consultation • Meal Preparation For Richard and Norma Long of Titusville, attending the expo was both • Light Housekeeping educational and fun. • Transportation for shopping/ “I’ve never seen Polynesian dancers,” H H A 29 9 9 36 6 4 doctor appointments said 81-year-old Richard Long. “I like to

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SENIOR LIFE • APRIL 2019

Senior Life

News for Titusville, Mims & Port St. John

North Brevard Former instructor tackles all subjects in his novels BY FLORA REIGADA When Vern Blanchette’s wife Tammie asks him what he’s doing in his office, he says he is writing. But for more than 30 years, he has been doing much more. His mind has been traveling from Titusville to the locations featured in the seven books he has written and the books yet to come. His genres include science fiction, fantasy, religion and romance. While writing “Jehanne and Oliver — A Love Story: The Lost Treasure of the Seep Viper,” his thoughts traveled to France, both the 17th century and the present. “The story opens in today’s Paris, where Paul and Judith own a bakery. But when the bakery burns, she gets a job typing manuscripts at a university,” Blanchette said. This leads to the discovery of a 300-year-old manuscript and love story, involving a gypsy’s prophesy and clues to solve a present-day murder. A father of six, with degrees in physics and mathematics as well as a master’s degree in education, Blanchette

SENIOR LIFE Courtesy of Vern Blanchette

Titusville novelist Vern Blanchette writes interesting books that range from science fi tion to roman e. has taught in public schools and community colleges. He recently retired from his engineering job with the URS Corporation at the Kennedy Space Center. He began writing at age 29.

Say Yes to New Adventures!

SNF# 11070961

Tea Party & Fashion Show Tea Party & Fashion Show • 2 - 4 p.m. April 12 th