The team going first throws the pallina and where it lands becomes the target. July 2024 Volume 27 Issue 2
Bocce — a game of strategy
popularity and is played at several courts throughout Brevard County.
BY ELLA DORFMAN
Richard Rosa describes himself as a novice bocce player. But Rosa, who is president of the Italian American Club of South Brevard, can be found almost any Wednesday and Thursday playing the game that is gaining wide popularity on the Space Coast.
The Italian American Club references “The Joy of Bocce” book as a guide to play. The game’s earliest origins were in Egypt, but it developed into its present state in Italy.
SENIOR LIFE Jill Blue
The Viera East Community Bocce League has members as young as 59. Buca de Bocce won a recent tournament.
Bocce is played with eight large balls and one smaller target or object ball called a pallina. Each team has four balls. To start a game, the pallina is rolled or tossed by a member of the team having won the coin toss. A player can toss the pallina any distance as
long as it passes the center line of the court and stays within the boundaries of the court.
All balls must be thrown underhanded. A team has the option of rolling,
The team with the bocce ball closest to the pallina wins the round.
General busy with housing for vets, page 22
tossing or bouncing its ball down the court provided it does not go outside the boundaries of the court or the player does not violate the foul line. The foul line is used to deliver all balls down the court with the intent of getting a ball closer to the pallina, knocking the opponent’s ball away from the pallina or hitting the pallina so that it ends up closer to your team’s ball.
“There is a lot of strategy and camaraderie involved in the game,’’ Rosa said. “Any age and fitness can play it.”
The club has more than 300 members and one as old
BOCCE continued on page 9
Suntree Internal Medicine
Bocce is gaining
Volume 27,
Senior
7350 Shoppes Drive, Suite 102 Viera, FL 32940
321-242-1235
myseniorlife.com
jill@myseniorlife.com
Publisher
Jill Blue
Editor
R. Norman Moody
Office Manager
Sylvia Montes
Copy Editor
Jeff Navin
Art Department
Jorjann Blake
Carson Blue
Interns
Cameron Countryman
Ella Dorfman
Hayley Power
Feature Writers
Ed Baranowski
Brenda Eggert Brader
Ernie Dorling
Randal C. Hill
Linda Jump
Betty Porter
Flora Reigada
For the past year, we have been bringing you a series of stories about exercise and staying fit called Keep Moving.
We have looked at bicycling, strength building, Pilates and other indoor and outdoor exercises.
Swimming is the most popular form of exercise for seniors after walking, running and cycling. And what better time to tell you about swimming or for you to start swimming for fitness than during the summer?
We bring you a story about swimming in this edition of Senior Life. It includes a list of some of the public swimming pools in the area.
Since it is summer, it is also traveling time for many, so if you are looking for another overnight trip, Sarasota might be an excellent choice. We often bring you articles about day trips or longer trips that might work better with an overnight stay.
Sarasota has a lot to offer, such as its nearby Siesta Beach with fine white sand and designated by some as one of the best beaches in the United States. In addition, it is a wonderful place to watch the sun set over the Gulf of Mexico. If you are in Sarasota, you should check out Myakka River State Park if you like the outdoors. It has the Myakka Canopy Walkway, a 100-foot walkway suspended about 25 feet near Oak hammock treetops.
In the city, there are bayfront parks, including The Bay Park, a 53-acre green space in the shadow of downtown high-rise buildings. It is a space for a long walk, a leisurely stroll or a relaxing time by the waterfront.
A story about Harmony Farms will tell you about how volunteers are bringing smiles to the faces of people with disabilities through horseback riding. Now imagine the satisfaction you could get by being one of those volunteers helping to bring a bit of happiness to children and adults with disabilities.
What is your plan for celebrating America’s Independence Day? We’ll share with you a list of some of the popular area celebrations — firework displays, parades and picnics.
All the above is in addition to some regular features such as health and fitness, veterans’ profiles, technology and other stories from around the county.
We look forward to hearing from you about some of the stories you want to see in Senior Life SL
R. Norman Moody norm@myseniorlife.com
Harmony Farms means legs, voice, laughter to those with disabilities
BY CAMERON COUNTRYMAN
Pamela Rogan moved to Florida in 1991 and started searching for volunteer opportunities with children or animals.
She found both in Horses Helping the Handicapped, a small program in need of better leadership, where she became president of the board within two months.
Three months later, the small program had reorganized into Harmony Farms, a nonprofit, volunteer-based organization with the goal of “providing an alternative therapy for people with disabilities” through horseback riding.
“We want people to feel like they’re coming to be with their family, and this is one big family. … Since people with disabilities have so much negativity in their life, this should be a place where it’s only positive, so what better than harmony?” said Rogan, the executive director. “The animals, the people, everything is in harmony.”
Thus, the program was named Harmony Farms.
Harmony Farms has been open for 32 years and processes at least 2,000 riders per year. It relies on volunteers, and everybody mucks stalls, fills water buckets and all other jobs that need to be done. The organization is funded through donations, gifts and sponsors. Rogan said that she has never bought a horse; they have all been donated. The horses at Harmony Farms are all older than 12, have a quiet demeanor, soft, quiet eyes and “more whoa than go.”
It is important that these horses are the right fit for Harmony Farms because they are the modality — the instrument used for therapy. For riders with physical
Horses are “magical, perceptive, intuitive and perfect for this type of therapy because of their makeup and personality.”
—Pamela Rogan
disabilities, the horses are their legs. Horses have the same pelvic movement as humans, so the horse gait is closest to the human gait. Riders with physical disabilities have to move in ways they have never moved before and strengthen their core, back, brain, etc., because they have no upper body support on the horse.
One rider with multiple sclerosis said, “‘I can’t get there in my wheelchair, but I can do it on a horse.”
More than 50% of the roster are children on the autism spectrum. Riding horses contradicts almost every instinct they have and requires them to pay close attention to their horse, side walker and leader. The riders build self esteem and independence by playing games and learning how to ride and control their horses. Some riders who will not hug their parents hug their horses and the volunteers helping them.
Rogan said that horses are “magical, perceptive, intuitive and perfect for this type of therapy because of their makeup and personality.”
Harmony Farms gives those without legs the chance to walk, gives those who are selectively mute a voice, and helps children who have never giggled, giggle.
Harmony Farms is located at 2205 Pluckebaum Road in Cocoa. SL
SENIOR LIFE Jill Blue
Harmony Farms has been a soothing therapy for children and adults with disabilities for 32 years in Brevard County.
KEEP MOVING
THE 11TH FEATURE IN A SERIES ON EXERCISE
Swimming offers injury-free approach to physical fitness for seniors
BY LINDA JUMP
Rose Mayfield, 70, of Indian Harbour Beach swims with the Space Coast Masters Swim Team not only for the physical benefits, but also “because it’s relaxing and meditative. That’s why I lost count of the number of laps,” she said, and chuckled.
Justin McVicker, the swim team president and coach, said swimming regularly offers a multitude of benefits. He is an ocean rescue lifeguard for the City of Cape Canaveral.
“I get a euphoric, pleasant and satisfied feeling that lasts all day, improved lung capacity and my weight is stable,” he said. Plus, he said, the swim team is his second family, who enjoy other activities together.
The U.S. Masters Swimming is a nonprofit organization offering benefits to 60,000 swimmers in local clubs with training, coaching, sanctioned events and other activities. In Brevard, other clubs include Swim Melbourne Masters based at Sherwood Park Pool in Melbourne and the Space Coast Aquanauts, who swim at the North County Aquatic Center.
Kristin Cusimano, the recreation director at the Gleason Park Pool
where the Space Coast Masters Swim Team meets each Saturday morning, said swimming is “great exercise for
anyone six months old to end of life that’s nonweight bearing to get cardio exercise. It keeps the heart healthy and is a sport with unlimited benefits.”
Carla Gregg of Indian Harbour Beach joined the team four years ago.
“I heard about it on Google and you can swim forever and not feel like you’ve beat up your joints,” she said.
Pete Turner of Palm Bay has been on the team nearly 30 years. “I don’t like running, weight lifting or sweating while I exercise,” he said. He swam in high school and college and then, “took 18 years off.”
According to the Centers for Disease Control, swimming is the fourth most popular form of exercise for seniors, after walking, running and cycling. Swimming for 30 minutes can burn about 225 calories. For maximum benefits, the CDC recommends two to three swims weekly. Since 1896, freestyle and breaststroke competitions have been a part of the Olympics.
Tips for senior swimmers include warming up with gentle stretches to prepare muscles and joints, starting
slowly and gradually increasing intensity, drinking sips of water between laps, using pool rails and ladders to prevent falls, wearing sunscreen, a swim cap and goggles, always swimming with a buddy, and using proper technique to prevent strain or injuries.
Other public pools where seniors can swim include Fee Avenue, Eddie Lee Taylor Sr. and Lipscomb Pools, operated by the City of Melbourne; McLarty Park in Rockledge, operated by the county; Merritt Island High School Aquatic Center; Cocoa Beach Aquatic Center and the Palm Bay Aquatic Center. SL
SENIOR LIFE Linda Jump
Rose Mayfield of Indian Harbour Beach does the breaststroke during a recent practice with the Space Coast Masters Swim Team. She began swimming when she was 5 years old.
SENIOR LIFE Linda Jump
Justin McVicker swims in the closer lane in sync with Tasha Camps in the next swim lane.
By Randal C. Hill
Behind the Beat
‘Please Come to Boston’ — Dave Loggins
Was “Please Come to Boston” a true story? Let’s find out.
David Allen Loggins was born in 1947 in Mountain City, Tennessee, a second cousin to musician Kenny Loggins (“Footloose”). After high school, Dave Loggins sold insurance before deciding to become a professional singer/guitarist/songwriter.
In 1972, he contracted with Nashville’s Vanguard Records as a solo artist. His album “Personal Belongings” tanked, but Three Dog Night lifted one of Loggins’ LP’s tracks — “Pieces of April” — which became the group’s 14th Top 20 hit. (A YouTube comparison, though, shows that Loggins had the superior version.)
“Pieces of April,” however, did nothing to advance the brand name of Loggins, so he pressed on. In 1974, Epic Records had him record the album “Apprentice (In a Musical Workshop).” “Please Come to Boston” became the lead-off single, and that held the key to Loggins’ (fleeting) success.
In the ballad, a traveling-musician narrator pleads with the love of his life back home to join him on the tour road:
Please come to Boston for the springtime
I’m stayin’ here with some friends
And they’ve got lots of room
Then,
Please come to Denver with the snowfall
We’ll move up into the mountains so far
That we can’t be found
And finally,
Please come to L. A. to live forever
A California life alone
Is just too hard to bear
The woman he misses may love the vagabond, but she always refuses to join him:
And she said, “Hey, ramblin’ boy
Now won’t you settle down?
There ain’t no gold and there ain’t nobody like me
I’m the Number One fan of the man from Tennessee
Near the tale’s end, the narrator comes clean about how conflicted he is
about his situation:
Now this drifter’s world goes ’round and ’round
And I doubt it’s ever gonna stop
But of all the dreams I’ve lost or found
And all that I ain’t got I still need to lean to Somebody I can sing to
His lone Top five hit explores the tension tug-of-war between a musician’s yearning for the tour road and the desire for a stable relationship; Loggins’ inspiration for the song followed a 1972 tour with the Nitty Gritty Dirt Band (“Mr. Bojangles”) that included stops in Boston, Denver and Los Angeles, all locales new to Loggins.
As with so many other story songs — “Cat’s in the Cradle,” “Honey,” “The Boxer” — music fans often wonder if such tear jerkers are based on truth or are created from scratch. “The story is almost true,” the Grammynominated Loggins explains, “except that there wasn’t anyone waiting, so I made her up, in effect making the longing for someone stronger. It was a recap to my first trip to each of these cities and out of innocence. That was how I saw each one. The fact of having no one to come home to made the chorus easy to write.”
Were “Cat’s in the Cradle,” “Honey” and “The Boxer” true tales? Nope, each creation was also a wellcrafted work of pure fiction. SL
SENIOR LIFE Courtesy of YouTube
Dave Loggins’ fictional songs are spins on reality.
A r e y o u t i r e d o f l i v i n g w i t h c h r o n i c
p a i n a n d c o m p l e x c o n d i t i o n s t h a t
s e e m t o h a v e n o s o l u t i o n ?
I f y o u ' v e t r i e d e v e r y t h i n g a n d a r e s t i l l
s u f f e r i n g , i t m i g h t b e t i m e t o c o n s i d e r
a n a l t e r n a t i v e t h a t h a s w o r k e d f o r
m a n y o t h e r S p a c e C o a s t r e s i d e n t s . D r .
A n d r e a I z q u i e r d o , L A c , o f B o d h i
T r a d i t i o n a l C h i n e s e M e d i c i n e
A c u p u n c t u r e , o f f e r s a c o m p a s s i o n a t e
a n d e f f e c t i v e a p p r o a c h t o h e a l i n g .
I m a g i n e w a k i n g u p e v e r y m o rn i n g
w i t h o u t t h e n a g g i n g p a i n t h a t h a s
b e e n a c o n s t a n t p a r t o f y o u r l i f e
P i c t u r e y o u r s e l f e n g a g i n g i n a c t i v i t i e s ,
f r e e f r o m t h e c o n s t r a i n t s o f c h r o n i c
d i s c o m f o r t H a v i n g m o r e e n e r g y ,
s l e e p i n g b e t t e r , a n d b e i n g a b l e t o
e n j o y y o u r d a y - t o - d a y l i f e I n s t e a d o f
l i v i n g w i t h t h e t h o u g h t t h a t “ p a i n i s
p a r t o f g e t t i n g o l d e r ” a n d “ y o u j u s t
h a v e t o d e a l w i t h i t ” T h i s i s w h a t D r
A n d r e a ’ s t r e a t m e n t s c a n h e l p y o u
a c h i e ve , a s m a n y o f h e r p a t i e n t s c a n
a t t e s t K a t h y K o f M e l b o u r n e s h a r e s :
“ M y l e f t k n e e w a s i n s u c h b a d s h a p e
t h a t I c o u l d h a r d l y w a l k u p t h e s t e p s t o
D r A n d r e a ' s o f f i c e I n e e d e d a n
e l e v a t o r N o w I f e e l g r e a t , I a m w a l k i n g !
T h e w a y s h e m i x e s h e r d i f f e r e n t
t h e r a p i e s h a s b e e n o u t s t a n d i n g t o m e ”
D r A n d r e a ' s j o u r n e y i n t o h e a l t h w a s
d e e p l y p e r s o n a l S h e s u f f e r e d f r o m
G a s t r o E s o p h a g e a l R e f l u x D i s e a s e
( G E R D ) f o r m a n y y e a r s , f r o m h i g h
s c h o o l t o h e r p r e - m e d y e a r s i n
c o l l e g e , e x p e r i e n c i n g s e v e r e a c i d
r e f l u x s e v e r a l d a y s a w e e k . T h e
i n t e n s e d i s c o m f o r t o f t e n p r e v e n t e d
h e r f r o m a t t e n d i n g c l a s s e s . T r a d i t i o n a l
t r e a t m e n t s f a i l e d t o p r o v i d e t h e r e l i e f
s h e d e s p e r a t e l y n e e d e d . I t w a s n ' t
u n t i l s h e d i s c o v e r e d a c u p u n c t u r e t h a t
s h e f o u n d l a s t i n g r e l i e f , l e a d i n g h e r t o
p i v o t f r o m h e r W e s t e r n m e d i c i n e
e d u c a t i o n t o a c a r e e r i n t r a d i t i o n a l
Ch i n e s e m e d i c i n e
" I u n d e r s t a n d m y p a t i e n t s ' p a i n a n d
f r u s t r a t i o n b e c a u s e I ' v e e x p e r i e n c e d i t
m y s e l f T h i s j o u r n e y d r i v e s m y m i s s i o n
t o d e v e l o p e f f e c t i v e p r o t o c o l s f o r
s e e m i n g l y h o p e l e s s c o n d i t i o n s
N o t h i n g b r i n g s m e m o r e j o y t h a n
s e e i n g m y p a t i e n t s t r a n s f o r m a n d
r e t u r n t o d o i n g w h a t t h e y l o v e "
T h e m a j o r i t y o f p e o p l e w h o c o m e t o
B o d h i T C M h a v e a l r e a d y t r i e d
c o u n t l e s s d o c t o r s a n d s p e c i a l i s t s , h a v e h a d s u r g e r i es , a n d y e t h a v e
f o u n d n o l a s t i n g r e l i e f S u c h w a s t h e
c a s e f o r l o c a l M e l b o u r n e r e s i d e n t
I l e n e G , w h o s u f f e r e d f r o m
u n e x p l a i n e d f o o t s w e l l i n g A s a p r e v i o u s a t h l e t e , s h e w a s d e s p e r a t e t o f i n d r e l i e f a n d w a s t i r e d o f f i n d i n g n o
s o l u t i o n s .
I h a d s e e n m a n y d o c t o r s a b o u t m y f o o t
f o r f o u r y e a r s , i n c l u d i n g v a s c u l a r
s u r g e o n s , o r t h o p e d i c s u r g e o n s , a n d f o o t
s p e c i a l i s t s N o o n e c o u l d f i x i t B u t a f t e r
r e a d i n g a n a r t i c l e a b o u t D r A n d r e a , I
d e c i d e d t o s e e h e r I f o l l o w e d h e r
r e c o m m e n d a t i o n f o r t r e a t m e n t a n d n o w , I
c a n w a l k w i t h o u t s w e l l i n g o r t e n s i o n i n
m y l i g a m e n t s S h e i s t h e o n l y o n e w h o
c o u l d h e l p m e I h a v e a l r e a d y s u n g h e r p r a i s e s t o m a n y p e o p le ”
W h a t i f y o u c o n t i n u e d o w n t h e s a m e
p a t h , h o p i n g f o r a d i f f e r e n t r e s u l t b u t
f i n d i n g o n l y m o r e p a i n a n d f r u s t r a t i o n ?
T h e c o n s e q u e n c e s o f n o t s e e k i n g a n
e f f e c t i v e s o l u t i o n c a n b e d i r e C h r o n i c
p a i n c a n w o r s e n o v e r t i m e , l e a d i n g t o
i n c r e a s e d d i s c o m f o r t a n d r e d u c e d
m o b i l i t y . V a l e r i e M o f M e l b o u r n e s h a r e s :
" I h a d s e v e r e s h o u l d e r a n d n e c k p a i n
f o r a l o n g t i m e I t r i e d p h y s i c a l t h e r a p y ,
s h o t s , a n d s t e r o i d s , b u t n o t h i n g
w o r k e d A f t e r o n e s e s s i o n w i t h D r
A n d r e a , I f e l t s o m u c h r e l i e f t h a t I f e l l a s l e e p I c o n t i n u e d w i t h t r e a t m e n t a n d
n o w , m y s h o u l d e r , a r m s , a n d k n e e s
f e e l s o m u c h b e t t e r I a m g r a t e f u l I f o u n d h e r "
E v e r y d a y y o u d e l a y s e e k i n g
t r e a t m e n t i s a n o t h e r d a y s p e n t i n
u n n e c e s s a r y p a i n T h e l o n g e r y o u
w a i t , t h e m o r e e n t r e n c h e d y o u r
c o n d i t i o n c a n b e c o m e , m a k i n g i t h a r d e r t o t r e a t F o r c h r o n i c c o n d i t i o n s , t i m e i s o f t h e e s s e n c e W h y w a i t y e a r s
f o r a p o t e n t i a l s o l u t i o n w h e n y o u c a n
s t a r t f e e l i n g b e t t e r i n a m a t t e r o f w e e k s ? S h e r K . o f M e l b o u r n e s h a r e s :
" A f t e r t h r e e d a y s o f s e v e r e b a c k p a i n , I
w a s r e a d y t o g o t o t h e E R I c o u l d n ' t s i t , s t a n d , o r l i e d o w n w i t h o u t p a i n
L u c k i l y , I g o t a l a s t - m i n u t e
a p p o i n t m e n t w i t h D r A n d r e a W i t h
h e r c o u r s e o f t r e a t m e n t , I f e l t
s i g n i f i c a n t r e l i e f M y b a c k i s s t r o n g e r
t h a n e v e r , a n d e v e n m y s h o u l d e r p a i n
a n d f o o t t i n g l i n g h a v e i m p r o v e d I
h i g h l y r e c o m m e n d a n y o n e i n p a i n t o s e e h e r "
C o n t i n u i n g t o l i v e i n p a i n i s n o t o n l y
f r u s t r a t i n g b u t a l s o c o s t l y . T h e t i m e a n d
t h e e m o t i o n a l t o l l o f o n g o i n g p a i n a d d s
u p . D r . A n d r e a ' s c o m p r e h e n s i v e
t r e a t m e n t p r o t o c o l s a r e t a i l o r e d f o r
e a c h p a t i e n t s ’ c o n d i t i o n a n d h e a l t h
g o a l s , b l e n d i n g a n c i e n t k n o w l e d g e
w i t h m o d e r n b i o e l e c t r i c t h e r a p i e s t o p r o v i d e a n o n - i n v a s i v e , e a s i e r , e f f e c t i v e p a t h t o r e l i e f
J o i n t h e m a n y p a t i e n t s w h o h a v e
f o u n d r e a l r e l i e f a n d a b e t t e r q u a l i t y
o f l i f e S c a n t h e Q R c o d e b e l o w t o s e e
v i d e o s o f s u c c e s s s t o r i e s f r o m o t h e r
S p a c e C o a s t r e s i d e n t s
w w w . b o d h i t c m . c o m
I t ' s t i m e t o t a k e c o n t r o l o f y o u r h e a l t h a n d w e l l - b e i n g . S c h e d u l e a
c o n s u l t a t i o n t o d a y a n d d i s c o v e r h o w
w e c a n h e l p y o u o v e r c o m e p a i n , h e l p
y o u f e e l b e t t e r a n d r e s t o r e y o u r
h e a l t h !
TECH KNOW TIDBITS
Smart home display offers security, convenience for homeowners
BY CAMERON COUNTRYMAN
The Google Nest Hub (second generation) is a multifaceted piece of technology that is finding its place in an increasing number of homes, including many new homes by Viera Builders.
The Nest Hub is a small device with a seven-inch touchscreen and a speaker as its base.
It is compatible with other Nest devices, such as doorbells, door locks, thermostats, lights and speakers.
This connection allows the owner of the devices to control them from the Nest Hub or remotely through a cellphone app.
The Nest Hub partners with YouTube, Netflix, Spotify, Apple Music, Disney+ and more, so Nest Hub owners can watch tutorial videos on YouTube or listen to their favorite songs on Spotify. Nest Hub users’ favorite songs can also be played on every Nest speaker in their house at the same time.
Alarms can be set on the Nest Hub, along with a list of things to report when
the alarm goes off, like the weather or the news.
If the Nest Hub is kept in the owner’s bedroom, it can track sleep quality.
Another feature of the Nest Hub is that it can display what the Nest doorbell camera is seeing in real time and allow those watching the camera to speak to people at their door through the doorbell. Owners of the Nest Hub can also lock and unlock their door through the touchscreen, app or a voice command.
The door lock is not the only thing that can be controlled by voice command through the Nest Hub.
One could say, “Hey, Google, set the kitchen lights to 50 percent,” and, if on a dimmer switch, the kitchen lights would turn on at 50 percent brightness.
The Nest Hub will also answer questions such as, “What is the weather forecast?” and “What is on my calendar for today?”
The Nest Hub (2nd Gen) costs $100. There are also other smart home display devices on the market. SL
Library opens world of digital resources in addition to traditional books
BY FLORA REIGADA
Want to enjoy some literature, a good novel and other reading material but would prefer not to bring home a stack of books from the library?
Public libraries have long adjusted to technological changes.
Brevard County Libraries updated its technology in ways that can enrich the lives of patrons with information, knowledge and entertainment that does not necessarily involve a traditional hardcover book.
“We offer more opportunities for patrons to enjoy literature and other forms of entertainment through online reading, streaming and research capabilities,” said Kimberly Jackson, librarian 1 at the Titusville Public Library.
All it takes to benefit is a free library card to download the apps.
Through Hoopla, a free digital library service, card holders can access audio books, television, movies, magazines and comics.
Libby, a free OverDrive app, allows users to access digital content from
libraries, such as ebooks, audio books and magazines.
Jackson enjoys listening to audiobooks on her television.
“Hoopla can transfer it to a smart TV and I can listen while getting things done around my house,” she said.
Material is available in multiple languages.
Research capabilities are just about limitless and as varied as learning about your family’s ancestry, or how to fix a car.
Ethan Hart, library assistant 2 at the Catherine Schweinsberg Rood Central Library in Cocoa, mentioned the addition of talking books for the visually impaired and a collection of large-print books.
“Like all Brevard County libraries, we have books on CD. They may be transferred from other county libraries, if need be,” he said.
Assistive devices include closed caption television that magnifies material 60 times, a reading edge personal reader that scans printed or typed material and reads it in an audible voice, an enhanced workstation that magnifies information 16 times and a collection of circulating
Beth Doud, the reference librarian at the
discusses how Brevard County library card
legal forms or a children’s library through free digital
hand-held aids.
Amid all the technology, printed hardcover books will for the foreseeable future be available at Brevard County Public Libraries.
Although Hart recognizes the many advantages of ebooks and technology available at the Cocoa Library, he still prefers the feel of a hardcover book in his hand.
Beth Doud, the reference librarian at the Mims Scottsmoor Public Library, said the library has numerous digital resources along with its printed books. Find out more about all the Brevard County libraries, their locations, hours and activities by going to brevardfl.gov/ PublicLibraries/ SL
SENIOR LIFE Cameron Countryman
Google Nest Hub can be used to control devices such as thermostats, lights, speakers, door bells and locks.
SENIOR LIFE Dan Reigada
Mims Scottsmoor Public Library,
holders can learn a language, access
resources.
Bistro owner aims to bring best menu to shooting center’s grill
BY BRENDA EGGERT BRADER
Try Uzi omelets, a ballistic breakfast sandwich. Or how about a shotshell skillet? Your choice is a lunch of lockedand-loaded burgers, bullet bowls or small-arm starters.
Double Tapp Grill, at 404 S. Harbor City Blvd. in Melbourne, has them all as well as the Frogbones Shooting Center, making it easy to come for a meal and practice with your firearm, too.
“I am leasing the place from the owners of the gun range, Frogbones Shooting Center in Melbourne,” said Jeffrey Kaplan, who has owned Palm Shores Bistro for 15 years and is now operating the Double Tapp Grill. “January was our first full month at Double Tapp Grill.”
Under his management, Kaplan is offering a menu variety that announces that the grill is not just for those wishing to use the shooting facilities.
“We would like the community to come here, opening it up for outside people,” Kaplan said. “Our issue is that it is not just a family-shooting center, but open to the public to realize there is a restaurant as well.”
A full bar accompanies the comfortable multi-seating grill
tots.
that serves breakfast, lunch and dinner. Diners who drop in for a bullseye breakfast will find omelets with meat and potato combinations, hotcakes, coffee, latte and juice. Lunch and dinner can feature chicken wings, burgers, salads, rice bowls, sandwiches, clubs and Ruebens, cheese steaks — the same quality of food as the Palm Shores Bistro. Try the shrimp or chicken platters, hand-breaded gator tail dinner or any variety of tacos for a tasty meal platter.
Sunday brunch is 10 a.m.
as 94. Although it is a member-owned, private club, it is open to the public to join.
“We are pretty much a restaurant, except that we have a major outdoor social aspect,” Rosa said. “Everyone is very nice because they are voluntary members, so they take ownership and pride in the club. Bringing their unique talents, both young and older people enjoy working together. We want to carry out Italian traditions, but you don’t have to be Italian to participate.”
The club has two bocce courts on site that are available to members at any time. The courts are 72 feet in length and 12 feet in width. There are 60 to 70 members who play socially. Rosa said their courts are “world-renowned” because of the materials they are composed of.
“The courts were done by members, with gravel at the base, rock, sand and Har-Tru clay court topping from mountains in Virginia,” Rosa said. “The bocce balls are made out of wood and carved.”
There is a separate bocce league of about 40 to 50 members. It plays at five locations, including Bridgewater and Heritage Isle in West Viera, Viera East and Barefoot Bay.
The league captain and instructor Anthony Verzi said he expects the league to grow with Viera’s expansion.
“There are a lot of new big developments being built with bocce courts,” Verzi said. “Anybody’s invited; they can come over to the Italian American Club and be included in the games. The more you play, the better
A full bar accompanies the comfortable multi-seating grill that serves breakfast, lunch and dinner.
to 3 p.m., serving French toast, omelets, shrimp and grits, and chicken and waffles. Grill hours are from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday; and 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. for Sunday brunch and breakfast. It is closed on Monday.
Kaplan is not shy about his new workload.
“I have a great staff and
a couple of managers so I can bounce back and forth (between sites),” said Kaplan of his busier work schedule. “We can do a really nice job.”
The community has participated by already attending unique events held at the site, including karaoke night and a comedy night. Additional events are being planned.
And shooters at Frogbones don’t need to worry if someone imbibes and then wants to shoot. That is not allowed. Kaplan said that an invisible ink is printed on the hand of all those who drink at the grill and shows up under special lighting at the shooting center. Those customers will be denied the right to shoot. SL
SENIOR LIFE Brenda Eggert Brader
The Double Tapp Grill features an open bar and seating in smart decorator colors of navy, gray and handsome dark wood finishes that provide a comfortable, relaxing grill atmosphere.
SENIOR LIFE
Brenda Eggert Brader
Jeffrey Kaplan, the manager of Double Tapp Grill, displays a hero sandwich served with tater
STRI PES
AUSA offers opportunity to assist those serving in the Army
You may never have been in the military but wished you could serve in some way.
You can show your support in many ways. One is through the Association of the United States Army.
AUSA is an organization of veterans of the Army and other branches of the military and civilians who want to support those who are serving.
“You don’t have to be in the Army to be interested,” said Kip Mathias, president of the Space Coast Chapter of AUSA. “Anyone can join. Here is an opportunity to serve.”
AUSA was founded in 1950 as a nonpartisan, educational, professional development nonprofit organization.
The Space Coast chapter of
AUSA started as a subchapter of the Sunshine Chapter for two years and was chartered by the AUSA Council of Trustees on July 1, 2006. The chapter’s areas included Brevard, Volusia, Indian River, Saint Lucie and Martin counties.
Mathias, an Army veteran of 24 years who served in Desert Storm, was president of the local chapter from 2006 to 2010 but left the post because
of extensive business travels. He was again elected as president and is reenergizing the organization.
Mathias said he would not trade a day of his military service.
“It was an honor and a privilege for me to serve,” said Mathias, whose grandfather, Joseph Tatman, served during World War II and was captured on Christmas Eve 1944 outside Luxembourg.
He said that while the most recent wars are over, the organization still has a lot to do.
“We still need the public support in recruitment and retention” he said. “We are here for the parents. We always want to be here to talk to the soldiers.”
AUSA strengthens the bonds between soldiers and the American
people. It serves to inform Congress and the public about issues affecting the Army. It is also to educate veterans and civilians about resources and to connect with industry partners.
Soldiers need to know they have the whole community behind them.
The AUSA executive committee meets from 5 to 7 p.m. on the third Thursday of the month at the Brevard Veterans Memorial Center on Merritt Island. It has quarterly general membership meetings. The next meeting is from 6 to 8 p.m. Sept. 20. Retired Army Maj. Gen. Michael Repass is the guest speaker.
To learn more about AUSA and how to become a member, visit ausa.org; call Mathias at 321-591-9826 or email pressc@ausa.org. SL
Building homes for disabled veterans keeps retired Army veteran busy
BY ERNIE DORLING
Retired Army Brig. Gen. Tom Landwermeyer often spends three or four nights a week sleeping on a Murphy bed that he had installed in his office in Boston.
Landwermeyer commutes to Boston three weeks a month, sometimes more, in connection with his position as president and CEO of Homes For Our Troops (HFOT).
HFOT is a national charity based just outside of Boston that builds specially adapted custom homes across the country and donates them to severely injured post-9/11 veterans.
“Our organization is about
providing our veterans an opportunity to rebuild their lives,” Landwermeyer said. “Since 2004, Homes For Our Troops has built over 371 specially adapted homes nationwide.”
Landwermeyer grew up in Dallas, where he spent four years in JROTC during high school. In the summer of 1972, he was accepted into the United States Military Academy at West Point.
Landwermeyer started his career as an armorer assigned to tanks. Five years later, he became an aviator and flew helicopters for the rest of his 33year career.
“I spent my career in duty stations around the country,” Landwermeyer said. “But one of my more harrowing
assignments was in South Korea in 2006 when North Korea tested their first nuclear missile. I was the deputy commanding general of the 2nd Infantry,” Landwermeyer said. “No one knew what the North Koreans were going to do. Everyone lived in fear not knowing what their next move would be.”
Landwermeyer retired in 2009. In 2018, he and his wife, Marie, moved from northern Virginia to Melbourne. “We wanted a warmer climate and a better tax situation where our retirement dollars would go further,” he said.
Shortly after arriving in Melbourne, Landwermeyer was approached by the outgoing president and CEO of Homes For Our Troops inquiring if he would be interested in taking over the leadership of the organization. After a lengthy vetting process, he was selected as the new president and CEO. Landwermeyer devotes most of his time overseeing HFOT.
“We build specially adapted custom homes for our veterans,” he said. “These homes help restore some of the freedom and independence our veterans sacrificed as a result of their service. I would go anywhere and do anything to support our veterans and their families.”
Landwermeyer credits individual donors, HFOT’s corporate partners, foundations, and those who participate in fundraisers for keeping the mission of building these homes going.
“We need to raise between 30 and 40 million dollars each year to maintain our building schedule,” he said. “Land prices are soaring, as are construction costs, so the amount we need to raise each year will continue to increase. Currently, each home costs between eight and nine hundred
thousand dollars to build,” he added. When Landwermeyer is not traveling around the country, he enjoys playing golf and spending time with his two Goldendoodles. “You can’t help but have fun around them,” he said. SL
SENIOR LIFE
Courtesy of Tom Landwermeyer Brig. Gen. Tom Landwermeyer flew helicopters for most of his 33 years in the Army.
AFTAC inducts two onto Wall of Honor
SPECIAL TO SENIOR LIFE
The Air Force Technical Applications Center’s (AFTAC) Wall of Honor now displays two additional names: Chief Master Sgt. Lloyd French and Deborah Ward.
The Wall of Honor’s purpose is to recognize employees who “profoundly contributed to AFTAC’s global mission, while simultaneously personifying the Air Force Core Values of integrity, service and excellence.”
AFTAC commander Col. James A. Finlayson and his command chief, Chief Master Sgt. Jerome Wright, also presented French and Ward (via proxy) with medals.
French was assigned to AFTAC for his entire 30-year career. He worked his way up from a gamma spectroscopy technician to AFTAC’s command superintendent. French logged more than 2,500 hours in different aircrafts, collecting airborne samples for AFTAC’s nuclear treaty monitoring mission, headquartered at Patrick Space Force Base. He was “flabbergasted” that he was selected
for the Wall of Honor and credits his many mentors for helping him achieve such great success.
“One mentor in particular told me that to be successful, one needs to seek out people who have a proven track record of success and ask them how they got there,” French said. “I carried that throughout my career, and I am indebted to them for helping me achieve this great honor here today.”
1998 marked the beginning of Ward’s civil service career, when she started as a resource advisor for the Air Force. The “unrelenting, principled, uncompromising” Ward took on many roles in financial management such as budget officer, comptroller, fiscal programmer and, eventually, AFTAC’s director of plans and programs.
Ward’s health “prevented her from making the trip,” so her former deputy, retired Air Force Lt. Col. Lisa Shoemaker, accepted the award on Ward’s behalf. “The main reason why I agreed to stand in for her is because she cared,” Shoemaker said. “She truly cared, not just about the mission or the money or the resources, but the
people.”
“Over the years, the center has seen enormous growth in technology and equipment modernization, yet none of those resources would be possible without the human factor behind
them,” Finlayson said. “It’s not the shiny new equipment or the latest computer upgrade that drive mission success. On the contrary, AFTAC’s greatest asset remains its people.” SL
What is your next veteran event? Send us information
SENIOR LIFE Courtesy of U.S. Air Force by Matthew S. Jurgens Retired U.S. Air Force Chief Master Sgt. Lloyd French points to his engraved plaque currently displayed on the Air Force Technical Applications Center’s Wall of Honor.
AVET celebrates Women Veterans Recognition Day
BY ELLA DORFMAN
U. S. Army retiree Michelle Williams, a logistics specialist and fleet manager for the Department of Homeland Security, was happy to support the AVET women’s veteran luncheon.
Hosted June 12 at the Nyami Nyami River Lodge at Brevard Zoo, it celebrated Women Veterans Recognition Day, which recognizes the 1948 signing of the Women’s Armed Services Integration Act. The act enabled women to serve in the U.S. Armed Forces permanently.
“This is my second year attending the luncheon,” Williams said. “I retired in 2013 after being a petroleum
U.S. Air Force Chief Master Sgt. Karissa Gunter,
U.S. Coast Guard Cmdr. Sarah Brennan were guest
supply specialist. I am part of a women veterans group and normally we get notified to come support. It is nice seeing so many people from all different
branches coming together and hearing what they have to say.”
The sold-out event featured several speakers. Chief Master Sgt. Karissa Gunter, the senior enlisted Airman for Space Launch Delta 45 at Patrick Space Force Base, spoke about the Space Force and her experience serving for 23 years. She said “it warms (her) heart to see all the beautiful ladies in attendance.”
“When I was first (became) Chief Master Sergeant five years ago, I would walk into a meeting and often see I was the only female,” Gunter said. “I am sure some of you have felt like that before. I questioned myself, if I was prepared enough and if I could give a positive impact that my male counterparts did.” She said I was and I could.
Coast Guard Cmdr. Sarah Brennan, the commanding officer of the Marine Safety Unit Port Canaveral, said attendees can agree that they would not be there without each others’ support.
“Just take notice of how many women really are running this joint in the Space Coast,” Brennan said. “I dare each of you to go out and find somebody you want to emulate. It should not just be women, it should be men and people above and below you. You should always be asking for feedback from all around you.”
Brennan told them to concentrate on what is ahead and to be the best leader.
“Think in your head for one minute about your greatest weakness as a leader, and then forget about it,” Brennan said. “Everyone is an adult until proven otherwise. Focus on education, mentorship and just say yes to the opportunity.”
Gunter ended her speech with “cheers to strong women.”
“What we bring to the table is something totally different from others,” Gunter said. “Our voice matters, our experiences and exposure matters. May we be them, may we know them and may we raise them.” SL
SENIOR LIFE R. Norman Moody
left, Dr. Gloria Wetherspoon, a retired Air Force chief master sergeant, and
speakers at the Women Veterans Recognition Day luncheon.
8085 Spyglass Hill Road Viera, Florida 32940
Monday – Friday 8:30 am – 5 pm
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New center brings streamlined, unified 911 dispatch system
BY CAMERON COUNTRYMAN
Brevard County’s new Emergency Operations Center (EOC) is now home to the Unified Communications Center.
The Carrie Dehler Unified Communications Center for the Brevard County Sheriff’s Office, police, fire and emergency medical services dispatch is named after Dehler, a dispatcher who died during her shift in July 2023.
The Center is expected to be in operation by the end of June, once the fire rescue and dispatch center from the Sheriff’s Office headquarters in Titusville is moved to the new EOC in Rockledge.
This center is where all 911 calls from the local area, Sheriff’s Office, West Melbourne, Melbourne Beach and Cape Canaveral will go. Other 911 calls are routed to the police or fire rescue whose departments handle emergencies in that particular city.
“The services the citizens will get will be more streamlined and more efficient,” said Brevard County Sheriff Cmdr. Theresa Garcia, commander of
the Unified Communication Center.
“That’s the ultimate goal.”
The dispatch center has come a long way since its beginning in a cellar at the Brevard County Courthouse in Titusville. It now holds 28 dispatch consoles with relaxing color-changing LED lights under the adjustable-height desks and multiple monitors that are 27 to 49 inches wide at each console.
Next to the consoles are poles with two lights on top. One light is yellow and signals that the dispatcher is on a call. The other light is red and signals that the dispatcher needs a supervisor’s assistance. There are four raised supervisor consoles that allow supervisors to quickly see when a dispatcher needs help.
Not all 28 dispatch consoles will be immediately filled, so the Sheriff’s Office is now recruiting dispatchers and offering signing bonuses, on-thejob training, educational incentives and medical insurance. Recruiters can be reached at 321-264-5308 or visit Brevardsheriff.com.
Deborah Sands, the Public Services director for the Brevard County
Sheriff’s Office, started as a dispatcher and worked her way up to her current position. Other dispatchers stay in their position because they are pleased with the service they provide.
“It’s the most exciting,” Sands said. “It’s a great job.”
The new EOC also has workstations for the volunteers from 211 Brevard, who take information calls from the public.
211 Brevard provides immediate assistance and connects people to community resources in times of personal, financial and community crisis.
Volunteers will work from the EOC when it is activated for hurricanes, storms and other occasions. They will receive calls and help disseminate information and get people in touch with organizations that can take care of the needs they face during a crisis.
211 is a key asset for response and transition into recovery and has answers for things that 911 does not, such as where to get sandbags before a hurricane, where is the nearest shelter, when does it open or when will residents be allowed back home after an evacuation?
211 received 4,352 calls during Hurricane Matthew and 11,500
calls during Hurricane Irma. During non-hurricane times, 211 answers suicide calls or from people whose electricity will be cut off because they can’t pay their bills and puts them in touch with people who can help them. Having the 211 volunteers answering those essential but nonemergency calls during a hurricane or other emergencies, helps to keep the 911 dispatchers more available to immediately answer the urgent calls for help. SL
SENIOR LIFE Jill Blue
Tod Goodyear, a Brevard County Sheriff’s Office public information officer, shows one of the 911 dispatch stations at the Unified Communications Center at the new EOC.
SENIOR LIFE Jill Blue
Rachel Horst, a Brevard County public information officer, and Don Walker, the Brevard County communication director, give a tour of the 211 Brevard workstations at the new Emergency Operations Center.
SENIOR LIFE Jill Blue Deborah Sands, the Public Services director for the Brevard County Sheriff’s Office, and Theresa Garcia, commander of the Unified Communication Center, are excited about the new dispatch facility.
Slow down in summer heat to avoid life-threatening illnesses
BY BETTY PORTER
July is notorious for bringing extreme — even in the three digits — temperatures and high humidity. That’s why it is so important to take steps to avoid heat-related illnesses.
Exposure to the heat can bring a spectrum of disorders from minor to severe. Minor conditions include cramps (muscle spasms that result from the body’s loss of salt from sweating), syncope (feeling of faintness and dizziness), overall heat exhaustion and the more severe condition known as heat stroke.
Heat exhaustion from doing strenuous activities for a prolonged period in the heat in combination with dehydration can lead to heat stroke. This is a life-threatening condition that requires immediate medical attention. Left unchecked, it can cause severe damage to the brain and other vital organs. It can even be fatal.
“Even if you recover from a heat stroke, there is a possibility of future health problems. We now believe that heat stroke is almost like a concussion, able to create more susceptibility to future heat and immune diseases,” said Orlando Laitano, an assistant professor of applied psychology and kinesiology at the University of Florida. “Persons who survive the heat stroke may sustain long-term cognitive or neurological damage. That’s why taking precautions to prevent heat stroke is so important.”
It is advised for anyone at any age experiencing signs or symptoms of heat exhaustion that they stop all activities and rest and move to a cooler place in the shade or preferably into an air-conditioned space. Drinking cold water is key. During outdoor activities in the heat, it is advised to drink eight ounces of water every 20 minutes even if you don’t feel thirsty. During heat waves, drinking sports drinks in addition to water can help replace electrolytes. Avoid fluids containing caffeine or alcohol, which can deplete your body’s fluids and worsen heat-related illness.
Following the National Weather Service issuing a heat advisory forecasting high temperatures and humidity that pose health risks, the Florida Department of Health in Brevard County issues recommended safety measures to minimize the risk of heat-related illnesses and emergencies. Among the recommendations: Stay hydrated, stay cool, do avoid direct sunlight and long exposure to the sun. If someone must be outside during the hottest part of the day, take frequent breaks in shaded areas and avoid strenuous physical exercise. Never leave children or pets unattended in a vehicle. Avoid walking dogs on hot pavement or asphalt. Make sure they have plenty of fresh water.
First Aid for heat stroke includes calling 911 for emergency medical care. Quickly get the person into a shaded, cool area and remove outer clothing. Cool the person down with cold, wet cloths on the skin or soak their clothing with cool water until help arrives. For more information, go to brevard.floridahealth.gov.
The dangers of extreme heat are too real.
Linda Weisrock, who lives in Heritage Isle in Viera, recalls being
In addition to staying hydrated and taking breaks in the shade, wearing hats, sunglasses and long sleeves are helpful while in the sun for long periods of time during Brevard County’s scorching summer months.
on a Sierra Club hike at Big Bend National Park in West Texas while in her 30s. She got halfway to the highest peak in very hot temperatures when she started feeling overheated and sick.
“Luckily, the woman behind me was a nurse who sat down with me and had me drink water and stay calm. In a while, I began to feel better and we actually were able to go on climbing and made it up to the highest peak which was my goal,” she said. “But experiencing those moments of heat exhaustion out in the middle of nowhere was really scary.”
Laura Petruska, a 20-year resident of Suntree, remembers mowing the lawn at her former New Jersey home while the temperature was in the 90s. She said she began feeling overwhelmingly hot and sick.
“I made my way into the house and checked my temperature which was 104 degrees. I called 911 but told them I could not be taken to the hospital since my husband was on a trip and I had our two babies there at the house and no one to watch them. They quickly got a doctor on the phone with me who told me to
get into a cool shower right away. I told the doctor that my parents were on a no-salt diet and that I had joined them in not eating salt. He told me to eat something salty right away, but since I didn’t have any salty foods in the house he had me put salt from the shaker on my hand and slowly
lick it off. It took eight hours for my temperature to get back to normal. That’s when I realized what a danger I had put myself in,” she said. “I got off the no-salt kick and am much more careful now to avoid strenuous activity outdoors in the heat. It’s no joke. It’s really dangerous.” SL
SENIOR LIFE Keith Betterley
HEALTH & WELLNESS
Good nutrition should start fresh, cut back on processed food
BY BRENDA EGGERT BRADER
Fruits and vegetables are better and fresher than anything else you can eat.
When it comes to meat, fresh is best. Pass on anything processed, such as bologna.
Chicken, ham or roast beef that you can cook for sandwiches is of better nutritional value than anything you buy that is processed.
“If the item has more than three ingredients, you should avoid the packaged or processed foods,” said Lisa
Gladu-Molina, a certified personal trainer who offers nutritional advice at Aquatic Health Rehab in Melbourne.
Gladu-Molina suggests shopping in the perimeter of the grocery store, not the center aisles.
“You stay away from all the packaged foods at the perimeter, which is the trick,” GladuMolina said. “It is not fresh, and it loses its nutritional value and is not as good.”
There are canned foods for vegetables, fruits and legumes that will have nutritional value that is better than nothing at all.
“Frozen is better than canned,” Gladu-Molina said. “If it is frozen then it is fresh. Not processed fish sticks but frozen sealed fish is fine. Frozen chicken and fresh chicken are fine.”
Making a portion of fresh food and then freezing for later use is highly recommended by Elizabeth Shephard, a family and consumer science agent for the UF/IFAS Extension Service.
“Try to find recipes for two people for cooking, but if you do make a family favorite divide the leftovers.” Shephard said. “As an example, I make my meatloaf recipe in muffin tins to freeze as individual
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July Events
Christmas in July
Tuesday, July 9 from 11:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.
Jingle all the way to our Christmas in July Pop-Up Market event! Discover unique gifts while indulging in the joy of July Christmas cheer. RSVP by July 4
Lunch & Learn
Wednesday, July 17 from 10:30 a.m.
Get a taste of the Resort Lifestyle, firsthand. Enjoy a delicious chef prepared meal and a brief presentation of how to simplify your retirement with our all-inclusive amenities. RSVP by July 12
personal meal portions. Then when a meal is needed, I only have to thaw one small portion instead of thawing the entire recipe.”
When discussing cereals, Gladu-Molina said to always stick to whole grains and some granolas that are whole grain. If the product has more than three ingredients, then you should avoid it.
“Any leafy green, the greener the leaf, the better it is for you,” Gladu-Molina said. “Heating up regular vegetables
With processed breads, as with anything with more than three ingredients, try to omit. The same thing for cheeses. Processed cheese slices are not good, so get fresh.
Coffee and tea are fine. Alcohol has sulfates and is high in sugar.
Also replace processed foods with legumes, nuts and fruits and whole grains.
“We all pick and choose items to eat and drink. You cut back where you can,” GladuMolina said.
SENIOR LIFE Courtesy of Lisa Gladu-Molina Lisa Gladu-Molina creates a fresh Mediterranean salad with greens, avocado, black olives, grape tomatoes and fresh cheese.
Enjoy July
SATURDAY
National Day of Commuy Service
3 4 5 6
Sit and Get Fit
6:30 - 7:30 p.m.
Sea Turtle Program and Walk
Turkey Creek Sanctuary Free Ranger-Led Tour
First and third Sunday
10 - 11 a.m.
Total distance for tours is approximately 1 to 1.5 miles.
Turkey Creek 1518 Port Malabar Blvd. NE Palm Bay, 321-676-6690
Small Business Expo and Community Market
10 a.m. - 3 p.m.
Car show, food trucks, vendor and activities for kids.
W. Melbourne Community Park 3000 Minton Road Melbourne 321-837-7779
8 - 11 p.m.
2785 Leisure Way Melbourne 321-543-6358
Martin Andersen Senior 1025 S. Florida Ave. 321-631-7549
Computer Basics Class 10 a.m. - noon
Registration required.
Mims Scottsmoor Library 3615 Lionel Road Mims, 321-264-5080
USFWS Ranger-led sea turtle walk where you will learn about sea turtles and then go to the beach for a chance to watch a loggerhead lay her eggs.
Merritt Island Nation Wildlife Center 1987 Scrub Jay Way Titusville, 321-861-0669
Independence Day celebrations: parades, picnics, and fireworks
See listing on page 19.
Palm Bay Independence Day Celebration 5 - 9 p.m.
Fireworks, food trucks, vendors and live music.
EFSC 250 Community College Parkway SE, Palm Bay 321-952-3443 Warbird
Thunder Over the
7 8 9 10 11 12 13
Scottish Country Dancing
6:30 - 9:30 p.m.
Springs of Suntree 8300 Holiday Springs Road Suntree, 321-427-3587
SHINE
9 a.m. - noon
Medicare counseling. Franklin DeGroodt Library 6475 Minton Road SE Palm Bay, 321-345-1057
Christmas in July at Shell Harbor 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. Unique gifts and Christmas cheer.
Shell Harbor 2855 Murrell Road Rockledge, 321-252-1221
Coffee and Crafts
10 - 11 a.m.
Unwind with crafts while enjoying coffee. Central Brevard Library 308 Forrest Ave. Cocoa, 321-633-1792
Yarn Addicts 1 - 3 p.m.
Beginners welcome. Franklin T. DeGroodt Library 6475 Minton Road SE Palm Bay 321-952-6317
Morning Bocce
9 a.m. Italian American Club 1471 Cypress Ave. Melbourne 321-242-8044
Sit 'n' Knit
2:30 - 4:30 p.m. Knitting group. Palm Bay Library 1520 Port Malabar Blvd. NE Palm Bay, 321-952-4519
Ukulele Meet-up 11 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. Ukulele jam session. Titusville Library 2121 S. Hopkins Ave. Titusville, 321-264-5026
Medicaid Planning
10 a.m. Presented attorney William A. Johnson, PA. Must RSVP One Senior Place 8085 Spyglass Hill Road Viera, 321-751-6771
Tuesday Trivia
4 - 6 p.m. Pizza Gallery 2250 Town Center Ave. Viera 321-633-0397
Nestico Night Concert 6:30 p.m. Concert presented by the Melbourne Municipal Band.
Melbourne Auditorium 625 E. Hibiscus Blvd. Melbourne 321-724-0555
Chef for Seniors 11 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.
Cooking demonstration Wickham Park Senior Center 2785 Leisure Way Melbourne 321-255-4494
Movie Matinee with Rhodes Law
2 p.m. Must RSVP One Senior Place 8085 Spyglass Hill Road Viera, 321-751-6771
Space Coast Drum Collective Concert 3 - 4 p.m. Palm Bay Library 1520 Port Malabar Blvd. NE Palm Bay, 321-952-4519
3rd Thursday at the Avenue Viera 5 - 8 p.m. The Avenue Viera 2261 Town Center Ave. Viera, 321-634-5390
Master Gardener Clinic 9 - 11 a.m.
Bring your gardening questions, plant problems and bugs. DeGroodt Library 6475 Minton Road SE Palm Bay 321-952-6317
Bingo 6 p.m. Palm Bay Senior Center 1275 Culver Drive NE Palm Bay 321-724-1338
Viera East Farmers Market
10 a.m. - 2 p.m. Woodside Park 1705 Crane Creek Blvd. Viera, Facebook.com/ VEfarmersmarket
Country Music Fest 2024 4 p.m. Wickham Park Regional Pavilion 2500 Parkway Drive Melbourne vieracountryfest.com
Comedy Show Benefit 6:30 - 9:30 p.m.
Benefit for the South Brevard Sharing Center. Moose Lodge 3150 N. Courtenay Parkway Merritt Island 321-452-9061
Summer Travels with Confetti BSO Concert
7 p.m.
Suntree United Methodist Church 7400 N. Wickham Road Suntree, 321-242-2219
Brevard Home & Garden EXPO
10 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.
Admission is free Melbourne Auditorium brevardexpos.com
21 22 23 24 25 26 27
Ice Cream Social Fundraiser
Noon - 4 p.m.
Benefits Stella Maris Environments Research. 2525 S. Highway A1A Melbourne Beach
321-403-7646
Brevard Home & Garden EXPO
10 a.m. - 3 p.m.
Admission is free Melbourne Auditorium
SHINE 9 a.m. - noon
Medicare counseling
DeGroodt Library 6475 Minton Road SE Palm Bay, 321-345-1057
Overeaters Anonymous 11 a.m. - noon
Cocoa Beach Library 550 N. Brevard Ave. Cocoa Beach 321-868-1104
English Country Dancing 6 - 9 p.m.
Unitarian Church 2185 Meadowlane Ave. W. Melbourne 321-427-3587
Bingo 10 a.m. Wickham Park Senior Center 2785 Leisure Way Melbourne 321-255-4494
Bingo 11:30 a.m.
Palm Bay Senior Center 1275 Culver Drive NE Palm Bay 321-724-1338
Learn Conversational French
3:30 - 4:30 p.m.
Cocoa Beach Library 550 N. Brevard Ave. Cocoa Beach 321-868-1104
Brevard County Sherrif’s Office Shred Event 9 - 10:30 a.m. Two box limit of personal shredding. Cape Canaveral Precinct 111 Polk Ave. Cape Canaveral 321-264-7755
Friday Evening Bingo 6 - 9:30 p.m. Open to everyone older than 18.
Palm Bay Senior Center 1275 Culver Dr. NE Palm Bay 321-724-1338
Choose Your Flavor Adventure 2 - 5 p.m. Flavor tasting prepared by culinary experts. 1400 Apollo Blvd. S. Melbourne 321-473-47770
Space Coast Cars and Coffee—Car Show 5 - 8 p.m. 6729 Colonnade Ave. The Avenue Viera
28 29 30 31 August 1 2 3
Rock & Roll Revue
Sizzling Sounds of Summer Concert
3 p.m. Presented by the Melbourne Municipal Band.
Trinity Wellsprings Church 638 S. Patrick Drive Satellite Beach 321-724-0555
July Pickleball Mixer
6 p.m.
Painting with Pearl 10 a.m.
Celebrate independence day with parades, picnics, fireworks
BY BRENDA EGGERT BRADER
Celebrate the Fourth of July weekend through your pick of assorted events being held in Brevard County. The good old standbys — parades and fireworks — continue to enchant beginning July 3. There are many varied selections for entertainment offered in the county.
Titusville
“Red, White and Boom” is planned in North Brevard as the city of Titusville holds its free family event in conjunction with the fireworks display Thursday, July 4. Music, bounce houses, food vendors (or bring your own picnic) and other activities are planned from 6 to 10 p.m. at Chain of Lakes Park. Fireworks begin at 9:15 p.m.
Port St. John
“Thunder over the Indian River” fireworks are scheduled by the Port St. John Community Foundation for Saturday, July 6. The park gate on Kings Highway will open at 4 p.m. (Sunday is the rain date.) Enjoy inflatables, a disc jockey and food/dessert trucks.
The annual Red Hot and BBQ competition begins at 4 p.m. and peoples’ choice voting starts at 5 p.m. Tickets for barbecue samples are $10 each. The competition winner will be announced before the fireworks.
Cocoa
A free patriotic music concert by the Brevard Symphony Orchestra will be held at Cocoa Riverfront Park. “Symphony Under the Stars” will begin at 8 p.m. followed by fireworks at 9:15 p.m. Bring chairs and blankets for seating. The concert features toe-tapping and heart-filled pride of our country through a variety of patriotic tunes.
Many events shape up the Fourth of July holiday in Cocoa. The VIP experience includes a BBQ dinner, dessert, reserved parking, and reserved seating at the concert.
Merritt Island
Merritt Island 4th of July Parade starts at 10 a.m. July 4 at Merritt Island High School and go south on to North Courtenay Parkway to East Merritt Avenue and ends at Edgewood Junior/ Senior High School.
Rockledge
The City of Rockledge Independence Day Picnic is from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. July 4 in McLarty Park at 790 Barton Blvd. Lunch for one dollar includes a hamburger or hotdog, chips and a drink. Activities, games and music are offered.
Viera
Viera presents its annual Great American Celebration display of fireworks filling the night sky. It will be just east of the USSSA Space Coast Complex at 9 p.m. on Thursday, July 4 (weather permitting).
Melbourne
The Melbourne 4th of July Parade will be at 10 a.m. Thursday, July 4 in Downtown Melbourne. The parade route starts on South Hickory Street and Fee
Avenue heading downtown to East New Haven Avenue. The parade will turn east on New Haven proceeding to Municipal where it will end.
A free community celebration, “Lifting Up God and Country,” is planned from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Wickham Park Amphitheater. It will include a singalong, dance and parade of state flags.
MelBoom fireworks will be at 9 p.m. on July 4 at Front Street Park in Melbourne. Food trucks will be available.
Palm Bay
Eastern Florida State College at 250 Community College Parkway SE is the setting for the Palm Bay celebration from 5 to 9 p.m. Friday, July 5 with fireworks capping off the evening at 9:15 p.m. In addition to fireworks, the event will include 20 food trucks, vendors, live music, games and face painting.
Barefoot Bay
The residents of the Barefoot Bay community will celebrate fireworks at
9 p.m. Wednesday, July 3. The event will be held at Barefoot Bay Pool 1.
Sebastian
The 52nd annual Sebastian Fourth of July Festival parade is starting at 8:30 a.m. near the community center on Davis Street and Central Avenue, proceeding down Indian River Drive.
There will be music, a watermelon eating contest, Karaoke contest and fireworks at 9 p.m. SL
© Lovatts Puzzles
Solution on page 26
BOCCE Continued from page 9
you get with time and effort.”
Those interested can come to the Italian American Club at 6 p.m. on the second or fourth Monday of the month for instruction.
“We keep records, and it keeps it interesting,” Verzi said. “Bocce is something to take pride in and be competitive. It is great for people retiring and young people. If some folks are interested, just send them our way. I would be happy to teach them.”
Kathy Welters, Tom Welters, Laura Pierce and Joellen Murphy play bocce for Buca de Bocce in Viera East.
“It’s fun to meet new people,’’ said Kathy Welters, 68, who lives nine months out of the year in Viera and the
Mont Blanc, e.g. 57. Blue shade
58. Wrapped up 59. Stipulations
60. SeaWorld creature 61. Mediocre
DOWN
1. Like some socks 2. Tint 3. Bonkers 4. Mooring spots 5. Wiener schnitzel meat 6. Choose 7. Minute
8. Four-door
9. On the peak of 10. “It’s a ___!” 11. Hotel convenience
other three months in Minnesota. “It’s the perfect sport for people in our age group. It doesn’t take a lot of physical ability. My husband (Tom) says it’s a cross between bowling and slow-pitch softball. It’s very easy to learn. We taught our grandson how to play and he just about beat us the next week.’’
John McCoy, 71, has been playing bocce for 10 years. His team, the Go Getters, plays in the Viera East Community Bocce League.
“When you’re not capable of playing tennis and golf anymore, it gives people an opportunity to get out there and socialize and get the competitive juices going,’’ McCoy said. “Most of the people here can still play tennis and golf. But, we’ve got people here playing bocce at 90 years old.’’ SL
16. Flings
20. Got together
21. Gait between walk and canter
22. Fix
23. All square 24. Hot
25. Sanction
28. Ascent
30. Shows curiosity
31. Very smart
32. Gambling game
35. Carpenter’s tool
38. Pudding ingredient
42. Safari sight
44. Litmus reddeners
45. Popular cuisine
46. Fair share, maybe
47. Rapscallions
48. Kind of bean
51. Vandalize
52. Vinyl material
53. Extremely
54. Seat holders
55. VIP at the top of a ladder
BCOA NEWS
Brevard Commission on Aging
BCOA meetings are open to the public and are held the second Thursday of each month at the government center in Viera. For information, contact Cindy Short at 321-633-2076, FAX 321-633-2170, cindy.short@brevardfl.gov, brevardf l.gov/ HumanServices/CommissionOnAging or at 2725 Judge Fran Jamieson Way, B-106, Viera, FL 32940.
Finding affordable housing for seniors could take time
BY TRACI GRAF Advocate
Affordable housing is a term we all hear often, but what does it really mean?
There is a calculation used to create limits on what is really considered affordable based on a person’s annual median income (average AMI). The federal government considers geographic and population information when providing these calculations. Most seniors who are living on fixed incomes require housing that does not exceed 30 to 50% of their average annual income.
So, what is a senior citizen living on a fixed income supposed to do when faced with increasing rents above what they can afford? The simple answer is to apply to a senior housing complex where the rent is calculated based on income.
There are currently 17 complexes in Brevard County either completely dedicated to seniors, or with a set number of apartments reserved for senior citizens. Most importantly they will not raise your rent unless your income increases. One website to search for these complexes is affordablehousing. com and type Brevard County. There are different filters available to narrow your search on this website. However, sometimes it is better to just leave the filters blank. There is an option to select income restricted in your searches. If you are someone who does not have access to a computer, consider using one at the local library, which is free of charge, ask a neighbor or friend to help or ask if your local church has a computer available. Each complex has its own application process and wait list
times, which can be confusing for some people. Some of the complexes will allow you to apply online, some allow you to get on a virtual waitlist for a flat fee. Each has individual amenities, and some do include basic utilities. Trinity Towers East, West and South have a lunch program where lunch is delivered to residents on weekdays. Most will allow you to bring your pets, but there will be a pet fee. The income restrictions should be easy to find in their listings. According to the most up to date income limits, a one-person household receiving rent in the 30% range is limited to $19,860 a year income. Most of the income restricted complexes in our area follow the 30/50/60% AMI formula to determine a tenant’s rent.
If you find yourself in a situation where your rent is increased higher than you can afford, at any time in the future, consider finding a complex and inquire about the application process and waitlist times. If the complex will allow you to, put an application in with them. Some places may tell you the waitlist is three to five years. Try to submit the application and confirm it was received. Understand that things change, so follow up with them occasionally about your status. Centrally located Westminster Asbury in Cocoa tends to have a three-to-six month waiting period. The brand new Orchid Lakes in Cocoa is expected to begin accepting applications later this year. There is an app that will text you when the application window opens. Keep your eyes open, there are more and more truly affordable senior buildings being built in the area.
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SENIOR LIFE Hayley Power
The Venue At Viera is an affordable housing option for seniors in Brevard County.
TIME TO TRAVEL
Sarasota — a vibrant city worth the three-plus hours drive from Brevard
BY R. NORMAN MOODY
Whether from The Bay Park or from Siesta Beach, watching the sunset is a must if you visit Sarasota.
However, there is so much more. And, if you like the outdoors, do not miss Myakka River State Park and its Myakka Canopy Walkway, a 100-foot-long treetop trail suspended 25 feet in an oak hammock canopy. About a 100-stair step climb gets visitors up to the walkway.
The slight sway and bounce of the walkway as you trek across gives the sensation of floating among the trees.
The walkway is suspended on cables between two wooden towers, the tallest of which stands about 75 feet up, giving a spectacular view above the treetops. Visitors can look down on wetlands, prairie, oak and palm trees and birds. Eagles, hawks or vultures might be spotted from the top.
While the popular walkway might be the favorite of many, Myakka River State Park offers so
much more. It is one of the largest state parks in Florida. Its 37,000 acres is part of 80,000 acres of conservation land within Sarasota and Manatee counties. It offers bicycling, camping, fishing and lots of hiking trails, including a nearly 40-mile loop.
There are miles of paved roads along mostly shady oak hammocks, a concession stand, a gift shop, bicycle rentals, tram and boat rides.
Myakka is just a few miles outside the city, off State Road 72. There is also a north entrance that opens only on weekends and state holidays.
Back in the city, there is so much to see and do in Sarasota. It is home to Ringling Museum and galleries and other museums, city parks and among the best beaches anywhere.
At Mote Marine
Laboratory and Aquarium, visitors can take anywhere from four hours to a full day, learning about manatees, sharks, sea turtles and some of the ongoing research and conservation efforts.
Visitors can touch stingrays, watch otters play and check out a large aquarium with sharks, tarpons and other marine life. Watch as a curious manatee comes face to face with visitors and touches its nose against the glass of its aquarium.
For a more leisurely stroll or relaxing afternoon, try The Bay Park, 53 acres of bayfront with boardwalks across a waterway along a mangrove bayou. It has a kayak launch area, playground, a fountain garden and much more.
The Bay Park also offers weekly events such as physical fitness and workout sessions, yoga and guided kayak tours.
Sarasota is a drive of a little more than three hours from Brevard County during times of lighter traffic.
For more information on the city of Sarasota, go to visitsarasota.com.
For information about the Myakka River State Park, visit floridastateparks.org/ parks-and-trails/myakkariver-state-park. SL
SENIOR LIFE Elaine Moody
Siesta Beach, which is often mentioned as one of the best in the United States, attracts crowds to watch the stunning sunsets.
SENIOR LIFE Elaine Moody
The Myakka River State Park Canopy Walkway offers stunning views at treetop level.
NORTH BREVARD
Middle schoolers could learn crime-solving at camp
BY FLORA REIGADA
Titusville’s new Space View Park Middle Schoolers looking for something exciting to do this summer might find detective work interesting. They could learn how to investigate and solve crimes?
The American Police Hall of Fame and Museum in Titusville is holding its third annual Detective Camp for students in grades six through eight. It will take place July 15 to 19. The cost is $200.
“The Detective Camp is an exciting opportunity for youth to become detectives and investigate crime scenes, such as scattered bones in the woods, a fire, a dead body and stash of money and guns,” said Jayme DiGennaro, the director of museum education.
In the past, a detective would have spied through a magnifying glass.
at the American Police Hall of Fame.
Maybe the amateur sleuths will too. But they will also learn about anthropology,
ballistics, entomology, handwriting analysis and death investigations.
“We apply forensic sciences,” DiGennaro said. “The detectives are put into teams and given a police report. They use critical thinking skills and reasoning to know what steps to take in their investigation, such as witness statements and forensic reports. They will also determine who are suspects and who are victims.”
Activities and games will enable youths to establish friendships and add to the fun.
To pre-register or for more information contact Jayme DiGennaro at Jaymed@aphf.org or call 321-264-0911, ext. 120.
For information, go to aphf.org.
The American Police Hall of Fame and Museum, located at 6350 Horizon Drive in Titusville, houses law enforcement exhibits, a memorial and a Hall of Fame. SL
We’re beginning to see seagrass return
Many of us have lived through the algal blooms and fish kills in the Indian River Lagoon (IRL) during the past 15 years. We’ve also heard about the massive die off of seagrass and its consequences such as starving manatees.
The accompanying graph summarizes this tragic story. In 2007, we had 32,600 Hectares (80,000 acres or 40,000 football fields) of seagrass cover in the IRL (the green bars). But that carpet of life for the IRL began shrinking dramatically during the next 14 years until 2021.
But now we appear to have the first confirmation that we are turning the corner and beginning to see our seagrass return.
You can see this in the red
History
Lagoon Straight Talk
From the Brevard Indian River Lagoon Coalition
circle on the graph. The green bars (based on official St. Johns River Water Management District mapping) shows an increase in seagrass of some 2,400 Hectares (24%) between 2021 and 2023. This measurement is supported by their biannual visual assessment (black dots and lines) showing two years of seagrass increases between 2021 to 2023.
What does all this mean? We are making progress healing the IRL by restoring its ecological foundation: Seagrass. This conclusion is also supported by the increasing number of
reports of clearer water and returning fish species.
We can be thankful to the organizations that are constructing and have completed hundreds of projects to restore the IRL, including: St. Johns River Water Management District (sjrwmd.com/waterways/renewlagoon/), Brevard County Save Our Indian River Lagoon Plan (brevardfl.gov/SaveOurLagoon), the Indian River Lagoon National Estuary Program (onelagoon.org/irlnep/) and many others.
Healing the IRL takes each of us. It takes all of us. It takes you and me.
For more information, check out helpthelagoon.org/ and facebook.com/BIRLC/. SL
—
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 1990s
Now 2024
SENIOR LIFE Photo by Dan Reigada
Middle Schoolers will learn about detective work by investigating mock crime scenes
St. Johns River Water Management District — Seagrass extent chart
SENIOR LIFE Courtesy of Brevard County Historical Society
This Merritt Park Place structure at 150 N. Grove Street was built as a home in 1926. It was part of the first planned neighborhood on Merritt Island.
SENIOR LIFE Hayley Power
Rebecca’s of Merritt Island, a designer women’s clothing boutique, now occupies the building at 150 N. Grove Street.
Alura Senior Living
777 Roy Wall Blvd., Rockledge 32955 321-549-3980 AluraSeniorLiving.com
Shell Harbor 2855 Murrell Road, Rockledge 32955 321-252-1221 ShellHarborRetirement.com
Indian River Colony Club 1936 Freedom Drive, Viera 32940 321-255-6000 ColonyClub.com
The Brennity at Melbourne 7300 Watersong Lane, Viera 32940 321-253-7440 BrennityMelbourne.com
Chateau Madeleine 205 Hardoon Lane, Suntree 32940 321-701-8000 SuntreeSeniorLiving.com
Buena Vida Estates 2129 W. New Haven Ave., W. Melbourne 32904 321-724-0060 BuenaVidaEstates.org
Chateau Madeleine honors Milo with jazz singer, cake for happy 100th
BY HAYLEY POWER
Chateau Madeleine recently honored George Milo, who just turned 100, with a celebration featuring a live jazz singer and a delicious cake. With proper decorations and birthday accessories, the party was the
SENIOR LIFE Jill Blue
George Milo, a World War II veteran, worked at the United Nations before ownning and operating an insurance agency. He just turned 100 years old. Eric Hardoon congratulates Milo on his birthday.
perfect way to celebrate 100 years of life. Milo’s centurylong life has been filled with significant achievements and a deep dedication to family.
In his early years, Milo served in World War II and later worked at the United Nations. Eventually, he found his calling in the insurance industry, where he owned and operated a successful agency. Beyond his professional accomplishments, Milo is a seasoned traveler. He has explored the far corners of the world and reflects fondly on his extensive travels, unable to name a single location he
hasn’t visited.
At his 100th birthday celebration, Milo shared two pieces of advice. First, he emphasized the importance of education: “Get as much education as you can while you’re young because it will last the rest of your life.”
Second, he highlighted the value of kindness: “Be good to people and people will be good to you.”
Milo’s milestone celebration at Chateau Madeleine was a fitting tribute to a life filled with service, success and a commitment to treating others well. SL
Anne Kalbach celebrates 100th birthday with Elvis impersonator
BY HAYLEY POWER
For Sonata Viera, there is only one way to celebrate an entire century of life and that is to throw a big birthday party.
This celebration was focused on Anne Kalbach, who turned 100 years old. Born in Philadelphia in 1924, Kalbach has lived a life rich with experiences and passions that are worthy of a proper celebration. The birthday girl’s interests include a particular fondness for pizza, which remains her favorite food to this day.
Seniors cling to sharp fashion
Remember grandma with her black dress, gray hair in a bun, clunky shoes with large heels and the cameo on a chain around her neck?
Remember the Olde Maid playing cards from your childhood? Grandpa stuck to his dark suit, shirt and tie, and always wore a hat.
Styles change, but often seniors avoid the challenge. Barbie set the standard for young women that transferred through the decades to women of all ages. Some men may hear “You dress like an old geezer.” Others comment: “My baseball cap is my fashion symbol.” Be who you are!
How times have changed. Television programs feature fashion and beauty tips for the mature woman. Gretta Monahan, a lifestyle and fashion expert, tells seniors “Wear what is you.” She tells senior women “You can be older and bolder, fashionably fierce at 50 and beyond.” What about men? Yes, the same applies to you.
To begin: Act your age! There are many clothes that work. Use prints, patterns; but don’t hide behind your clothes. Become influencers. Brooke Shields has been a role model. She appears on the front cover of The AARP Magazine (April/May 2024) followed by the story of “her inspiring journey from child actor to healthy-aging advocate.” She sets the style, the tone and the attitude.
My mother Rose always wore a dress, nylon stockings, high heels and jewelry as a homemaker. I never saw her wear shorts or slacks. She loved to dress beautifully. My father, a factory worker, always wore a suit,
Challenges of Living to Age 100
shirt, tie and had polished shoes when he went to church each Sunday.
After age 70, he would buy a new suit each year to have it for his casket for the viewing.
To go with the clothing, seniors regularly have facial treatments, spa experiences, Botox injections, creams, oils and buy from the television “Deals & Steals” cosmetic offerings. At the beauty counters in upscale department stores, cosmetologists share beauty tips that remove raggy skin with secret potions.
My next challenge “What to wear to the Senior Prom?” The Greater Palm Bay Senior Activity Center held its Senior Prom on June 22. The planners recreated the proms of the 1950s. I remember mine. This was a first for my wife. The promotional flier helped me decide. It read “No Shorts or Jeans.” SL
Ed Baranowski is president of the AARP Florida Space Coast Chapter and can be contacted at fast75sr@ gmail.com. He offers programs for retiree groups and communities.
She enjoys painting, knitting and sewing, but her heart truly belongs to the water. Swimming has always been her most cherished pastime and she has enjoyed many hours at the pool.
Kalbach’s professional journey saw her working at the phone company, where she not only was dedicated to her career, but also found love later in life. It was there where she met her husband, a fellow co-worker.
To honor Kalbach’s remarkable 100 years, Sonata Viera hosted a spectacular red, white and blue themed birthday party. From balloon arches to
birthday posters and childhood photos, the room was decorated to perfection. The celebration was a lively affair, complete with an Elvis impersonator who sang and performed for all the guests.
Kalbach and her friends enjoyed reminiscing with some of their favorite songs, sharing laughter and stories from the past. The room was filled with joy as everyone celebrated Kalbach’s century of life and the wonderful memories she has created. SL
Ed Baranowski
SENIOR LIFE Hayley Power
Anne Kalbach celebrates her 100th birthday with Elvis.
