White, a star of television shows, including “The Golden Girls” and the “Mary Tyler Moore Show,” will be honored with a Forever Stamp featuring a photo illustration.
The actress who died in 2021 just weeks before her 100th birthday was a
Volume 27, Issue 7
Senior Life of Florida
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Ernie Dorling
Randal C. Hill
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Flora Reigada
Maria Sonnenberg
Emily Warner
Nichole Yuan
The holidays are here — enjoy family, parades, celebrations
The year-end holidays are here, and with it the celebrations that have already started — Christmas parades, concerts and bright colorful lights and decorations.
I say they are here because it all seems to get kicked off by Thanksgiving when stores have long begun their Christmas displays and some families begin to decorate their homes. The holiday parades start even before December.
Different cultures and different traditions celebrate around the end of the year — Christmas, Hanukkah and Kwanzaa.
We have compiled some of the events and celebrations that are open to the public. Check out our lists of parades and other events through December.
Museums of Brevard holds an annual Holiday Tour of Historic Homes that has seven stops, including the Cape Canaveral Lighthouse, which is on the Cape Canaveral Space Force Station and requires a reservation to visit on an organized tour. Check out our story for information on the list of homes and how to obtain tickets.
If you are looking for not only celebrations, but for ways to make the holidays a little brighter for others, we tell you about the Salvation Army’s Angel Tree and some of what the organization does to help those in need.
Read in our Stripes section about the National Veterans Homeless Support and its work helping homeless veterans. NVHS has started its yearly Warm Full Safe campaign to raise money to help the homeless veterans and their families.
What is your hobby or passion? In this issue, you can read about Bob Finke’s extensive collection of beer steins, including some from Germany and one dating back to 1879.
There are a lot more interesting and unique hobbies out there that we hope to tell you about in coming editions. The ideas for these stories usually come from readers, so if you know of someone with an interesting passion or hobby, let us know and we’ll likely check it out.
There is so much more in this edition. Check out our stories about veterans and about the ongoing work to establish a home for a post of the American Legion in Suntree.
R.
Parades, events signal the start of festive season
BY FLORA REIGADA
Get ready to experience colorful lights, festive floats and holiday fun at Christmas parades and cheerful events on the Space Coast.
Here’s what to expect:
Tree Lighting Ceremony
Friday, Dec. 6, 6:30 p.m.
Kick off the holiday season in Palm Bay as it lights up the city Christmas tree. Enjoy singing performances, refreshments and more. Tony Rosa Community Center, 1502 Port Malabar Blvd. NE
Mims Christmas Parade
Saturday, Dec. 7, 10:30 a.m.
The parade, hosted by the Mims Volunteer Fire Department, starts at Mims Elementary School. Its theme is “Honoring Our Nation’s Veterans.” For more information, visit the department’s Facebook page.
Merritt Island Christmas Boat Parade
Saturday, Dec. 7, 5:30 to 9 p.m.
The parade starts at the Old Ulumay Bridge in Sykes Creek. Visit them on Facebook.
City of Palm Bay Holiday Light Parade
Saturday, Dec. 7, 6 p.m.
The light parade starts at Eastern Florida State College’s Palm Bay campus and ends at Minton Road in front of City Hall. For more information, call 321-9523443 or email HolidayParade@ PalmBayFlorida.
The Light Up Rockledge and Festival of Trees
Saturday, Dec. 7, 4 to 7 p.m.
The two-part event is presented by the City of Rockledge. It takes place at Rockledge Civic Hub at 530 Barton
Blvd. For more information, call 321-221-7540.
Blizzard at the Barn
Sunday, Dec. 8, 1 to 4 p.m.
Festive holiday open house. Vendors, food trucks, games, feed treats to horses (carrots $1 a bag), pony rides ($5), petting zoo and more. Free admission.
Harmony Farms, 2205 Pluckebaum Rd, Cocoa
For information, call Donna at 847-989-4248,
City of Melbourne Christmas in the Park
Friday, Dec. 13, 6 to 9 p.m.
Come celebrate the holidays with Mr. & Mrs. Claus, Santa’s workshop,
choral performances, arts and crafts. and refreshments. 3316 S. Monroe St., Melbourne.
Historic Cocoa Village
Holiday Boat Parade
Friday, Dec. 13 • 6 to 7 p.m.
The Cocoa Village Main Street parade begins at the Rockledge Valencia Dock, heads north along the shore, cuts in near Cocoa Riverfront Park, continues north under the 520 bridge up to the Highland Park area. Boat captains transform their vessels into a magical winter wonderland.
Proceeds will benefit the Central Brevard Sharing Center.
HOLIDAY EVENTS
Continued
SENIOR LIFE Courtesy of the Indian River Church
The Kalon Dance Company’s float was one of the colorful entrants at last year’s Titusville Christmas Parade.
HOBBIES & PASSIONS
THE FOURTH FEATURE IN A SERIES ON HOBBIES & PASSIONS
Cocoa Beach retiree collects beer steins with stories to tell
BY ERNIE DORLING
There are varying estimates as to when the collection of beer steins began. Some suggest that it started in the middle 1800s with museums vying for examples of fine Renaissance art.
Today, stein collections are found in kitchens, taverns and inns in Europe and the United States. These collections can be seen on narrow shelves along the upper parts of the walls or so-called plate rails. Years ago, steins in homes were a measure of hospitality. In taverns, they were a measure of prosperity, signifying the number of regular customers.
Robert Finke of Cocoa Beach bought his first two beer steins in 1975.
“There were these two mascots for the Utica Club Beer in the ’60s named Schultz & Dooley,” Finke said. “I
started watching those two characters when I was eight. They were always in commercials for the Utica Beer Club and could be seen during most televised sporting events. In 1975, I was at an auction when the two Schultz & Dooley steins were being sold. I won the bid and have been collecting steins ever since.”
Finke was born in Ossining, New York, and he grew up in Syracuse.
During the past 25 years, Finke has accumulated about 85 steins, dating back to 1879. He is particular about the steins he buys, trades or invests in.
“A good amount of work goes into making good steins,” Finke said. “Most are intricate pieces of art made by craftsmen. And each stein tells a story, either about the person the stein was made for or by the person who made the stein.”
He only collects original, hand-
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made steins.
“If the stein is mass-produced, I don’t buy it,” said Finke, who retired to Cocoa Beach in 2018.
“When our children were younger, we’d always take a day or two away from our visits to Disney and spend time at the beach in Cocoa
(Beach),” Finke said. “When it came time to retire from working for a transportation company in Jacksonville, the good memories of our time in Cocoa Beach came to mind, so we bought a condo and retired here.”
Of his 85-plus steins, Finke’s favorites, besides the Schultz & Dooley steins, are steins depicting the Prodigal Son from the Bible and a stein that was found in Hitler’s Eagles Nest and brought home by a former U.S. service member.
“That one has quite a history to it,” Finke said. “A former Army captain took it from Eagles Nest in Germany. When he died, his son didn’t want it and put it on Ebay. I was able to buy it for $65.”
Finke said the library has volumes of books on stein collecting and its history for those interested in learning more. The Florida Steiners Club can be found at stein-collectors.org
Anyone wanting to discuss steins with Finke, can contact him at Finke2476@gmail.com SL
SENIOR LIFE Ernie Dorling
Robert Finke has two Schultz & Dooley beer steins in his collection of more than 85 steins, some dating back to 1879.
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Behind the Beat
‘Lucy in the Sky with Diamonds’ — Elton John
Lucy O’Donnell was four years old when she attended the upscale Heath House School in Weybridge, Surrey, England. One of her best friends there was John Lennon’s son, Julian, who arrived at school each day in a Rolls-Royce.
Years later, in a BBC interview, Lucy recalled, “I remember Julian and I both doing pictures on a double-sided easel and throwing paint at each other, much to the horror of the classroom attendant.
Julian painted a picture of me.”
The lad’s 5-inch x 7-inch paper artwork showed Lucy floating in an orange haze among stars that he called diamonds. That afternoon, the boy took his creation home and proudly showed it to his dad.
The older Lennon loved the image. It reminded him of a scene from Lewis Carroll’s classic “Through the Looking Glass,” in which Alice floats in a boat beneath a sunny sky. Lennon immediately summoned Beatles partner Paul McCartney to work up a song inspired by Julian’s picture.
Four days later, the two had “Lucy
Chateau
in the Sky with Diamonds” ready to be added to what would become the quartet’s LP masterpiece, “Sergeant Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band.”
(The name supposedly derived from the Dr Pepper drink, unavailable in the UK until 1982 and enjoyed by the Beatles whenever they toured America.)
Recording at London’s Abbey Road studios, the Fab Four spent 700 drug-fueled hours recording psychedelic-inspired music that would, in essence, sweep away traditional rock ‘n’ roll and usher in sophisticated rock art. Much of the creation of “Sergeant Pepper” was McCartney’s idea, including the wearing of marching-band uniforms and displaying the songs’ lyrics on the back of the 1967 album.
Although drugs had fueled the “Lucy” recording, the tune itself, according to Lennon, had nothing to do with lysergic acid diethylamide — LSD.
“Until somebody pointed it out, I never even thought of it,” he said later. “I mean, who would ever bother to look at the initials of a
title?”
As 1974 drew to a close, Elton John’s version of “Lucy in the Sky with Diamonds” gave him his third No. 1 American single when his
MCA Records disc topped the Hot 100 chart for two weeks. His friend (and the song’s co-creator) Lennon had provided some guitar work and backup vocals along the way, although Lennon forgot some of the chords during the recording session. OK, so “Lucy” supposedly wasn’t about drugs, but no one can deny that many of the lyrics are trippy:
Picture yourself in a boat on a river
With tangerine trees and marmalade skies
Somebody calls you, you answer quite slowly
A girl with kaleidoscope eyes
Lucy O’Donnell (later Lucy Vodden) appreciated the Beatles’ music but did once admit, “As a teenager, I made the mistake of telling a couple of friends at school I was the Lucy in the song. They said, ‘No, it’s not about you. My parents said it’s about drugs.’ And I didn’t know what LSD was at the time, so I just kept it quiet, to myself.” SL
SENIOR LIFE Shutterstock
Elton John’s version of “Lucy in the Sky with Diamonds,” written by John Lennon and Paul McCartney, became his third No. 1 American single.
Museums of Brevard opens historic homes for holiday tour
BY MARIA SONNENBERG
The invitation is out. For the fifth year, the Museums of Brevard is offering holiday tours of seven Brevard County historic homes.
Museums of Brevard, or MOB, organizes the annual Holiday Tour of Historic Homes — a unique opportunity to enjoy a heaping helping of holiday cheer with a historic bent.
“The participants in the Holiday Tour of Historic Homes experience a variety of architecture, as each home served a different purpose and the homes are from a variety of time periods,” said Annita Full, the treasurer of Green Gables at Historic Riverview Village, one of the stops on the tour.
In addition to Green Gables in Melbourne, the tour encompasses Pritchard House in Titusville, Sam’s House and Field Manor on Merritt Island, Lawndale in Rockledge, Rossetter House in Eau Gallie and the Cape Canaveral Lighthouse at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station.
“The tour is always a special time at the lighthouse, because not only are visitors able to experience the sights and sounds of the world’s premiere gateway to space, but they visit the historic “home,” with a giant wreath adorning the top of the 1868 lighthouse,” the museum director Becky Zingarelli said.
The tour takes place during the first two weekends of December. “We want visitors to take a trip back in time during this beautiful, relaxed time of year,” said Roz Foster,
the president of the North Brevard Heritage Foundation.
“We talk about the families’ traditions.”
Participants will find the houses and the lighthouse decked out in holiday finery.
Green Gables, for example, will be adorned inside and out with a 14-foot outdoor tree as the centerpiece.
Lawndale will shimmer with holiday decorations.
During the holiday season, the house is decorated and depicted as a family home of the late 1800s. Each room, from the double parlors through the dining room, bedrooms, library, school room and kitchen celebrates the season.
Tours run from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Dec. 6 and 8 and Dec. 13 and 15. Each $30 ticket gains attendees to three of the six museums with the ability to add the Cape Canaveral Lighthouse for $10.
Guests will receive the “PastPort” at the first home they visit, which acts as the ticket of the tour. To add more museums, an entry fee may be required. Some of the historic homes require reservations, which can be made directly through the individual home.
The Cape Canaveral Lighthouse, because of its location at the Space Force Station, will require additional information and at least one week to process the reservation.
“We realize this takes
some coordination and have designed a planning guide to assist in the process of making reservations,” Braden said. For more information, visit Facebook.com/ MuseumsBrevard SL
Flora Reigada contributed to this story
Historic Homes Holiday Tour
Book a reservation today. https://bit.ly/4hUE8lO
The Pritchard House in Titusville
A Queen Anne Victorian, circa 1891. pritchardhouse.com
Sams’ House (cabin) on Merritt Island
Brevard County’s oldest standing house, built in 1875. brevardfl.gov/EELProgram/ Sanctuaries/SamsHouse
Cape Canaveral Lighthouse
Cape Canaveral Space Force Station, built in 1868. canaverslight.org
Field Manor Homestead on Merritt Island
One of the oldest standing structures on Merritt Island, dating to the 1880s. fieldmanor.org
H.S. Williams Home/ Lawndale Museum in Rockledge
Completed in the mid 1890s. The house has been restored during the course of 20 years. Visit them on Facebook.
Rossetter House and Gardens in Eau Galle
Called “A living reminder of Florida’s past.” rossetterhousemuseum.org
Green Gables in Melbourne
A Queen Ann style home that fronts the Indian River. greengables.org
Car enthusiast leaves legacy mentoring, helping automotive students
BY MARIA SONNENBERG
It was hard to miss Nicholas “Nick” Bauer at one of the many events in the car show circuit.
The Palm Bay resident enjoyed donning the snappiest 1930s gangster garb to show off one of his unique autos, the yellow 1931 Auburn that once was actress Mae West’s favorite mode of transport. The man and his car were always instant eye-magnets and smile makers.
“Nick Bauer has been a fixture in the car culture of the Space Coast for dozens of years,” said Michael Broud, an automotive instructor at Heritage High School in Palm Bay, one of only a handful of schools in Brevard County to offer training in automotive maintenance and light repair.
Dawn Danielson often saw Bauer and the Auburn or one of his other cars at the monthly car shows that Bill Antonetz has hosted at the
Dunkin’ Donuts parking lot beachside for years. She came to realize the depth of Bauer’s automotive passion.
“Nick was involved with cars most of his life,” she said.
Although Bauer passed away in August, the car enthusiast left a legacy
that will shape the next generation of automotive professionals through “Tools to Build a Life.” It helps high school students enrolled in automotive training at Heritage High School acquire the tools necessary for the trade and to additionally secure scholarships for
advanced training and apprenticeship opportunities.
For 15 years, he was the primary contributor and supporter of the efforts of Heritage High School’s automotive students.
“He has taken the time and effort to mentor students with me and carry them from their transition as a senior to the automotive industry with more than a dozen scholarships in as many years,” Broud said.
After serving his country in the United States Navy, Bauer was successful in the realm of sales, but cars remained always a constant in his life. He set his heart on a 1931 Auburn, not an easy goal, since of the 650 Auburns made in 1931, only three survived and only one had been restored. When the restored Auburn’s owner decided to sell, Bauer could not pass on the opportunity of owning a vehicle that carried such outstanding provenance as Mae West’s personal trunk.
As a nod to West’s mob boyfriend, Bauer would then play the mobster part at car shows. He once jokingly explained his feelings for the Auburn to “like having an affair with a piece of machinery.”
When Bauer passed away, his family requested that instead of flowers, donations were to be made to “Tools to Build a Life.”
Danielson and Antonetz now continue Bauer’s legacy by raising awareness at car shows of automotive students’ need for tools such as socket sets and for money to pay for enrollment in automotive training beyond high school.
“Nick’s dedication, passion and compassion for students who genuinely want to learn more about the automotive industry is second to none,” Broud said.
In the meantime, Bauer is undoubtedly in car heaven, comparing Auburn notes with Mae West. SL
SENIOR LIFE Courtesy of North Brevard Heritage Foundation
The Pritchard House is one of the stops on the Holiday Tour of Historic Homes.
SENIOR LIFE R. Norman Moody
The tour stop to the Cape Canaveral Lighthouse requires a reservation about a week ahead.
SENIOR LIFE Courtesy of Museums of Brevard The Lawndale Museum will be adorned with Christmas decorations for the holiday tour.
SENIOR LIFE Jill Blue
The late Nicholas “Nick” Bauer loved taking his yellow 1931 Auburn to area car shows. It was once owned by Mae West.
Frank T. Forester Recreation Center opens in Rockledge
BY CHRIS BONANNO
Residents have a new place to play and meet in Rockledge with the opening of the Frank T. Forester Recreation Center at the McKnight Family Sports Complex at 960 Cogswell St.
Forester is a current Rockledge city council member and a former assistant principal and dean at Kennedy Middle School in Rockledge. He had long had a vision for the center.
During a ribbon cutting ceremony Nov. 8 for the new recreation center, Forester said that he had been working on the project for at least 16 years.
“I knew that we needed some place like when it’s 95 degrees outside, kids still need to be playing … now they can be in here,” Forester said. “That was one of my goals.”
Rockledge city manager
Brenda Fettrow said the building encompasses 34,000 square feet.
“There’s a full court, a large regular-size basketball court and then if you go sideways, if you will, there’d be two basketball courts, three pickleball courts and two volleyball courts,” Fettrow said. “Not all at the same time of course, but an opportunity to do one of the three at any given time. And then there’s also two big activity rooms. There’s a warming kitchen. The activity rooms could host classes, could host meetings … we have some promethium boards in there, at least one of the rooms so we think it’s a
nice variety of capabilities for the community.”
Forester said that there had already been great interest in the facility. He added that they have many who have already been asking the gym manager about scheduling times.
“I’m really excited,” Forester said. “I don’t think we’re going to have any trouble at all filling all the hours up with activities and games.”
Fettrow said the center will definitely fill a need in the community.
“It was Frank’s vision always to have this for the kids and make sure that they had a safe place to
come. There’s nothing like this in Rockledge, really. McLarty (Park) is there and it’s a nice park as well, but we’re hoping to make this our event hosting venue and park, a really true destination.”
Forester, who had members of his family in attendance at the ribbon cutting ceremony, was surprised and honored when the City Council decided to name the recreation center after him.
“We were in the meeting when the (Rockledge City) Council decided to do this and I must have sat there with my mouth open,” Forester said. “… It was really quite an honor.” SL
WWII veteran, family gather to celebrate 100th birthday
BY CHRIS BONANNO
Charles Cook, a resident at Sonata Viera assisted living facility, swayed recently to the live music at his 100th birthday celebration.
At times during the celebration, Cook, a World War II veteran, stood up and danced to the bluegrass and country music played by the Penny Creek Band.
“I haven’t had fun like this in a long time,” Cook said. “I can get up and dance here.”
Family, friends and residents at Sonata Viera gathered Nov. 14 for Cook’s 100th birthday celebration.
Cook’s daughter, Christa Hoffman, who traveled from Arizona for the
“I haven’t had fun like this in a long time. I can get up and dance here.” — Charles Cook
birthday celebration, said that Penny Creek Band’s modern bluegrass is her father’s favorite.
The staff at Sonata was glad to celebrate Cook. The celebration included a large birthday cake.
“This is the best, to see our resident turn 100 years old and have such a great time,” said Jackie Cantwell, the lifestyle director at Sonata Viera.
Members of a local Veterans of Foreign Wars post planned to honor Cook with an appearance during the
celebration.
“They came in last year for dad’s 99th, but this one’s a big one,” Hoffman said.
Cook grew up in western Tennessee and served in the U.S. Army during World War II. He served 20 years in the Army before retiring.
He would eventually settle in Fort Knox, Kentucky, where he raised his son Rudy and daughters Carol and Christa.
“I am not surprised that it means a great deal ‘cause we love him tremendously,” Hoffman said. “I mean, he is just a fabulous man. Always has been.”
Hoffman indicated that Cook’s two other children were also in attendance along with grandchildren Roman and Chas.
“He’s just well-liked by everybody. It’s just wonderful,” she said. “I am so happy that we found this place (Sonata) for him.”
Cook remains active, walking
a mile a day around the facility, according to Sonata’s assistant lifestyle director Mary Cruz. “Twice sometimes or three times,” said Cook of his walks. “….I try to keep myself going.” SL
SENIOR LIFE Chris Bonanno
Rockledge City Council member Frank Forester was surprised and honored when fellow council members named the new recreation center after him.
SENIOR LIFE Chris Bonanno
The Frank T. Forester Recreation Center has courts for basketball, volleyball and pickleball.
SENIOR LIFE Chris Bonanno World War II veteran Charles Cook a resident of Sonata Viera, danced during the celebration of his 100th birthday.
STRI PES Brevard
NVHS kicks off fundraising campaign, assists more veterans
The year-end holidays are a time of joy, celebration, lots of food, family and the warmth of home.
But for some veterans, all of that is out of reach if not for the help and support for some of it from National Veterans Homeless Support.
While it is not just during the holidays when we can help veterans enjoy some these things, but it is the time when NVHS kicks off its Warm Full Safe fundraising campaign to help veterans in need.
For too many veterans in Central Florida, the holidays highlight the difficulties they face — homelessness for some and for others, the threat of losing their homes.
I have seen the good work of
NVHS and there are testimonies from many veterans who were helped out of homelessness and are successfully back on their feet. The organization helps others on the verge of losing their homes.
Warm Full Safe was started years ago to get homeless veterans in a safe and warm place during the holidays. They were placed for a few days
during the holidays in a hotel and were fed and given gifts. That initial endeavor has evolved into helping veterans and their families prevent homelessness year-round.
NVHS has been instrumental in drastically reducing homelessness among veterans on the Space Coast. However, there are still some who are homeless and others on the verge of homelessness. Some might be just one mortgage payment or rent payment away from losing their homes and being on the street.
Some of the work to help veterans in need is done through street outreach, prevention and transitional housing programs.
The NVHS has helped to get
veterans off the streets and into homes. Its transitional housing offers temporary shelter and support services as it helps these veterans to get jobs and eventually into permanent homes.
In addition to helping with housing and jobs, veterans assisted in accessing their veterans benefits from the Department of Veterans Affairs, including medical help.
To be able to give those veterans who selflessly served in uniform, NVHS relies on contributions from private individuals, organizations and companies.
For more information on how to help, visit nvhs.org/warmfullsafe/ or call 321-208-7562. SL
WWII, Korean War veteran recalls harrowing experiences of war
BY ERNIE DORLING
It was a cloudless day in late June 1953 when Dick Hall engaged the engines of his A-1 Skyraider aircraft to full power and catapulted off the deck of an aircraft carrier. He was on his way to the Yalu River in Korea on a bombing run.
After this run, he still had a 1,000-pound bomb aboard his aircraft. Hall looked for targets of opportunity on his way back to the carrier. Then he saw it; below him was a tunnel with tracks leading inside of it that had been pulled up.
Disregarding orders from the admiral to all the pilots in his squadron not to drop below 10,000 feet to avoid anti-aircraft damage to the planes, Hall descended his plane to about 30 feet above the ground. He released his bomb into the tunnel and, with just seconds to spare, pulled the plane up into a steep climb.
“I was climbing at 250 feet when the first explosion hit. It was so rough it blew my feet off the rudder pedals. Then there was another explosion and another one,” Hall said. “When I looked back, I saw that the entire tunnel was on fire, with smoke coming out. I learned later from our intelligence officer that the tunnel
contained a train loaded with fuel and ammunition. I thought I might get in trouble for flying so low. But all the pilots in my group had decided we were there to win a war, not protect airplanes.”
Born in Pittsburgh in 1925, Hall grew up during the Great Depression.
“We were very poor growing up,” he said. “My mother maintained a
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small garden and a couple of hundred chickens that kept us fed. Sometimes, I’d take a chicken to trade for a haircut.”
Hall was in high school when World War II broke out. In May 1943, he enlisted in the Naval Reserves and went on active duty a month later.
“It was tough for many of us to stay in school after hearing about the attack on Pearl Harbor,” he said. “I joined thinking I was attending boot camp as an enlisted man. However, I was allowed to test for pilot training and passed. Forty-eight of us took the exam, and only 26 passed. Of the 26 of us who tested, I was the only one who graduated and received my wings.”
By the time Hall finished his flight training, World War II had ended. He was eventually assigned to carrier duty. As the war was winding down, Hall and a dozen other pilots were ordered to move planes to a new and safer location.
“It was supposed to be a 25-minute flight,” he said. “But we ran into a violent storm. At one point, the group leader gave a command and banked left, at which point I lost sight of him. That’s when we all lost sight of each
other. We flew around for two hours, lost and running low on fuel.”
Hall was able to drop below the clouds and spotted an Army installation. “I circled several times, and the guys down on the ground knew I was going to ditch the plane,” he said. “I radioed the guys in my group and told them to get some altitude, knowing the radar would pick them up.”
Hall ditched his aircraft in a rice paddy and walked away unscathed. The other four pilots in his group did as Hall instructed and were noticed on radar by a Navy base just 10 miles away. Each plane landed safely, two of which ran out of fuel on the runway
Continued on page 11
SENIOR LIFE Ernie Dorling Dick Hall, a U.S. Navy veteran, recently celebrated his 99th birthday.
SENIOR LIFE Courtesy of Dick Hall World War II and Korean War veteran Dick Hall served 21 years in the U.S. Navy as a pilot.
SENIOR LIFE Ernie Dorling Dick Hall joined the U.S. Navy in May 1943.
American Legion Post 420 seeks permanent home in Suntree
BY SUSAN M. HOUTS
A new American Legion chapter has taken root in Suntree, bringing with it hope, ambition, and a mission to create a welcoming space for veterans and their families.
American Legion Post 420, led by Commander Rosemarie Yeary, an Army veteran, is searching for a building with land to establish a permanent home.
Their vision is to host community events and offer a family-friendly social club for veterans.
“We want this to be a place where veterans can be around fellow veterans and experience the sense of camaraderie developed in the military,” Yeary said.
Founded in 1919 in Paris, France, the American Legion is the world’s oldest and largest veteran organization. Its legacy has left an indelible mark on American society, contributing to major legislative milestones, including the creation of the Department of Veterans Affairs and the GI Bill. The impact of this storied institution continues through its dedication to veterans’ well-being and community involvement.
Steven T. Smith, the director
NAVAL AVIATOR
Continued from page 12
after landing. Hall is credited with saving the lives of those lost pilots.
Shortly after the war ended, Hall was in Rome. During his visit to the Vatican, he spoke with a priest. “He was
American Legion Post 420 Cmdr.
of public relations and a former Melbourne Police officer, shares his excitement for the new chapter finding its permanent home in Suntree.
“Having a space for veterans to come together and feel a sense of belonging is vital,” he said. “We also plan to work with veterans in the areas of benefits, careers, education and health, which are all central to the
interested in my military experience and asked if I would come back the following day to meet the Pope,” Hall said. “The next day, I went back, and sure enough, the priest met me and walked me into a small courtyard. A few minutes later, Pope Pius XII appeared. He graciously invited me into a small
SENIOR
accomplishment of our mission.”
Debbie Gentry, an Army veteran and vice commander, echoes this sentiment, expressing her enthusiasm for involving younger generations.
“Engaging youth is crucial to building a legacy that respects and carries forward the values of service” she said.
Post 420’s leadership team is
office for a private conversation. It was one of the most memorable experiences of my life.”
Hall retired as a lieutenant commander on Dec. 31, 1963, after 21 years of service, having received five air medals and landing 199 times on the deck of an aircraft carrier. Hall became a
diligently working on establishing an Auxiliary unit, with future plans to develop a Sons of the American Legion and a Riders group, ensuring a robust support network for all.
Their commitment to the community is evident in their support of local charitable initiatives, such as the Angel Tree for children of veterans, Boy’s State and the Special Olympics.
The American Legion Post 420’s broader focus also includes mental health support for veterans, particularly raising awareness for 988, the Veteran Suicide Crisis Line, underscoring the message that help is always available.
“988 is an essential tenet of our efforts to stop veteran suicides,” Smith said. “But each Post has ‘boots on the ground,’ informing veterans and the public not only of 988 but actively working toward helping veterans where they need help.”
Meetings for those interested in joining take place on the first Saturday of each month at 10 a.m. at 2401 Post Road. Veterans, families and widows are invited to be part of this community-building initiative. For more information, contact Yeary at 321-266-5115. SL
stockbroker and later started a company installing garage door openers.
Hall married his high school sweetheart and remained married for more than 68 years. His wife passed away in 2015.
In October, Hall celebrated his 99th birthday. SL
LIFE Susan M. Houts
Rosemarie Yeary, center, Debbie Gentry and Steven T. Smith plan their search for a new Post home in Suntree.
Healing garden opens to help prevent veterans’ suicides
BY LINDA JUMP
American Legion Post 117 in Palm Bay is encouraging veterans to play in the dirt in a healing garden to reduce veteran suicides.
“It will be a safe place for veterans and their families to come together to share their stories about their struggles within their lives after service,” said Dana Jackson, the Post 117 adjutant.
Debbie Nixon of Palm Bay, the garden coordinator, said growing vegetables, herbs and flowers is calming.
“Active microvilli in soil releases serotonin,” she said.
Sunlight and connection with nature are also mood boosters.
Organic produce will be used in the Post’s kitchen, and Nixon said local restaurants expressed interest in purchasing any excess to keep the garden sustainable. Local organizations and businesses helped, including children from Odyssey Charter School, who planted. Nixon said that a schedule of group activities is planned.
A ribbon cutting was held last month. Planned in five phases are a fenced garden around a portion of the Post’s pond with several raised beds, some wheelchair accessible areas, as well as sitting areas, a greenhouse with storage, work tables, a children’s planting area and a ramped deck.
largest population of veterans. The American Legion, working with Columbia University, launched a Be the One initiative with a website betheone.org to reduce the stigma of mental health treatment and prevent veteran suicides, estimated at 17 to 22 veterans daily. A veterans’ crisis line is at 988, option 1.
began home gardening after her release from five years in the Army to deal with her post-traumatic stress disorder.
Terry Struben, the Post commander, said “as far as we know,
“I was deployed to Iraq two times and when I’m gardening, I feel like I’m in the present moment with the dirt and plants,’’ Lopez said. “I hope other vets
The Department of Veteran Affairs 2021 report cited 6,392 former soldiers died by suicide, 546 from Florida, which has the third-
Bay, a Marine from 1969 to 1972 and a military contractor, said he eats only natural food and welcomes the garden “to help people get over the combat and get together to talk because we don’t get to defuse before we get out. I’m very optimistic.” SL
SENIOR LIFE Linda Jump
Ken Nilsen, Guadalupe Lopez and Leo Belanger, three Palm Bay veterans, help establish raised-bed planters at the healing garden at American Legion Post 117 in Palm Bay.
SENIOR LIFE Linda Jump Guadalupe Lopez, a veteran of combat in Iraq, adds a plant to the healing garden at American Legion Post 117 in Palm Bay. She agreed to help create the garden, because she said she began home gardening to reduce her PTSD.
SENIOR LIFE Linda Jump Debbie Nixon is coordinating construction of a healing garden at American Legion Post 117 in Palm Bay. Officials think the garden, designed to reduce the stress of PTSD, is the first of its kind at an American Legion.
SENIOR LIFE Linda Jump Dana Jackson, the adjutant of American Legion Post 117, holds the sign for the Legion’s “Be the One” effort to stop veteran suicides.
50+Wedding VowRenewals
A Valentine’s Day to remember
Date/Time: The Vow Renewal ceremony will take place during the All You Need is Love Senior Expo at 10:30 a.m. Feb. 14/Valentine’s Day. Friends and family are welcome to attend, witness the event and take photos.
Cost: Entrance to the Senior Expo is free. Vow renewal, cake, champagne toast and digital photos are free. Registration is required. The Senior Expo is an independent event. Entrance to the Brevard Zoo is not included.
Venue: Vow Renewals will take place in a group setting on the veranda overlooking the giraffe habitat at the Nyami Nyami River Lodge. The River Lodge (convention hall) is on the left side of the Brevard Zoo entrance gate.
Dress: There is no wrong dress attire for this occasion. Wear the dress of your dreams, formal or casual. Men can wear a suit, uniform, something casual or opt for a special look to make lasting memories.
Photos will be taken during and after the wedding vow renewal.
Sign up: Registration is required. Limited to the first 20 couples. Deadline to register is Feb. 1. Call early to reserve your spot.
For more information, call Sylvia at 321-242-1235.
HEALTH & WELLNESS
Flu shots remain the first line of defense for prevention
BY NICHOLE YUAN
The dwindling daylight hours and gradual drop in temperature signal the beginning of flu season. For many residents, that entails receiving an annual flu vaccine.
To aid Brevard’s senior residents, Health First nurses came out to the Nov. 15 Boomer Bash Senior Fest to administer free flu shots.
For many, the flu may feel like a high-powered cold. But for others, especially seniors and those with preexisting conditions, the flu virus has the potential to cause dangerous complications such as pneumonia, organ failure and even sepsis.
Symptoms of the influenza virus can vary between affected individuals, but commonly include a fever that lasts several days, body aches, fatigue and coughing.
Compared to the common cold, the onset of flu symptoms are typically sudden and unexpected. Those
experiencing symptoms of illness should seek medical attention as soon as possible.
And it’s not just hypotheticals.
According to Amanda Baker, a
pharmacist with Health First, people do end up in the emergency room due to flu complications. “It’s not your average 30 year old (that has flu complications). It’s, you know, the
babies and the elderly that are finding they’re severe enough that they need to seek medical care for it,” she said.
Baker also noted the importance of thinking about those around us when considering getting a flu shot and doing our due diligence to protect not only ourselves, but also those who may not be able to receive a flu vaccination. The shot is widely available and often at little to no cost.
“We give millions of flu shots and I’ve never had anybody come back and say they had any more than a sore spot on their arm,” she said.
So as we look ahead to the cooler weather rolling in, it is important to remember that in addition to getting a yearly flu vaccine, be sure to wash hands regularly throughout each day (or to use alcohol-based hand sanitizer when unable to wash with soap), cover all coughs and sneezes, and refrain from touching on and around the mouth, eyes and nose. After all, the best treatment is prevention. SL
Woman’s memory book presented in appreciation to medical personnel
BY CHRIS BONANNO
A 73-year-old Palm Bay woman who suffered a heart attack and a stroke returned to Holmes Regional Medical Center and emotionally thanked medical personnel who treated her.
Alberta Charles, who suffered a heart attack in late June and a stroke in July, presented the hospital staff with a 46-page memory book that highlighted her remarkable recovery.
“I’m focusing on the angels that took care of me at this particular hospital, from the doctors to the specialists to everyone. Thanksgiving is every day for me,” she said.
During a news conference reunion Nov. 12 with the hospital personnel, Charles appeared healthy and indicated she was doing well.
“I took my blood pressure. Guess what? My blood pressure is OK,” Charles said. “… Love is greater than
“Love is greater than anything else and I was able to sense it with each and everyone. This makes it one of the most dangerous jobs in America.”
— Alberta Charles
anything else and I was able to sense it with each and everyone.”
About 40 Health First personnel attended the news conference, though a Health First spokesperson estimated that about 200 staff members had a hand in Charles’ care overall.
“The honor is to God that he surrounded me for two weeks with love, assurance, confidence, healing, recovery,” Charles said.
ICU nurse Mary Collins was among those to whom Charles showed appreciation.
“I loved working with Alberta,” Collins said. “She is probably my alltime favorite patient. Every time before I come into the hospital, I always pray before I get my patients that I’ll do the
right things, make the right choices and that I’ll have people that I can really work well with. She just was an absolute joy and delight that day and I saw her several days after that. I worked with her. I went and visited her. When she went to a different floor and we prayed together before she had her surgery and just got to really care about her and love to see her recovery.”
Charles’ daughter, Loris Deesaw, also expressed her appreciation for the treatment her mother received from the personnel at the hospital.
“It meant a lot,” Deesaw said. “Grateful. The main word: thankful. ’Cause I thank each and everyone that came in contact with my mom. They were amazing.” SL
SENIOR LIFE Klinton Landress
Health First nurse Alicia French administers a flu shot during the Boomer Bash Senior Expo on Nov. 15 at the Space Coast Convention Center.
SENIOR LIFE Chris Bonanno
Alberta Charles emotionally thanked medical personnel at Holmes Regional Medical Center who treated her following a stroke and a heart attack.
SENIOR LIFE Chris Bonanno Alberta Charles’ memory book highlighted her recovery.
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 321-6332076, FAX 321-633-2170 or cindy.short@brevardfl.gov.
BCOA is located at 2725 Judge Fran Jamieson Way, B-106, Viera, FL 32940.
Holidays and depression — what you should know
The holiday season for most people is a fun time of the year filled with parties, celebrations and social gatherings with family and friends. However, for many others, especially seniors, it can be a time filled with sadness, self-reflection, loneliness and anxiety.
Statistics show that two million of the 34 million Americans age 65 and older suffer from some form of depression,” said Mike Homan, a family clinical care coordinator with Behavioral Health Services at OSF HealthCare Saint Anthony’s Health Center.
“Notably, only 3% receive treatment,” he said. “It is important to remember that depression is a medical illness that can be treated with medication and/or psychotherapy, and that the prognosis of older individuals is excellent when they seek treatment for this disorder.”
In 2023,* one in three adults ages 50 to 80 (34%) reported feeling isolated from others (29% some of the time, 5% often) in the past year. Also, nearly one-third of all noninstitutionalized older Americans live alone, or close to 14 million.
Common signs of senior depression include:
• Lack of appetite
• Extreme fatigue — excessive sleeping. The body shuts down to escape from the outside world.
• Problems concentrating
• Anti-social — may stop doing everyday things such as going to church
• Older adults may not express sadness (unlike kids with depression)
• Abuse of drugs or alcohol
• Being angry, sarcastic and criticizes others’ joy of the season
Tips to beat depression include:
Encourage seniors to exercise — various studies reveal that staying physically active makes people feel good and has the same effect on mood and brain chemistry as antidepressants.
Keep alcohol use to a minimum — alcohol is a known depressant. Caregivers can create festive drinks such as eggnog or flavored hot chocolate to help seniors cheerfully toast to the season.
Don’t feel obligated to buy lots of gifts — giving can make you feel good, but in times of financial despair, giving gifts can create a lot of stress. Instead, caregivers can help seniors write and send personalized cards to family and friends.
Stay connected socially — volunteer at a soup kitchen (or other
Retire with Comfort & Joy!
organization) with a caregiver — giving back improves people’s moods and increases their sense of self-worth. Caregivers can also teach seniors how to use computers or cell phones to connect socially with family and friends. They can take seniors to a local coffee shop or look at Christmas lights for holiday cheer outside the home.
Be a good listener — sometimes, all it takes to help a senior with the holiday blues is simply listening. Through conversation, caregivers can help seniors live in the present (instead of dwelling on “the good old days”) and keep their holiday expectations realistic.
Encourage them to talk with their healthcare provider:
The holidays can cause people to feel anxious and depressed. But for some, holiday tensions can lead to full-blown clinical depression. Often, older adults don’t realize they are depressed. If you suspect depression in someone you know, you may need to bring it up more than once. Let
Depression is a medical condition. Depression prevents older adults from enjoying life as it could be and takes a heavy toll on their health. If you believe you or a loved one suffers from depression, you should consult a mental health care provider, or consider going with them and speaking to their primary care physician about these concerns.
Some of the common symptoms of depression in older individuals include persistent sadness, withdrawal from social activities, slowed thinking, lack of energy, lack of interest in things that were once pleasurable, excessive worry, frequent tearfulness, feelings of worthlessness or helplessness, weight changes, changes in sleep patterns and concentration problems.
You can make a difference just by reaching out to your neighbor or friend and including them in your holiday dinner plans. There are a lot of ideas on ways to connect with people who may be depressed, but just reaching out and letting that person know you care is the most important part. SL
This season, discover the joy of resort-style retirement living! Enjoy all-inclusive services like chef-prepared meals, fun social events, housekeeping, and more — all wrapped up into one monthly payment. From comfort and connection to peace of mind all year round, resort-style living is the gift that keeps on giving.
December Events
Christmas Open House
Tuesday, December 3 at 11:00 a.m.
Get a taste of the Resort Lifestyle, firsthand. Enjoy a delicious chef-prepared meal and a brief presentation of how the resort lifestyle simplifies your retirement. Stick around for a festive performance in the theater! RSVP today!
Barbershop Quartet Concert
Wednesday, December 11 at 4:00 p.m.
Join us and enjoy the sounds of the a cappella group, The Muddy River Boys. Afterwards, be our guest for a chef-prepared dinner and discover the many benefits of all-inclusive living. RSVP by December 6
december Greetings
Hello December
1 2 3 4 5 6 7
Christmas Tree Lighting
Town of Malabar
6 - 8 p.m.
Begin the Christmas spirit with refreshments, carols and a tree lighting.
Holiday Tree Lighting
6:30 p.m.
Green Gables
1501 S. Harbor City Blvd.
Melbourne 321-306-8635
Holiday Open House
5 - 8 p.m.
Malabar Community Park 1840 Malabar Road Malabar, 321-727-7764
Free Liver Scans
10 a.m. - 2 p.m.
Free fibroscan. One Senior Place 8085 Spyglass Hill Road Viera, 321-751-6771
Card Day
Blizzard at the Barn Holiday open house
1 to 4 p.m. Free Vendors, food trucks, games, feed treats to horses (carrots $1 a bag), pony rides ($5), petting zoo and more. Call Donna, 847989-4248, or email blizzardatthebarn@ harmonyfarmsinc.com Harmony Farms 2205 Pluckebaum Road Cocoa
"A Christmas Carol" 6 - 7:30 p.m. Cape Canaveral Library 201 Polk Ave. Cape Canaveral 321-868-1101
Ukulele Meet-up
11 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.
Titusville Library 2121 S. Hopkins Ave. Titusville, 321-264-5026
Enjoy appetizers, drinks and holiday spirit. Bring an unwrapped toy for Toys for Tots.
Titusville Chamber of Commerce 2000 S. Washington Ave. Titusville, 321-267-3036
"Holidays in Harmony"
7 p.m.
The concert is presented by the Brevard Chorale.
First United Methodist Church
206 S. Hopkins Ave. Titusville, 321-269-7631
Gift of Light
5:30 p.m.
Tree-lighting ceremony, performances and fireworks.
Parrish Medical Center 951 N. Washington Ave. Titusville, 321-268-6111
Drive-thru Nativity
Dec. 5 and 6
6 - 8 p.m.
Faith Viera
5550 Faith Drive Viera, 321-636-5505
Moonlight Music on the Promenade
6 - 9 p.m.
Live music
Cocoa Riverfront Park 401 Riveredge Blvd. Cocoa, 321-631-9075
Live Nativity
6 - 9 p.m.
Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church 1626 Oak St. Melbourne 321-723-3636
“Holiday Harmony” 2 - 4 p.m. and 6 - 8 p.m. Concert presented by the Harbor City Harmonizers. Emmanuel United 2800 W. Eau Gallie Blvd. Melbourne 321-345-7292
Travel Open House
7:30 - 11 a.m. Pick up your new 2025 travel brochures. 5525 Porada Drive Viera, 321-591-0392
8 9 10 11 12 13 14
Lagoon Straight Talk 5:30 - 8:30 p.m. Learn about the progress being made.
Eau Gallie Civic Center 1551 Highland Ave. Melbourne helpthelagoon.org
First Senior Appreciation Party Noon - 2 p.m.
One Senior Place 8085 Spyglass Hill Road Viera, 321-751-6771
Water's Edge Dermatology
4 - 7 p.m.
Ribbon cut: 4:30 p.m. Tours, raffle drawings. 8045 Spyglass Hill Road Suite 104, Viera 321-294-5800
Second annual Junny the Red Nose Bloodhound’s Christmas Light Fest 6:30 - 9:30 p.m. Dec. 5 to 14 and Dec. 19 to 22 Drive-through light display, $10 per car. Dec.21 – walk through available.
Messiah Sing Along 7 p.m. Holy Name of Jesus 3050 Highway A1A Indialantic 321-773-2783
Winter Holiday Dance 7 p.m. Concert presented by the Melbourne Municipal Band. Eau Gallie Civic Center 1551 Highland Ave. Melbourne 321-724-0555
Movies at the Manor 5 - 10 p.m.
Ford's Garage Car Show/Toy Drive
8 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. A “Fords only” car show. Bring a new unwrapped toy for the Brevard County Sheriff's Office campaign. Ford's Garage 5480 Lake Andrew Drive Viera 321-405-3673
Shine Medicare and Health Insurance Counseling 10 a.m. - 1 p.m. Cocoa Beach Library 550 N. Brevard Ave. Cocoa Beach 800-936-2372
Wright Brothers Day 2024 Answer the Phone Like Buddy the Elf Day
Medicaid Planning Seminar 10 - 11 a.m. Presented by elder law attorney William A. Johnson. RSVP One Senior Place 8085 Spyglass Hill Road Viera, 321-751-6771
Holiday Pajama Jam
7 p.m. A festive concert presented by the Melbourne Community Orchestra. Melbourne Auditorium 625 Hibiscus Blvd. Melbourne 321-285-6724
Pajama Party and a Movie Noon Wear your favorite pajamas and enjoy a festive afternoon. One Senior Place 8085 Spyglass Hill Road Viera, 321-751-6771
Holiday Ornament Swap 11:30 a.m. - 1 p.m. First Watch 1900 W. New Haven Ave. Melbourne 321-977-5417
Golf Cart Parade
5:30 p.m. DRS Center 1089 S. Patrick Drive Satellite Beach 321-773-6458
Double feature “Miracle on 34th Street” and “It's a Wonderful Life.” Field Manor 750 Field Manor Drive Merritt Island 321-848-0365
Reindeer Run 8 a.m. Cherie Down Park 8330 Ridgewood Ave. Cape Canaveral 321-868-1220
15 16 17 18 19 20 21
Run Run Santa 1 Mile 7:30 a.m.
A festive one-mile race. Calvary Chapel Viera 2852 Fellowship Place Viera, runsignup.com
Carols in the Park
5 p.m.
Join in and sing carols. No singing talent necessary. Riverfront Park 401 Riveredge Blvd. Cocoa, 321-433-8800
"It's a Wonderful Life"
6:30 p.m.
Cocoa Village Playhouse 300 Brevard Ave. Cocoa, 321-636-5050
Holiday Colors and Ugly Sweater Holiday Party 1 p.m.
Sunflower House 3125 Fell Road West Melbourne 321-452-4341
Family Christmas Extravaganza 10:30 a.m. - 5 p.m. Fred Poppe Regional Park 1951 Malabar Road Palm Bay, 321-952-5725
22 23 24 25 26 27 28
Stretching Day National Wreaths Across America Day Bill of Rights Day Hanukkah begins Kwanzaa begins
7:30 a.m.
Sunset in the Hollows
3:30 - 5:30 p.m. Enjoy two miles of interpretative trails about the gopher tortoises and all the wildlife and native plants.
1170 Rock Spring Drive
Suntree Sit 'n Knit
2:30 - 4:30 p.m. Palm Bay Library 1520 Port Malabar Blvd. Palm Bay, 321-952-4519
Shine Medicare Counseling
9 a.m. - noon
Surfin' Santas of Cocoa Beach
Surfing, costume contest, Hawaiian dancers and live music.
2 Minutemen Causeway Cocoa Beach, surfingsantas.org
29 30 31
New Year’s Eve Gala: Dinner and Dance 7:30 p.m. - 12:30 a.m. A night of live music, dancing, food and champagne. Presented by the Melbourne Municipal Band. Hilton Melbourne 200 Rialto Place Melbourne 321-724-0555 SUNDAY MONDAY
DeGroodt Libary 6475 Minton Road SE Palm Bay, 321-345-1057
Jan. 1
Overeaters Anonymous 11 a.m. - noon
Cocoa Beach Library 550 N. Brevard Ave. Cocoa Beach 321-868-1104
A Call to Yarns 3:30 - 4:30 p.m. Knit and crochet group. Titusville Library 2121 S. Hopkins Ave. Titusville, 321-264-5026
Sunflower House 3125 Fell Road West Melbourne 321-452-4341
A Night to Remember Holiday Gala 6 - 11 p.m.
Celebrate the holidays with dinner, entertainment and dancing. Serenity 3980 Sarno Road Melbourne 321-610-1113
HOLIDAY EVENTS
Continued from page 3
Cocoa/Rockledge
Holiday Parade & Festival
Saturday, Dec. 14 • 10 a.m.
The parade starts at Rockledge High School. Its theme is “Snow Place Like the Space Coast.” The parade will end in Cocoa, where it will kick off its Holiday Festival from 12 to 3 p.m. at 401 River Edge Blvd. in Cocoa.
There will be live performances on the Riverfront Park Center Stage. For parade information, call 321-633-1874. For festival information, call 321-635-7702.
Second Annual Holiday Illumination Celebration
Saturday, Dec. 14, 3 to 8 p.m.
A festive evening filled with delicious food trucks, a spectacular tree lighting ceremony, Christmas market and free concert by the band Hot Pink.
Sponsored by Community Advocacy for Merritt Island. The Brevard Veterans Memorial Center is at 400 S. Sykes Creek Parkway on Merritt Island. For information, call 321-453-1776.
22nd annual Turkey Creek Boat Parade
Saturday, Dec. 14, 5 p.m.
Decorated boats will meet at 5:30 p.m. on Turkey Creek in front of Palm Bay Marina. It will head east past Palm Bay Point to the mouth of the Indian River and turn around before heading back to Turkey Creek toward Port Malabar Boulevard.
During the upcoming 15th annual
Candlelight Shopping Art Walk
Saturday, Dec. 14, 4 to 8 p.m.
A festive evening of art and holiday cheer. Grab a map of participating Art Walk shops and galleries, then make your way through downtown Melbourne to visit each stop.
Titusville Christmas Parade
Saturday, Dec. 14, 6 p.m.
The parade is sponsored by the Indian River Church, starting at 6 p.m. at Titusville High School. The theme is “A Winter Wonderland.”
For more information, visit christmasparadeirc.com
Cocoa Beach Boat Parade
Saturday, Dec. 14, 6 p.m.
The parade is organized by the Rotary Club of Cocoa Beach, starting
at Marker 101 near Centennial Park on State Road 520 across from Cape Canaveral Hospital.
Cocoa Village Bike Parade
Friday, Dec. 20, 6:30 p.m.
Join for a bike ride — individual or bring out a crew to ride down the historic streets of Cocoa Village. The parade route begins at Cocoa Riverfront Park, goes through the heart of the Village and up Riverside Drive.
Check in at 5 p.m. at the park.
A Celtic Christmas Friday, Dec. 20, 7 p.m.
The event will take place at St. Andrew United Methodist Church at 3380 Dairy Road in Titusville.
For more information, go to saintandrew-umc.com.
Fifth annual Holiday Golf Cart Parade and Contest
Friday, Dec. 20. 5 p.m.
This festive event will feature a golf cart parade and contest, food trucks, a DJ, kids’ activities and more. Satellite Beach Sports Park, 751 Jamaica Blvd. For information, call 321-773-6458
Deck the District — A Festive Holiday Celebration
Saturday, Dec. 21. 4 to 9 p.m. Eau Gallie turns into a winter wonderland filled with vendors, food trucks, live music, local artisans and entertainment. It will be held at Highland Ave., between Montreal & Eau Gallie Blvd, Eau Gallie Arts District
A Celtic Christmas
Saturday, Dec. 21, 7 p.m.
The concert will take place at the First United Methodist Church at 206 S. Hopkins Ave. Admission is free. For more information, go to fumctitusville.com.
West Cocoa Community Christmas Parade
Saturday, Dec. 21, 6 p.m.
The parade starts at the East Coast Christian Center’s Cocoa campus at 1855 Friday Road.
Parade information is on Facebook.
Surfing Santas
Tuesday, Dec. 24, 7:30 a.m.
Surfing Santas begins at Minutemen Causeway in front of Coconuts on the Beach in Cocoa Beach. For more information, call 321-223-6400 or visit surfingsantas.org SL
SENIOR LIFE Courtesy of Surfing Santas
Surfing Santas event at Cocoa Beach on Christmas Eve morning, hundreds of Santas will take to the waves.
CROSSWORD
ACROSS
1. Fad or frenzy
5. Opportunity, so to speak
9. Infiltrator, perhaps 14. Traveling, say
15. Spoonbills do it
16. Pillow filler
17. Juniors, e.g.
19. Fractious
20. Lumberjack’s cry
21. Big beef piece
23. Border duty
25. What tellers do
30. Advent
32. Like a span of oxen
33. “The Water Diviner” actor
36. Redressing
38. Communal pronoun
39. Farm hand, at times
40. Call, in Vegas
41. Broadway handouts
44. Updates a blog
46. Get another magazine
47. Weapon for a trooper
49. Frees from doubt
51. Extreme cruelty
54. Checklist bit
56. High beam?
58. Sousaphones
62. Strip of leaves
64. Word with secret or press
65. “So be it!”
66. Trap starter
67. Frat letter
68. Indicates yes
69. Grown grigs
DOWN
1. Go on a tirade
2. Expect anon
3. Type of radiation
4. Something to tweeze
5. Overshadows
6. High-quality table wood
7. Coleridge works
8. Pine secretion
9. Became exhausted, with “out”
10. Be a bad witness
11. Campaign creations
12. Trawler attachment
13. Venture
18. Paris flower
22. Library gizmo
24. Savage
26. ___ of hope
27. Out of whack
28. Church dogma
29. A sphere lacks them
31. Breaks the news
33. Coconut product
34. Recreation center
posting
35. Grad school grillings
37. Western Colorado sights
39. Bathroom cleaner?
42. “___ don’t say!”
43. Latte preparer
44. Bicycle
45. Hole in the head
48. Empire builders
50. Chair or car style
52. In need of freshening
53. Mercury, for example
55. Office comm.
57. Pilates count
58. Body image, briefly?
59. “Yuck” cousin
60. Quilting social
61. Carpenter at the picnic?
63. Served dinner
Boomer BASH Senior FEst
Senior Life’s annual Boomer Bash Senior Fest drew a large crowd to the Space Coast Convention Center in Cocoa.
The Seniors Got Talent show, brought back by popular demand after two previous successful talent shows, was again a very popular segment of the festival. Singers, musicians and dancers dazzled the crowd.
For those who missed this popular expo, there is another coming soon — the Senior Life Valentine’s Day Senior Expo at Nyami Nyami River Lodge at the Brevard Zoo.
To see the video of the event go to myseniorlife.com.
TIME TO TRAVEL Williston
Florida hidden gem awaits visitors at Devil’s Den spring
BY EMILY WARNER
Nestled in the charming town of Williston is the natural wonder of Devil’s Den. This underground spring is a true Florida gem and its ties to the Pleistocene Age allows visitors to feel as though they are stepping back in time.
And, it’s only a threehour drive northwest of Melbourne.
The beauty of Devil’s Den is beyond striking. With an unsuspecting entrance, quick descent down the stairs and a short walk on a rock path, you’ll soon find yourself at the top of another staircase, this one with breathtaking views.
Rocky cavern walls and ceilings are a stark contrast to the teal-blue water below, with fish and turtles swimming about. In the center of the ceiling is a large hole, with greenery draping all around and sunlight streaks coming into the cave. It truly is a magical and nearmythical scene.
If you’re interested in snorkeling at Devil’s Den, you will need to make an online reservation for a specific date and time and pay the $25 fee. You will also be required to wear a mask, snorkel and fins and can either bring your own or rent them on site. Renting all three items is $15 or a single
item is $5.50. Besides your snorkeling equipment, the only other items allowed into the cave are either a phone, camera or GoPro — all other items will need to be left in your vehicle or on a picnic table, though the office will hold your car keys.
The maximum depth of the cave is 54 feet.
For those wanting to scuba dive, there are no reservations and it is a first-come, first-served basis, but you must have a dive buddy and be scuba certified. Admission for divers is $48 and all necessary equipment can be rented for various prices.
Though it is a glorious
sight to see, only visitors who are snorkeling or scuba diving are permitted down the stairs. If you don’t want to enter the water, you can pay $7 to gain walking access to the rest of the property.
For those visitors not scuba diving or snorkeling, Devil’s Den offers some additional recreation opportunities. It has a heated swimming pool, picnic tables, charcoal grills and an assortment of lawn games. Other options on the property include tent and RV campgrounds along with rental cabins.
Devil’s Den is open 364 days a year (closed only for Christmas). To learn more, visit devilsden.com SL
BETTY WHITE
Continued from page 1
during her later years. She was also known for being an advocate for
Dale Stephanos created the digital illustration for the Betty White stamp based on a 2010 photograph by Kwaku Alston. Greg Breeding, an art director for USPS, designed the stamp.
White landed her first job on a television talk show and knew it was what she wanted to continue doing. She continued in television until shortly before she died.
White’s stamp was one of
several stamps announced for release in 2025.
“This early glimpse into our 2025 stamp program demonstrates our commitment to providing a diverse range of subjects and designs for both philatelists and stamp enthusiasts,” said Lisa BobbSemple, the Stamp Services director for USPS. “This year, we are continuing several of our popular series and commemorative anniversaries, while introducing some exciting new stamps. Additionally, several of our mail-use stamps, which are printed based on demand, will be updated this year.”
SENIOR LIFE Emily Warner Devil’s Den is open year round except on Christmas.
SENIOR LIFE Courtesy of the Harry S. Truman Library Harry S. Truman Library Director Dr. Philip Brooks, left, Betty White, an unidentified man, Allen Ludden, Tess White and Truman Library Curator Milton Perry spent a day together in 1964 at the Independence, Missouri museum.
SENIOR LIFE Emily Warner
Scuba divers and snorkelers enjoy the cool waters of Devil’s Den. Visitors descend to the underground spring that is a constant 72 degrees.
NORTH BREVARD
News for
Salvation Army Angel Trees make Christmas dreams come true
BY FLORA REIGADA
Thanks to the Salvation Army in Brevard County and around the world, many in need have food on their tables, clothes on their backs and a roof over their heads.
But Christmas may not be so merry for those who are struggling financially. While some children and seniors tear open gifts on Christmas morning, others watch from the sidelines. That is when the Salvation Army steps in with its Angel Trees. They are decorated with Angel Tags, which contain the name of a child or senior and their gift requests. Donors take a tag, purchase the gifts and return them to the trees.
“We don’t want anyone waking up Christmas morning without something under the tree. Every child should
receive a couple of gifts. The Angel Trees and donors make sure that happens,” said Kathy Broome, the manager at the Salvation Army in North Central Brevard.
The trees can be found in many Brevard County locations, such as the Merritt Square Mall on Merritt Island, Walmart stores, Sam’s Club, Pro Health and Fitness in Viera and Suntree Country Club.
North Brevard Charities in Titusville also has a gift tree.
“We do it to supplement families struggling with inflation, as well as the less fortunate,” said Lomika Hardy, the office administrator. “It is one less thing they need to concern themselves with to provide for their children. We give a bag of unwrapped gifts to the parents and the children sometimes come in
with them. The children peek in the bags and their reactions are priceless. There isn’t a dry eye as we watch their wonder and joy.”
Seniors are also remembered.
“We give them food baskets or hygiene baskets,” Hardy said.
The Salvation Army in North Central Brevard is located at 919 Peachtree St. in Cocoa. Call 321-632-6060 or go to salvationarmyflorida. org/ncbrevard/
The Salvation Army of Melbourne is located at 1080 Hickory St. Call 1-800-SALARMY or visit melbourne. salvationarmyflorida.org.
North Brevard Charities is located at 4475 S. Hopkins Ave. in Titusville. Call 321-269-6555 or visit northbrevardcharities.org. SL
Wreaths Across America set to remember, honor fallen veterans
SENIOR LIFE REPORT
Wreaths Across America will once again lay thousands of wreaths on the graves of veterans at Cape Canaveral National Cemetery and cemeteries across Brevard County.
Wreaths Across America’s mission is to remember and honor veterans by laying remembrance wreaths on the graves of the nation’s fallen heroes.
The wreath laying will begin at 10 a.m. Dec. 14 with families of veterans placing wreaths at the graves of their loved ones first. After the family members are finished, volunteers will then begin to lay the wreaths on all the other graves.
Wreaths cleanup is at sunrise on Jan. 4. Because of ongoing construction, parking will be limited at the cemetery. Organizers ask that volunteers carpool if possible. In addition to the
Cape Canaveral National Cemetery, there are other Wreaths Across America groups locally that also rely on donations and volunteer help in placing wreaths on the graves of veterans in all cemeteries in Brevard County.
Fundraising for the wreaths is a year-round effort. The number of wreaths needed each year grows by the thousands.
Donation for the National Cemetery wreaths can be mailed to WAA-CCNC, 5445 Murrell Road, Unit 102 #168, Viera, Fl. 3295
For information on how to donate and/or volunteer, go to wreathsacrossamerica. org/pages/19423/ Overview/?relatedId=15629 SL
SENIOR LIFE Courtesy of Cindy Mitchel
Gifts from the Angel Tree at the Walmart in Cocoa are designated for children of survivors in the Salvation Army Domestic Violence Program.
St. John
SENIOR LIFE Klinton Landress
Volunteers will lay wreaths on the graves of veterans at Cape Canaveral National Cemetery and other cemeteries in Brevard County.
Seasonal favorite, ‘The Nutcracker’ returns for 17th year
BY NICHOLE YUAN
The approaching holiday season simply would not be complete without the imagery and music of “The Nutcracker.”
For decades, the iconic story of good versus evil has delighted both children and adults alike. And once again, for the 17th consecutive year, Galmont Ballet brings the nostalgic tale to life at the Cocoa Village Playhouse.
While many people are familiar with this classic holiday story, certain elements leave room for interpretation and artistic liberties. With that in mind, Galmont Ballet ensures that it’ll never have exactly the same show from year to year.
“Every year, (Frank Galvez) always presents an element of surprise,” Lucia Montero said, speaking about her fellow co-founder and artistic director.
With the changes from year to year being a surprise to guests, it’s proven to be a charming way to keep patrons coming back for more.
“This year, Frank wanted to connect
the story differently,” Montero said joyfully.
With the anticipation building, those planning to attend will surely be looking for this year’s surprise element.
And while the Galmont Ballet company does, in fact, perform more than just “The Nutcracker,” this beloved fantasy remains their largest production each year. As such, attendees can expect to see very high quality sets designed by Galvez and more than 120 elaborate, handmade costumes made by Montero.
The performance consists of about 50 dancers, primarily Galmont Ballet students, from ages five and up. The exception to this is the role of The Cavalier, which is played by a guest dancer, per the school’s tradition. But the coveted role of the Sugar Plum Fairy is attainable only for Galmont
Edited by Margie E. Burke
Ballet students.
“We train our very own Sugar Plum Fairy,” Montero said. And this year the role went to two young women who will alternate between performances.
With the amount of dedication Montero and Galvez have for their
performers and the show, it’s easy to see why so many Brevard County residents continue to keep this as part of their holiday traditions. But be sure to plan ahead, as this popular Christmas fairy tale only runs from Dec. 20 through 22. SL
December 8, 2024 – 1 – 4 PM
SENIOR LIFE Courtesy of Alfredo Rodriguez Galmont Ballet will present “The Nutcracker” Dec. 20 through 22 at the Cocoa Village Playhouse.
SENIOR LIFE
Courtesy of Alfredo Rodriguez
“The Nutcracker” is Galmont Ballet’s largest production of the year.
SENIOR LIFE Courtesy of Alfredo Rodriguez
“The Nutcracker” has become a holiday tradition in Brevard County.
Holiday packaging, shipping evolving from simple to colorful, convenient
Holiday time means opening packages whether you have been naughty or nice. Traditions through the centuries have involved gift giving with wrappings of a big leaf or a chunk of bark. Today, we have colorful boxes, containers, papers, bags and ribbons.
Packages of all kinds can be a challenge. When we were children, we ripped into packages with abandon. We shredded the paper, tore off the ribbons and got to the prize. As seniors, we find the task more grueling. The tape won’t budge, the ribbons won’t tear and a sharp knife or machete is needed to proceed.
During World War II, I remember gift wrap was an old newspaper and string from a larger ball of salvaged remnants to hold things together. Packages mailed through the U.S. Postal Service had to meet the requirements of strong brown wrapping paper and string. Then all types of tape were available and used instead of paper and string. More challenges.
Today, we have the U.S. Postal Service, UPS, FedEx and Amazon to name a few of the package delivery services. Now, there are convenient packaging and delivery service centers in our area.
We often meet other seniors in lines at the post office and other package delivery services. We think a large truck delivers items to a warehouse or store. We go there to make a purchase; take it home and repackage it for shipping to grandkids in another far-away state. The cycle starts all
Challenges of Living to Age 100
Ed Baranowski
over again. Rules of shippers, the Department of Commerce and TSA add to our packaging challenges as a sender or receiver.
Then we become concerned with porch pirates, who watch for deliveries and follow delivery vehicles to make a hit. Want to get back? One senior fills his Amazon box with trash, removes the address label, tapes the top and places it back on his steps. Some surprised thief will help you get rid of your garbage.
What about other packages in your life? Prescription bottles are child proof. Actually, senior inaccessible. Lift, push, twist, turn and look for a hammer. Packaging for many products is more complicated than years ago. Notices are endless. Do Not Bend, Fragile and Perishable often encourages the reverse action.
May all your packages be colorful, festive, full of joy and easy to open.
Ed Baranowski is an awardwinning writer, artist, speaker and seminar leader. He lives in Melbourne and can be contacted at fast75sr@ gmail.com
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