Senior Life, December 2020

Liftoff to a new era

page 3

VOLUME 23

ISSUE 8

December 2020

OF FLORIDA

myseniorlife.com

Santa’s on his way, stops to play Lightfest page 20

Holiday Events

page 22

Christmas Parades

page 28

SENIOR LIFE Adam Palumbo

Santa and Mrs. Claus stop for a round of golf at Duran Golf Club in Viera before getting on their way.

High-altitude veteran, page 13

Senior Buddy helpers, page 15

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This issue of Senior Life brings us to a close of 2020 and leaves us filled with hope for a better year of 2021 and a return to a life as before the coronavirus pandemic.

I hope that as the year comes to a close, you too, can shut out at least some of the adverse events of 2020, take a break from the harsh news and delve into some informative and inspiring feature stories we bring you in Senior Life.

This month, we asked a few readers how they were planning for Christmas or year-end holidays. We know it will be different for most. For us here at Senior Life, it will indeed be different in our personal lives. What will not be different is our commitment to bringing you the stories that have made us an award-winning publication for mature readers year after year.

As usual, we aim to bring you stories that we hope will inform, inspire and draw your interest to new ideas, events and people that are making a difference in the community.

Many are making a difference, like the Salvation Army’s bell ringers, most of them volunteers assisting the organization that helps so many in our community throughout the year.

There also is the Senior Santa program that makes a difference for seniors in nursing homes who have little, and many with no family to visit them. You too may be able to make a difference helping these efforts.

In this edition we also want to help you stay safe. We remind you about identity theft and give you some tips of how to help avoid being a victim. We tell you about new technology such as the Ring drone that is supposed to enhance your home security. And, of course, we always tell you about our military veterans.

These are just some of the highlights. There is much more in Senior Life. So, take that break from the harsh news and enjoy an uplifting read.

We hope you join us in spirit, looking forward to 2021 with hope for a better year of health, well-being and prosperity.

Happy holidays. SL R. Norman Moody norm@myseniorlife.com

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SENIOR LIFE Courtesy of SpaceX

NASA astronauts Shannon Walker, left, Victor Glover, Mike Hopkins and Soichi Noguchi of the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency prepare for launch.

SENIOR LIFE Adam Palumbo

SpaceX Falcon 9 with Crew 1 lifts off from Kennedy Space Center.

The launch of Crew 1 signals a new era for NASA

BY R. NORMAN MOODY

Glover, Shannon Walker and Soichi Noguchi of the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency launched Nov. 15 to the International Space Station on SpaceX’s Crew Dragon spacecraft and Falcon 9 rocket. They began a six-month science mission aboard the space station.

“It was a beautiful and successful flight,” Hayward said.

He said landing the first stage of the SpaceX Falcon 9, did not succeed immediately, but the company kept trying until it triumphed.

Since the retirement of the Space Shuttle in July 2011, NASA has relied on the Russian rockets to get astronauts

to the International Space Station.

Bart Martindale is a space program fanatic who does not miss an opportunity to see a launch up close.

He was on hand for a close-up view of the Crew 1 launch.

“I think it’s awesome,” he said.

Martindale, 71, of Titusville, said he has followed NASA and the space program since he was a child. He believes that it is now going to be commercial companies that do most of the space exploration.

The launch of SpaceX Crew 1 signals the beginning of the end of NASA’s reliance on the Russian Soyuz rocket to take American astronauts to the International Space Station.

NASA’s SpaceX Crew 1 mission is the first crew rotational flight of a U.S. commercial spacecraft with astronauts to the International Space Station.

It is a great milestone, said Gary Hayward, a retired electrical engineer who worked on the Mercury and Gemini space programs and is now a docent at the American Space Museum in Titusville.

Hayward, 84, of Titusville, said that the SpaceX’s achievement is quite a contrast to A Mobile Travel Business—We come to you! what his generation of Day Trips • Group Tours • Individual Travel Planning engineers did in their 321-355-7566 • www.footprintstravel.biz respective programs, but in some ways the same.

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“SpaceX has gone a different route to perfect things,” he said. “It’s become a commercial world.”

“It wouldn’t surprise me if a NASA astronaut gets to the moon and there will be another astronaut with a sign that says: ‘Welcome to the Moon.’”

SL

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Table of contents Volume 23, Issue 8 Senior Life of Florida 7350 Shoppes Drive, Suite 102 Viera, FL 32940 321-242-1235

©2020 Bluewater Creative Group, Inc. All rights reserved

myseniorlife.com jill@myseniorlife.com Publisher Jill Blue

Editor R. Norman Moody

myseniorlife.com

Office Manager Sylvia Montes

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.

Art Director Adam Palumbo Copy Editor Jeff Navin

Feature Writers Ernest Arico Ed Baranowski Marcia Booth Brenda Eggert Brader Mike Gaffey Sammy Haddad Linda Jump Jennifer H. Monaghan Flora Reigada Grace Rogers Maria Sonnenberg John Trieste George White

FREE SENIOR RESOURCE MAGAZINE

Edition 2020 No. 14

7 8 10-11 12-14 19 21, 23 24 26 31

DECEMBER 2020

NEIGHBORS TECH KNOW TIDBITS SENIOR LIVING STRIPES VETERANS HISTORY THEN AND NOW COLUMNISTS HEALTH & WELLNESS NORTH BREVARD NEWS BOOMER SENIOR SENTIMENTS

COUPONS & DISCOUNTS Courtenay Springs

pg. 2

Cedar Creek Assisted Living pg. 26

Hansen’s Handyman

pg. 7

Walgreens

Comforts of Home Care

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Chateau Madeleine ART

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Celebrating 23 Years

Boomer Guide —the best resource guide in Brevard!

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.

Dogtopia

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Solaris Senior Living Shell Harbor

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pg. 15 pg. 16 pg. 18

Johnson Aluminum

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Personal Hearing Solutions pg. 30 Air Gagers A/C & Heating

pg. 30

Sharing Center Boutique

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Cunningham Handyman

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WORRY MEETS ITS MATCH. When it’s your loved one, decisions about assisted living or memory care are a challenge. That’s where we can help. Committed to your contentment, we offer you: • Our patient, undivided attention and straight talk; • An invitation to join your loved one in their new apartment for their first days after move-in; and • If all our efforts to satisfy fail you, a complete refund after 60 days should you decide to move out.

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Take a peek at our beautifully decorated apartment models and take home a delicious holiday treat!

Here are some of the activities that Chateau Madeleine residents will be enjoying during this holiday season: • Decorating and eating sugar cookies • Snowman painting class

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Neighbors Store’s stock is straight from the heart of charitable donors will find it more difficult than ever to provide Christmas for their children without the Gifts from the Heart Christmas Shop,” said Joan Sorensen, who co-chairs the initiative with the Rev. Joy Willard-Williford.

Families in the participating programs provide input regarding the types of toys their children would love to see under the tree on Christmas morning. Gift registries at Walmart, Target and Amazon, allow donors to click and purchase the items, which are delivered directly to the shop. Store staff is composed of volunteers and client parents associated with one of the nine agencies.

In a festive atmosphere, shoppers can select from a large array of toys.

They also will receive a free book for each child and have the choice of a complimentary gift wrap by volunteers.

Nothing costs more than $18, and that top range includes gifts such as bicycles. Like a regular store, there are special promotions, but the cost

BY MARIA SONNENBERG For parents struggling with minimum wage jobs, the holidays can be tough days in the best of times. In 2020, things were even worse for many who have found themselves unemployed because of COVID-19 and with dim prospects for a new job.

These families would face a very uncheerful Christmas were it not for the Gifts from the Heart Christmas Shop, a unique store that miraculously pops up every year to help with a dignityaffirming attitude that allows parents to purchase gifts for their children at a deeply discounted cost.

The shop provides toys for the children of families involved with Neighbor Up Brevard, Club Esteem, Love INC, Community of Hope, Family Promise of Brevard, New Life Mission, Eckerd Connects, Habitat for Humanity of Brevard and the Children’s Home Society, all family-oriented nonprofits.

“With the economic impact and job losses associated with COVID, families

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SENIOR LIFE Courtesy of Gifts from the Heart

Donations are needed to stock the shelves of the Gifts from the Heart Christmas Shop. of “specials” such as board games is miniscule.

To earn extra presents, parents can volunteer at one of the nine charities, earning $10 in store credit for every hour they work.

Last year, the shop allowed parents to purchase at least three gifts per child for more than 425 area children. The number represents a 40 percent increase from the previous year.

To meet expected demand, the store

depends on the community’s help with donations for the more than 1,800 toys needed this season. In addition to online gift registries, cash donations can help purchase items needing replenishing.

Congregations and businesses may host a “Giving Tree” for the store.

“This is a loving, supportive program, and all the families are so appreciative,” Sorensen said.

To discover more, visit the website giftsfromtheheartshop.org. SL

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Tech Know Tidbits New Ring drone system can keep watch inside your home

BY ERNEST ARICO A lot of things happen at your front door: Friends, relatives and neighbors can stop by for a visit; a package may be left while you’re out, or thieves can try to break into your home.

A couple of years ago, technology was developed to be able to see and record anyone who came to your door through your front doorbell. But what about inside your home?

One of the leading companies that makes video doorbells – Ring – has developed the latest home security system that is literally taking flight.

According to the company’s website, ring.com – the new Always Home Cam is an autonomous drone that can fly around inside your home to give you a perspective of any room you want when you’re not home. Once it’s done flying, the Always Home Cam returns to its dock to charge its battery.

It is expected to cost $249.99 when it starts shipping next year.

Ring’s founder Jamie Siminoff said the idea behind the Always Home Cam is to provide multiple viewpoints throughout the home without requiring the use of multiple cameras.

Siminoff said that thanks to advancements in drone technology, the company is able to make a product like this and have it work as desired.

The Always Home Cam is fully

in its path. Its shrouded propellers prevent damage to property or hurting a pet or person that might collide with the drone.

Beverly Lancaster, a retired U.S. Air Force nurse and a resident of the Six Mile Creek subdivision in Viera, loves her Ring system.

“I have four cameras around the house, and it works fantastic,” she said.

“The picture is so crystal-clear I can see a squirrel in the backyard.”

Lancaster installed the system two years ago and remembers when she was vacationing in Italy and a hurricane hit the Space Coast.

SENIOR LIFE Courtesy of ring.com “I was able to watch my house The new Always Home Cam is an autonomous drone that can fly around inside your through the phone app,” she said. “It home to give you a perspective of any room you want when you’re not home. It is was great. I could see if there was expected to cost $249.99 when it starts shipping next year. anything happening to my house.”

Lancaster said she plans to look into buying the new drone system. of a building. autonomous, but owners can tell it “I love my Ring product,” she The charging dock blocks the what path it can take and where it can concluded. “It’s the best protection for camera’s view, and the camera only go. When you first get the device, your home.” records when it is in flight. Ring said you build a map of your home for it The system works by hooking the drone makes an audible noise when to follow, which allows you to ask it the Ring to your Wi-Fi, then so it isBehavioral obvious when footage is for specific viewpoints such asat the Palmflying The mission Point Health is toproduct provide using the free Ring app (available for being recorded. kitchen or bedroom. The drone can Apple and Android devices) to alert According to its website, Ring said and older adults be commanded to flytreatment on demand or quality to children, teens, adults you whenever someone approaches the camera can be used for simple programmed to fly when a disturbance whose behavioral health or chemical dependency symptoms your door or comes in a range of a things like checking if a stove was left is detected by a linked Ring security camera. You can then view on or a window left open, or if a door Alarm system. are interfering daily Wefrom offer and an HDinpatient video stream of the person and is locked whenlives. you’re away the both The device is designed towith activatetheir speak to them using two-way audio home.

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SENIOR LIFE • DECEMBER 2020 For language assistance, disability accommodations and the non-discrimination notice, visit our website.

Physicians are on the medical staff of Palm Point Behavioral Health but, with limited exceptions, are

The mission at Palm Point Behavioral Health is to provide quality treatment to children, teens, adults and older adults whose behavioral health symptoms are interfering with their daily lives. We offer both inpatient and outpatient services tailored to individual needs.

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Annual Beach Toy Drive

Listen to 9 8 .5 The Beac h or visit www.beach985.com to find a Beac h Toy Drive donation loc ation near you .

The Beac h Toy Drive will end on Dec ember 11.

KEEP YOUR HEART HEALTHY. AND KEEP DOING WHAT YOU LOVE.

There’s nothing more vital to life, love and your well-being than taking care of your heart. At the Heart and Vascular Institute at Rockledge Regional Medical Center we offer a full range of Cardiology services, close to home. All so you can get back to the people, and activities, you love most.

LEARN MORE at RockledgeRegional.org

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Bell ringers help Salvation Army meet needs in the community

BY LINDA JUMP The iconic red kettles and bell ringers will be out again this Christmas season in hopes of raising $160,000 for the Salvation Army of North/Central Brevard, but the pandemic has scared off some bell ringers and reduced projected donors.

“Volunteerism is down 75 percent because of COVID,” said Business Administrator Kathy Broome. “Our volunteers will wear masks, even though they’re outside, and gloves, and will be asked to move back a few feet as people come to put in money.”

Kettles also will be periodically sprayed with antiseptic. “It’s a little bit of extra work, but we’ll be safe,” Broome added.

Corps officer Maj. Roger R. Ross said the Red Kettle Appeal began in the late 1800s.

“The funds we raise here is a large part of our operating budget. It supports our social service outreach programs, food pantry, youth development programs and adult programming,” he said.

Nationally, the organization worries that kettle donations could plummet because shoppers aren’t carrying cash or coins and are purchasing online, which decreases foot traffic. This year, some grocery stores and malls were closed or more restrictive to bell ringers. Kettles in 22 locations in Central Brevard County and 10 in Titusville will have ringers Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. through Dec. 24.

New is a kettle at the Clear Lake Road Wal-Mart in Cocoa, where the

As families struggle economically, Angel Tree requests surge

SENIOR LIFE photo

Salvation Army Maj. Roger R. Ross prepares red kettle for the upcoming bell-ringing season. money collected is dedicated to the Domestic Violence Program.

“COVID has provided some unique challenges to our fundraising, so we are going to try this,” said Cindy Mitchell, director of the Domestic Violence Program.

Bell ringers can volunteer for as little as two hours or four-hour shifts.

Businesses or individuals can sign up at Registertoring.com. There, volunteers can choose a location to serve, including the site dedicated for Domestic Violence

Program expenses. Volunteers can call 321-632-6060, ext. 18.

“If you have a buddy or a family, this is a great way to give back. Students can use it for their volunteer hours,” Mitchell said.

Slots not filled require paid ringers.

This year, Walmart and Sam’s Club clerks will ask customers if they want to “round up” their total to the next dollar to support the Salvation Army. “This will be a great help to achieving our goal,” Ross said. SL

Senior Santa collection begins under TRIAD’s capable care

BY BRENDA EGGERT BRADER Santa’s helpers from the Brevard County TRIAD are again gearing up for the 21st annual Senior Santa, when 700 senior citizens receive gifts purchased by the public and wrapped by 694 volunteers, the majority of whom are 70 or older.

“It takes a village to do it,” said Terry Stone, director of the Retired and Senior Volunteer Program at Aging Matters in Brevard and secretary of the Brevard County TRIAD. “The grassroots of Senior Santa are those seniors in nursing homes with no family and no visitors. On Medicaid, all their money goes for the nursing homes. They have no money left for personal things.”

That is where the TRIAD enters and creates Christmas sharing.

“They get two wishes placed on ornaments and put on trees and people pickup what they want,” Stone said of trees placed in the pickup and delivery sites for the program. “There are suggested items for those not selected or adopted. A lot of requests are for non-skid socks, repeated year after year, or sweatsuits in large or extralarge in neutral colors so it can be for a man or woman.”

Pick up the holiday wish lists on trees found at the Schechter Community Center in Satellite Beach; One Senior Place in Viera; Parrish Senior Solution Center in Titusville, and Titusville and Palm Bay police departments.

321-242-1235

Applications for gifts for children from the Salvation Army of North Brevard County’s Angel Tree are high this year — already more than 310 children and rising, said Business Administrator Kathy Broome.

The main tree at the Merritt Island Mall was set up early to help fill the need. Other trees will be at local Walmart and Sam’s Club locations.

Once a child or senior adult has been approved and registered, their wish list is written on tags placed on the tree. Volunteer donors from the community take a tag and purchase the new clothing, toy or other listed gift and return it with the tag number, as directed. The gifts are picked up by applicants to go under their Christmas tree.

ON ULTATI S N O C FREE

WE PUT OUR

in Caring for your loved one

SENIOR LIFE Brenda Eggert Brader

A Melbourne police officer loads a crime scene van with Senior Santa gifts for delivery.

Gift drop-off locations, besides the sites listed, also include Brevard Alzheimer’s Foundation at 4676 N. Wickham Road; Palm Bay Chamber of Commerce office at 4100 Dixie Highway NE; and West Melbourne Police Department at 2290 Minton Road.

Deadline for the holiday gift collection is Dec. 9.

“The TRIAD has been doing this ministry for many, many years in helping seniors,” said TRIAD President Joseph Downs. “We are grateful for all the donors, and they

have been a blessing.”

Suggested new items only (don’t wrap the gifts) include men’s and ladies’ zip-front jackets and sweats large and extra-large; men’s and ladies pajama sets, large and extra-large; fleece blankets; non-skid socks; lotions (full size); perfume/cologne gift sets; puzzle books and plug-in radios and clock radios.

To make a monetary donation, send a check payable to Brevard County TRIAD Inc., P.O. Box 410518, Melbourne, FL 32941. SL

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SENIOR LIFE • DECEMBER 2020

11

SeniorLife

STRIP STRI PES

Brevard Veterans News

Veteran works to form good values in Young Marines

When Brian Schneider volunteered with Space Coast Young Marines because his two children were part of the organization, he had no idea how far it would lead.

Schneider, who served eight years in the U.S. Marine Corps, quickly became one of those selfless veterans who, after they have done their military service, continue to serve in the community.

I know of many in our community who advocate for veterans and veterans’ issues after they have served in the military. Others serve as volunteers with community organizations.

Schneider had no idea he would be asked to do a lot more than what he originally signed up to do.

“I was just going to be a helper,” he said. “Two weeks after I was approved, I was made the XO (executive officer).”

In the military, the executive officer is the second in command who reports to the commanding officer.

Two months after his background check and approval, Schneider became the commander of the Space

Coast Young Marines.

He learned about the group because of his involvement with the Marine Corps League. The league is a congressionally chartered Marine Corps veterans’ organization that supports many community endeavors, including Toys for Tots, scholarships and funeral honors for 10,000 funerals a year. That is just a small part of what they do, in addition to supporting the Young Marines organization.

Young Marines is a national nonprofit youth education and service program for boys and girls from 8 years old through completion of high school. It promotes mental, moral and physical development of the members.

The Young Marines learn the value of leadership, teamwork and self-

discipline. The program promotes a healthy, drug-free lifestyle. The youth are taught the importance of selfconfidence, academic achievement, honoring veterans, good citizenship and community service.

On Sunday morning, Nov. 15, the Young Marines presented the colors at a Veterans Day salute to veterans at my church, First Christian Church of Cocoa Beach.

There was no doubt about their discipline, teamwork and selfconfidence as they honored the veterans at the church service.

Schneider was pleased and is committed to continue helping to shape the youth into good citizens.

“I do it for the kids,” he said. SL

Radar intercept officer recounts experience in the F-14 Tomcat

BY MARIA SONNENBERG Scroll through the credits of the 1986 hit movie “Top Gun” and you

will discover Dave “Bio” Baranek’s name as a consultant to the film.

Is that cool, or what?

Baranek snagged the coveted gig,

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SENIOR LIFE • DECEMBER 2020

which included a visit to Paramount Studios in Hollywood to help “authenticate” the dialogue, because of his experience as a commanding officer of an F-14 Tomcat squadron, as well as because of his stint as a Navy instructor specializing in the elite warbirds depicted in the film.

Not long after he learned how to walk, Baranek already was dreaming of becoming a fighter pilot. Fate, in the form of bad eyesight, precluded the realization of the dream, but Baranek prevailed and became a radar intercept officer, or RIO, in the twoseater fighters.

“I wanted to be Maverick, but I ended up being Goose,” the Satellite Beach resident joked.

A RIO’s job is no walk in the park, since radar, navigation and communication are under his wing.

The Grumman F-14 Tomcat, which first flew in 1970, was a formidable supersonic warrior that carried the Phoenix, the longest-range missile in the world. Both the pilot and the RIO could deploy it. Additional weaponry included middle- and short-range missiles, plus a “cannon,” as the machine gun was called.

By the way, “Topgun” is the Navy term for best pilot.

Baranek’s flying career is chronicled in his books, “Topgun Days” and “Before Topgun Days.”

A third, “Tomcat Rio” has just been released and features 59 incredible images of the fighters, photos Baranek took.

“I used to take my camera on most of my flights,” he said.

His 20-year career with the Navy also included an assignment to the Joints Chief of Staff.

The Tomcat, wild by nature, was not an easy plane to maneuver.

“We had friends killed in mishaps, although the majority of flights were

STRIPES

SENIOR LIFE Courtesy of Dave Baranek

Dave “Bio” Baranek relives his “Top Gun” days aboard an F-14 Tomcat at the Warbird Air Museum in Titusville.

flawless,” Baranek said.

One not-so-flawless flight could have been tragic if luck had not been on Baranek’s side. Because of the carelessness of a ground crew member, Baranek’s plane was not properly hooked to the carrier when landing. The Tomcat careened off the runaway and into the ocean, where the $20 million warbird promptly sank.

“We had to eject, but luckily we landed in the ocean,” remembered Baranek.

Both pilot and RIO made it out of the ordeal relatively well, just as you would expect Topguns to do.

Dave Baranek’s books, are available at Amazon. SL

myseniorlife.com

SENIOR LIFE Courtesy of Mark Lucas

Melbourne Beach resident Mark Lucas enjoyed flying to great heights in his career and his hobbies.

SENIOR LIFE Courtesy of Mark Lucas

Mark Lucas glided up to more than 16,000 feet without the aid of auxiliary oxygen.

Military service was best thing for hang gliding veteran

BY MARIA SONNENBERG Most people, when going up into the sky to, say, 16,000-plus feet, usually opt for something like an airplane to provide a modicum of protection.

Most people are not Mark Lucas, who flew up to those rarified heights wearing not much more than an assemblage of aluminum sticks.

The Air Force veteran and avid hang glider managed that feat years ago, when during the World Gliding Championships in California, he got enveloped in a monster of a thermal current that took him up, up and away into the sky, or to be exact, 16,342 feet.

He had not packed auxiliary oxygen because he had not intended to set a record. He just wanted to enjoy a good day of gliding. He also set a record.

He managed to control the glider despite the oxygen deprivation he experienced. As a unfortunate souvenir, blind spots plagued his vision for several years afterwards.

Lucas picked up the sport while stationed in Spain. It also was in the Iberian Peninsula that he picked up his higher education, which like his gliding, served him well throughout his life. He amassed college courses at the Universidad de Zaragoza before completing his electrical engineering studies at the University of Arizona.

At the time he joined the Air Force, Lucas had burned through a series of jobs that included construction work and garbage collection. He could not afford the luxury of college, and, like many young men and women, gravitated to the military.

“It was the best thing that could have happened to me, and I grabbed on with both hands,” he said.

He landed a plum assignment, tending to a communications power plant about 50 miles from Zaragoza.

The area was perfect for hang gliding, and Lucas took every free moment to practice.

After completing his studies, he was assigned to Vandenberg Air Force Base, where he joined the tight-knit community that oversaw

321-242-1235

classified satellites. He retired as a captain in 1994.

As a civilian, a stint with a Harris Corp. project in New Mexico served to introduce him to Melbourne.

“I thought this was the place I wanted to return to,” he said.

A tech adviser for a Harris spinoff, Lucas was in the right place at the right time. The company, responsible for open-source, remote sensing software, caught the attention of bigger companies.

“It started getting gobbled up by larger and larger corporations,” said Lucas, who went along for the ride until he retired four years ago.

These days, he dabbles in the stock market, plays drums in a band and is learning the piano. He hasn’t glided for years, but the Melbourne Beach resident is keeping tabs of gliding venues in Central Florida.

“I’m tempted to go back,” he said.

SL

SENIOR LIFE Courtesy of Mark Lucas

Mark Lucas retired as a captain in 1994.

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SENIOR LIFE • DECEMBER 2020

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SENIOR LIFE photo

Anita Rigsbee sang the National Anthem at the ceremony around the flagpole outside the Duran Golf Club.

SENIOR LIFE photo

More than 200 people listened to Stories of Service during a Veterans Day ceremony at the Brevard Veterans Memorial Center.

Veterans’ Stories of Service key to help understand price of freedom

BY R. NORMAN MOODY Nick and Lisa Sine make sure their children understand the importance of honoring those who served in the Armed Forces.

Nick served 17 years in the U.S. Army. Now, their son, Tyler, is in his sixth year in the Army.

That is why on Veterans Day, the family, including their 10-yearold daughter, Victoria, attended a ceremony at the Brevard Veterans Memorial Center on Merritt Island.

“Her dad is a veteran,” Lisa Sine said. “It’s important for her to understand why she has her freedom.”

Nicholas Sine served in the Iraq War from 2005 to 2006, and again

from 2007 to 2008. He was deployed to Afghanistan in 2010.

“She was born five weeks before he deployed,” Lisa Sine said. “It was hard.”

Nicholas Sine was honored at the Veterans Day ceremony by the Space Coast Quilts of Valor with the award of a Quilt of Valor. He was one of four presented with a quilt.

More than 200 people attended the ceremony held outside the center.

Chairs was spaced out to conform with CDC coronavirus guidelines.

“When we planned this, we decided to focus on veterans that were in the trenches at certain periods,” said Donn Weaver, chairman of the Brevard Veterans Center and vice

president of the Brevard Veterans Council. “We call it Stories of Service.”

Veterans who served during different wars and conflicts told brief stories of their experiences.

George Rosenfield, a veteran of World War II and Korea, recounted some of his experiences, at times drawing laughter and a standing ovation.

“We did such a good job in Italy that we were volunteered for Japan,” said Rosenfield, who retired as a major.

Rosenfield also talked about some of his experiences in Korea.

Don Pearsall was part of a helicopter crew in the Vietnam War

S E vvee TAGGES i s usiOTTA l c u xExWcl CCOT E ENEW N

when their aircraft came close to an enemy encampment as they flew up over a waterfall. They were later trapped in enemy territory but could not call for help for fear of giving away the location of their disabled craft. They were finally led out to safety by a Marine Corps unit.

Eric Hoppenbrouwer served in the Afghanistan War. His grandfather served in the war in Korea, but it was not until after Hoppenbrouwer came back from Afghanistan that his grandfather began talking to him about his Korean war experience.

“At that time, I realized what it meant to be a veteran,” he said. SL

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Students create artwork to bring a smile to seniors

BY JENNIFER H. MONAGHAN

SENIOR LIFE Courtesy of Bridget Geiger

First-grade students, including Stephanie Kulak, front, display placemats.

SENIOR LIFE Courtesy of Bridget Geiger

This is a close-up view of a first-grader Senior Buddy placemat.

Social distancing and isolation due to COVID-19 have had negative effects on the general mood of the community.

Without extended physical connection with family and friends, from school-age children who are learning at home to adults, especially the elderly living in nursing homes, many are experiencing loneliness.

The intergenerational Senior Buddy Placemats art project is an attempt to help kids and seniors feel connected to others during the pandemic.

“Art can bring joy and happiness to others,” said Bridget Geiger, art teacher at Pineapple Cove Classical Academy at West Melbourne.

About 120, 11-inch by 17-inch placemats were made by Pineapple Cove students and donated to two longterm care facilities — Anchor Care and Rehabilitation Center in Palm Bay and Melbourne Terrace and Rehabilitation Center in Melbourne.

At a meeting of the Community Services League of Brevard, concern was raised about the health and wellbeing of residents in long-term care facilities who were experiencing loneliness and depression due to COVID-19 isolation. The group noted: “Everybody is going through this. Seniors are lonely and kids are lonely, too,” said Theresa Russell, from Department of Children and Families/ Adult Protective Services and CSL’s Facilitator.

The Senior Buddy Placemat project

was coordinated by Russell with the involvement of Suzanne Krasny, wife of another member of the CSL and a first-grade teacher at Pineapple Cove, and Geiger.

Geiger was ecstatic at the opportunity for her students to uphold one of Pineapple’s core values — service — in a tangible way. The school’s motto is, “Learn the true, do the good, and love the beautiful.” Eight classes of kindergarteners and firstgraders participated (some virtually) painted rainbow and flowers themed artwork.

“The scholars were very happy to create something special for the seniors in the elder care centers,” Geiger said. ”The little ones were so proud of their work. They knew their creative efforts would bring some joy and smiles to those who may need some extra cheer.”

Krasny coordinated the lamination and delivery of the placemats to Anchor Care and Melbourne Terrace. The facilities were very excited to receive the placemats and look forward to the smiles they will bring to their residents.

“Sharing a smile is always a wonderful thing to be a part of,” Russell said.

CSL of Brevard is made up of over 100 community providers and agencies who meet monthly to discuss community trends and to find ways to provide a solution.

“It takes all of us to do it. No one agency can do this. But, if we all take a piece, we get much better results for those in need,” Russell said. SL

Social Security standardized benefit verification letter now available

BY KIMBERLY LAPORTA

SOCIAL SECURITY DISTRICT MANAGER IN MELBOURNE, FL

If you receive a Benefit Verification letter, sometimes called a “budget letter,” a “benefits letter,” a “proof of income letter,” or a “proof of award letter,” we have good news for you. A new standardized Benefit Verification letter is now available when you need proof of Social Security benefits, Supplemental Security Income or Medicare.

In addition to name, date of birth and the benefits received, the new Benefit Verification letter includes other identifiers to prevent misuse and fraud. This is an added benefit to you as proof of income for loans, housing

assistance, mortgage and other verification purposes.

The same standardized letter also is available if you need proof that you do not receive benefits, or proof that benefits are pending. If you are an individual representative payee, you can use the my Social Security Representative Payee portal to access the same standardized Benefit Verification letter online for your beneficiaries.

No matter how you request your letter, whether calling our national 800 number, your local office, the Interactive Voice Response system or online with your personal my Social Security account at www.ssa.gov/myaccount, the Benefit Verification letter now contains a seamless look. SL

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Hotel Melby anchors downtown development dreams

BY GEORGE WHITE Hotel Melby, set to open in late March 2021, has Melbourne officials pleased to see a long-range plan to revitalize downtown come to fruition and forever change its skyline as the city’s new tallest building.

A Tapestry Collection by Hilton, the 11-story, modern 180-room boutique hotel features 24 corner suites with all of its rooms with water and city views. There will be a wraparound rooftop bar and lounge with outdoor terrace, fitness center and nearly 5,000 square feet of meeting space. A 170-space parking garage will have 30 spaces dedicated for public parking.

“That downtown area is gorgeous and has a lot to offer. We want to see it continue to grow and continue to be successful.”

—Tyler Collum

The 193,000 total square-foot structure was built on 0.57-acre lot that had been considered in 2010 for a hotel that fell short because of the economy, said Melbourne Economic Development Manager Doug Dombroski.

Because of that earlier “learning lesson” work, “We knew the footprint

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SENIOR LIFE • DECEMBER 2020

SENIOR LIFE Elaine Moody

Hotel Melby, one block west of Melbourne City Hall on Strawbridge Avenue, is nearing completion. would fit,” he said.

Getting a hotel was a goal in a 2005 Community Redevelopment plan. “It’s taken us that long,’’ he said.

City staff is pleased the project turns a city-owned lot at the southeast corner of Strawbridge Avenue and Waverly Place that had been off the tax rolls into a $36 million investment that will generate new taxes and business activity, he said.

“We’re expecting it to be a really great thing for the businesses and the city. One of the things we’re trying to do downtown is make it a 24/7 environment, so the Hotel Melby is part of that. It should bring in different businesses that serve a 24/7 community,’’ Melbourne Public Information Officer Cheryl Mall said.

“That downtown area is gorgeous and has a lot to offer. We want to see it continue to grow and continue to

be successful, so I think this hotel will play a major part in that,’’ said Tyler Collum, a partner with Duke Hospitality, a hotel management and development company based in Atlanta.

Added General Manager Carlos Cerda: “Hotel Melby will be a catalyst for the continued redevelopment of downtown. We expect to welcome approximately 50,000 hotel guests per year, who will represent additional pedestrian traffic for all the wonderful shops, bars and restaurants we have downtown’’ with 100,000 guests per year expected to visit the rooftop offerings, Cerda said.

“This will truly be a new anchor for dining and entertainment that will solidify downtown Melbourne’s place as the entertainment capital for the Space Coast,’’ he said. SL

myseniorlife.com

Quilters gather at distance to continue sewing sessions

BY BRENDA EGGERT BRADER Loading up their sewing machines, projects and supplies of all kinds, the women of the Lakes of Melbourne Quilting Group gather in the clubhouse for a weekly quilting bee.

“Everyone picks out their own materials.

We take side trips to the quilt stores and we help anyone pick out colors.

That is always fun. It is a social group too, and everybody is friendly.”

—Lori Grubaugh

“It is hilarious when we load up at home to go to the clubhouse,” said Teresa Augustine, one of three group

SENIOR LIFE Brenda Eggert Brader

Lori Grubaugh puts finishing touches on her shopping tote bag, a Christmas gift. instructors. “We have gotten smarter over the years. One girl brought an ironing board, and I donated an iron and cutting board, so we don’t have to haul everything each week. The cutting mats depend on the project we are doing, but they all bring their own cutters, supplies and scissors and thread and all that kind of stuff.”

“Before COVID-19, gals gathered for the Lakes of Melbourne Quilting

Group all day with a break for lunch.

Now with COVID, the clubhouse has hours like 9 a.m. to noon,” Augustine said.

The next project, following everyone’s current individual giftmaking for Christmas projects, each member will be creating a two-bythree- foot quilt wall hanging featuring a state or two … the one they are from and Florida.

“Everyone picks out their own materials. We take side trips to the quilt stores and we help anyone pick out colors. That is always fun. It is a social group too, and everybody is friendly.”

“It is a very supportive group and helps each other,” said Lori Grubaugh from Ohio, who was working on a quilted shopping bag. I love to sew, I like the friendships, and they are very, very kind people. It’s a little like family.”

Lilas LaForest was making an attractive black, red and white lap quilt, finishing the hand stitching around the edge.

“When the snowbirds get here, in the next month or so, we have about 12 members each week,” said Augustine, herself a snowbird, who just arrived.

“Five or six members go all year long.”

The group meets, wearing masks and practicing proper distancing, in the main room of the Lakes of Melbourne clubhouse on Wednesdays from 9 a.m. to noon. SL

Happy Holidays From Our Family to

Your Family Best Wishes from

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SENIOR LIFE • DECEMBER 2020

17

THE SIXTH IN A SERIES ON EXTINCT COMMUNITIES OF BREVARD

Cemetery visit awakens Brevard’s past

BY MARIA SONNENBERG

A visit to a cemetery sparked a lifelong pursuit of the past for Brevard County historian Roz Foster.

In 1996, during the dedication of the restoration of the 1869 LaGrange Community Church, the Titusville resident wandered out to the adjoining forlorn cemetery, where Brevard pioneers such as Col. Henry Titus, were buried.

“I heard about the people who had lived there and how devastated they were to have to leave their land and their homes.”

—Roz Foster

Besides enlisting the help of fellow members of the Titusville Garden Club to spruce up the grounds, Foster began researching the lives of the folks buried at La Grange.

“My interest in local history grew from there,” she said.

In La Grange, Foster found a wealth of history.

“It’s the oldest Protestant church between Key West and New Smyrna Beach, and considered the mother church for all churches in the area,” she said.

SENIOR LIFE Courtesy of Roz Foster

Roz Foster wears the costume she favors when leading tours at the Pritchard House in Titusville.

SENIOR LIFE Wikipedia

Historian Roz Foster’s interest in Brevard County history was sparked after a visit to the LaGrange Community Church, built in 1869, and its adjacent cemetery.

Scouring through old newspapers, journals, diaries and tax records, the long-dead became alive for Foster.

“I started reading about all these families and ended up lecturing about them,” she said.

Foster started working at the Cape in 1964, just after NASA began gobbling up tiny settlements in the area to build a buffer for the subsequent rocket launches.

“I heard about the people who had lived there and how devastated they were to have to leave their land and their homes,” she said.

Foster later penned a series on the

Shell Harbor

“Lost Communities of Merritt Island” for the Brevard Historical Commission.

“A lot of people don’t realize there were a lot of little settlements by the Kennedy Space Center,” she said.

The president and founder of the North Brevard Heritage Foundation, Foster was instrumental in saving several historic structures from the wrecking ball. Clifton Schoolhouse, three of the Gibson Shotgun Houses and the Hutchinson Barn were all disassembled and are currently in storage as the Foundation works with the county to find a location where they can be rebuilt as educational facilities.

She also was deeply involved in the restoration of the ornate Pritchard House in Titusville. The house was the home of one of North Brevard’s most influential pioneer families.

“The same family had continuously lived there since 1891,” Foster said.

Foster spent years helping restore the residence to its original glory.

Pritchard House, which opened to the public in 2011, is one of North Brevard’s most important historical structures and a place that draws visitors with everything from weddings and high teas to Kentucky Derby parties and special vintage costume exhibitions.

For Foster, saving these old buildings is well worth the effort.

“It’s important that their stories be told,” she said. SL

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History — Then and Now History – Then and Now features Space Coast historic landmarks or sites in pictures and what those same areas look like today in photographs.

Then - 1900s

SENIOR LIFE Courtesy of Brevard County Historical Commission

Delannoy Street looking south. S.F. Travis Co. hardware, on the left, is the oldest continuously operating business in Cocoa.

Now - 2020

This photo shows the S.F. Travis Co. hardware on Delannoy Street at the intersection of King Street.

321-242-1235

SENIOR LIFE Elaine Moody

SENIOR LIFE • DECEMBER 2020

19

The Space Coast Lightfest promises lighthearted family excursion

BY JENNIFER H. MONAGHAN It’s that time of year again to experience The Space Coast Lightfest at Wickham Park in Melbourne.

This event is fast becoming a Brevard County winter wonderland.

Last year, the event drew about 15,000 vehicles.

Lightfest is a family-oriented holiday-themed drive-through celebration featuring more than 3,000,000 twinkling holiday lights and dazzling animated displays covering 1.1 miles. The explosion of light in the 200-foot-long Light Tunnel with more than 30,000 bulbs has thrilled past Lightfest attendees.

“This year’s event is a time to be normal again. It’s a safe event that brings community together and provides hope for the future,” said Sally Richardson, program director for Lightfest, a division of Boy Scouts of America, (BSA) Central Florida Council.

Richardson has been involved with Lightfest since BSA took it over from the Rotary Club in 2011.

“All the lights are set up and run by volunteers. It’s not easy, but it’s totally

SENIOR LIFE Courtesy of Space Coast Lightfest

Lightfest is a family-oriented drive-through celebration featuring more than 3,000,000 twinkling holiday lights. rewarding,” Richardson said.

In addition to the display of lights, there are hayrides on weekends, meet and greet with Santa, popcorn and hot chocolate concession sales and a 5K run. For the third year, there also is a Toys for Kids drive. A discount is given at the entrance to anyone who brings an unwrapped toy.

All the event proceeds go to support BSA, whose mission is to

teach young people to make ethical and moral choices over their lifetimes.

The Boy Scouts of America Central Florida Council begins with boys and girls in the first grade and includes young men and young women in the high school’s Exploring program.

The Lightfest takes place at Wickham Park, 2785 Leisure Way, Melbourne, every day from 6:30 to 10 p.m. The event began Nov. 13 and will

end Jan. 3.

You also can stroll through the lights on Dec. 4, 5 and 6. The cost is $15 per drive-through vehicle; and $5 per person at the stroll-through gate.

For more information about the Lightfest, the Toys for Kids drive, discount ticket prices, or to book a private hayride, go to spacecoastlightfest.com, or visit the BSA’s Facebook page. SL

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SENIOR LIFE • DECEMBER 2020

SENIOR LIFE Adam Palumbo

Motorist lined up well ahead of the start of the Senior Life Drive-Thru Expo.

HHA 29993664

Senior Life’s expo adapt to successful drive-through format

BY R. NORMAN MOODY

Seniors on the Space Coast have come to look forward to the Senior Life expos for the information, giveaways and entertainment held at different venues around the county.

This year, the excitement moved outdoors after the coronavirus pandemic restricted indoor gatherings.

It was a hit that rounded four bases.

The last of four Senior Life DriveThru Senior Expos held Nov. 6 at Melbourne Square Mall brought a steady stream of vehicles, most carrying two or more seniors.

Pam Tallent of Palm Bay missed the expo closest to her home when it was held in West Melbourne, but made sure to be at the one at the Melbourne Square Mall.

“We really appreciate what you are doing,” she said, echoing many other participants. “I get the Senior Life, so that’s how I found out about it.”

Over several weeks, the drive-thru expos were held at The Avenue Viera, the American Police Hall of Fame in Titusville, at the Hammock Landing shopping center in West Melbourne and Melbourne Square Mall. Other

drive-through expos are being planned for 2021.

Lonnie Lonnquist was pleased to be able to gather valuable information for seniors all at one location. As the participants drove through they were entertained by Marc Dobson, the oneman band. Dobson carries a backpack drum kit, including a base drum, all connected by straps to his feet. He plays the drums in accompaniment with his guitar as he sings or plays the harmonica.

Other participants said they were happy to participate in a safe way.

Participants were asked to wear masks, and all remained in their vehicles as they drove from one booth or tent to the other in the mall’s parking lot. They began lining up well ahead of the 8 a.m. start. Tom Horn of Melbourne was the first in line.

“This is my third one,” he said.

The first 200 vehicles received a COVID kit, masks, gloves and hand sanitizers at the Senior Life welcome tent before moving on to the next tent of major sponsor Humana, then on to one of about a dozen others. At the last tent they received a Big Red Bag packed with information. SL

myseniorlife.com

Behind the

Beat

By Randal Hill

SENIOR LIFE Wikipedia

George Harrison leaving the Hilton Hotel in Amsterdam and signing an album for a fan in February 1977.

‘My Sweet Lord’ — George Harrison

The Beatles ruled the music world from 1963 until 1970, when they released their “Let It Be” album.

With the arrival of that album, they collectively threw in the towel as the world’s top recording act, and each ex-member then went to work carving out his own solo career path.

Leading the way was George Harrison, who had spent most of his Beatle years in the long shadow cast by bandmates John Lennon and Paul McCartney.

When Harrison’s first single of “My Sweet Lord” (released from his “All Things Must Pass” album) streaked to No. 1 right out of the gate, George managed to stand alone in the spotlight for once and bask in the warm glow of worldwide adulation.

Harrison, raised a Catholic, had abandoned the faith when he was 12. As an adult, he chose to embrace Hinduism and, with “All Things Must Pass,” created a version of the 16-word Hari Krishna mantra while utilizing images of the Hindu god Krishna in his album art.

“My Sweet Lord” became the best-known expression of George’s spirituality, his lengthy single (it had a running time of 4 minutes, 39

More than

1,400

helpful listings 1st Place

Best Senior Resource Guide National Association of Mature Publishers

seconds) detailing Harrison’s desire to become close to God. This is evident in the refrains of “Hallelujah” (a Jewish/Christian term meaning “praise God”) and the Hindu term “Hare Krishna,” which offers devotion to Lord Krishna. Drawing from different religions for his song might have struck some folks as strange, but George apparently wrote his lyrics as a call to spirituality minus the taint of sectarianism.

But then the issue of money — lots of it — suddenly raised its (often ugly) head. Some alert listeners noticed that the musical pattern of “My Sweet Lord” was identical to that of the 1963 Chiffons hit “He’s So Fine.”

In 1971, the power people behind Bright Tunes — the company that held the publishing rights to the Chiffons’ million-seller — sued George for copyright infringement, when his 45 was still on the charts.

Harrison tried over and over to settle the issue out of court, but Bright Tunes wasn’t interested in what he had to offer. Finally, in 1976 a judge ruled that George had indeed plagiarized “He’s So Fine” but that he had probably done so unintentionally.

Still, the ex-Beatle was ordered to fork

Marybet Lopez

Boomer Guide model

over some of the proceeds from “All Things Must Pass,” plus 75 percent of the income generated by the tune in question. The total bill came to $1.6 million — quite a punch-in-the-gut even for such a wealthy musician.

For the next three years, Harrison, bitter and discouraged, released no new music to his loyal fans. As he told a Rolling Stone writer: “It’s difficult

to just start writing again after you’ve been through that. Even now when I put the radio on, every tune I hear sounds like something else.”

By the way, he admitted later that much of “My Sweet Lord” came from the 1969 international hit “Oh Happy Day” by the Edwin Hawkins Singers, and not from “He’s So Fine.” SL

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SENIOR LIFE • DECEMBER 2020

21

Holiday Events DECEMBER 3 - 5

Junior League of South Brevard’s 36th annual Festival of Trees This year’s event, trees will be showcased within business storefronts in the Eau Gallie Arts District. The online auction will start Dec. 3 and end on Dec. 5. https://brevardcounty.jl.org/festivalof-trees/

DECEMBER 4 Space Coast Lightfest Stroll Weekend Dec. 4 to 7 , 6:30 to 10 p.m.

Walk thru, all other nights are drive thru.

Wickham Park, 2785 Leisure Way Caroling at the Avenue Viera Dec. 4, 5, 8, 10, 11, 12, 17, 18, 19, 23, 24 6 and 7 p.m.

The Avenue, 2261 Town Center Ave. Viera, 321-634-5390 Holiday Tree Lighting 5 - 8 p.m.

Eau Gallie Square, 450 Highland Ave. Melbourne, 321-622-4223 Holiday in the City, Cape Canaveral 6 - 10 p.m.

Taylor and Poinsetta Avenues Cape Canaveral, 321-868-1226

December 5 Holiday Marketplace, outdoor event Vendors, artisans and crafters.

10 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Faith Fellowship Church 2820 Business Center Blvd.

Suntree, 321-259-7200 Central Florida Winds Outdoor Concert 4 p.m.

The musicians and Maestro Sabino have missed playing for their patrons. Join them for a “socially distant” holiday concert on the front lawn of the church.

Suntree United Methodist Church 7400 N. Wickham Rd., Suntree 321-405-2359 • Merritt Island Holiday Parade • Mims Christmas Parade • Bible on Parade • Palm Bay Drive-thru Holiday Light Parade For event details see page 28 37th Art & Craft Holiday Bazaar Over 200 unique artisans, street

food, family fun, kid and pet friendly.

Dec. 5, 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Dec. 6, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Historic Cocoa Village, 1 Oleander Cocoa, 321-631-9075 Light Up Rockledge/Festival of Trees 6 p.m.

Enjoy festive tunes while strolling through a decorated tree display. Auction proceeds go to Grandparents Raising Grandchildren.

Free, just bring a canned food item.

Rockledge Civic Hub 530 Barton Blvd.

Rockledge, 321-221-7540, ext 112.

DECEMBER 6

Black Willow Ranch Christmas Festival Christmas photo props, craft stations for kids, hot chocolate bar, local vendors, BBQ and bounce house.

9 a.m. - 5 p.m.

2350 Black Willow Trail, Mims 321-684-9402 2020 Space Coast Toy Run 9 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.

Starts at Azan Shrine Center 9 a.m. $15 entry fee or new unwrapped toy AZAN Shriners Center 1591 W. Eau Gallie Blvd., Melbourne 321-259-5302

DECEMBER 11

13th annual Central Florida’s Messiah Sing-Along 7 p.m.

Drive-in concert by the Space Coast Symphony Orchestra The Avenue, 2261 Town Center Ave. Viera, 321-634-5390

DECEMBER 12 Cape Canaveral Reindeer Run 5K Cherie Down Park Cape Canaveral, 321-241-4520 Skydiving Santas 10 a.m. - 3 p.m.

Cocoa Beach Pier, 401 Meade Ave. 321-783-7549 • Cocoa Beach Christmas Boat Parade • Cocoa Village Holiday Boat Parade • Downtown Melbourne Bicycle Parade • Melbourne Light Parade • Cocoa Rockledge Holiday Parade For event details see page 28 St. Anthony Holiday Food and Bake Sale 9 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Pies, cakes, breads, perogies,

cookies, jams, apple butter and vegan offerings. Sales conducted outside in a drive thru.

St. Anthony Orthodox Christian Church 4031 Aurora Road, Melbourne 305-812-4940 Brevard Symphony Orchestra Sounds of the Season 2 p.m.

A special concert featuring full orchestra, a guest narrator, and many familiar favorites, including Sleigh Ride, selections from The Nutcracker, and White Christmas.

Special musical performance of ‘Twas the Night Before Christmas.

Music Director Christopher Confessore will lead the orchestra.

King Center 3865 N. Wickham Rd, Melbourne BrevardSymphony.com, 321-345-5052 Jess Parrish Medical Foundation Gala To Go 4 - 7 p.m.

Take a magical drive amidst holiday lights and sing along with carolers.

Design your own experience — selection of entrées, desserts, appetizer and wine.

La Cita Country Club 777 Country Club Dr. Titusville, 321-269-4066 Holly Jolly Christmas Trail 5 p.m.

Hosted by the Kiwanis Club Titus Landing, Titusville 321-403-2415

DECEMBER 13 Glozzy Jolly Drive for Christmas Toys 2 - 6 p.m.

Proceeds/toys go to Family Promise of Brevard.

The Paper Clinic, 7341 Office Park Place Viera, 321-261-0418 The Magic Christmas Toy Shop 6:30 - 8:30 p.m.

The Imperial Dance Corps of Dussich Dance Studio presents an Evening of Dance.

Merritt Island Moose Lodge 125 Imperial St., Merritt Island 321-452-2046 Voices from the Manger 9 - 11 a.m.

Featuring original dramatic monologues from Mary, Joseph, shepherds and Kings with a surprise

visit from Elizabeth. Music includes Christmas carols and uplifting songs to get you into the true Christmas spirit. Social distancing, limited seating, must RSVP. TWC Sanctuary, 638 S. Patrick Dr. Satellite Beach, 321-777-2047

DECEMBER 17

Kris Kringle Market Dec. 17 to Dec. 20 Dec. 17, 11 a.m. - 6 p.m.

Dec. 18, Noon - 8 p.m.

Dec. 19, 9 a.m. - 6 p.m.

Dec. 20, 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Free admission Melbourne Auditorium 625 E. Hibiscus Ave. Melbourne, 321-608-7420

DECEMBER 18

Holiday Bicycle Parade For event details see page 28

DECEMBER 19

Snow Days on the Space Coast Dec. 19 - 20, 5 - 10 p.m.

26 tons of snow with snow slides and play areas. Train ride, light displays, hayrides and more. Proceeds benefit Hope for North Brevard.

Sand Point Park, Titusville 321-863-6357 12th annual Family Christmas Extravaganza 11 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.

Free food, live entertainment, giveaways, train rides, and more.

Fred Poppe Regional Park 1951 Malabar Road NE Palm Bay, 321-952-3443 • Port St. John Christmas Parade • Merritt Island Christmas Boat Parade • Satellite Beach Holiday Parade For event details see page 28 Run Run Santa 1 Mile, Viera 7:30 a.m.

Run Run Santa 1 Mile is an all-Santa event. This race features a festive one mile course. Call to register.

Calvary Chapel Viera, 321-636-7696

DECEMBER 24

Christmas Eve Service 5:30 p.m.

“Unexpected,” arrival of the King.

Big stage, live music, photo booth, family friendly, bring a chair or blanket.

Church At Viera, 9005 N. Wickham Rd. Viera, 321-259-3454

December Calendar of Events

Wednesdays

Computer Basics 5:30 - 7:30 p.m.

Learn computer basics, Windows vs Apple, saving files and social media.

Brevard Adult Education Lifelong Learning, 321-633-3660, ext. 31462.

DECEMBER 8 & 9

Shell Harbor Lunch & Learn Dec. 8 and 9, 11:30 a.m.

Learn about the new Shell Harbor Retirement Community in Rockledge.

Seating limited, must RSVP. River Rocks 6485 South U.S. 1, Rockledge 321-265-6884

DECEMBER 9

Coping with Holiday Stress as a Caregiver Breakfast 9 - 11 a.m.

Michele Lyon, executive director of YourLife of West Melbourne and certified dementia practitioner, will offer tips on how to handle holiday stress with your loved ones.

Breakfast served, limited seating, must RSVP 321-751-6771.

DECEMBER 11

“A View from the Moving Garden” Whimsical Fashion Show 3 - 5 p.m.

Creations from Caberbe Joseph

Gibson Center Library 835 Sycamore St., Suite H Titusville, 321-567-2028

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

DECEMBER 12

DECEMBER 18

Renaissance Fair at Green Gables Noon - 5 p.m.

Medieval fun… including, gypsies, the Royal Navy, music and food trucks.

Green Gables, 1501 S. Harbor City Blvd.

Melbourne, 321-794-8901

DECEMBER 15

Medicaid Planning 10 - 11 a.m.

Join Attorney William A. Johnson inperson or virtually (email link). RSVP

Planet Palooza 6:30 p.m.

See the rings of Saturn, the moons of Jupiter, craters on the Moon and even the ice caps of Mars.

American Space Museum 308 Pine St, Titusville, 321-264-0434 Hearing Loss, Lunch & Learn 11 a.m. - 1 p.m.

Lunch will be provided to in-person attendees only. RSVP required.

8085 Spyglass Hill Road, 321-751-6771

After 2020, next year should be a great one

’Twas the holiday season Of the year 2020 A most unusual year With weird happenings a plenty.

There’s a pandemic and locusts, Alien sightings and more, Few cars on the roads, And fewer people in stores.

Funny thing is...

Sammy Haddad

Well what did you expect From this most bizarre year With more hurricanes than names And a virus named after beer.

I thought 2019 was hard, But when I think back on life And compare it to this year Those were good times not strife.

The month of December is known For nice wishes and good cheer, But the wishes for 2020 Are just “Get me outta here.”

No the mistletoe’s not hung By the chimney this year, And because of his mask, You won’t recognize Santa, I fear.

How can you have Black Friday Without crowds at the doors And thousands of people Pushing others to the floors.

Our annual feast Is such a hard task Because turkey and gravy Keeps getting stuck on my mask.

I used to joke that 2020 Was when the vision was most clear, But now the words 2020 Make you sneer, fear and jeer.

But try to hang in there, Cause there’s only a few weeks to go, Remember, it’s still 2020, So Miami might still see snow.

Thanksgiving was lonely, Cause it’s dinner for just me, Unless you live in a commune And everyone is germ-free.

All you wanted was happiness And holiday cheer, But family gatherings and frolic Are not happening this year.

All I can see clearly In this 2020 year, Is that it’s a great time To wish goodbye and c’mon next year.

My wish for all of you Is good health and good cheer And just think of how great it will be, Oh, not this, but NEXT year! SL

Are we ready to smoke the peace pipe? The American Indians resolved conflicts by sitting around a large fire and sharing a pipe of tobacco. While meeting, solutions evolved and treaties were accepted.

Life is full of challenges, games, contests and elections along with winners and losers. Peace is a gift. It starts at home, in the family, at church and in the community.

During the Christmas season, the greeting “Peace on Earth” is part of songs and hymns. Further, the message is shared in cards and social media. Organize a small group to go out caroling. Christmas songs are full of peace messages like: “Sleep in heavenly peace!”

I noticed the word “peace” in

the Bible. It is there 429 times. It means harmony, safety, contentment, wholeness, fulfillment, security and calm. How are you doing? How are we doing? There is “inner” peace, “personal” peace, “world” peace and then we can “rest in peace.”

What can we do? Some people start by giving others a “piece of their mind.” Some pray for peace. Treaties, agreements and legislation often work to resolve disputes and bring peace to those searching for a solution on a large scale. Are you a peacemaker?

Often, seniors are accused of meddling and interfering in the lives of family members. If so, begin at home.

Reconcile, forgive and reconnect with family, friends and neighbors. Make that telephone call, send a greeting

It’s the season to proclaim peace and joy Challenges of Living to Age 100 Ed Baranowski card, send an email, connect on Facebook or visit an elderly neighbor.

Share your love and peace.

Observe the good deeds of others in Rotary, Salvation Army, Toys For Tots and in many church and community groups. Why not volunteer? Put on your mask, head over to the distribution centers and be part of the

action. Bake some cookies, fruitcakes or make fudge. Deliver a decorated plate or box of goodies to someone who is alone.

Play Christmas music, sing holiday songs and enjoy a festive beverage.

Would you believe, Coca-Cola is running an ad “Choose Peace.” They have a new canned “peace tea” with a peace sign on the container. You can have peace in three flavors.

This is the time of year for “Peace and Joy!” As my Chinese fortune cookie message read: “Declare peace every day.” Why not? SL Ed Baranowski is an award-winning writer, artist, speaker and seminar leader. He lives in Melbourne and can be contacted at fastssr75@gmail.com.

Cocoa, Rockledge homes are historic gems Touring the Town

John Trieste

This local one-day drive will highlight some of the many gems in our own Brevard County. This is a great introduction to Brevard County for outof-town visitors.

I suggest you start the tour by taking the very scenic Rockledge Drive.

Rockledge Drive starts about a half mile north of Viera Boulevard on U.S. 1.

As you drive north on Rockledge Drive, you pass some of the finest homes in the county, all fronting our beautiful Indian River Lagoon. In my opinion, this is one of the most scenic views in the county. After about four miles along Rockledge Drive, you will come across Valencia Road.

At the intersection of Valencia Road and Rockledge Drive, read the sign about the history of this subdivision.

Make a left on Valencia Road and take in the classic homes of this planned 1920s resort community. The Valencia Subdivision Residential District is a historic district and was added to the U. S. National Register of Historic Places in 1992.

It runs from 14 through 140 Valencia Road, 825 through 827 Osceola Drive, and 25 through 28 Orange Ave. The district encompasses about 100 acres

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and contains 54 historic buildings.

As you are driving along Rockledge Drive, don’t miss the H.S. Williams House.

The Williams House is a historic U.S. home at 1219 Rockledge Drive and Oakwood Drive. Hiram Smith Williams built the house in 1880 after moving to Rockledge in 1874 from Alabama. The county purchased it in 1989 and restored it.

You can continue on Rockledge Drive along the Indian River Lagoon for more than eight miles through downtown Cocoa, going north until the road ends at U.S. 1 near Sharpes.

In Cocoa, stop at the restored Porcher House built in 1916. The historic Porcher House is an excellent example of 20th century classical revival architecture, adapted to our Florida climate. This 10-bedroom house is built with native coquina rock and finished in the interior with teak, oak and cedar. On the National Register of Historic Places, this landmark is open for public viewing and special occasions.

Other things to do in the area are to visit the Brevard Museum of History and Science at 2201 Michigan Ave. and the Florida Solar Energy Center on Clearlake Road in Cocoa.

For more information about the Solar Energy Center, call 321-638-1015.

If you are interested in gardening, you should stop at Rockledge Gardens on U.S. 1. For information, call 321636-7662.

Finally, if you have a sweet tooth, visit the new Grimaldi’s Candy store, located on U.S. 1. SL

Sounds of the Season

SENIOR LIFE • DECEMBER 2020

23

Senior Life

Health & Wellness

Pain patches: Are they the right choice for you?

BY GRACE ROGERS Everyone needs pain relief at one time or another, but how do they know which pain relief method works best for them.

In the world of medicine, there are a host of options available to people in different forms. For many people in the world of sports medicine and orthopedics, pain patches are a popular way to treat different types of pain.

Essentially, a pain patch is a small medical patch that is saturated in a large dose of pharmaceuticals along with other ingredients that is applied to an area of the body that is experiencing pain. From there the solution is absorbed into the bloodstream.

For those dealing with common issues like inflammation in their joints or muscle pain, pain patches may be a solution. They are non-invasive as opposed to other such as surgery or injections and are more concentrated than over the counter pain pills.

According to an article from the Oxford Academy, pain patches focus their relief efforts to the area that they are applied to, thus relieving the pain in

24

one chronic place of need rather than being equally dispersed throughout the body. This would serve well those who deal with consistent pain in certain areas of their body such as their back or knees. Pain patches also are preferred by some as they can be left on for long periods of time and allow them to carry on with their daily lives.

Though not all patches are made or work the same, many are fast acting once placed, like some brands such as Luminas, that work with natural ingredients. Many of their recipients say they experienced pain relief within minutes of applying them. Though commonly used for inflammation and muscle pain, pain patches are used for much more. The National Capital Poison Center states that several different patches can be used to treat bruises, sprains, motion sickness and chronic pain. Patches have been developed in different ways to help people dealing with many kinds of pain.

Of course, as with any medical decision, pain patches should be discussed with a doctor and properly applied and disposed of as recommended. SL

SENIOR LIFE • DECEMBER 2020

SENIOR LIFE Shutterstock

Pain patches became popular with some athletes but should be discussed with heathcare providers before use.

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Seeing this, I wanted to help make a difference and decided to enter the world of senior living.

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Everyone is someone's grandma, grandpa, mom, dad, someone's loved one and should be treated as Everyone is someone's grandma, grandpa, mom, dad, someone's loved one and should be Everyone is someone's grandma, grandpa, mom, dad, someone's loved one and should betreated treatedasas such.

I have always loved helping others and what better of populationtotofocus focus those efforts on such.

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SENIOR LIFE • DECEMBER 2020

25

Senior Life

News for Titusville, Mims & Port St. John

North Brevard

An untrained dog may sense changes because of illness

BY FLORA REIGADA

Can untrained dogs sniff out an oncoming stroke and other illnesses or conditions?

When Dan Reigada of Titusville visited Shuler Auctioneers, the owner’s dog, Josie, followed him, sniffing and licking his hand. The dog even licked Reigada’s eyeglasses, sticking from his pocket. This was a minor annoyance as Reigada admired classic cars to be auctioned.

“I started to pull my hand away,” he said. “But then I thought my hand is already wet, so what’s the point?”

The dog stayed at Reigada’s side and the licking continued. Later that day, Reigada suffered a TIA (transient ischemic attack) or mini-stroke. He was kept in the hospital overnight and is now at home recovering. He wonders if Josie sensed what was about to happen.

Shuler Auctioneers president and Josie’s owner, Debbie Shuler, does not recall the 3½-year-old American bulldog and hound mix as having such intuition.

“Josie is a protective, but loving

SENIOR LIFE David Reigada

Josie, an American bulldog and hound mix owned by Debbie Shuler, president of Cliff Shuler Auctioneers, could not stop licking Dan Reigada when he dropped by the business. He wonders if Josie was trying to alert him about a health condition. dog,” she said. “When my late husband was sick and confined to bed, Josie stayed in his room and remained at his bedside.”

Cliff Shuler passed away in September 2019.

“He never said so, but I know he liked having Josie there,” she said.

A professional dog trainer, Monique De Roeck, owner of the K9 and Detection Dog Training Academy in St. Johnsville, New York, has nearly 30 years of experience.

She regularly shares her expertise with dog trainers, pet dog owners, professional handlers, veterinarians, ethologists and behaviorists around the world. Her medical detection dogs detect conditions such as strokes, seizures and cancer. She has trained dogs for professional handlers in law enforcement, the military and conservation efforts.

“Every dog can detect something, and some dogs have a sixth sense as we call it,” De Roeck said. “When a dog makes a connection with a person, it may detect changes in that person’s body language. But to be reliable, a dog needs training. We don’t need detection when something happens, but before it happens.”

De Roeck calls dogs scent detectives. The organization’s website sums it up. “Dogs are masters at using their nose to get information.”

For more information, visit the website detectiondogtraining.com SL

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South Brevard veterans now have their own VA clinic

BY JENNIFER H. MONAGHAN

SENIOR LIFE Courtesy of Congressman Posey’s office

The ribbon-cutting ceremony for the VA Community-Based Outpatient Clinic in Palm Bay was held Nov. 14.

The Department of Veterans Affairs officially opened its new CommunityBased Outpatient Clinic in Palm Bay in mid-November.

Although health care services have been provided at the new Palm Bay facility since Sept. 14, the ribboncutting ceremony was delayed due to COVID-19 first and subsequent inclement weather.

“After almost eight years of working toward this important goal, I’m pleased that Palm Bay area veterans will now be able to get the VA medical services they need closer to home in Palm Bay,” Congressman

Bill Posey said.

“With almost 35,000 veterans enrolled at the Viera Clinic, this new primary care VA facility will help the VA keep up with the growing demand for services,” Posey said.

The Palm Bay VA is a welcome relief to the many veterans who regularly travel from southern neighborhoods of Brevard to the Viera clinic to access health care services, including medical equipment and prescriptions.

Rob Medina, mayor elect of Palm Bay who served in the Marine Corps, also was delighted with the opening of the new VA clinic. He said: “I am truly grateful to Congressman Posey and all

that have made this a reality for our local area veterans. The VA outpatient clinic in the city of Palm Bay is a true treasure for our community.”

Medina noted that the Department of Veterans Affairs’ motto, a quote from Abraham Lincoln, is a tribute to the sacrifices endured by our veterans and their families: “To care for him who shall have borne the battle.”

The Palm Bay VA clinic is at 5200 Babcock St., NE, Suite 101, Palm Bay. Opening hours are Monday to Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., excluding public holidays. For more information call 321-728-8300. SL

Brevard to celebrate Christmas with parades across the county Brevard County parades:

BY FLORA REIGADA Port St. John Christmas Parade organizer Randy Rodriguez anticipates fun and colorful floats in this year’s parade. However, coronavirus precautions will be taken.

“We are encouraging people to wear masks, maintain social distancing, use hand sanitizer and not throw candy from vehicles,” he said.

Chief Ryan Hunt of the Mims Volunteer Fire Department, which organizes the Mims parade, recommends that attendees follow current Centers for Disease Control guidelines.

“We’re continuing with the parade to bring some normalcy back to the community,” he said. SL

• Mims Christmas Parade and Barbecue 10 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 5, at Mims Elementary School, 2582 U.S. 1.

Call: 321-267-9652.

• The Bible on Parade 2 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 5, at the Melbourne Auditorium, 625 E. Hibiscus Blvd. Call: 321-773-1489.

• Cocoa Beach Christmas Street Parade 2 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 5, at City Hall, 2 S. Orlando Ave. Call: 321-868-3200.

SENIOR LIFE Courtesy of the Mims Volunteer Fire Department

Holy Spirit Catholic Church participated in last year’s Mims Christmas parade.

• Palm Bay Drive-Thru Holiday Light Parade - 6 to 9 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 5, at Fred Poppe Regional Park, 1951 Malabar Road NW. Call: 321-953-8912.

• Holiday Golf Cart Parade 5 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 12, at Golf Carts Unlimited, The Avenue Viera.

Call: 321-610-7011.

• A Holly Jolly Christmas Trail 5 to 9 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 12, at Titus Landing, US 1 and Harrison St. Call: 321-403-2415.

• Cocoa Village Holiday Boat Parade 6 to 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 12, at Cocoa Riverfront Park, 401 Riveredge Blvd.

Call: 321-631-9075.

• Cocoa Beach Christmas Boat Parade 6 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 12, proceeding down the Banana River.

• Downtown Melbourne Candlelight Shopping Bicycle Parade 6 to 7 p.m., Saturday, Dec. 12.

Call: 321-724-1741.

• Melbourne Light Parade 6 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 12, at 1300 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd.

• Port St. John Christmas Parade 11 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 19, at Fay Boulevard and Waterloo Avenue.

Call: 321-633-7499.

• Merritt Island Christmas Boat Parade 6 p.m. Saturday, Dec 19, at Sykes Creek. Call: 321-213-0478.

• Satellite Beach Holiday Boat Parade 6 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 19, at Grand Canal. Call: 321-220-7775. SL

28

SENIOR LIFE • DECEMBER 2020

myseniorlife.com

CROSSWORD ACROSS 1 Gem surface 6 Load-hoisting device 11 Toughen by exposure 12 Ballpark event 13 Temperament 15 Spice rack item 16 Baby food 18 Galleon cargo 19 Casino action 21 Assistance 22 Ration out 23 -- St. Laurent 25 Call out 28 Shake off 30 Mind reader’s letters 31 Tend the garden 32 Grassy surface 33 “Gal” of song 35 Roughly 37 Dazzle 38 Perched 40 -- spumante 41 Grass skirt go-with 42 Like some hours 43 Shaggy-haired ox 46 Stock holder 48 Did not cook (2 wds.)

50 Mystery 54 Bounded along 55 Use a prayer rug 56 Kuwaiti leaders 57 Insurance worker

Crossword solution, page 31

DOWN 1 Shark feature 2 Collection of tales 3 Snip off 4 Released violently 5 Prefix for “trillion” 6 Sidekick 7 Undergo decomposition 8 Combat material 9 “Faint heart -- won ...”

10 Therefore 14 Auction site 15 Rubens models 17 More perky 19 Underneath 20 Recital piece 22 Butte 24 Health resort 25 Decided 26 Way to go 27 Himalayan legend 29 That senora 34 Ration 36 Weeping noisily 39 Become bored or weary 43 Sturdy lock 44 Minute quantity 45 Military cap 46 Cattle chews 47 Composer Paul - 49 Poet’s contraction 51 Opposite of haw 52 Chess pieces 53 Cockpit fig.

A new Boomer Guide is in the works!

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Send in your updated listing for the 2021 Boomer Guide.

Attention Nonprofits and Organizations — if you see a listing that needs to be updated for the 2021 magazine, call us or send your updates on this form. E-mail: Media@bluewatercreativegroup.com Name: _________________________________________________ Phone: ___________________Email: ________________________ Organization name: ______________________________________ Updated information: _____________________________________ _______________________________________________________ For information, call 321-242-1235.

Send to: Senior Life, 7350 Shoppes Drive, Suite 102, Viera, FL 32940

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Market Square Antiques

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Thrift Store Come See Us at Our Sharing Center Boutique!

Check out the Q&L website for class schedule and events.  We are an authorized, full line retailer for Baby Lock®,

Sunday – Thursday: 9am-9pm Friday & Saturday: 9am-10pm

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SENIOR LIFE • DECEMBER 2020

Monday - Saturdays:10 a.m. - 6 p.m.

We try our best to ‘under-promise and over deliver’ Dec 7 & 9, Noon: Closed Sunday Table Topper beginning sewing class.

7720 N. Wickham Rd. Suites 111 & 112 & 113 Dec 12, 10 am - 4 pm: Melbourne, FL 32940 Kimberbell Sugar Plum Jubilee Embroidery Walgreens Event in store or at home!

Phone: (321) 622-8602, Fax: (321) 622-8574 M,W,Th,F: 10am - 5pm, Tue: 12N - 7pm, www.quiltsandlace.com Dec 19, 10 am - 2 pm: Sat: 10am - 2pm, Sun: CLOSED beth@quiltsandlace.com Make & Take Ornament anytime at the store for $4. We supply plus thefor machine.

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321-425-3334

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Identity theft prevention easier than recovering loss

BY HENRY A. STEPHENS One summer evening in 2012, Melbourne audiologist Dr. Liz White was running her usual laps to keep in shape at Wickham Park.

And someone was watching her, noting how long she was away from her car before her laps would take her past it.

White didn’t know it, but she was about to join a growing number of her fellow Floridians.

Florida ranked as the 10th most vulnerable state for identity theft and fraud, according to a study released in October by the personal finance website WalletHub. The Federal Trade Commission says more than 205,000 people in 2018 reported fraud and identity theft in Florida, more than in any other state.

The average loss was $400 per victim.

More recent statistics weren’t available.

White doesn’t carry her purse on her runs. She leaves it in the car. And that evening, she had an unpleasant surprise.

“Got back to my car at dusk, window was busted, purse was gone,” White recalled.

She informed her credit card companies and her bank of the thefts and cancelled all the card accounts.

But she didn’t close out her checking account. Nobody ever advised her to do that after a theft, she said. But the thieves got her driver’s license, which carried her identification information.

“The next week, my bank account was cleared,” she said. “Someone in Volusia County, used my ID and went to deposit … a few dollars into my checking account but didn’t know my

SENIOR LIFE Shutterstock

account number. Well, apparently, that is not a problem. The bank just flat out gave it to them, no security questions, no (Social Security) number, just gave it to the thief. The cops and bank called to let me know it happened. I was livid.”

White said her bankers should have told her to close her checking account.

She had her checks, but the thief had her ID. And her bankers told her it was standard operating procedure to supply a checking-account number if someone has the associated personal identification.

To its credit, White says, her bank restored all of the stolen money and cancelled the overdraft fees. But White put that money in a different bank.

“A couple of weeks later, someone called and said they found my purse in the dumpster at the Hampton Inn on Wickham,” she said. “My husband went

to retrieve my purse which still had everything in it but my driver’s license and credit cards.”

The thief did leave one credit card, White said — the one for Kohl’s Department Store.

White can chuckle about that part now. But for authorities, identity theft is much more frustrating than amusing.

That’s because, unlike White’s case, it’s usually not a physical theft. It’s usually a cybercrime, a theft of numbers, not property, they say.

In a common scheme, Brevard County sheriff’s spokesman Tod Goodyear said a thief may put a “skimmer” into the card reader of a gasoline pump and get a customer’s card numbers.

In March 2019, Goodyear’s colleagues arrested five men — four from Florida and one from South Dakota — on charges of unlawful conveyance of fuel.

They had used those skimmed credit card numbers to pump “hundreds of gallons” of gasoline, Goodyear said.

Each of their cars had concealed “fuel bladders,” he added.

The bladders would have allowed the men to resell the gas, typically at truck stops to exhausted long-distance truckers, in a regional black market.

“Say the fuel was going for $3 a gallon at the pump,” he said. “They would sell theirs at $2 a gallon.”

One of the toughest parts about identity theft is finding the thief, he said.

That’s because, unlike the five attempted fuel-runners, most identity thieves are in foreign countries and impossible to nab.

So it’s much easier to prevent the theft in the first place, Florida Attorney

BoomerSenior

General Ashley Moody said. In her Identity Theft Victim Kit, Moody advises Floridians to: • Order and closely review copies of their credit report from each national credit reporting agency once a year.

• Empty their wallets of extra credit cards and IDs and close all unused credit card or bank accounts.

• Shred pre-approved credit applications, credit card receipts, bills, and other financial information they don’t want before discarding them in the trash or recycling bin.

• Remove their names from mailing lists for pre-approved credit lines by calling 1-888-5-OPTOUT (1-888567-8688).

• Remove their names, phone numbers and home addresses from marketing lists by contacting the Direct Marketing Association.

The association can be reached at dmachoice.thedma.org “This will not prevent your name from being placed on all marketing lists, but it removes your information from many of them,” Moody said.

• Only release their personal data (Social Security number, date of birth, bank account or credit account numbers, etc.), to agencies who require it. Never give this information to unsolicited telephone callers or over the Internet.

• Contact the Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles and request assignment of an alternate driver’s license number if it currently features their Social Security numbers. SL

Crossword Solution Crossword on page 29

Sentiments

How are you preparing for Christmas or year-end holidays this year?

Photos by Ernest Arico

Carl Hazell

“Because of the coronavirus, my wife and I will try to organize some kind of a gettogether but limit the number of people.”

Dan Solano

“Our gatherings are going to be a little smaller this year. We also will make sure we isolate one another when we get together.”

321-242-1235

Jim Rufino

Sudoku Solution Puzzle on page 20

“Last year, we had 50 people over the house for a Christmas party, but because of the coronavirus we’re not going to have a party this year.”

Scott Mimbs

“We’re thinking of foregoing Thanksgiving and Christmas dinners. Instead, we are meeting with our kids online.”

SENIOR LIFE • DECEMBER 2020

31

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