Space Coast LIVING - Holiday Issue

R0B0T L0VE SPECIAL SECTION > PAGE 78 • SPACECOASTLIVING.COM WINTER 2020

SHELTER MORTGAGE

20 Years of Helping People Make It Home for the Holidays WINTER 2020

1

WE HAVE MOVED

TO A NEW CONVENIENT LOCATION BETWEEN THE CAUSEWAYS

US-1 IN MELBOURNE

The Home of Affordable Luxury

INFINITI

 LUXURY SEDAN

100 NORTH HARBOR CITY BLVD.

A BRAND-NEW FACILITY COMING IN 2021!

INFINITI



LUXURY CROSSOVER

INFINITI



LUXURY CROSSOVER SUV

100 North Harbor City Blvd, Melbourne, FL 32901

www.INFINITIOFMELBOURNE.com • (321) 351-3278

e the O u t to b VOLUME LER # FORD DEA Florida! l a r t n e in C

1

Brevard County’s Only Winner of the

Ford President’s Award for Customer Satisfaction!

- 2019 -

776 Magnolia Ave. Between the Causeways in Melbourne • Brevard’s Only Commercial Vehicle Center!

www.KELLYFORD www.

KELLYFORD.com .com • (321) 607-3281 Must bring in a written offer on the same vehicle. Offer is valid up to 30 days after purchasing a new Ford from Kelly Ford.

2

SPACE COAST LIVING | SPACECOASTLIVING.COM

Used Vehicles I t ’s No t f I just

USED

USED Risk Free Used Vehicles combine true peace of mind with exceptional value!

3 DAY 150 MILE MONEY BACK GUARANTEE

30 DAY 1,000 MILE VEHICLE EXCHANGE

150

POINT VEHICLE INSPECTION

LIVE MARKET PRICING

ensures you get the best vehicle at the best value.

SHOP ONLINE AT

www.RiskFreeUsed.com

t’s

I

it’s

PARAMOUNT RIVER CONDOMINIUMS

Direct Riverfront Luxury Residence

Your New Dream Home Awaits!

P

aramount River Condominiums is located a just few blocks from downtown Melbourne.

Paramount Riverfront Condominiums will offer 68 direct, riverfront, luxury residences. This

development will feature spectacular views of Indian River and will include amenities such as covered parking, private resident entry, and a heated swimming pool with a deck overlooking the river.

Situated perfectly along the edges of the Indian River Lagoon, boasting beautiful views of one of the most biodiverse estuaries in the Northern Hemisphere. The Indian River Lagoon is home to approximately 4,300 species of various plants and wildlife. This direct riverfront high-rise condominium allows for some of the best sightseeing in the area!

Our team of designers will guide you to choose the style and color palette you envision with quality finishes and upgraded cabinetry - whatever ‘’look’’ you desire can be achieved.

Additional amenities include private resident entry and covered parking.

1435 - 1465 Harbor City Blvd, Melbourne ▯ 2,082 to 2,345 Sq. Ft. ▯ Concrete block superstructure, and meticulous tropical landscaping. ▯ Open floor plans ▯ Each unit has private balconies with invigorating panoramic views of the Indian River ▯ Impact-resistant glass windows and sliding glass doors ▯ Emergency lighting and elevator generator power ▯ Built-in fire suppression system ▯ Lobby secured by innovated tele-entry system ▯ Clubhouse with kitchen and party room ▯ Heated swimming pool with deck overlooking the river

Penthouse Floorplan

68

Direct Riverfront Luxury Residences

4

Penthouse Units (1 Sold)

For More Information Jeffcoat & Co. Ellingson Properties 321-473-5858 Team@JackJeffcoat.com TheParamountRiverfront.com

ch 2020

A New Kind'a

q = 66

melody

¬ # ## 4 [Ll & 4

HOLIDAYS 2020

¬ # ## [Ll &

∑

1

6

¬ # ## [Ll & ¬ # ## [Ll &

_œ . _œ œ .

œ

£ ´ œ œ

9

A

F#

D E

Bm

˙

It's m7

new

´

œ œ œ œ . l n œ . œ œ __œ __œ

our tears s which sheds

œ œ œ

A

œ.

œj l œJ

in

our

Dm

ist--mas kind'----a Chr

Dm

D

new

a

œ œj __œ .

œ.

_œ œ l œ

E

´

œ

œ

œ _œ œ l

œj

l nœ

F# m7

£

A

Œ.

Ó

w Christ-mas ne new kind of

A

12

l

year, it's a

all ------strug--gling

F# m7

∑

l

Gm A

D

œ

Christmas

∑

l

Manfred Dreili

l

œ __œ . œj j

t-mas, kind'----a chris G dim A

ith co-----ping w

Bm

our fear

F# m7

l œ j _ œ _ œ j _ . œ _œ l __j œ _œ _œ with to--gether, come

to it's a time

œ.

E A

A

l œ

Winter 2020 œ

sing out E7

Joy

œ.

A

#

l

œ ˙ the world

to

so D TABLE # m B m OF CONTENTS

------F m

l

œ. œ ˙

œ

A

œ œ . _œ _˙ l œ l œ œ Holiday Champagne Bar 9 ´ œ œ œ ˙ l _ _œ œ œ œ # # œ ¬ # œ. œ œ œ l -- all! ness Love to . _ œ _ sing with glad __œ _œ _œ ow rr so e [Ll & th earth, lose F# m7 peace on the21 15 Health First’s E us, on up re he istmas day is Dm hope

-----hearts----------

E

D

Chr

¬ # ## [Ll &

A

Bm

œ

_œ _œ .

œ

We wish you all a jubilant holiday season and have framed this spread in a new holiday song that recently was composed by local musician Manfred Dreilich, a Viera19resident who is an accomplished pianist, recording artist, composer, bells and ring'n arranger and songwriter. Dreilich also serves as E the music director at Immaculate D Conception Catholic Church in Melbourne Beach.

You can hear his song on You Tube by scanning 21 Joy to this QR code with your smart phone camera:

¬ # ## [Ll &

¬ # ## [Ll &

œ.

Œ

D

œ

œ

´

œ

œ

_œ

C

ng car----o-------li A sus

the

world .

Gm A

A

_œ . _œ œ .

. _œCoast l œ œSpace ˙ œ 111 l

_œ œ l œ

new a Sailing 2. It'sFoundation

œ

£

kind

122

œ.

d

œ œj __œ . of

Christ-mas,

l nœ

l

sing!

œ __œ . œj j of

christ-mas

G dim

Dm

D Charity Spotlight: Green Gables

F# m7

ge-----ther

to-------ds Guide m' ly frienGi! faHoliday

A

œ

œ

œ

œ

œ nœ œ

A

œj l w

œ œ.

59

l œ

Virtual Health Visits

œ

strugg--ling

œ. œ ˙

art hearts de---p

PUBLISHER’S LETTER And so this is Christmas… or soon it will be.

In a year fraught with divisiveness, vitriol, anger, fear, virus and so much uncertainty, I am looking forward to starting the New Year with a deep breath and resolve to continue to try to do better, be better.

So, an apology is in order to set it all off right. Last issue, due to some tech issues, too many pages that we previously had proofed and corrected did not make it to final print. Although our work is a team effort, at the end of the day New Kingo d'awrong.

I am the one who must assume responsibility when thingsAlike this called ChristmIas or spoke to three clients about mistakes on their pages and, along with my humblest q = 66graciously agreed to. Mistakes do happen apologies, offered to make good which they and we are all human; but still, it stings sometimes when your heart is in the right place melody and chaos ensues, nonetheless.

¬ ## [Ll & # 44

Manfred Dreili

ch 2020

∑

∑ of Ó l ∑ flawless) Rising up from that setback, we present our final (and hopefully l issue l

Œ.

1 the year. You’ll notice a few things: First, we are continuing to make good on our promise of coverage of important mental health topics to spread awareness and provide resources about where to find does a great job D help. On p. 45, KellyGCamirand m of breaking down the heartbreaking reality of the epidemic of suicides among men, A A women and young people, only expected to continue to rise in light of the isolation and frustration of a global pandemic. Hang tight, dear friends, you are not alone, and our story shows how you can6 recognize signs of depression (especially prevalent during the holiday season) and how tog-help. stru -glin

¬ ## [Ll & #

œ

œ _œ . _ œ . œ

#

_œ œ l œ

g all -------

A

_œ œ l œ

F #m 7

It's

œ.

a

œ

new

kind'

Dm

œ j œ _ _œ .

l nœ

year it's a On p. 50, we explain the affirming process of Hospice, which I, have had thene distinct w kind'----a 7 F illness Christ--mas m honor of particpating in during the and passing of both my brother and my

œ

D co-----ping w ¬ ## £ Dm where father in recent years. This#process provides relief and certainty in a time ´ œ œ & ones often Bm family members and[Llloved feel lost and is a gift that œ isolated. œ œ Hospice lessens the burden of the inevitable, providing a softer transition from life to end of . œ ´ n l œ. œ œ 9 life and helped me gain a deeper appreciation for the sacredness of both. _œ __œ A new kind _ _œj l _œ _œ œ . œ of _ C hrist-masso ne Finally, we are #fortheSpaceCoast and #abouttheSpaceCoast, wewhope you’ll s which sh B m thisDyear consider supporting local businesses for your holiday gifting. We’ve eds our tears it's a time E to come to # opened the door to¬just a# few local artists, craftsfolkAand galleries, but there are # E many more you can stockings and spaces under the tree. #shoplocal [Ll seek & out to fill E A œ œ œ œ ˙ œ . œj l œJ #shopSpaceCoast. ´ 12 Off we go into the great wide open of a New Year, filled with the hope and the œj œ œ . l œ œ . promise of a new day.

hope

God bless us everyone.

D

¬ ## [Ll & #

l l

our

E

Shawna

hearts----------

F #m

-------------

C#m

so

sing out E7

œ. _ _ D ´ œ œ . œ _ œ _ œ œ œ _ œ l _œ 15 œ ˙ l SHAWNA L . LUCAS, PUBLISHER _œ _œ œ œ œ œ œ œ l œ Christmas da y is here up œ on us, peace on the

¬ # # Bm [Ll &AN#EMAIL SEND _œ _œ . shawna@spacecoastmagazines.com 19 ¬ ## [Ll & #

in

ring'n

D

Œ

œ.

LET’S TALK

œ

bells

œ

and

E

œ œ.

earth, lose the

A

_œ

œ

œ

´

FOLLOW US

spacecoastliving

car----o-------li

#scliving

ng

œj

Bm

A sus

w

l œ

fam'

A

to

sorrow sing w

ith gladness Lo

Dm

spacecoastliving

Joy

œ nœ œ

ly friends

ve

œ to

E

œ

œ

------5--ge-----th WINTER 2020 e

A

F#

Space Coast Living Magazine Contributing Writers

Sara Beil Sara is the Executive Director of Wuesthoff Brevard Hospice and has worked there since 2016. Sara has worked in acute care since 2003 and found hospice to be her passion when she started working as a community educator in 2016. She received her Master’s in Healthcare Administration in August 2015. www.wuesthoffhospice.com

Kelly Collazo Camirand Kelly Camirand grew up in the 321 and owns Executive & HealthCare Promotions, Inc., a boutique public relations and market development agency serving the medical, legal, sports, not-for-profit, arts and fashion industries. www.executiveandhealthcarepromotions.com

Harmony Lynn Goodson Harmony Lynn Goodson is an editorial stylist, content creator, and contributor for lifestyle and entertaining publications. Harmony aims to inspire people who entertain to create lavish parties with her DIY tips and tricks which she enjoys sharing on her personal blog and social media accounts.

Website: harmonylynn.com. IG & FB: @harmonylynngoodson

Brooke Deratany Goldfarb Brooke Deratany Goldfarb is a Harvard Law graduate, mother, wife, mediator, wellness advocate, yoga instructor and instantly-good friend to almost everyone she meets. peacebeachbrooke@yahoo.com

Meagan Happel Meagan Happel is the Public Relations Manager and Film Commissioner for the Space Coast Office of Tourism and a member of Space Coast FPRA. Meagan previously served as Marketing Coordinator for Brevard Public Schools Food and Nutrition Services.

Meagan can frequently be found attending conventions and film festivals and enjoying the many wonderful activities and sites of the Space Coast! visitspacecoast.com

6

SPACE COAST LIVING | SPACECOASTLIVING.COM

Fred Mays Fred Mays is a freelance writer and photographer who resides in Satellite Beach.

He is a retired television journalist, and active on media issues with the Brevard Indian River Lagoon Coalition. His blog is www.floridaunplugged.net.

Amanda Rose Newton Amanda Rose Newton is a Florida-certified horticulture professional, board certified entomologist, beekeeper, and educator. She holds multiple degrees in her field including Horticulture Technology, Biochemistry, and Entomology with a specialization in Integrated Pest Management. She currently is pursuing a Doctorate degree at Florida Institute of Technology. amandarosenewton@gmail.com.

Sara Paulson Sara is the Public Relations Supervisor for Health First, Brevard’s community healthcare system. She came to Health First with 20 years’ experience as a newspaper journalist, both in reporting, columnist and editing roles at FLORIDA TODAY and for a newspaper group in Chicago. Sara is a member of the Space Coast chapter of the Florida Public Relations Association and lives in Rockledge with her teenage daughters, dog and cat with a questionable disposition. www.hf.org

Maria Sonnenberg Maria is a prolific writer and most excellent proofer for various Space Coast publications and an adjunct professor at Florida Institute of Technology’s Nathan M. Bisk College of Business. When not writing, teaching or traveling, she can be found waging a onewoman war against her lawn and futilely attempting to maintain order among the chaos of a pack of extremely clueless wirehair dachshunds and an angst-driven basset hound. msonnenb32904@yahoo.com

Sue DeWerff Panzarino Sue is an avid surfer, shark attack survivor and storyteller who loves to write about the wonderful people and great organizations on the Space Coast. surfersuzy7@ymail.com

WINTER 2020

7

WINTER 2020 SpaceCoastLIVING.com Eric Wright, President EDITORIAL Shawna Lucas, Publisher

PRODUCTION & DESIGN Evelyn Sutton,

Creative Director Tracy McCaffrey, Art Director

PHOTOGRAPHY

Harmony Lynn Goodson, Jason Hook Photography, Fred Mays

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

CHANGE OF ADDRESS If you are moving or changing the mailing address for your subscription, send your complete old address (where the magazine is currently being mailed), your complete new address, including zip code, to info@spacecoastmagazines.com BACK ISSUES $10.00 each. To purchase call (321) 622-5986 or email info@spacecoastmagazines.com REPRINTS For reprints and commemorative plaques, please email info@spacecoastmagazines.com.

CONTRIBUTE Send press releases, article submissions, announcements and images to editorial@ spacecoastmagazines.com. Please provide 2-3 months advance notice for requests for event announcements and/or coverage.

“MAKING THE SCENE” SUBMISSIONS Please submit electronic hi-resolution images and captions along with a brief description of your event (who, what, where and when) to editorial@spacecoastmagazines.com.

Kelly Camirand, Brooke Deratany Goldfarb, Bobbie Dyer, Harmony Lynn Goodson, Fred Mays, Maya Mojica, Amanda Rose Newton, Maria Sonnenberg

space coast

space coast

ADVERTISING & SALES Sarah de la Hoz, Sales Manager sarahd@spaceocastmagazines.com

ADMINISTRATION Dania Tillman, Operations Manager

MARKETING Tasha Macri, Director of Digital Marketing

OWNERS Joseph Duda, Eric Wright For general inquiries call (321) 622-5986 TO SUBSCRIBE: Subscribe online at SpaceCoastLIVING.com or mail $29.95 for a one year subscription to: Space Coast LIVING, 1900 S. Harbor City Blvd., Melbourne, FL 32901. Please include name, mailing address, city, state, zip code, phone number and email. Please allow 4-6 weeks for subscription to start.

Space Coast LIVING® 1900 S. Harbor City Blvd. Suite 328, Melbourne, FL 32901 Space Coast LIVING® is a registered trademark of Space Coast Magzines, LLC (“SCM”).

The contents of Space Coast LIVING, associated websites, and any other print or electronic publications published by SCM or related to the brand, including advertisements, articles, graphics, websites, web postings, photographs and all other information (“content”), are for informational purposes only, are protected by copyright law and may not be reproduced, distributed, transmitted, displayed, published, broadcast or modified in any way without the prior written consent of SCM, or in the case of third party content, the owner of that content.

You may not alter or remove any trademark, copyright or other notice from copies of the content. SCM does not necessarily endorse, verify, or agree with the content, and makes no warranties or representations, express or implied, as to the accuracy, completeness, timeliness, or usefulness of any content. SCM shall not be held liable for any errors or omissions in the content. ©2020 All rights reserved. Any reproduction, in whole or in part, is prohibited without written permission from the publisher.

8

SPACE COAST LIVING | SPACECOASTLIVING.COM

SPACE COAST LIVING® 1900 S. Harbor City Blvd., Melbourne, FL 32901 Tel. (321) 622-5986 SpaceCoastLiving.com Space Coast LIVING® is a registered trademark of Space Coast Magzines, LLC (“SCM”). The contents of Space Coast LIVING, associated websites, and any other print or electronic publications published by SCM or related to the brand, including advertisements, articles, graphics, websites, web postings, photographs and all other information (“content”), are for informational purposes only, are protected by copyright law and may not be reproduced, distributed, transmitted, displayed, published, broadcast or modified in any way without the prior written consent of SCM, or in the case of third party content, the owner of that content. You may not alter or remove any trademark, copyright or other notice from copies of the content. SCM does not necessarily endorse, verify, or agree with the content, and makes no warranties or representations, express or implied, as to the accuracy, completeness, timeliness, or usefulness of any content. SCM shall not be held liable for any errors or omissions in the content. ©2020 All rights reserved. Any reproduction, in whole or in part, is prohibited without written permission from the publisher.

NEW YEAR Champagne Bar Cart Ringing in the

t’s easy to set up a festive bar when you have a rolling cart on hand. It’s one of the most used party pieces in my collection. I can simply roll it out, gather all of my pieces, and put together a beautiful spread in minutes.

CHECK OUT MORE OF HARMONY’S WORK HERE: Website: Harmonylynn.com Facebook: Harmonylynngoodson Instagram: @harmonylynngoodson

You also can customize the presentation for any occasion… this New Year’s Eve setup was as easy as it gets! I found the metallic gold fringe curtains and coordinating 32” balloons online for less than $30.

We used Champagne, but bubbly water and alcohol-free sparkling apple cider would be a great choice, too! To shake it up a bit further, I added assorted berries, juices, and festive drink stirs for fun flavor combinations.

By Harmony Lynn Goodson, Contributing Writer WINTER 2020

9

Here are a few easy apps to accompany the drinks:.

Midnight Hand Pies MAKES: 7 Single Serving Pies

INGREDIENTS: 1 package refrigerated pie crust (2 pie crusts) 7.5 oz garlic & herb cream cheese spread 1 egg DIRECTIONS: - Preheat oven to 375F. - Beat the egg and set aside with a pastry brush.

- Using a 3 1/4-inch circular cookie cutter, cut 14 pie crust circles.

- Place 7 pie crust pieces on a baking sheet. Add a heaping spoonful of garlic & herb cream cheese to the center of each round leaving a 1/4” edge.

- Brush a thin layer of beaten egg around edges and cover with the remaining 7 pie crust rounds. Pinch together the pie crusts with a fork to seal.

- If desired, decorate the tops of your hand pies with mini cookie letters for the “XII”. I used a “T” cookie cutter to make the basic shape of the clock hand before finishing it with my fingers.

(Note: Brush the surface of each hand pie with egg before placing your decorative pie crust elements on top to secure them.)

- Using a sharp knife, cut a few small slits in the top of each pie to allow heat to escape.

- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.

Bacon-Wrapped Asparagus MAKES: 24

INGREDIENTS: 24 stalks asparagus 12 slices bacon, halved lengthwise DIRECTIONS: - Preheat the oven to 400F. - Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

- Wash and trim the woody ends of the asparagus.

- Wrap a bacon strip tightly around a piece of asparagus and place the bacon end side down on the parchment paper to hold into place.

- Repeat with all pieces, spacing on the baking sheet so they don’t touch to avoid sticking together.

- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until crisp!

10

SPACE COAST LIVING | SPACECOASTLIVING.COM

New Year’s Eve

Caprese Salad Skewers MAKES: 16 Skewers

INGREDIENTS: 6 oz. cherry tomatoes 16 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves Balsamic glaze Salt & pepper DIRECTIONS: - Wash and dry the tomatoes and basil. - Cut the mozzarella cheese slices in half, (or you can use bocconcini mozzarella balls, cut in half) - Skewer ingredients starting with a basil leaf, mozzarella cheese, and tomato.

- Repeat for remaining skewers, sprinkle with salt and pepper.

- Drizzle with balsamic glaze before serving.

WINTER 2020

11

12

SPACE COAST LIVING | SPACECOASTLIVING.COM

HOLIDAY FOOD Gifts Edible Offerings:

By Harmony Lynn Goodson, Contributing Writer

ince it’s likely our holiday routines will be, BAH HUMBUG, a bit different than we hoped for this year, we tried to think of things families could do together when prepping for the holidays. We like the idea of sharing and what better time to do so than the holiday season?

Kids can have a great time with supervision spending a rainy Saturday creating crave-worthy gifts to share with family and friends. Colleagues and co-workers love them, too! You can level up your cu-

Gingerbread Cookie Cutouts MAKES: 36 Cookies

INGREDIENTS: 3 cups all-purpose flour 1/2 tbsp ground cinnamon 1 tbsp ground ginger 1/2 tspn ground cloves 1/4 tspn nutmeg 1/4 tspn salt 3/4 cup dark corn syrup 3/4 cup packed dark brown sugar 1/2 cup margarine INSTRUCTIONS: - Stir together flour, cinnamon, ginger, cloves, nutmeg, and salt in a large bowl and set aside.

- In a medium pot, heat the margarine, corn syrup, and brown sugar over medium-low heat, stirring constantly until the margarine is melted.

Pour the hot mixture into a large mixing bowl with the dry ingredients and mix with a spatula until all ingredients are well combined and a sticky dough forms.

- Transfer dough to plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for 20 minutes.

- Preheat the oven to 350F and prepare your work surface and rolling pin with flour.

linary creations with an added extra, like a new loaf pan, cookie cutter(s), or festive mug. Top it with ribbon or an ornament, and a recipe card for a perfectly put-together presentation.

- Pinch off 1/4 of the dough at a time and keep the rest wrapped in plastic so it doesn’t dry out.

- Flour the piece of dough you are working with and roll out to 1/8″ thick for harder and more precisely shaped cookies or 1/4″ for softer, chewier, and slightly puffed shapes.

- Bake your cookie cutouts on a parchment paper lined baking sheet for 10 minutes or until baked all the way through. If you want even softer cookies, you can also bake for less time.

- Make sure your cookies don’t have doughy centers by checking that the color is consistent over the entire cookie.

- Let cool on the parchment paper before removing. When they are completely cool, you can start decorating them.

Royal Icing:

INGREDIENTS: 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar 1 tbsp meringue powder 3 tbsp warm water INSTRUCTIONS: - In a clean, grease-free bowl of an electric mixer, stir together the powdered sugar and meringue powder.

- Add the water and beat on high with the whisk attachment until the icing forms soft peaks (about 8-10 minutes).

WINTER 2020

13

Cinnamon Bread MAKES: 2 loaves

INGREDIENTS: 2 cups sugar 4 cups all-purpose flour 2 tbsp baking powder 1 tsp salt 2 eggs 2 cups milk 2/3 cup vegetable oil CINNAMON SUGAR SWIRL INGREDIENTS: 1 tbsp cinnamon 2/3 cup sugar INSTRUCTIONS: - Preheat oven to 350F and grease two 8”x4” loaf pans.

- In a medium mixing bowl, combine sugar, flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.

- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, and oil.

- Combine both mixtures into one bowl and stir until smooth.

- In a small bowl, combine the cinnamon and sugar swirl ingredients.

- Pour half of the mixture equally into the two loaf pans.

Sprinkle with the cinnamon sugar mixture and swirl into batter with a toothpick. - Pour the remaining batter into the loaf pans and repeat with more cinnamon sugar.

- Bake for 60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the loaf comes out clean.

- Let cool completely before removing from pan.

Hot Cocoa & Marshmallow Kits MAKES: Two 16 oz jars, 15 servings per jar INGREDIENTS: 1 1/2 cups dry whole milk powder 1 cup powdered sugar 1 cup cocoa powder 1/8 tsp salt 1/2 tsp cinnamon 1/2 cup mini marshmallows INSTRUCTIONS: - In a medium bowl, whisk together all ingredients.

- Add your mix to two 16 oz airtight jars, top with marshmallows and wrap together with ribbon and directions for cocoa preparation.

HOT COCOA PREPARATION DIRECTIONS: Add 2 tbsp of cocoa mix to 8 oz of hot milk.

Top with marshmallows and enjoy!

14

CHECK OUT MORE OF HARMONY’S WORK HERE: Website: Harmonylynn.com Facebook: Harmonylynngoodson Instagram: @harmonylynngoodson SPACE COAST LIVING | SPACECOASTLIVING.COM

Meet MATTHEW MESSER Matthew Messer served in the United States Navy for four years. He was assigned to the Navy Ceremonial Guard as a casket bearer, performing more than 6,000 funerals. He also participated in President Ronald Regan’s funeral as well as the inauguration of President Bush.

Matthew was then assigned to the USS John F Kennedy where he was an aviation ordinance. Matthew’s job was pivotal in fighting the war on terror by assembling and attaching the ordinance to the planes.

After serving his tour, Matthew served as a police officer for the Satellite Beach Police Department for five years. Using the skills he obtained in both professions has helped Matthew learn the importance of assisting people with their needs.

Matthew has been with Toyota of Melbourne for one year and has achieved the status of Toyota Pro.

Toyota of Melbourne 24 N Harbor City Blvd.

Melbourne, FL 32935 Phone: (321) 426-9420

ToyotaofMelbourne.com

WINTER 2020

15

Call now to take advantage of our specials. Receive 25%-40% off med-spa services & 20%-40 % off fillers and injectables.

SERVICES OFFERED:

Traditional Family Medicine

Concierge & Executive Medicine

BioTE Hormone Optimization

Med-spa: Micro-needling with radiofrequency TruSculpt body sculpting Laser hair removal Laser skin resurfacing & rejuvenation Vaginal rejuvenation & GainsWave ED Botox, Dysport & Restalyne Facial fillers

321-253-3944 2 Suntree Place Melbourne, FL 32940 familypracticeofsuntree@gmail.com 16

SPACE COAST LIVING | SPACECOASTLIVING.COM

Family Practice of Suntree and Viera on Facebook FamilyPracticeSuntreeViera.com

20 YEARS

An American Classic: Shelter Mortgage’s modern take on the ico nic Norman Rockwell illustra tion

Holidays

of Helping People Make It Home for the

a Spencer Natasha Cartagen e & Shelter Mortgag

WINTER 2020

17

Story by Eric Wright, President. Images and Styling by Jason Hook Photography. Special thanks to Lifestyle Homes for the location assistance, WedIdeas for the beautiful flower arrangements and Two Chicks and a Pot for catering - and donating - our holiday meal.

or many of us, the holiday season is a time to celebrate relationships that enrich and add meaning to our lives. Our homes often become the gathering point for these celebrations, the space where memories are made and the bonds that hold us together are strengthened.

Natasha Cartagena Spencer appreciates that the work she has done as a mortgage lender has been a catalyst to move people into homes where such memories are made.

Celebrating 20 years in business on the Space Coast, Natasha has built Shelter Mortgage into a leading and trusted lender by building personal relationships with the individuals and families making one of the most important decisions of their lives.

Developing and Honoring Relationships Whether it’s a starter house for an aspiring young couple, or a retirement estate realized after a lifetime of work, Natasha and her team’s personal connection make an otherwise stressful experience memorably pleasant.

“We aren’t transactional, we are relational,” Natasha explained, citing the importance of stability. “I have one client that I have done seven mortgages for in 20 years.”

“It [is] the relational connection that happens when you become involved with the financial aspect 18 18

SPACE COAST COAST LIVING LIVING || SPACECOASTLIVING.COM SPACECOASTLIVING.COM SPACE

of the deal that appealed to me,” she said. “The sales side takes a few weeks, but the relationship we develop when securing a mortgage for a client is all about trust and transparency. It is intimate.”

Natasha realized this shortly after graduating from the University of

Miami when she went to work for a major real estate broker in South Florida. She learned that she was more attracted to the lending side of real estate than the sales side and soon after was hired by Shelter Mortgage Company, a leading retail residential mortgage originator.

A joint venture with Holiday Builders brought Natasha back to the area in 1999 to cover a massive swath of territory including Florida, South Carolina, Texas and Alabama. The venture expanded to other builders but moved towards a singular, retail model in 2010.

Now Natasha divides her time between the three offices in Pensacola, Orlando and at her headquarters in Melbourne/ Suntree.

Connection through Volunteering For those who know or have met her, it may be surprising to learn that Natasha considers herself an introvert in an extrovert’s role. “My husband Brian, (who is one of Shelter’s best selling national sales agents) is the extrovert.

I had to learn how to be outgoing. It is natural for him,” she said.

Nevertheless, she is known for her work as a passionate and engaged volunteer leader in the community, including for the Brevard Zoo, New Life Mission (previously Brevard Rescue Mission), Florida Home Builders Association, Junior Achievement and Eastern Florida State College, among others.

Hot Market

member, or chairing annual fundraisers. Next year, Natasha will be in line to serve a 2-year tenure as Chair for Junior Achievement of the Space Coast.

It Starts with Those Who Are Close Spencer’s relational focus begins with her own team and a time-honored adage: If you take care of your people, they will take care of your clients.

“I want all my people to be their own C O, Chief nergy Officer, she said.

“I like to empower them to succeed, to build a team and to be a leader.”

When she speaks, her enthusiasm for the community is front and center.

“I realized that some people like to play golf or tennis, perhaps they like to travel. But me, I love to volunteer.

That is my hobby,” she said.

She lists Kent Winkelseth, Shelter’s VP/Production Manager and Orlando office manager, as a great example of a remarkable team builder. “When he needs me, I’m there, but he trains, guides and motivates everyone involved with him.”

Her commitment to these organizations is dizzying, dividing her time among various roles, including as a board

Today, she oversees 21 team members in offices and remote locations, with that number expected to increase.

In spite of the pandemic or perhaps, in part because of it, the housing market in Florida has boomed. According to a recent story by the New York Times, 950 people are moving here daily from major metropolitan areas in New York, Boston, California and Chicago, among others. Also, many Millennials and Gen Xers who gravitated towards densely populated urban areas and high-rise living are starting to rethink that lifestyle. Suddenly, a house in the ‘burbs with a yard and spaces for outdoor activities is much more appealing than being confined to a 650-sq.ft. apartment in a partially-opened downtown area. hough helter does offer refinancing, especially when rates dip as low as they have in the past year, their business is based on a purchase-driven model, or helping clients buy new homes.

According to Natasha, that keeps the focus on relationships rather than transactions.

“I will tell you though, most of the time when one of our purchase clients wants to refinance, we are the first place they call,” she said.

“Also, since our primary mortgage lender (NewRez LLC) went public, we now have the resources to keep most of our loans in house, which streamlines the whole mortgage process.”

WINTER 2020 2020 WINTER

19 19

“The sales side takes a few weeks, but the relationship we develop when securing a mortgage for a client is all about trust and transparency. It is intimate.�

Natasha Cartagena Spencer Shelter Mortgage

Humble Assistance Helping homeowners move into the home of their dreams by acting as a trusted advisor and guide has earned Shelter Mortgage the honor of being one of the most respected and client referred brands in the field.

And, making this community the best place imaginable for everyone is the passion that drives Natasha.

Shelter Mortgage is located at 7341 Office Park Plaza, Suite 106, Melbourne.

For more information, call (407) 234-8504 or visit loanswithnatasha.com

20

SPACE COAST LIVING | SPACECOASTLIVING.COM

HEALTH FIRST VIRTUAL VISITS: Getting Care, No Matter What (and Where)

Dr. Jayde George, Virtual Care Medical Director for Health First

WINTER 2020

21

22

SPACE COAST LIVING | SPACECOASTLIVING.COM

HEALTH FIRST

VIRTUAL VISITS Health First’s Virtual Visits were in their infancy when COVID-19 struck. Now, they’re something patients and providers have grown to love, pandemic or not.

hirley Strader had been having severe headaches for a few weeks when she and her husband, Jim, decided it was time to get things

Getting Care, No Matter What (or Where)

By Sara Paulson, Health First

“We, of course, didn’t want to go in because of COVID,” said Jim.

checked out. But given the times, they were apprehensive about going into a medical office during a public health crisis.

So, they signed up for a Virtual Visit with Health First Medical Group, unsure of what to expect.

WINTER 2020

23

Compassionate & Quality Virtual Attention Turns out, Virtual Visits have been great for many others, too.

“Who would have thought, back in March, when we were doing about 20 a week, that we would end up doing 500 to 00 a day said Dr. Jayde George, Health First’s Virtual Care Medical Director.

Once COVID-19 stormed onto the scene, the group’s 300-plus providers were trained and became well-versed in delivering compassionate, high-quality virtual care.

During the height of COVID-19, between 1,000 and 1,500 Virtual Visits were conducted per day.

Effective & Efficient Care The couple visited virtually with physician assistant Danielle Miller to discuss Shirley’s debilitating headaches. Shirley was sent to Health First’s Viera Medical Plaza for a CT scan. Results came back quickly, and Miller called the couple within a couple of hours. By 4:30 p.m., Shirley had a prescription and was on the road to recovery.

It was just flawless, im said of his and Shirley’s exceptional experience with Danielle Miller, PA. “This just went so well, and she was relieved of her symptoms by that night.

Jim was so impressed, he turned to Virtual Visits for follow-up with his internal medicine provider, too. He loved the efficiency. Normally, he travels to Health First Medical Group’s Gateway facility. Instead of having to drive there, park, walk into the building, getting in line to check in, waiting, filling out paperwork and more, he was able to do it all online – and still get the care he needed. ow, how efficient is this for me, and it saves me money and time, im explained. You are not around all those people who have colds and maybe COVID. Maybe it doesn’t make a lot of difference to doctors, but it makes a whale of a difference to us. You re not driving down there, around sick people and waiting. It’s like it bypasses a whole bunch of it. I think it’s marvelous. It is really great for us.

24

SPACE COAST LIVING | SPACECOASTLIVING.COM

“In the Medical Group, we’ve got pretty much every provider, every specialty, doing Virtual Visits in some sort of capacity,” Dr. George said.

“It really has been a big driving force through COVID. People realized what a benefit this was.”

Celebrating Success and Health In mid-September, Health First conducted its 100,000th Virtual Visit.

“Finally hitting that mark was something for us to celebrate as a team," Dr. George said of providing the community easy access to healthcare. “As we continue to do more and learn more, we eliminate the different roadblocks for patient and provider.

Having healthcare accessible via a smartphone or computer has changed things across the board for patients who can get what they need from wherever they are: from chronic or preventive care to patient evaluations to prescription refills to lab results to mental health evaluations and more. Virtual Visits are offered seven days a week, with extended hours in the mornings and evenings.

Adapting to Change Providers are encouraged to think outside the box when it comes to virtual exams, emboldening the patient to take on a more proactive role with their health. For example, doctors can walk a patient with stomach pain through where to press on their abdomen to help the provider locate where their pain is, Dr. George explained.

Or if a patient has a rash or skin lesion they are concerned about, they can take a high-quality image with their smartphone and upload it to the patient portal for their physician to review. The Virtual Visit, which is hosted on a secure platform to ensure patient doctor confidentiality, can also serve as a gateway to determining if further in-person care is needed.

Dr. George noted a case recently where a patient was suffering from lower extremity swelling. His wife was also on the Virtual Visit. “She was able to move the laptop around, r. eorge recalled about being able to see the severity of the problem. Being able to see the extent of the swelling… “totally changed the visit. We were able to see he needed to go to the R.

Specialty Practices And specialty practices are not beyond the scope of Virtual Visits: from bariatrics to pulmonology, providers are embracing this technology, turning to it often – and doing it well. Statistically, other healthcare systems similar in size to Brevard’s community healthcare systems’ specialists see between 7% and 9% of their patients virtually, said Dr. George. About 25% of Health First’s specialist visits are virtual.

Dr. Prakash Reddy, a Health First Medical Group provider who specializes in sleep medicine and pulmonary disease, has seen a 47% increase in Virtual Visits since March.

“As a provider, I am so happy to be able to give this choice to my patients, some of whom have been established with me for a very long time, he said. I would love to see all my patients in person, but for some, irtual isits just make more sense.

Dr. Jayde George

his option is beneficial in two ways first, it helps allay patients safety concerns and second, it squares nicely with busy schedules, cutting down driving and wait times. And it can be squeezed in more easily for those at work, so putting off an appointment is less likely.

“Also, Virtual Visits give access to caregivers who may reside in a different residence or workplace to participate in the provider visit, which otherwise wouldn’t be possible, r. Reddy said. irtual Visits also increase access to specialists, who otherwise may have been non-accessible due to commuting distance.

Dr. Prakash Reddy

Virtual Visits = Perfect Screening Tool Dr. Xiaosong Song, a gastroenterologist with Health First Medical Group, said despite what some might think, Virtual Visits are perfect for many of his older patients, who aren’t always available to come into the office due to transportation needs.

It’s the perfect screening tool “to be able to talk to them, to see what their condition is and to make a decision on how to help them in a timely manner, he said. For those seeking answers

Dr. Xiaosong Song WINTER 2020

25

YOUR HEALTH, YOUR WAY Want to learn more about how Virtual Visits can benefit you and your family?

Check out our recent Webex online event, where Dr. Timothy Laird, Interim Chief Medical Officer with Health First Medical Group, and Dr. Jayde George, Health First’s Virtual Care Medical Director, discuss Virtual Visits, COVID-19 and flu season.

You can watch the video at facebook.com/HealthFirstFlorida or scan this QR code from your camera phone:

about reflux, nausea, vomiting and abnormal liver function tests, this virtual discussion is an important first step that can be uickly addressed before deciding how to proceed. It’s also a quick way to talk through what patients need to know before undergoing a colonoscopy.

“We talk about why we’re doing the test, and the ability to prevent colon cancer, he said.

“It doesn’t affect the quality of care. hey like it, r. ong said, adding how much his patients gravitate toward it. People tell him, “This is so much easier. I can be in my pajamas, talk to my doctor.

Virtual Visits can be an especially vital tool as we enter flu season and the holidays approach. Most cold and flu symptoms can be identified and treated during a Virtual Visit. This protects both the patients who must come into the office, as well as associates who work there.

26

SPACE COAST LIVING | SPACECOASTLIVING.COM

Quick & Easy And for those who usually say they've got too much going on during the season? With the ability to step outside for a visit via smartphone for 15 minutes, there s really no excuse to shuffle your health to the back of your priority list.

“Just the nature of the holiday, people get busy, said r. eorge.

“They are doing things they don’t normally do. Medical care gets set aside. With Virtual Visits, you’ll see more providers who are able to see patients closer to the holidays.

They might take time to step out of the room for 15 minutes and virtually continue that care.

TO SCHEDULE A VIRTUAL VISIT APPOINTMENT with a Health First provider, call 321.434.3131. To learn more about Health First, visit online at hf.org

Capturing life on the Space Coast

Education, experience, technology and compassion combine to provide Excellence in Dental Healthcare

Call now to schedule your dental appointment!

WINTER 2020

27

28

SPACE COAST LIVING | SPACECOASTLIVING.COM

Seeing the BIGGER Picture & Living One (Amazing) Accomplishment at a Time

By Shawna Lucas, Publisher Images by Jason Hook Photography

It’s likely you will see Jennifer Cleveland coming well before she sees you. With her proud black poodle Frank always by her side, Jennifer navigates life with confidence and more than a bit of sass, doing things that vibrant, active women like to do such as paddleboarding, yoga, dance lessons…there’s really nothing she’s not open to trying.

But there’s more here than meets the eye. Jennifer Cleveland is blind. Legally blind. Frank is her service dog.

“In my right eye, my vision is about 20/300, which means in good light what I can make out looks like if you smeared Vaseline across dark sunglasses,” she said.

If you’re wondering how a blind person can so accurately describe what lost sight “looks like,” it’s because things were not always this way for Jennifer.

In another life, Jennifer had full vision and held jobs as a paramedic for a local trauma center and as a personal trainer.

Over a 10-year span starting in 1999, her vision started to fail because of a very rare condition: autoimmune retinopathy due to Celiac Disease.

WINTER 2020

29

Autoimmune Retinopathy

According to information from the National Institutes of Health, “Autoimmune retinopathy (AIR) is a rare inflammatory condition that can lead to blindness, and while it has been studied for several years, it still remains under diagnosed.”

“I had suffered from headaches and brain fog, and also had bone pain and fuzzy vision,” but due to the lack of digestive issues (typically associated with Celiac Disease), the medical condition causing her vision to deteriorate was not identified.

“This just wasn’t on their radar back then,” not even at the best rated eye clinic in the country, she said.

“

With every lesson, I learned something new about myself. That my life is worth living and that I have something to give back

“

— Jennifer Cleveland

30

SPACE COAST LIVING | SPACECOASTLIVING.COM

Eventually, she came to understand that her vision loss and other symptoms were related to a severe gluten intolerance and once she removed the gluten from her diet, she began to feel better - physically - almost immediately.

The damage to her sight, however, was irreversible.

The next phase of her life was difficult and ushered in a dark period that left Jennifer feeling angry and hopeless.

“I experienced all the stages of grief in all their fullness. I never thought I’d have a normal life,” she said.

New Normal Not So Normal

Something clicked a few months later as Jennifer began to navigate the reality of her situation. Her mom, a social worker, helped identify a few organizations that could help such as the Brevard Association for the Advancement of the Blind and the Center for the Visually Impaired.

Everything changed when she began training for life as a visually impaired person.

“I started living life one accomplishment at a time,” she said. She also started on a path to reclaim her identity and independence.

“With every lesson, I learned something new about myself. That my life is worth living and that I have something to give back,” she said.

Jennifer took a deep dive into her own consciousness and began developing spiritual practices that offered comfort for her and hope to others.

Changing Perspectives

Because Jennifer doesn’t “look blind,” and perhaps because she is so active, she is often misunderstood. She has piercing and inquisitive grey green eyes and a mane of hair that she styles in soft looping curls that frame her face. She is engaged, animated and wholly unapologetic for the person she has become.

Citing times when she was presumed to be bitchy because she was quiet, or others when people have assumed she’s a bit of a ditz because she can’t remember previously meeting them, she sighs in frustration.

She is none of those things, rest assured. She looks at your face when she speaks to you because she has the ability to make out hazy objects and can tell where the mouth is by using her heightened sense of hearing.

But she won’t remember a face. She just can’t.

“Sighted people really have no clue of what ‘blind’ looks or feels like,” she said, her southern accent rising up a bit on the word “clue.”

Teacher. Healer.

So, Jennifer has set out to show them.

After years of training, she became a yoga teacher in 2012, and also received level 2 training in Reiki, a healing technique based on the principle that energy can be channeled into a patient through touch.

Jennifer also became a Thai yoga practitioner in 2014 and completed massage therapy school in February 2020, graduating valedictorian.

In July, she passed the national test and became a licensed massage therapist.

She started a website, www.innersightliving, that offers tips on wellness, her yoga practice (she teaches yoga in group, park and private settings), her massage practice, public speaking engagements and a lot more.

If you follow her posts on Facebook, you might see her doing an inverted handstand atop a paddleboard on the river or participating in a pole dancing class.

She video streams tango dance lessons from a vantage point inside her home and, other times, faces the camera head-on with revelations, frustrations and insights that unfold in her day to day activities.

She is a daily source of inspiration and reflection, reposting meaningful memes on individuality, kindness, spirituality, self-help, self-care and more. She is authentic in her straight talk about what it’s like to be visually impaired, how those who do not know can do

better and in seeking input from her tribe of followers on matters of the soul, mind and heart.

Advocating for the Visually Impaired

As she has learned to adapt to her new reality, she has emerged as a focused advocate for the visually impaired. She calls for social awareness, environmental change and supports technological advancements that assist others in living their best life.

She uses adaptive technology including a GPS enabled walking cane and phone applications that help her navigate through life better.

One of the pages on her website states it best: Be gentle with yourself.

Celebrate small achievements!

Not everything will make sense to you or resonate with you, just like with everything else in life, take what you can use and leave the rest behind.

Find Jennifer’s Facebook page @innersightliving.

The visually impaired might need help from time to time, she acknowledges, but “do not want others to do everything for us. And we do not want to feel like we are being protected or contained,” she said.

Her unambiguous messages are of retaining hope and conquering fears.

She sets goals and records the steps, keeping herself accountable and celebrating each success.

“We need the autonomy to pursue things at our own pace, so we can grow and learn”, she said.

WINTER 2020

31

Nurse Jessica Jones

DETERMINATION

& GRIT

PAVE THE WAY FOR RECENT UCF NURSING GRAD

By Shawna L. Lucas, Publisher

n a year of surprises, let-downs and redirects, Jessica Jonas continues to forge a path with determination and grit.

The 27- year old Rockledge resident graduated recently with honors as a nurse practitioner from the University of Central Florida in Daytona Beach after previously completing undergraduate degrees in hospitality management and family & child sciences.

Her path wasn’t typical of many entering the medical field, but according to colleague and friend Kirsten McDowall, also a nurse, Jessica’s resolve was unshaken even in a year of disappointments.

32

SPACE COAST LIVING | SPACECOASTLIVING.COM

he worked so hard, got her final paper about substance abuse published and then graduation ceremonies were cancelled because of Covid, she said.

Jessica took it all with a grain of salt.

It was a bit disappointing, but I wasn t the only one who missed out, she said in a nod to the many other thousands of graduates who had plans changed literally weeks ahead of scheduled events.

Intense Study + Work Schedule essica worked on the neurology floor at Holmes Regional while she completed her degree and wrote her thesis on Admission Policies surrounding Drug herapy Adjustment in atients with ubstance se Disordering. Her work led her through a literature review of 16 studies and to the conclusion that there is no established hospital wide protocol to adjust medications in patients with substance abuse disorders during intake at hospital admission.

Jessica explained the importance of this, particularly for opioid users: “When patients are offered this option at admission, they are more likely to follow up (with future appointments), less likely to use illicit drugs and commit illegal activities. essica says she s been interested in neurology for some time and was fortunate to rotate through a few of the hospital’s other departments such as admissions and insurance to gain understanding of the challenges and procedures in those areas.

Jessica’s resolve was unshaken even in a year of disruption and dissapointment.

She commuted 80 minutes each way to Daytona to attend the program there and said she used the drive time to clear her head before she went into the small class setting with other students for the better part of two years.

She has plans to pursue a Doctorate in Nursing down the road, but for now, she s happy to be on the floor putting her education to use helping patients and their families.

WINTER 2020

33

CLEARING THE WAY TO HEALTHIER EYES AND BETTER VISION

By Shawna L. Lucas, Publisher

A treatment for your eyelids, this comfortable and effective lid massage is done while resting in a chair in our office.

ven in humid climates like Florida, dry eye can cause aggravation, discomfort and, if left untreated, might lead to serious cornea problems that necessitate ongoing treatment or even surgical intervention.

Dry eye is a common condition that affects as many as five million Americans and is one of the most common ocular complaints in the . If you wear contact lenses or are over the age of 50, you have an increased risk of suffering from dry eye.

According to Dr. Rafael Trespalacios, Medical 34

irector at he revard Eye Center, more than a few factors can converge to create the condition.

“Prolonged screen time (computer, phone or television), seasonal allergies, cooler (winter) air with less moisture, indoor heating, ceiling fans and certain medications all can contribute to dry eye,” he said.

SPACE COAST LIVING | SPACECOASTLIVING.COM

Taking a Deeper Look Meibomian glands in the eyes are the miniscule glands that line the portion of the eyes that touch when the eyelids are closed (blinked) and secrete oil that protects the film of tears covering the eye’s surface from drying out. his film of tears is vital for cleansing the eye by eliminating foreign objects, providing oxygen and nutrients to the eye's outer tissues, and reducing friction with the eyelid, he explained. he film is formed of an outer lipid layer and an inner liquid layer. The outer lipid layer prevents water evaporation from the liquid layer. Dry eye disease develops when the glands that produce these lipids dysfunction, explained Dr. Tres, and get clogged with dirt or makeup.

Meibomian Gland Disorder (MGD) is fairly common and can cause the following symptoms: ■ Dryness ■ Burning ■ Itching ■ Stickiness/ Crustiness ■ Watering ■ Light Sensitivity ■ Eye Redness ■ Foreign Body Sensation ■ Styes ■ Blurred Vision

In the past, standard treatment was lubricating eye drops for mild cases. More serious cases required more invasive interventions.

Revolutionary New Treatment

What Do Meibomian Glands Look Like?

Dr. Tres also advises a few easy additional steps to ensure treatment effectiveness:

Now, there is a simple, effective and painless way to treat MGD and its available right here on the Space Coast. “Our state of the art LipiFlow® procedure works to extract dirt and pathogens from the lids, providing real relief after a very short procedure time” Dr. Tres said.

Images for illustrative purposes only.

LID SCRUB - to clear the gland openings.

The LipiFlow® Thermal Pulsation System heats the glands then gently massages them to loosen the oil trapped within the glands. The automated treatment helps clear the gland obstruction and restore function. This comfortable and effective massage is done while resting in a chair in our office. r. res was the first in revard and one of the first in the . . to offer this groundbreaking procedure. Office treatments are completed in about 12 minutes and can be performed on the same day as patient evaluation. Relief from the symptoms of dry eye is realized among a majority of patients within six to eight weeks of the initial treatment.

Patients considering cataract surgery typically have some level of MGD and should also consider treatment for the condition before surgery.

TESTIMONIAL: “I have lived with dry eye for about 10 years.

I used artificial tears several times a day with minimal relief. I take a fish oil supplement twice a day. My dry eye is worse in the evening. I often have to close one eye at night when reading on my IPad. Using artificial tears throughout the day is inconvenient. I have had the LipiFlow procedure done twice.

The first time the relief lasted well over a year.

I am very pleased with the results. I rarely have to use artificial tears now. The excessive tearing has subsided. I no longer have to close one eye to read at night. I would highly recommend the LipiFlow Procedure,” said Lisa Boyter, a LipiFlow patient.

BRUDER MASK - this eye compress mask helps stabilize the tear film, improves oil gland function and slows evaporation. sers microwave the mask for 20-25 seconds and apply nightly before bedtime for 8-10 minutes.

KLARITY-C EYE DROPS - these drops work to help keep eyes lubricated, increase tear production and improve tear film instability and ocular surface staining. These drops may also help treat inflammation.

SLEEP MASK - when we sleep, our eyes do not shut completely and can, in turn, dry out overnight (especially if we’re sleeping with the fan on). sing a sleep mask helps the eyes retain moisture and protect the eyes from drying out.

VITAMINS – eye health vitamins formulated to help people with occasional dry eye produce more natural tears and a greater level of lubrication to relieve associated eye discomfort and irritation. revard ye has treatment facilities in elbourne, untree and erritt Island.

For more information, visit online at www.brevardeye.com or call 321-984-3200.

“Our aim is to heal and whenever possible, cure or fix your eyes, and in the process help you ‘fix your eyes’ on what really matters most in life,” said Dr. Tres.

DR. TRESPALACIOS, known as “Dr. Tres” by his patients and team, completed his bachelor of science in biology and microbiology at UCF, attended the University of South Florida School of Medicine, and went on to become a board-certified ophthalmologist with distinctions throughout his medical and surgical training.

Dr. Tres is one of very few ophthalmologists to pursue further fellowship training and specialize in a particular area of surgical eye

care – he chose to dedicate an extra year of study to cataracts and consultative ophthalmology. Dr. Tres and his practice have a long list of “firsts” for Central Florida.

option to Central Florida, which includes a new intraoperative laser-guided positioning system for the most precise cataract surgical outcomes available.

In addition to being one of the first surgeons in the world to perform a bladeless laser corneal transplant, he is also the first and most experienced surgeon fully credentialed and prepared to implant the iStent Microglaucoma Device, the world’s smallest medical device. He is also the first to introduce the CataLāze

As the medical director at The Brevard Eye Center, he has earned a reputation for excellence and was selected by respected colleagues in the field of cataract and LASIK surgery as one of the best doctors in the country. He is also presently an associate Professor of Ophthalmology at the University of Cen-

tral Florida College of Medicine.

With the dedication and support of thousands of visually restored patients behind him, Dr. Tres and his team have brought his formula for excellence to the community that helped start his career.

WINTER 2020

35

THE REASONS ARE CRYSTAL

CLEAR for GW Pumps and Purification

By Eric Wright, President

hough water is one of earth’s most plentiful resources, water quality is everyone’s concern: it affects the purity and taste (and smell) of the water we drink, impacts our skin and hair from bathing, and the softness of our clothes from washing. Water quality really is a quality of life issue that affects our lives, home and businesses. Whether your home or business is connected to city water or well water, improving the quality of your water is certainly a wise decision.

Few know these things better than Dan O’Brien of GW umps urification in Melbourne. or decades, he s been guiding homeowners and businesses through the labyrinth of products and helping trouble shoot challenges with repairs, replacements and new installations.

“My family was in this business, so I grew up around the dinner table discussing water quality and installation challenges, he said.

Dan & Stacey O'Brien

36

SPACE COAST LIVING | SPACECOASTLIVING.COM

uring college, an dove into the family business due to a family health crisis, learning operations from the inside out. ventually, he said,

it was this industry that brought him to Florida from Colorado with his wife tacey more than a decade ago. After arriving on the pace Coast, they helped design and develop a proprietary brand of water treatment equipment called urefect Water Solutions. ater, it seems, is in Dan’s blood.

Expertise Matters In a market flooded with products being pitched online, in big box stores and home improvement outlets, his extensive background in the industry and work doing treatment systems for

medical facilities where there is zero tolerance for error- GW umps urification offers an uncommon level of expertise. lus, an and the company are licensed plumbing contractors and that experience ensures the correct installation process is completed on the first try.

O’Brien said he chooses to approach the needs of each client like a physician might diagnose a patient. Every situation is different. The water in different parts of the country is different. Another consideration how water treatment systems work in southern climates differs from how they work in northern ones.

“Testing the water supply and understanding expected usage, where the system is installed (garage, in the house or outdoors) are all factors which re uire special consideration, he said.

What’s in our Water? ater is considered a universal solvent, meaning even in the best conditions it will pick up contaminants such as calcium, iron, magnesium and others, which both affect taste and produce residues that are difficult to clean such as shower scale and water spots. When environmental and human impacts are added on top of that, such as air pollution, salt intrusion, insecticides, industrial or landfill leakage, water uality is further compromised.

Outfitting your home or business with proper filtra-

tion and purification e uipment is the only way to scrub the unwanted particles out of the precious resource we so dearly depend upon.

According to the O riens, the health and lifestyle benefits of proper water treatment are numerous‌ and sometimes surprising.

IN THE BATHROOM: This is where most people directly experience the benefits of a system such as urefect.

It helps soap to lather better and clean as it should, then rinses almost everything off completely. his system also helps eliminate soap scum and mineral deposits that re uire constant cleaning with harsh chemicals.

IN THE LAUNDRY: With urefect, washing machines re uire significantly less detergent, resulting in savings of up to 50 percent

on detergent. lus, garments maintain more vibrant colors and people with sensitive skin enjoy the more complete rinsing and lower detergent levels. Also, cold water washing delivers better results than in hot, hard water.

IN THE KITCHEN: Some restaurants use urefect systems to make sure glasses and dishes are more spot free. Also, most of s systems usually include a drinking water system that improves not only the taste of water, but also the taste of coffee, tea and other water-based beverages.

THROUGHOUT THE HOUSE: he cost of replacing water heaters, dish and clothes washers is reduced because urefect helps extend the life of the equipment.

Earthwise & Globally Responsible umps urification has high standards, but also as a company is willing to put its money where its water is.

As a self described arthwise Company, the organization supports sustainable efforts to protect the earth and has committed to provide environmentally friendly services to minimize environmental impact. Additionally, the company has helped organize and participate in water projects in hird orld countries and via local community events which directly benefit others.

GW Pumps and Purification is located at 424 South Babcock St., Melbourne, and services Space Coast area homes, businesses, hospitals, hotels and industry. For more information, www.gwpumps.com or call 321-779-2837.

WINTER 2020

37

PHOTODYNAMIC THERAPY FOR SKIN CANCERS

Florida is a sun-bather’s paradise with an abundance of sunny days throughout the year. The sun and surf create an enticing environment for all ages. However, chronic, long-term exposure to the sun can also lead to dangerous consequences for our skin.

Actinic keratosis, also known as solar keratosis, is a precancerous lesion of the outer layer of the skin (epidermis) that is caused by long-term exposure to natural sunlight.

Chronic sun exposure damages the epidermis leading to the development of red, rough, tender lesions that are typically found on sun exposed areas of the face, scalp, lips, neck, hands, arms, chest and upper back. People with fair-skin, light eyes and light hair are at greatest risk of developing actinic keratoses. Individuals with diminished immune systems, either by chemotherapy or organ transplants are at particularly high risk of developing actinic keratoses.

By Dr. Anthony Porter, MD

38

SPACE COAST LIVING | SPACECOASTLIVING.COM

Photodynamic Therapy Mask

Approximately 10-15% of actinic keratoses will develop into a Squamous Cell Carcinoma skin cancer if not affectively treated.

Fortunately, there are many treatment options that can be used depending on how conservative or aggressive the patient wants to be. The most common treatment is the use of liquid nitrogen, an extremely cold substance, that is sprayed directly onto the individual actinic keratosis, causing pain, redness and a blister that heals in seven to 10 days.

The immune modulating creams (5-Fluoroacuracil, imiquimod, Ingenol Mebutate, and Diclofenac) are quite effective but typically cause significant redness, scaling and swelling for two to three weeks.

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is a newer treatment that involves a photosensitizing agent that is stimulated by a specific light source and has proven to be an innovative approach to treating large numbers of actinic keratoses with minimal downtime.

This approach involves the application of the photosensitizing agent Ameluz (aminolevulinic acid hydrochloride) on the areas to be treated. The product is left on the skin and allowed to incubate for 90 minutes.

Then the treatment area is exposed to the BF-Rhodo high efficiency lamp for 10 minutes. The BF-RhodoLED emits a red light at a specific wavelength that stimulates the Ameluz gel that has been selectively absorbed by thy sun damaged skin cells.

The stimulated Ameluz gel creates an inflammatory response that leads to destruction of the actinic keratoses. The patient experiences some pain and burning during the 10 minutes, but a built-in fan makes the treatment bearable. Sunscreen is applied immediately upon completing the session and redness, scaling, and sensitivity to the sun persists for five to seven days. The shorter healing time is preferred to the two to three weeks it takes to heal from the topical immune modulating agents.

Squamous Cell

Treatment Options Given the pain caused by the liquid nitrogen, large numbers of actinic keratoses are best treated by the use of topical immune modulating creams or a by a unique form of phototherapy cause photodynamic therapy.

WINTER 2020

39

Beverly Rose, DMD

2019 WINNER

Always Gentle Always Friendly

If you and your family are seeking personalized care by a highly trained and experienced dentist in a comfortable setting, Exceptional Dentistry is the place for you!

can help “Whether your smile needs a little help or a lot, I canIhelp.”

ACTUAL CLIENT PHOTOS

Family Dentistry | Cosmetic Dentistry | TMJ/Neuromuscular Dentistry | Relaxation Dentistry | One-Visit Crowns and Fillings Metal-Free Dentistry | Porcelain Veneers | ZOOM! Whitening | Digital X-rays (90% less radiation)

Beverly Rose, DMD 2755 North Wickham Road, #101, Melbourne, FL 32935 | (321) 259-4666 | www.BeverlyRoseDMD.com

40

Five Star Customer Service SPACE COAST LIVING | SPACECOASTLIVING.COM

Elegant & Comfortable Office

Complimentary Consultation

Parting Ways with Holiday Stress

Holiday

By Brooke Deratany Goldfarb,

Community Editor

h, there’s no place like home for the holidays‌ Or is there?

Stress

Is the concept of home warm and fuzzy for you? Have the tribulations of life made going home less welcoming, less comforting, or maybe even impossible?

WINTER WINTER 2020 202041 41

The conventional notion of home, described by Robert Frost as, “the place where, when you have to go there, they have to take you in,” does not exist anymore for many people. For others, it never did.

Change Your Dynamic

As a child I lived in a picture-perfect home, with a mother and father who embraced hosting relatives at Thanksgiving and Christmas. The cousins would have a grand time playing games, running around, and receiving kisses, hugs, and a ten-dollar bill from our grandparents.

We decided to create new traditions and have new experiences.

Soon, we began to realize that without the obligation of family, the holidays were actually much less stressful. No more worries about whether or not everyone would behave and get along. No more concern about whether or not my meal would be up to my parents’ high standards. Maybe we could just travel over winter break now. Or, maybe we could attend a “Friendsgiving,” or enjoy Christmas brunch with friends, instead. We could discuss what movie we would see on Christmas day followed by a new tradition: Chinese food for dinner.

Maybe it was not so bad to let the old traditions go. Perhaps breaking with tradition was liberating.

I relished my mother’s pumpkin cream cheese pies and my father’s baklava.

Once grown, I was eager to return to my childhood home in Indialantic on Christmas Eve in time to see Santa Claus throwing candy from the top of the town s firetruck. At hanksgiving and Christmas, I watched my father prepare the turkey and shove it in the oven. My childhood holidays were idyllic. Like a Burl Ives song.

Toxic Holidays After my parents divorced when I was 35 years old, Thanksgiving and Christmas became holidays of stress, anxiety, and depression. Old traditions felt empty. The former ways of doing things became painful or meaningless. I grew moody at the holidays. Getting together with the family began to feel hollow, scripted, and desperate. Expectations of how I should act, what I should think, and how things should be done had not bothered me before. Now they became smothering and annoying thoughts: a rote performance of obligation, rife with political land mines. he year my father first went away with his new significant other for Thanksgiving instead of making a turkey in my house with me, I became desolate. When my mother succumbed to pancreatic cancer before what we had planned on being her last Thanksgiving, I fell into despair.

The holidays were going to be forever different now.

42

SPACE COAST LIVING | SPACECOASTLIVING.COM

Soon after my mother’s death, my brother and I sold the childhood home where, for almost 50 years, we woke up on Christmas morning to the excess of anta Claus. he old ways were officially gone, and we needed a new plan.

We live in challenging times. Many of us are wrestling with the effects of the pandemic, political divisiveness, home and job loss. Not everyone looks forward to the holidays and a few of us are not even sure we like some of our family members anymore.

If Thanksgiving with the family previously meant you were forced to pretend to like toxic people, this year you are off the hook. If the old ways of celebrating no longer serve you, now is the perfect time to change it up.

I am not suggesting you ditch your family; I am merely pointing out that you do not have to be a hostage of your family’s—or your own—expectations.

Sure, you could steel yourself with a couple of glasses of bubbly before forcing a smile and walking on eggshells for an evening of psychosocial torture, or you might decide to suck it up and make the best of it, especially if it involves a relative you worry will not make it into 2021. Just know that it really is okay to observe special days of meaning in a way that does not create resentment or ill will.

Give Yourself Permission to be Happy In 2020 especially, you have earned the right to practice self-care. Feel free to opt out of aggravating scenarios that make you fume for days.

You deserve to celebrate in any way that might be more meaningful or joyful for you. This Thanksgiving, if you would prefer to be alone on a mountaintop or, if you’d prefer to volunteer at a soup kitchen for Christmas instead of arguing with your bigoted uncle or explaining to your aunt why you are still not married, by all means, excuse yourself from the table.

If you cannot break from tradition yet feel uneasy about the holidays this year, prepare yourself before the doorbells ring. Make a list of the good times. Remind yourself of the stories that might soften the focus on the harsh lenses we are looking out of these days. Realize that you—and your relatives—are more than your political, religious, and philosophical differences. Give yourself a good hour or two to get centered before getting together with the family. Take a long walk on the beach while listening to up-

lifting music. Enjoy a bath with Epsom salts and essential oils. Light some candles and put those old records on. Pray, meditate, or read inspirational writings that will get you into the love-thy-neighbor and live-and-let-live zone.

We have all struggled and suffered in 2020. Perhaps cultivating a tiny bit of compassion for yourself and others will help you open your heart to the people who really do love you even if they don’t know how to show it. Remember that how you decide to celebrate—or not—is your choice. Let us just be thankful for those of us who are still here. Let us hope that 2021 will be a little kinder, a bit healthier, a touch more loving, a smidge more compassionate, and a pinch more peaceful. Whatever you celebrate, may your holidays be exactly the way you want them to be. And if for some reason they are not, may you make peace with them the way they are. May you take the pressure of expectations off of yourself and let go of the need for the holidays to be perfect.

WINTER 2020

43

SPACE COAST

KEEP YOUR HOME LOOKING NEW FOR YEARS TO COME

Your care.

Our mission.

Professionally applied surface protection for: Stone

Shower glass

Windows

Granite

Marble

Quartz

Tile

Grout

Sinks & Toilets

Call today for your no obligation free estimate!

Specializing in New Construction Home Protection One application creates an ultra durable, easy to clean, stain and bacteria resistant surface.

Existing home? no problem, let us get your surfaces back to new in a day!

HydroShieldSpaceCoast.com Frank@hydroshieldspacecoast.com (321) 301-6007

Providing quality home care when you need it most Doctor ordered medical care • Skilled nursing care • Physical and occupational therapy • Medication management

Personal care • Bathing and dressing • Transportation • Light cooking

321.522.4868 License# HHA299991471/HHA299995046

44

SPACE COAST LIVING | SPACECOASTLIVING.COM

www.vnatc.com

ADDRESSING A COMMUNITY HEALTH

CRISIS Understanding and Preventing Suicide Suicide is a major health problem facing our country. It’s the tenth leading cause of death in adults, and the second leading cause of death in young people ages 10-24. It’s a tragic end point to what most professionals believe is a temporary situation.

By Kelly Collazo Camirand, Contributing Writer

WINTER 2020

45

Nationally, the suicide rate

INCREASED

25.4%

from 1999 to 2017 In 2018,

48,000

people in the U.S. died by suicide Mental illness, addiction disorders and behavioral problems are all conditions that can affect the way a person experiences life, often negatively influencing ones ability to navigate the ups and downs we all face. There are many disorders covered under the large umbrella of mental illness, including bipolar disorder, dementia, anxiety, drug abuse, addictions and depression, to name a few.

Recent data released by the Centers for Disease Control show a slight decrease in suicides in 0 , a drop of about .0 per 00,000 people, the first such drop in the steady uptick in cases in more than 5 years. However, the pandemic may skew things upwards again and it ll be years before we know exactly how (and if) the virus has had a meaningful impact on suicide rates.

Risk Factors It is widely recognized that mental health and/or substance use disorders are the most significant risk factors for suicidal behaviors. Additionally, the pandemic, socioeconomic changes, a sudden stressful life event or access to firearms may increase the risk of suicide.

Often substance abuse is a form of self medicating for emotional pain. ubstances can help numb pain and [provide} escape from reality for a period of time, but the problems don t go away. Addiction

46

SPACE COAST LIVING | SPACECOASTLIVING.COM

Men are

3.5 more likely

to die by suicide than women, with white males accounting for

69.7% of all suicides.

is an unhealthy and destructive choice to deal with and mask an underlying issue such as depression or anxiety. said Anthony erretti, h , a elbourne psychologist, author and recognized subject matter expert on relationships.

Nationally, the suicide rate increased 5.4 from to 0 . In 0 , 4 ,000 people in the . . died by suicide. en were .5 more likely to die by suicide than women, with white males accounting for . of all suicides. he lorida epartment of Health reported ,4 suicides in lorida, in revard County alone. Over a year, from October 0 to October 0 0, the local suicide hotline revard logged some 0,000 calls, with identified as mental health or addiction related. rom our experience, white males make up the greatest percentage of those committing suicide, followed by African Americans and Hispanics, stated heriff ayne Ivey, who heads the revard County heriff s Office ( C O).

likely to self medicate, with a mental illness going undiagnosed or properly treated.

“In general, men are more likely to die from suicide, while women are more likely to a make a suicide attempt and live. It is a complex and multi causal act and much of the intervention needs to be tailored to individual issues, said erretti.

Research suggests that a critical aspect of reducing male suicide rates is by identifying how to effectively reach the demographic. The key lies in the idea that ASKING FOR HELP is actually A SIGN OF STRENGTH, not the long-held belief that it’s a weakness.

Sheriff Wayne Ivey

Widely chronicled, societal and traditional male gender roles discourage emotional expression and encourage toughing it out for men, who largely shoulder their worries in silence, worrying privately about work stressors, financial or legal issues, military service or the breakdown of an important interpersonal relationship. They are more

The Bully Factor uicide is the second leading cause of death, after accidents, among people ages 0 4, as it has been for many years. The ‘tween and teen years can be a challenging stage of life. o much personal development is learned through how we handle all aspects of life experiences outside the home.

“Depression and other mental illnesses are without uestion the leading cause of suicide in revard however, bullying can also be a factor in teen suicides. said Sheriff Ivey.

Locally, COVID has stalled faceto face volunteer mentor programs in local schools, making the C O s educational programs more valuable, said Ivey.

“We provide presentations to students in our schools aimed at the prevention of bullying and strategies for students impacted by bullying to respond in a healthy manner.”

Mental health awareness has seen a big push and has helped students with coping skills and how to properly manage daily influences. In 0 , legislators mandated that public school districts offer a minimum of five hours of mental health instruction for grades . ach district was given the latitude to create its own program, but all programs had to cover signs and symptoms of mental illness, how to engage peers who are struggling with mental health disorders, understanding the process for seeking or getting help and awareness on available resources.

“DEPRESSION and other MENTAL ILLNESSES are without question the leading cause of suicide [in Brevard]; however, bullying can also be a factor in teen suicides,” said Sheriff Ivey.

WINTER 2020

47

Isolation Complicating matters further for some students is the isolation caused by the pandemic. hen the pandemic first struck, students were forced to attend class through online platforms. Many did not resume learning in the classrooms when the state lifted the ban on in-person learning. hat I ve seen are those who struggle socially, have chosen e-learning as a way of coping. That is sometimes helpful, as they can focus on academics without the stress of high school peer pressure, said anet aylor, an A Research and nglish eacher at erritt Island High chool for over years.

Anthony Ferretti, PhD

I do worry however, about those that are struggling with e learning and that it might be actually making their social interactions worse, because they re not working through the normal growing pains of being a teenager,” she added.

“Losing a FAMILY MEMBER can make you feel meaningless and you have to do the personal work to try and understand it,” said Shelly Shapiro.

Suicide is Often Preventable e can all help prevent suicide by engaging in difficult conversations with someone we may be concerned about. ecoming an active listener and accessing risk factors of someone you think may be considering suicide may seem advanced, but it s important to recognize social changes in our day to day relationships. e can provide a listening ear, validate their feelings and point them in the right direction for help. You can offer a safe place to stay connected and give them hope while encouraging them to seek help for their mental health issues, explained erretti. hile we ve identified the top two groups of people most likely to commit suicide, no one is really immune. nderstanding the complexity of suicide can help prevent it. At its core, suicidal ideation is having thoughts about wanting to take your own life, or thinking about suicide. pecifically, there are two types of suicide ideation passive and active. assive ideation is talking about suicide, while active suicide ideation is the next level where you re planning to take your own life. irst and foremost, we partner with revard as a community resource for suicide prevention or those with depression and other potential suicidal tendencies, said Ivey. revard is an accredited partner in a national network of crisis centers that has served our community for over 40 plus years, said ibby onahue, xecutive irector. he telephone based health line provides a variety of resources to callers, from those who are in crisis to how to find a CO I testing site in revard. rained crisis counselors and helpline specialists are available to provide emotional assistance to those in need of services and support 4 hours a day, seven days a week.

RESOURCES 48 48 SPACE COAST LIVING | SPACECOASTLIVING.COM SPACE COAST LIVING | SPACECOASTLIVING.COM

www.211brevard.org or dial 211.

American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, www.afsp.org Suicide Prevention Resource Center, www.sprc.org

The Cost of Suicide The emotional toll on friends and family who have lost someone to suicide is significant and can t be uantified. hey know all too well that a death is difficult enough but losing someone to suicide can be particularly painful due to the stigma associated with suicide and mental illness. osing a family member can make you feel meaningless and you have to do the personal work to try and understand it. I do believe it is important to work at forgiving them and by sharing your experience so you can help others, too,” said Shelly Shapiro, a massage therapist who lost her father to suicide years ago. here is an economic toll caused by suicide as well, which includes medical costs for individuals and families, and lost productivity for employers. According to the uicide revention Resource Center, the average cost of a single suicide was , ,55 in 0 , with the lion s share ( ) attributed to lost productivity the total cost of all suicides in that year, including suicide attempts was about .5 billion, staggering losses in the personal and professional realms.

Many researchers believe with better screening and identifying who s at risk for suicide sooner, we will begin to see a reduction in suicide rates over time.

Awareness is key when hoping to help a suicidal person and recognizing the warning signs, while considering their specific needs. Always take threats seriously and listen without judgement. IF YOU ARE CURRENTLY EXPERIENCING A MENTAL HEALTH CRISIS, please call 211 or 800- 273-TALK day or night to speak with a trained crisis counselor. Suicidal crises are almost always temporary, and you never need to feel like you are alone.

WARNING SIGNS OF

SUICIDE

▶ Threatening or talking about wanting to hurt or kill oneself ▶ Looking for ways to kill oneself by seeking access to firearms, available pills, or other means ▶ Suicide ideation - talking or writing about death, dying or suicide when these actions are out of the ordinary for the person ▶ Feeling hopeless ▶ Feeling rage or uncontrolled anger or seeking revenge ▶ Acting reckless or engaging in risky activities ▶ Feeling trapped, like there is no way out ▶ Increasing alcohol or drug use ▶ Withdrawing from friends, family and society ▶ Feeling anxious or agitated ▶ Being unable to sleep or sleeping all the time ▶ Experiencing dramatic mood changes ▶ Seeing no reason for living or having no sense of purpose life

Depression is one of the leading causes of suicide. Recognizing early that you or a loved may be suffering from it can lead to succesful treatment.

WINTER 2020 2020 49 WINTER

49

50

SPACE COAST LIVING | SPACECOASTLIVING.COM

HosPice

Compassionate Care at End of Life For the Patient and the Family

By Sara Biel, Contributing Writer from Wuesthoff Brevard Hospice & Palliative Care

Imagine sitting at your doctor’s office or lying in your hospital bed and learning you had less than six months left to live. What do you do? Call someone you love?

Take that “bucket list” trip? Ask for a second opinion?

Or wait for the inevitable?

I am not even sure what I would do. However, these are familiar words to the terminally ill and for those who know what hospice is, their next call is to us.

Hospice is so much more than end-of-life care. It is a journey of peace, comfort, love and family. Hospice doesn’t just care for the patient, but also for the entire family – physically, spiritually, emotionally and mentally assisting the patient to comfortable, more peaceful journey to the end of life in as gentle a manner possible, and staying close to the family in the aftermath of loss.

ORIGINS The word hospice is derived from the Latin word hospitum meaning hospitality or place of rest and protection for the ill and weary. During the 60’s, Dr. Cicely aunders began the first hospice program in ngland, which encompassed homecare and an in patient facility for the seriously infirmed. he first hospice in the United States was founded in 1974, just 10 years prior to the birth of hospice in Brevard County in 1984.

WINTER 2020

51

by highly trained hospice staff. Private insurance is also accepted. Often, those without the ability to pay are offered hospice service as well. We believe that every patient, regardless of ability to pay, should not be denied a comfortable, dignified, peaceful ending to life.

For families of a loved one on hospice, the last thing that needs to cause stress is wondering how all this will be paid for. It is such a relief for the family when they realize they can focus on what time is left rather than where the money will come from.

WHAT HOSPICE PROVIDES

HOW HOSPICE IS FUNDED

A patient s first experience with hospice may be overwhelming. Hospice provides, typically, care from a registered nurse or certified nursing assistant (CNA), in addition to a social worker, chaplain, hospice physician, if the patient wishes, a volunteer as well.

Hospice is funded through a variety of means including Medicare, Medicaid and the Veteran’s Administration, which pay 100% of hospice costs including durable medical equipment, supplies, medications pertaining to the hospice diagnosis and the care provided

With hospice, the patient is at the center of a care wheel with each discipline having an equal part in that care plan. Depending on the needs of the patient, these visits can range from once per month for social workers and chaplains and two to three times per week for a registered nurse or CNA. ach care plan is customized to the patient because every hospice journey is different.

A little-known component of the hospice plan is the care that follows after the patient passes: an expert team of bereavement coordinators follows the family for 13 months after the death of a loved one, checking in with notes of support and love, and helping plan an annual Celebration of Life, among other things. It is their job to be the shoulder for hospice families to lean on. Hospice shouldn’t stop when the patient passes, because life must continue for those left behind.

52

SPACE COAST LIVING | SPACECOASTLIVING.COM

In order to qualify for hospice, a hospice medical director will certify the patient has a terminal illness and probably has less than six months left to live. That does not necessarily mean that the patient will die in that timeframe, but should the disease follow its normal course, it is assumed the patient has less than six months to live.

While hospice is end-of-life for all of our patients, it is the beginning of some amazing new opportunities for others.

For cancer patients, after months or even years of harsh chemotherapy treatments or tiresome radiation, hospice

can offer pain relief while also providing precious moments of clarity with loved ones. Often, estranged families are reunited and find closure after years of being apart. We even have the ability to assist with final wishes from toes in the sand to planning theme park trips.

Remember that just as life is a gift, so too is hospice. For me and my team and other hospice providers, we realize it is your journey, but we are honored you have chosen us to walk beside you through it.

To hear the words “you have less than six months to live� is undeniably frightening and overwhelming. nd of life care and compassion is our job, but hospice care providers also offer education and understanding to those who need it most at a very vulnerable time.

Contacting hospice does not mean you have chosen hospice, it means you are electing to learn more about the available options.

WINTER 2020

53

HOLIDAYS 2020

Hol iday Happenings AROUND THE SPACE COAST Merriment and Cheer will Help Make Spirits Bright

By Maria Sonnenberg, Contributing Writer

Nothing is going to prevent the Space Coast from enjoying an abundant dose of holiday cheer, particularly after the year we have all endured.

es, the celebrations might look different and will involve some common-sense stuff such as masks and social distancing, but unless current conditions deteriorate, several holiday happenings are in the works for pandemic-weary Brevard.

54

SPACE COAST LIVING | SPACECOASTLIVING.COM

SPACE COAST LIGHTFEST If there is a holiday event tailor-made for the times, it is Space Coast Lightfest, where attendees can bask in family togetherness and holiday glory from the safe bubble of their vehicles.

The one-mile-plus meandering drive through Wickham Park features more than three million lights and all the accoutrements of the season.

HOURS: From 6:30 to 10 p.m. daily through Jan. 3, this festival of lights welcomes visitors.

If you would rather stroll than drive, visit Dec. 4, 5 and 6, when, weather permitting, the drive-through becomes a walk-through. Hayrides and Santa will also be available throughout the event with social distancing protocols in place.

COST: $15 covers up to 10 guests per car for the drive through. Strolls are $5 a person, as are hayrides. Bring an unwrapped toy for Toys for Kids and receive a $2 discount.

Purchase tickets at the entrance or online at spacecoastlightfest.com.

HOLIDAY LOVE ON PARADE Cocoa-Rockledge Holiday Parade, which precedes the Cocoa Holiday Festival, commences at 3 p.m., Saturday, Dec. 12, from Rockledge High School, traveling north on Florida Avenue and concluding at the waterfront Lee Wenner Park.

Each shop will feature a different mimosa to sip as you do your holiday shopping. Participating businesses will have holiday specials and sales of gifts for the special people on your list.

TREE LIGHTINGS The Town of Indialantic will host its traditional tree lighting-by-the-seaside event at 7 p.m., Thursday, Dec. 3, at scenic Nance Park, 201 N. Miramar Ave. This year, the event has been designed to accommodate social distancing.

Nance Park is within walking distance of 5th Avenue restaurants such as Scott’s on 5th, Nini’s Cuban Cuisine, Skewer’s Mediterranean Grill and Islands Fish Grill, so you can do local and eat local, making an evening of it.

In the Eau Gallie Arts District, the band roove Affiliation will play at the bandshell while Santa receives little visitors during the Christmas tree lighting, scheduled from 5 to 8 p.m. on First Friday, Dec. 4.

“The Mayor will light up the Christmas tree and the park will be beautifully decorated by George Alexander (owner of Eau Gallie Ace Hardware), who does it every year with assistance from the city and Boy Scout Troop 300,” said Lisa Packard, director of EGAD.

Restaurants will be open for dining.

The Junior League of South Brevard is scheduled to host a gift-wrapping station and libations tent at their headquarters, 540 Montreal Ave., at the southern end of Highland Ave. “Santa will be wearing a mask and people will be encouraged to have one on them,” added Packard.

“Alternatively, they can stand next to him. Last year, we had a great sleigh that we're hoping to use again.”

IT’S SANTA, DUDE! Before Santa heads off to work delivering gifts, he catches waves at 8 a.m. on Christmas Eve morning in Cocoa Beach. Cool. urfing antas, the annual Cocoa Beach tradition that attracts hundreds of festive festooned surfers, will go as planned this year on the beach at 2 Minuteman Causeway by Coconuts on the Beach.

Watch them ride in on the waves and kick off your holiday weekend in true holiday fashion at this free event. .sur sa tas.or .

The Merritt Island Holiday Parade begins at 10 a.m. on Saturday, Dec. 5, starting at Merritt Island High school and moving south on Courtenay Pkwy to end at Edgewood Junior/Senior High School on Merritt Ave.

MERRY MIMOSAS! Shop ‘til you drop from 9 a.m. until 3 p.m., Saturday, Dec. 5, when downtown Titusville merchants host Merry Mimosas, which means you can enjoy complimentary holiday mimosas and fauxmosas made with sparkling cider.

WINTER 2020

55

HOLIDAYS 2020

CANDLELIGHT SHOPPING

HOT COCOA HOLIDAYS

CHRISTMAS OF YORE

In downtown Melbourne, the festivities for the popular Candlelight Shopping holiday evenings will run through Dec. 19, with evening hours from 5 p.m. until 9 p.m. on Dec. 5 and 12 and a day full of fun on Dec. 19, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.. Rumor has it that the Grinch will be in attendance at some of these dates, but not to worry, this Grinch has seen the light and is a holiday merrymaker.

Downtown’s signature free horse and carriage rides will be available during the events.

Hot Cocoa (Village) Holidays events offer fun for everyone in the charming little village enclave.

Travel back to Christmas past with Museums of Brevard’s inaugural Christmas Tour of Historic Homes, a must-do during a year when normalcy is a thing of the past.

But wait, there’s more! At 6 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 28, the city will host a lighted bike parade in downtown Melbourne. “We’ve never done this before and are super excited about it,” said Kim Agee, executive director of Melbourne Main Street. The city is encouraging social distancing and masks. Although some stores do not require masks, many do.

Pick up presents during the Art and Craft Holiday Bazaar, held from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday, Dec. 5 and 6.

Fur family members will enjoy a photo op with Santa at the Santa Paws in the Village on Sunday, Dec. 6.

Cocoa Village’s scenic Riverfront Park will be the site of the Cocoa Holiday Festival, from 4 to 7 p.m., Saturday, Dec. 12. Tree lighting, Santa, food vendors and holiday music await visitors. The Holiday Boat Parade also happens the same day.

On Dec. 18, hop on a gaily decorated bike for the Holiday Bicycle Parade from 6 to 8 p.m. Prefer cars to bikes? The Village has you covered, with a Christmas Car Show from 4 to 7 p.m., Dec. 19.

Unique architecture and stunning seasonal decorations are the selling points for the six historic homes that are part of a tour guaranteed to get you in the holiday mood.

Field Manor, Green Gables at Historic Riverview Village, Historic Pritchard House, Lawndale, Historic Rossetter House and Gardens, and Sams House at Pine Island will offer tours for one special price that is discounted at half of what it would cost if purchased separately.

Each house will be beautifully adorned, and some will serve sweet treats and holiday beverages. Guests who visit all six homes will receive a special Victorian House Christmas ornament. The tours at Field Manor, 750 Field Manor Drive , Merritt Island.

A list of historic home locations and operating hours are available at the website below.

All houses follow current CDC precautions during the pandemic. Tickets are $35 and allow entrance to all six Victorian homes.

All proceeds benefit the participating house museums. Purchase tickets at bro a ertic ets.com user ma a ee e t 4774 0 or at the i di idual houses.

SANTA STUMBLE Get a jump on holiday parties at 6 p.m., Saturday, Dec. 19, with the Santa Stumble Pub Crawl at Cocoa Village. Guests are encouraged to wear holiday garb, since there will be a costume contest and other shenanigans.

Tickets are $18 in advance or $25 on the day of the event. Tickets are good for six drinks and food will be available at most stops.

The Stumble starts at Elks Lodge #1532 at 315 Florida Ave., where parking is available, and continues on to George & Dragon, Murdock’s Southern Bistro, Pub Americana, Village Biergarten and Dog N Bone.

More details and tickets are available at .madhatter romotio s.com or by calling - 4 - 46.

56

SPACE COAST LIVING | SPACECOASTLIVING.COM

THE GHOST (TOWN) OF CHRISTMAS PAST Story and images by Fred Mays, Contributing Writer or a historic site, Fort Christmas is a little lean on history. It was built as a supply base in December 1837, by U.S. Army troops engaging Seminole Indians.

Some 2,000 troops were located there at one point, but the army soon discovered the Seminoles had vanished from the area and moved farther south. The fort was abandoned only four months later when the troops left to pursue the Seminoles in south Florida.

The fort got its name from the date it was completed. According to the Fort Christmas Historical Society, an excerpt from the journal of Captain N.S. Jarvis, a surgeon in the United States Army, states on December 27, 1837, "today we finished our fort which we called ort Christmas, having commenced it on that day". Many years later, a small village took root nearby and adopted the name of the fort. That is how Christmas, Florida, got its name.

Rambling Around in the Past The present-day fort is a replica of the real thing, dating to the 1970’s and is part of the Orange County Parks and Recreation system. At the time of this writing, visitors are allowed to enter the park and walk around the grounds, but the fort itself is closed due to COVID. There are buildings outside the fort walls, some of them traditional Florida “Cracker” homes. The buildings include a sugar mill, schoolhouse, and a community lunchroom, all of which are also closed. There is a small museum with fort and Cracker era artifacts, which is also closed.

The park sits on 143 acres of oak shaded lands. In addition to the fort there are picnic pavilions, playgrounds, a baseball field, tennis courts and a basketball court. Admission is free and pets are not permitted in the park. The fort is located north of State Road 50 at 1300 Fort Christmas Road in Christmas.

The status of when the fort and outbuildings will reopen, according to Mandy Kimmer, the Orange County Park and Recreation Department media liaison, is being considered “on a month by month basis.” There are no current plans to open the park until sometime in the new year.

Christmas Post Mark Usually, the annual Fort Christmas ‘Cracker Christmas Festival takes place the first weekend in ecember. It features pioneer day arts and crafts, tours of the fort grounds, military reenactments and people dressed in pioneer period clothing.

One of the popular events at the festival is when postal workers from the local post office postmark Christmas cards with the town of Christmas stamp. This year, however, your only option to get cards stamped is to drop them off at the Christmas, , post office, which is located on tate Route 50.

Other events in 2021 are still scheduled, except the popular Bluegrass Festival in the spring, which has been postponed. A complete list of events is on the Orange County website, .ora ecou ty . et culture ar s

Editor’s Note:

idents Many Space Coast res ) trek wy sno so t make the (no , anFL as, tm ris Ch Ft. to north liday ho the in nually to take part y lida ho ir the t ge d festivities an town the m fro ed ark stm po cards e. This with the same namesak erent. diff bit a year, things are

WINTER 2020

57

memories start here.

HOLIDAY EVENTS FIRST FRIDAY DRIVE-UP CONCERT | NOVEMBER 6 & DECEMBER 4 | 6PM - 9PM SPACE COAST SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA DRIVE-UP CONCERT NOVEMBER 21 & DECEMBER 11 | 7PM - 9PM VISIT WITH SANTA | NOVEMBER 27 - DECEMBER 20 SATURDAYS, 5PM - 8PM & SUNDAYS, 3PM - 6PM $5 HOLIDAY CARRIAGE RIDES THROUGH THE AVENUE VIERA FRIDAYS & SATURDAYS, NOVEMBER 27 - DECEMBER 24 | 5PM - 8PM VIRTUAL TREE LIGHTING | NOVEMBER 27 | 6PM VISIT AVENUEVIERA.COM/EVENTS FOR MORE INFORMATION.

58 SPACE COAST LIVING | SPACECOASTLIVING.COM 58 SPACE COAST LIVING | SPACECOASTLIVING.COM

Holiday

HOLIDAYS 2020

Hol iday Gift Guide SHOPPING LOCAL Here’s a selection of amazingly cool, Space Coast crafty gift selections we wanted to showcase for your holiday consideration.

hether you’re purchasing for a friend or family member, for Hannukah or Christmas or Kwanza, these one of a kind finds are sure to please as holiday gifts, remembrances or stocking stuffers.

WINTER 2020 59 WINTER 2020

59

HOLIDAYS 2020

Kerry Hodges

Kerry Hodges has incredible, colorful and affordable selections on her Insta page (@khodgeslife) that are beach worthy and so cool.

Ornaments, charcuterie boards and delicious decór with vibrant sea colors and foamy waves.

Here’s her story: Most of my art is large scale resin art for custom homes. I always have felt that everybody deserves to afford a piece of original art, so that's why I started creating these charcuterie boards. I use the exact same products as I do with my larger pieces, but the prices are what most people can afford (ranging from $40-$65). My goal is to ensure I provide FUNctional Art for those that cannot afford large scale art.

60 SPACE COAST LIVING | SPACECOASTLIVING.COM 60 SPACE COAST LIVING | SPACECOASTLIVING.COM

Breakers Art Gallery

Breakers Art Gallery is a locally-run gallery of artists specializing in coastal art of varying styles and applications, including fine art, sculptures carvings and a gemologist jewelry artist, among others.

According to gallery owner and art curator Dawn Harrell, the gallery stocks a broad collection of art in various price points so there is “art for everyone!” Harrell, a Brevard native, has been creating art most of her life, but this gallery is a culmination of dream and determination.

The gallery is so beautiful, with 10 ft. ceilings and 3 rooms where 15 local artists all display their works, she said. A working studio sits at the back where you can watch Dawn at work.

There is also space and plans for art classes and venue events down the road. Private gallery tours are available by appointment.

Breakers Art Gallery is located at 206 Highway A1A, Satellite Beach. www.facebook.com/ BreakersArtGallery

Twisted Scraps

When the tagline on an art page says, “If I can cut it, I can carve it,” you know it’s worth paying attention to. Twisted Scraps is worth all your attention if you’re into surf art, woodworking and intricate, precise woodworking. This dude can CARVE. From custom surfboards to patched & mended hearts to swimming sea sculptures, it seems nothing is out of reach of Terry Lynn’s imagination. Surfboards start at $400. Other art priced more modestly. www.facebook.com/creativeintelligenceatplay

Artisans of Haiti

I’ve made one exception to the BUY LOCAL theme of this feature, but it’s for a worthy cause and can be purchased locally. The Artisans of Haiti hand craft these metalworks in the village of Croix-des-Bouquet, Haiti, by upcycling, carving and painting 55-gallon oil drums to earn money to support their families and village. Safe for outdoors, each piece should be coated once a year with outdoor spray protectant to keep it safe from the elements. Prices start at $75.

You can find them at the atellite each armer s Market every Thursday from 10 am to 4 pm, Pelican Park, 1525 SR-A1A, Satellite Beach.

For more information, call 772-672-2565.

WINTER 2020 61 WINTER 2020

61

HOLIDAYS 2020

SPARKLY WREATHS, CUSTOM DESIGNS Story and images by Sue DeWerff Panzarino, Contributing Writer lthough decorative wreaths are most commonly associated with end-of-year holidays, any occasion can be the perfect time to add the whimsical circular art to a home or business.

Whether used as a table centerpiece, or hung to accent a door, entry way or staircase banister, a wreath can add elegance and color to any space, not to mention sparkle and shine.

Valerie Karas and Curt Van eison are figuring that out, one project at a time. The two met by chance at a local gym last year and began crafting wreaths after Van Geison happened upon several photos in a magazine.

Van Geison, a retired communications professor, said they began collaborating days after he showed her the magazine pages.

“We basically dove into this venture thinking ‘Yes, we can do this,” he said.

Karas, former owner of the Indian River Potters Guild in the Eau Gallie Arts Dis62

trict, said she has always had a desire to make art, and even has dabbled in jewelry making. “We began making holiday-themed wreaths last season, with the intention of sharing them with friends and family,” she said.

They use a variety of materials, including glass and shiny bulb ornaments that are glued to a straw wreath base (in several sizes), all of which can be purchased in hobby stores, on E-bay or even thrift and Goodwill outlets. Then, tinsel is added to the back to create a sparkly, festive look.

62 SPACE COAST LIVING | SPACECOASTLIVING.COM SPACE COAST LIVING | SPACECOASTLIVING.COM

Furthering on the theme and moving into more design options, the wreaths can be customized “to include specific color schemes and décor, by integrating everything from seashells to exotic and rare vintage ornaments, pinecones, artificial floral picks, and more, she said.

portant to keep the ornament shapes and different color shades coordinated.”

“From nursery themes to poker chip and NFL, NBA, MLB and other sports-oriented wreaths,” Karas acknowledged that possibilities are endless. She said she enjoys playing with color when designing the wreaths, noting “It’s im-

Though the project started as a way to nurture their creativity, now the decorating duo are offering wreaths for purchase, with prices starting at $150. Custom orders are welcome. For more information, email wreathsallaboutit@gmail.com.

“We have been able to learn a lot since we started doing this,” said Van Geison. “It’s about a lot of trial and, sometimes, error, but our instincts thus far together have worked.”

WINTER 2020 63 WINTER 2020

63

SPACE COAST HISTORY WITH ZONTA ORNAMENTS

HOLIDAYS 2020

By Maria Sonnenberg, Contributing Writer

he best Christmas ornaments carry a little history. Zonta Club of Melbourne’s ornaments tell the history of the Space Coast, one building at a time.

The popular collection, which has added a new ornament each year since 1999, encompass an eclectic assortment of Brevard landmarks, including Annie the Dragon, Ashley’s Restaurant in Rockledge, the historic Green Gables, the Cocoa Village Playhouse, Del’s Freez ice cream shop, Melbourne’s 1900 Building, the Kennedy Space Center’s Rocket Garden, and more, all immortalized in miniature by Hestia Creations of Marblehead, MA. Each ornament showcases a unique piece of Space Coast history. This year’s ornament, Melbourne’s Little Red Schoolhouse, highlights a shed-like bright red structure built by John Goode in

1883 at his property near the river. It is the area’s oldest surviving schoolhouse.

Surprisingly mobile, it was moved from its original location to the grounds of Melbourne Elementary and High School on New Haven Avenue sometime in the 1940s, only to be relocated again in the 1970s, this time to its current site at the entrance of Florida Tech’s Botanical Garden. The tiny school was segregated, with white children attending in the morning and black youngsters in the afternoon.

The decorations are a hard-working bunch. In addition to their holiday appeal and local history lesson value, the little ornaments also serve as fund-

64 SPACE COAST LIVING | SPACECOASTLIVING.COM 64 SPACE COAST LIVING | SPACECOASTLIVING.COM

raiser to help support the Zonta Clubs of Melbourne’s scholarships and other local community programs that improve the lives of women.

As if that was not enough, they also serve to raise awareness of onta s fight against human trafficking.

“It gives us the capacity to spread the word about Zonta,” says club member Sandy Michelson.

Michelson, who came up with the ornament idea way back in the day, is still tasked to unearth suitable subjects in a selection process best described as relaxed. “I went around Brevard County one windy day in January to take photos of historical options for club members to consider,”

she said. “They selected the Schoolhouse! Being bright was a factor, I believe.”

The 3 ½’ ornaments retail for $25, or $30 with their own stand. Each piece is handcrafted and handpainted. The entire collection is available at Meehan s Office roducts in downtown Melbourne, and through the Zonta website at www.zontaspacecoast. org. They make perfect stuffing stuffers for both present and previous residents or for friends and relatives who have visited the area. Zonta will ship the ornaments. To see a selection of available ornaments, online at www.zontaspacecoast.org.

EAU GALLERY CALENDAR

By Maria Sonnenberg, Contributing Writer

riginal artwork can be expensive, but with Eau Gallery’s “Images of Brevard County” calendar, you have a dozen colorful images for a mere $15.

Created by local artists, the calendar features popular Space Coast scenes.

A tradition for a decade, the 2021 calendars are ready for sale. Shipping is available. This year, the images range from a watercolor of Rockledge Gardens to cute little Derby Chapel in Cocoa Village. Order online at eaugallery.com or pick up a copy at the gallery, 1429 Highland Ave. in the Eau Gallie Arts District. For more information, call 321-253-5553.

WINTER 2020 65 WINTER 2020

65

SPACE COAST ADVENTURE GIFTS

HOLIDAYS 2020

By Meagan Happel, Contributing Writer from Space Coast Office of Tourism

he holidays are a perfect time to look into new experiences to share with your friends and family—from adrenaline junkies to the more relaxed. Many attractions, hotels, and restaurants are following new safety and health guidelines, so whether you enjoy your gift now or the future, you can rest assured you are making a safe bet with these gifts.

66 SPACE COAST LIVING | SPACECOASTLIVING.COM 66 SPACE COAST LIVING | SPACECOASTLIVING.COM

Play Now, Play Later KENNEDY SPACE CENTER VISITOR COMPLEX: Before the year is out, take advantage of Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex’s Explore More deal. A single-day admission ticket comes with a complimentary admission ticket valid beginning January 1, 2021. If you’re shopping for a space fan who’d love coming back over and over, consider a Multiday Admission for a year of unlimited visits for less than the cost of two tickets. www.kennedyspacecenter. com/info/tickets Explore More: $57/Adult, $47/child Multiday: $82/Adult, $67/Child

BREVARD ZOO:

RON JON SURF SCHOOL:

Annual membership to the Brevard Zoo gets you far more than just entry to the zoo and special events for an entire year. There are three different tiers, which include discounts on zoo camps, merchandise and concessions, early admission, buy-oneget-one-free kayak tours, and more at higher levels.

You can also choose from memberships for an individual, a couple, a single-parent family, a two-parent family, a single grandparent and up to six grandchildren, or a pair of grandparents and up to six grandchildren.

$50/person for group lessons, individual lessons higher. www.ronjonsurfschool.com/surf-lessons

www.brevardzoo.org/ membership/ Standard: $89.95-149.95 Preferred: $129.95 – 229.95 Premium: $289.95

For the Thrill Seekers Surf Lessons & Rentals: The Space Coast is known as the East Coast Surf Capital with multiple award-winning pros calling the area home, and a few annual surf competitions. here are multiple outfits who can teach you to carve up a wave, from single to small group or summer camp-style sessions.

For the Outdoor Lovers GOLFING:

WAKEBOARDING, STAND-UP PADDLE BOARDING, AND MORE: If more calm watersports are your jam, lessons and rentals for stand-up paddleboarding, or SUP, kitesurfing, windsurfing, and wakeboarding can be found here. www.visitspacecoast.com/blog-post/watersports-on-the-spacecoast. Pricing varies

BIPLANE AND HELICOPTER TOURS: Fly over the Space Coast with an astronaut’s view.

Check out the unique ecosystem of the Indian River Lagoon, see Kennedy Space Center from a new angle, enjoy a romantic sunset flight over the beach, or even add aerial stunts to your biplane trip. www. oridaairtours.com cocoa-beach-biplane-tours/.

Pricing starts at $69.99 per person/double.

There are more than 20 courses on the Space Coast, including two par 72 championship courses and a par 67 stretched executive course.

Many of these courses offer memberships and discounts for Florida residents. www. visitspacecoast.com/ things-to-do/sports/golf Pricing: Varies

FISHING CHARTERS: One of the best-kept secrets about the Space Coast is the fantastic fishing, both fresh and saltwater. There are more than 500 species of fish and the largest tripletail in the IGFA Record Books was caught off of Cape Canaveral. The Space Coast is the northernmost boundary on the East Coast for snook, has some of the largest spotted seatrout around, is home to one of the top largemouth bass fisheries in the world, and is the redfish capital of the world. Why not come out for a day or charter a special trip. www.visitspacecoast. com/things-to-do/boati - shi . Pricing varies.

SCHOOL OF SURF: $50/person for group lessons, individual lessons higher. www.schoolofsurf. org/properties.html WINTER 2020 67 WINTER 2020

67

OPEN

68

SPACE COAST LIVING | SPACECOASTLIVING.COM

WINTER 2020

69

Be there, everywhere, with...

Little Look-a-Likes.

By Maria Sonnenberg, Contributing Writer

A

s a busy mom of four little ones years ago, there were time—many times—when Lori Reader wished she could clone herself.

One day she did, sort of.

“I needed one of me for each of my kids, so a friend tried to help by making a doll of me,” she said.

“My son took it to pre-school and all the other kids wanted it.”

That led Lori to a brainstorm: Why not create dolls that could comfort with the likenesses of loved ones who may live far away, or travel frequently, or may have even passed on? The Little-Look-a-Like doll business was born.

Reader began selling the dolls to the parents of her children’s schoolmates.

Primarily through word-of-mouth sales, Little-Look-a-Likes can now be found in every state and in 15 countries.

Customers send in a headshot of themselves, which is then incorporated as the head in a huggable soft doll dressed in jeans and t-shirt. The little shirts can be further customized with a special saying, a favorite sports team logo or college insignia. A 10-second re-recordable voice chip adds a familiar voice to the mix. Special outfits are also available. he dolls were sized at 20 inches so they can be further outfitted with newborn and doll clothing.

70

SPACE COAST LIVING | SPACECOASTLIVING.COM



The dolls have had their 15 minutes of fame, and then some. The popular venture funding show hark ank flew Lori to California for a possible feature, and although the company proved too young, the producers and stars were enthralled and ordered Little Look-a-Likes to give as presents.

Little Look-a-Likes have starred on television in the George Lopez Show. Other Hollywood celebrities, including stars of Good Girls, have also fallen for the dolls’ charms, said Reader. iffany Rosenfield of Indian Harbour Beach purchased a doll in her own image recently. With children ages 10 and 22 months, and a busy schedule managing a hair salon in downtown elbourne, Rosenfield is definitely in the ‘need-a-clone’ category. The kids, especially 22-month-old Preston, cannot get enough of the mini-mom, and the doll is particularly well-loved when Tiffany is at work or when the family visits with grandparents. “Preston uses it constantly,” said Tiffany.

Reader is appreciative and amazed at the feedback she has received from happy customers. “I have so many heartfelt messages,” she said.

One customer related the story of a special tea party her young daughter had with her grandmother. Grandma lived thousands of miles away, but her Little ook a ike filled in at the special event.

Children whose parents have been deployed overseas can still feel near to them with a hug, thanks to the Little Look-a-Like. The dolls are perfect for couples in long-distance relationships and to remind children of separated parents that they are loved by both parents, even if they only live with them part of the time. They can soothe children with autism and adults suffering from Alzheimer’s.

Some Little Look-a-Likes serve as memory dolls for loved ones who have passed away. Kids adore mini-me versions of themselves. They make unique retirement, graduation, wedding and gag gifts.

“A customer once ordered 13 of them to give to all his nieces and nephews,” said Reader.

For more on Little Look-a-Likes, visit online at www.customphotodolls.com.

WINTER 2020

71

72

SPACE COAST LIVING | SPACECOASTLIVING.COM

Gifts from the Garden

By Amanda Rose Newton, Contributing Writer

omemade gifts are a bit more personal than store-bought ones for the holidays, but still are equally appropriate tokens of appreciation for the holiday hostess, New Year’s festivities or Thanksgiving thank you.

Visiting a friend? Consider bringing a jar of fresh vegetable soup straight from your garden. Attending a socially distant “Friendsgiving” feast? Send the hostess a fabulous handcrafted floral centerpiece. Ringing in the New Year with your social bubble? The featured hibiscus syrup will come in handy for a memorable rum punch (or Italian soda for the kids).

Whatever occasion you need a gift for this holiday season, we have you covered.

For the Garden Lover

about wrapping! Likewise, bulbs, cuttings from a favorite plant (like a plumeria), and miniature herb gardens for the kitchen windowsill will leave your garden-loving friends delighted.

Everyone has at least one friend with a green thumb, where everything they plant seems to thrive. Cater to their interests by supplying tools to fuel their gardening habits well into the new year. One of the easiest gifts you can give are simple seeds. Whether vegetable, herb, fruit, or flower, you can get surprisingly creative by creating custom seed packaging using a variety of templates available online or buy them already created through craft sites such as Etsy.

Succulents are certainly having a moment this year and they are an easy, inexpensive gift to give, especially if you already have a few. To propagate, remove a leaflet or two, allow to dry and sprout roots, and plant upright in a container of succulent media mix. Before long, you will have an army of succulents ready for the holiday season!

Create your own custom blend and send it along in a cute pot with a garden tool or two and you won’t even need to worry

Luckily, foodies are one of the easiest friend groups to gift!

It is easy to create an range of offerings from your own

For the CULINARILY Curious

WINTER 2020 OCTOBER WINTER 2020

73 73

garden that will add complexity to dishes and inspire new recipes. If you are already growing herbs, consider drying them to create your own D.I.Y. spice jars. You can pick up small jars at craft stores or reuse previous spice containers from the grocery store, just remove the labels.

You can even get fancy and blend a few together to create your own seasoning blend (tacos, anyone?) or rub. If you are lucky enough to have a food dehydrator, your gift gifting options just increased tenfold.

Strawberry Freezer Jam - 2 cups crushed strawberries - 4 cups white sugar - ž cup water - 1 box fruit pectin - Mason jars METHOD: In a food processor, pulse until strawberries are well diced but not mashed.

Measure 2 cups of strawberries into a large bowl.

Add sugar, one cup at a time, stirring after each addition. Let stand 10 minutes.

Add water and pectin to a saucepan and bring water to a boil.

Remove from heat and add to strawberry mixture.

Stir well until sugar is totally dissolved.

Fill mason jars with jam, leaving ½ inch of room at the top.

Cover with lids and let stand at room temperature for 24 hours Store jam in the freezer for up to 1 year.

74

SPACE COAST COAST LIVING LIVING || SPACECOASTLIVING.COM SPACECOASTLIVING.COM SPACE

Kitchen staples like onion and garlic powder are surprisingly easy to create at home using a dehydrator.

Slicing bulbs as thin as possible, place in a single layer in the food dehydrator and rotate tray every 30 minutes until crumbly. Once cooled, let them take a spin in the food processor to turn into a pungent, yellow-hued powder. When placed in a small decorative jar, it is good for 2 years and so simple, you may opt to make a few containers for yourself!

Food dehydrators also produce love-

ly homemade fruit and vegetable chips. Thinly sliced root vegetables, apples, potatoes, grapes, oranges, and even bananas make colorful lovely dried snacks for both culinary and outdoor adventurers. Classic freezer jam (see strawberry recipe below) does not involve the stress or food safety concerns of normal canning and makes for a tasty gift good for up to three months. The act of food preservation not only serves as a thoughtful gift, but also provides a little extra food security in a time of uncertainty.

Hibiscus Simple Syrup - 2 cups water - ½ cup sugar - ¼ cup brown sugar - ⅓ cup dried hibiscus flowers - ½ inch piece of ginger, sliced thin - Zest from 1 lemon METHOD: Boil water, sugar, dried flowers, and zest until dissolved, about 10 minutes.

Making Spirits

BRIGHT

What would the holidays be without a cocktail or two (or three)? We all know someone with a hibiscus plant in this county, and you can use the large flowers to create a simple syrup perfect for making a ruby-hued holiday rum punch. The following recipe, which can serve a crowd, can even be included with the syrup to make a thoughtful and attractive gift.

Remove from heat and steep for another 5 minutes.

Strain into a container, discard the solids.

Add to taste, starting with about 1 oz to 2 oz of alcohol per drink (rum or vodka both work well). Can also be mixed with club soda for an alcoholfree spritzer.

WINTER 2020 2020 WINTER

75

MELBOURNE MAIN STREET PRESENTS

 2020

Get in the holiday spirit by visiting Downtown Melbourne for our annual Candlelight Shopping!

••• Three separate days, lots of fun prizes, entertainment and sights!

••• Downtown Melbourne New Haven Avenue

Every Saturday until Christmas December 5th 5-9pm December 12th 5-9pm December 19th 10am-5pm

DowntownMelbourne.com 76

SPACE COAST LIVING | SPACECOASTLIVING.COM

2019

Since 1979 YEARS IN A ROW

.

.

.

where friends send friends

.

.

TM

Vinyl Plank Carpet Porcelain Tile Rugs Hardwood Laminate

RATED

By Better

Business Bureau

M-F 9-6 9-7 SAT 9-5 SUN 11-4

“Ken was patient and knowledgeable and everything he promised, he delivered with excellence. Our installers were professional and always on time. We get compliments all the time on how good it looks. If you are looking to have floors installed in your home, do not go anywhere else!” Rodney D.

2019

Years in a Row

321

WINTER 2020

77

ROBOT LOVE

78

SPACE COAST LIVING | SPACECOASTLIVING.COM

A RADICAL

COLLISION: PART V

he Space Coast has more engineering talent per capita than any other region in the United States making it one of the best places to live if you desire to push the limits of what’s possible in technology.

Moonshot creativity is a shared culture in the region that craves to be tapped according to internationally acclaimed artist and Space Coast resident Derek Gores who has recently been commissioned for special projects by Adidas, Playboy, and high fashion brands like Rinascente.

Gores currently serves as the

first ever artist in residence at the Hotel el Air in os Angeles and has played an active role in raising the profile of the arts scene in the Eau Gallie Arts District (EGAD) for the past two decades. He says that while this coast is known best for its rockets, it has the potential to be known for its radically inclusive approach to the creative process.

PHOTO CAPTION: BRINGING THE ROBOTS TO LIFE from L to R, Danielle Henn, Jason Reed (seated), Derek Gores, Marty Mercado, Cliffton Chandler, Eyan Eyster, Kimberly Ellis, Jessica Haines (seated), Casey DeCotis (on tv). Photo by Kevin Roberts

ROBOT LOVE - SPECIAL SECTION Presented in Artistic Collaboration with Space Coast Living Magazine Images and art works shared by Derek Gores • Content by Jenna Reid, Contributing Writer

WINTER 2020

79

RADICAL ART COLLISION

EVERYTHING IS NEW AGAIN

“We have the ability to have computer hackers, breakdancers, designers and choreographers come together to create art,” Gores said, “it’s that

It is our tradition here to break new ground for new ideas to be the first to think new thoughts and use new words to define new goals, said Cliffton Chandler. “This isn’t an analogy, it's a description. Just as Satellite Beach isn t a euphemism, it s a town. And it s the first town called satellite.

shared passion that calls hundreds of people to contribute to a radical art collision like Robot ove.

Gores is one of more than 500 artists who have participated in the Robot ove art show since it launched in 2008 under the ragtag leadership of 321 Agency, a group of web designers who occasionally used surplus compa ny funds to host unofficial art shows in the streets of Eau Gallie.

Gores now acts as one of the show’s producers and says Robot ove will always be strategically non strategic in its effort to blend visual and performing arts with technology and give creators of all kinds of permission to “make art using their own creative language.”

As far as what to expect from this year’s show, anonymous sources say construction has begun on a new Robot ove actory that will allegedly begin to manufacture Art, usic, and ove. hows from years past have featured renditions of the Internet of Things, robot bboy battles, robot dating shows, suspended from the rafters dancing, rove You Are Human podcasts, rock climbing exhibitions, and have each been headlined by the esteemed not so local, but born and bred pace Coast band I .

According to EGAD residents Maria Storman and Ryan “Speerbot” Speer, Robot ove No. 5 has more significance than ever this year because the museum is closing and that the community needs closure. Storman moved to the pace Coast as a floral designer and understudy to the legendary ink ohnson in 005. torman and peerbot, who had also relocated to the area, met and fell in love at Robot ove in 00 . hey say they’re not the only ones who have had their lives changed by the show.

This year, in an effort to honor pandemic guidelines and provide a uniquely intimate experience for each guest, ores and co producer arty Mercado say the show will take place over six weeks at the Foosaner Art Museum in EGAD.

CELEBRATING THE FOOSANER Robot ove will be one of the last exhibits to take place at the museum before it shuts its doors permanently, making the show an opportunity to celebrate what Foosaner leaders and donors have done for the arts com munity and challenge emerging and established artists to reinvent an epi center for art and culture in EGAD. Mercado, a classically trained dancer who performed professionally in New York City in the 0s, says the past five shows have given her dance students the opportunity to use the constraints of unfamiliar venues as an opportuni ty for more improvisational, environ 80

SPACE COAST LIVING | SPACECOASTLIVING.COM

SPIN ME ROUND: Hula artistry at Robot Love 2017 by Shelby Spunflower

mentally informed self expression.

Mercado said that radical, collabo rative experiences like Robot ove excite the performing arts industry and that it’s one of the many reasons why 100% of her students have gone on to perform professionally.

“They call me the Mother of Robots,” Mercado said, adding that the use of indoor and outdoor spaces around the museum this year will allow “her babies” to explore multiple layers of dynamic performing arts engagement. “My skill is finding the art in people and showing them the value their art offers to a spe cific scene, stage, or scenario.

Master craftsman, designer, and Space Coast native Cliffton Chandler has served as the spiritual mascot to Robot ove since the beginning and is credited with inspiring 321 Agency to start hosting art shows and then grow the scene to new, unexpected venues.

Chandler works with all members of the creative class to layer in elements of discovery and surprise throughout the show. Chandler says his family has made major contributions to the space program and that the desire to experiment with the creative process is in the NA of the Space Coast community.

FashiON/OFF: Robot Love V includes a fashion exhibit WINTER 2020

81

ART AS COLLABORATION “Everyone has an art in them that wants to come out in some way, peerbot said, reflecting on his time as Art Director for the show in its early, no budget startup days. e started Robot ove because we were nerds that wanted to be cool, party, and get girls and it’s exciting to see how the show — as infrequent as it is — has helped to fuel our personal and professional lives in ways we never expected.”

Storman said by design half the artists in the show do not identify as “artists” but contribute a unique skill or trade to a collaborative experience within the show. She said when the collective started out in 2008, she didn’t see herself as someone who would sign up to take part in an art show outside of her to 5 schedule as a floral designer.

“It’s incredible to see how the show has become more elevated over the years thanks to major play ers like Gores getting involved,” Storman said.

“We’re all at a different stage in our lives now and it will be great to reconnect with the usual sus pects and even more meaningful to see what new, emerging artists will bring to center stage.

PHOTOS: Top left: ORANGA TANGA at Robot Love 2015, Dancers at Robot Love 2009, Foosaner Art Museum is the latest Art Factory

82

SPACE COAST LIVING | SPACECOASTLIVING.COM

ROBOT HISTORY AS DOCUMENTED

BY HUMAN RYAN SPEERBOT. WHAT IS R0B0T L0VE? Robots were created in 1921 by the Czech human Karel Capek and first produced by the Rossum’s Universal Robots Corporation. Predictably, they showed a proclivity to turn on their creators and… kill or enslave them.

To robots it seemed like the only logical thing to do.

Human beings emitted odors and were highly inefficient. The robots felt no remorse, because robots don’t feel anything.

It was nothing personal.

It continued on this way for some time, until one day the robots realized they craved three things that only humans could produce: art, music, and their natural byproduct — love. Not quite in the same emotional way we humans “crave” things.

You see, art fine-tuned their processors by allowing them to practice filtering out abstract and illogical data; the rhythm of music made their movements precisely timed and highly efficient. Subsequently, the robots discovered that love, a naturally occurring byproduct of art and music, could be converted into a highly concentrated fuel for their robot hearts.

hard part was getting the humans to produce art, music, and love in captivity because of their proclivity to become depressed and malfunction when placed in cages. The robots soon realized they would need to convince the humans to freely share their art, music, and love. However, nearly a century of robots turning on and killing or enslaving had led to a certain level of mistrust of robots among the human population.

Knowing they had a major P.R. problem on their hands, the robots activated their sincerity protocol.

The goal: to convince the humans that robots no longer wanted to kill or enslave them, but instead wanted to throw them a big party (inside a human-processing factory) where all the humans could gather to frolic and enjoy art, music, and love. In 2009, In association with the robots, a collection of sympathetic ‘creative’ human friends created Robot Love and thousands of humans came to experience art, music, and love. Mind-boggling amounts of robot heart fuel were produced, and the robots did not kill or enslave any humans. The humans and robots rejoiced in their newfound symbiosis (Well, the humans rejoiced… The robots simply continued to function with soul-less efficiency).

As it turned out, after much robot debate and a tireless search for alternatives, the only creatures on earth capable of producing all three of these resources were the humans.

The easy part for the robots was to stop killing the humans, since it was no longer logical to do so. The PHOTOS: Top left: CUDDLEBOTS - Ryan Speer aka Speerbot, designer.

Creative bar services by Sol Tree and Jessica Haines.

Jay SIlver collaborates with Verdi Eco School at Robot Love 2017 WINTER 2020

83

PHOTO: Top left: COMPUTER CRASH: More of the 2020 team, from L to R: Pawan Gaikwad, Chris Woodle, Natalie Gank, Lear Bunda, Ryan Speer, Maria Storman Photo by Kevin Roberts

Art by Cliffton Chandler

DJ Giulio Roverelli at Robot Love 2017 Art by Cliffton Chandler

84

SPACE COAST LIVING | SPACECOASTLIVING.COM

+

A Robot Interviews Cliffton Chandler

Q: Got a sec? Got some questions you could answer for a write up about this year’s Robot Love art show, and about Robot Love in general. Won't take long. Why is it a multidisciplinary art show?

A: You mean like why does Robot Love insist on combining art, and music, and tech, and dance, and everything, combined together, risking chaos, rather than have them all stay in their own lane? Here's the long answer: it feels better. Our senses aren't meant to be isolated or work in isolation. We feel our most alive with all our feelers feeling. An inverse example of what I mean might be how clinical depression is often described as numbness. We know that sensory deprivation is both a symptom of derangement and a cause. So a better question might be why we were ever so eager to separate painting from dancing in the first place. ... whew... Or the short answer is that my friends are all multitalented. Both answers are true.

MORE INFO AND TICKETS: ROBOTLOVEART.COM

CLIFFTON CHANDLER: Spiritual mascot to Robot Love

QA

SCH EDU LE OF

EV EN TS

FOOSANER ART MUSEUM January 15 - February 27, 2021 Opening Night: Friday, January 15, limited tickets available at robotloveart.com Public Opening: Saturday, January 16, 10-4pm General Schedule: Wed - Sat through Feb 27, 10-4.

Limited Private Events available.

Special Events and Workshops to be announced at robotloveart.com FashiON/OFF: Closing Event Sat. Feb 27, limited tickets available at robotloveart.com NOTE: All exhibits and events conducted under strict CDC and local guidelines.

Q: In a team that from the start included you, Derek, Marty, Speer, what do you specifically bring to the dynamic of Robot Love? What part of the job do you take on with passionate urgency?

A: Great question man. Sounds kinda translated from Japanese. What do I bring to the team with passionate urgency?

Ask anybody. I bring 'The Audacity'.

Q: What feels different 11 years into Robot Love?

A: Change is the only constant. I told you already how my friends-- and my friends’ friends-- are all multitalented.

So they react to changes in venue, timing, context, etc. by making changes in their creative process to say something new, or debut a new skill, or play a new role in the design process or project management. But it isn't chaos at all. We expect change, and we embrace it. So while experiences and end results vary from year to year, with varying degrees of success, the common thread throughout is the optimism.

Q: What's Robot Love's job?

A: To protect and serve.

Q: Why should I go?

A: Because the map is not the territory. See for yourself.

WINTER 2020

85

BREVARD CONSTRUCTION COMPANY Expertise and Vast Experience Drive Customer Experience

By Shawna L. Lucas, Publisher

ike the country song, David Hicks has seen his share of high and low places. Most of them have been from the rooftops of projects he has spearheaded through his general construction company, Rockledge/Cocoa-based Brevard Construction Company.

86

SPACE COAST LIVING | SPACECOASTLIVING.COM

Dave started in the industry in the mountainous environs of Colorado more than 40 years ago and brings a wealth of insight and information about how construction rules and trends have fluctuated over the years…almost as wildly as the housing markets have done.

tions, a whole house remodel in Cocoa Beach and a waterfront 6,000 square foot new build in South Titusville.

Teamwork

Through it all, Brevard Construction Company’s No. 1 goal is customer satisfaction through consistency. “We perform a majority of the work ourselves and work with a select group of subcontractors to make sure our work is done right and done on time,” Dave said, “which allows us to keep the work managed and dependable from concept to finished product.

Hicks, his wife Kerry, and their two oldest sons make up the Brevard Construction Company executive team. Kerry helps with design and product selections and, according to Dave, “keeps me and everything, really, on track.” The sons help with managing the multitude of jobs they have in process.

The two have been managing a hectic schedule lately with no end in sight. “The work just keeps coming in, thankfully,” said Kerry.

At the time of this interview, they were juggling a number of beachside condo renova-

Satisfaction Through Consistency

Brevard Construction Company focuses on a number of building needs including new builds for custom homes and commercial projects, roofing for commercial and home, and remodeling.

Additionally, Brevard Construction Company special-

izes in interior redesign and remodeling projects that are designed to bring together a completed design that captures the practical needs along with design dreams of their clients.

Remodeling services include: ■ Floorplan redesign ■ Custom cabinetry installation ■ Custom tile work installation ■ New feature and appliance installation ■ Whole home remodeling

Dave is exceptionally versed in understanding structural issues and wind mitigation, and after more than four decades in the business, confident he can handle any project of any size or scale.

“We’ve done it all. From multimillion-dollar mountain homes, to riverfront homes to condo conversions and roof replacements. We can handle any kind of general construc-

tion project that can be imagined or planned,” he said.

Personal Touch The custom homes and remodeling projects are the ones where they are especially keen to offer guidance and expertise. “We love helping direct clients to the products we have come to trust, and we love offering our personal touch. We expect much from ourselves, and we offer the same to our clients, who have always been exceptionally happy with our work,” said Kerry.

It seems their commitment to client satisfaction is paying off. All reviews listed on recent research revealed only five star reviews, with multiple comments about the professionalism, reliability and clear communication they provide.

1909 N. Cocoa Boulevard, Cocoa ■ 321-301-6000 www.brevardconstruction.com

Spectacular Waterfront Dining Seasonal Seafood ³ Prime Rib & Steak Tableside Cocktails Fantastic Happy Hour Every Day • 4pm - 6pm

Early Dining Monday - Friday • 4:30pm - 6pm Saturday & Sunday • 4pm - 6pm

Sunday Brunch 11am - 4pm 2250 Front Street • 321-729-6558 • chart-house.com WINTER 2020

87

PRC: CREATING AN IMMERSIVE CLIENT EXPERIENCE

By Eric Wright, President

Selection, Fabrication & Installation

any people speak of their job as a vocation.

That word is derived from the Latin word for voice or calling. For Brian Haire of Property, Renovations and Construction, LLC, (PRC), it means much more than a job. That sense of calling and purpose has guided not only the meteoric growth of his businesses, but also the relationship he has with customers, employees and the community at large. Now that sense of mission is evidenced in one of the most innovative and unique home exterior design centers in the state, which Haire created in an expansive renewal project on south US1 in Melbourne. In the near future, that calling will take him further, with plans to expand this showroom concept to four other Florida locations.

88

SPACE COAST LIVING | SPACECOASTLIVING.COM

“I remember going to a job site and trying to show [clients] what a roof would look like by laying roofing samples on the ground or looking at 1”x1” samples in a product brochure,” he recalled. “What I wanted was to create a place where builders, architects and designers could bring clients, or where homeowners could come themselves to see what roof, window, door, railing or gate options would actually look like, full scale.” That dream has become a dramatic reality at the Welcome Home Design Center PRC developed.

They say a picture is worth 1,000 words, but no one picture or product sample can effectively communicate the dramatic look, the varied textures and rich colors of modern roof materials. When PRC opens its 15,000-square-foot showroom in early 2021, clients and builders will be able to access a creative palette of full scale roofing materials and a wide array of window and door options.

Preserving and Re-Imagining Several of the companies in the PRC portfolio make a fascinating story of entrepreneurial initiative and a desire to preserve certain heritage companies in Brevard. Haire came to the Space Coast after recommending that the company he worked for in North Carolina, Baker Roofing Co., the fourth largest roofing firm in the nation, serve the thousands of residents devastated by the hurricanes in 004, the year that five hurricanes made landfall in Florida in just six short weeks. In a seemingly fated alignment, Haire’s father knew and introduced him to Doug Wilson, a legendary local contractor — even the Pro Health and Fitness Aquatic Center in Viera bears his name.

Soon, an email went out to over 5,000 employees of just one

major employer, recommending Haire’s company.

It was the beginning of a frenetic period of growth, which eventually led to the start of PRC in 0 . In our first one room office, we had a white board where we tracked our jobs. One of my employee’s said, ‘Every time you put up a new white board, you fill it up with work. It was true I now have a white board wall that is 0 feet long in our office, completely full,” Haire said.

It was also a time when roofing products and options rapidly evolved in style, materials and wear, a trend which later served as part of the inspiration for the design center.

Soon after, PRC had won the roof and window installation contract for nine Lowe’s outlets in the county, along with other major distributors. Simultaneously, Haire said he was approached about acquiring one of the oldest window companies in Brevard, Ability Windows & Doors, which was launched in 1975. Haire felt intrigued by the opportunity. He saw it as a chance to preserve a part of the area’s building and construction heritage more than an acquisition of assets or a book of business. Thus, Ability was added to the PRC brand and meshed well with their offerings.

PROPERTY RENOVATIONS AND CONSTRUCTION is located at 2500 S. Harbor City Blvd., Melbourne. For more information, call 321-638-5933 or online at prcfla.com

Growth & Diversification “Most of the contractors I work with are [based on] long standing relationships. One builder would recommend me to another, and the personal and professional respect have kept us together for years,” Haire said.

Haire also started a nonprofit to help other organizations grow and families make it through difficult times. hat really galvanized our team, he said, because they know we aren t just about business or profits, we want to make a difference in our community by making a difference is the lives of individuals.”

As his business grew, so did the need for more space. “There are some different roofing systems that most people don t have a clue exist they usually just think tile, shingle or metal. I wanted to showcase those products, just like businesses that showcase interior cabinets, flooring and countertops.

The need to build a showroom spacious enough to show the myriad furnishings and finishing products and accommodate his growth at one location led him to the property on US1 that had previously been occupied by the Florida Beer Company and, for a season, Appliance Direct.

After acquiring the property, Haire said he began looking at adjacent sites. Nearby, Smitty’s Welding & Metal Fabrication had been at their location since 1956. Mr. Bauer, who owned the business for 40 years, was ready to retire and wanted to sell the company, not just the property. Like Ability, Haire did not need the company, but wanted to keep the legacy alive and the expertise they had in custom metal railing and gates, along with sheet metal fabrication. It was a good fit for RC. Now their master welders and metal fabricators, who share nearly 60 years of experience, are helping train another generation of craftsmen.

“We are now a family of companies. We install the roofs, we make and install the fascia, we install the windows and doors, all with the same care and workmanship. With the metal company, we can make and install unique decorative metal work, which we manufacture,” he said.

For Haire, the continuity of work, variety of services and standard of excellence define RC and champion their message of integrity, honestly and quality, with a VIP customer experience. “What we have found is that the more we can guide the process, from selection to fabrication to installation, the better the client outcome will be,” Haire concluded. • WINTER 2020

89

Thank you, Brevard County, for 40 incredible years!

State Title

300 W. Fee Avenue Melbourne, FL 32901

(321)725-0636 StateTitle.net

Revolutionary NEW Sharpener for Any Knife Knife blades vary from 13 to 21 degrees, but most traditional knife sharpeners have a ďŹ xed angle, which makes sharpening knives with most sharpeners useless.

Unless the sharpener is the Rhineland Angle Pro, the ultimate knife sharpener.

Angle Pro’s patent-pending Angle Gauge measures individual blade angles, and its set of diamond-coated sharpening wheels puts the perfect edge on all types of knives. Plus, it also re-edges and hones blades.

Designed on the Space Coast, the Angle Pro is a sharpener that is OUT OF THIS WORLD! SCAN FOR MORE INFO

Receive $20 off with code SCL20 at checkout.

www.angleprosharpener.com 90

SPACE COAST LIVING | SPACECOASTLIVING.COM

summer just got hotter.

Anyone can grill but only few can elevate it to an art form.

Our knowledgeable design experts will create the outdoor kitchen of your dreams by selecting the best equipment and custom features to fit your needs for a functional and gorgeous outdoor living space. Whatever your style, FREEDOM OUTDOOR KITCHENS can help you turn up the heat.

SCHEDULE YOUR CONSULTATION TODAY!

321.421.9949 |

TheRealFOK

A New Standard of Excellence

BREVARD PROPERTY MANAGEMENT & REALTY GROUP, LLC

F U L L S E R V I C E R E A L E S TAT E SALES SALES

R E N TA L S R E N TA L S

PROPERTY M AP N AG RO P E RMTEYN T

• We advertise on MULTIPLE LISTING SERVICE, our website, signs and national rental websites • We advertise on MULTIPLE LISTING SERVICE, our website, signs and national rental websites • COMPUTERIZED ACCOUNTING FOR MONTHLY AND YEAR END STATEMENTS COMPUTERIZED ACCOUNTING FOR MONTHLY AND YEAR END • TENANT•SCREENING to include criminal, credit, job income, eviction, and STATEMENTS residential verification • TENANT SCREENING to include criminal, credit, job income, eviction,APPROVED and residential verification • Move-in/Move-out PHOTOS, INSPECTIONS AND ATTORNEY LEASES • Move-in/Move-out PHOTOS, INSPECTIONS AND ATTORNEY APPROVED LEASES 901 JORDAN BLASS DRIVE, SUITE 101 901 MELBOURNE, JORDAN BLASS DRIVE, 32940 SUITE 101 FLORIDA

321-752-0460 | BPMREALTYGROUP.COM WINTER 2020

91

• HEAT REPAIR N IO T A L L TA S IN EAT • AC REPAIR • H N IO T A L L TA S IN AC

• NO SERVICE FEE EVER • SAME-DAY APPOINTMENTS • FULL AC SYSTEM • INSPECTIONS & DIAGNOSTIC SERVICE • SAME DAY REPAIR

• ALL BRANDS SERVICED • MAINTENANCE PLANS AVAILABLE • EMERGENCY SERVICE • COMMERCIAL & RESIDENTIAL

Zone Heating & Cooling provides Expert, Professional Air Conditioning & Heating Installation, Replacement, Maintenance & Repair.

Keeping our neighbors in the Right Comfort Zone is our number one goal. In Florida that focus is often on the air conditioning system in your home, but we don’t stop there. We provide heating options as well for those occasional cold days & nights. We take the time to understand our customer’s heating and cooling needs, their home, their property, and their goals. We provide options and solutions best suited to you.

CALL US TODAY

321.622.8000

ZONEHEATINGANDCOOLING.COM 92

SPACE COAST LIVING | SPACECOASTLIVING.COM

WINTER 2020

93

Celebrating ALL-SEASON SPACES

Mr. Fireplace Patio & Spa

by Eric Wright

ne of the greatest aspects of Florida living is the opportunity to enjoy the outdoors (mostly) year ‘round. This, coupled with the surge in creative new designs and technologies which enable people to take full advantage of poolside activities in the summer or outdoor cooking, dinning and entertaining in the winter and fall, have transformed what used to be considered summer patios to all-season spaces.

In addition, new relaxing and therapeutic spas, which used to be reserved for colder climates, are now used regularly throughout the year due to technology advances. Today, the spas have highly efficient temperature controls and systems that do not use chlorine. Spas have become a personal retreat or an inviting complement when entertaining.

“We saw a trend that really began with the rising popularity of HGTV (Home and Garden TV) almost 20 years ago,” said John McMillan, president of Mr. Fireplace, Patio & Spa in Melbourne. “They showcased the outdoor living concepts that were developed first in California and then spread to Florida, which today are incorporated into most upscale home designs.”

According to McMillan, people today are giving as much thought to their outdoor kitchens as to their indoor ones.

McMillan, who grew up in Satellite Beach, loves helping people enjoy the Florida lifestyle. Being a native, however, he understands that long-term investment in quality is a calculated choice if it helps abate and avoid the ravages of rust and mildew from high humidity and salty air on your outdoor furnishings, spa and kitchen features.

94

SPACE COAST LIVING | SPACECOASTLIVING.COM

Tommy Bahama Outdoor Furnishings He is especially excited about the line of Tommy Bahama outdoor furniture his company now stocks. “I remember going out on someone’s pool deck and being able to smell the cushions before I even sat down. Or, they had that typical extended use indentation, that made you feel like you were sitting in a bucket,” he said.

The Tommy Bahama collection pieces are made with cushion materials that are supportive and hold their shape, while also wicking water out instead of holding it in like a sponge.

Also, the wide variety of fabrics options do not lose their vibrant color when exposed to the intense Florida sun and, although the designs may look like they are made from wood, they are instead made from durable, corrosion-resistant aluminum.

“In Florida, all outdoor furniture is going to get wet at some point. With these products, the look, the feel and even the smell stays like new and is easy to maintain,” he said.

As with the furniture options, the outdoor kitchen combinations available are visually as appealing as they are functional. With an endless variety of counter and cabinet combinations, they are all fabricated from materials designed to hold up to intense weather and coastal corrosion. With ceramic brands like rimo and affire or stainless steel and aluminum models

by Firemagic, Blaze, Napoleon and American Outdoor Grill, there is something to appeal to every outdoor chef.

Fireplaces First As the name implies, McMillan started his company with fireplaces years ago and, like

his other lines, they continue to add a distinctive ambiance to both indoor and outdoor areas and have evolved dramatically. The varieties and technologies available can produce an array of looks and effects to match any existing or planned decor or anyone’s imagination.

“Not only do I think we have the best products on the market, but the outdoor, coastal lifestyle is our specialty. We can put together spa, kitchen, furniture and fireplace packages that are not only best in class, but very competitive in price,” McMillan said.

come into our Mr. Fireplace, Patio & Spa showroom. The clients are happy and excited, they are creating dream spaces and our people are so knowledgeable and customer focused. It is just a joy,” he said.

Mr. Fireplace Patio & Spa is located at 3351 W New Haven Ave STE 102, Melbourne.

For more information, visit online at .mr re lacea d atio.com or call (321) 727-7565

Right next door to his company showroom, McMillan also owns an HVAC company called Hearth & Home. “It is a great business, but I honestly love to

Your Dream Outdoor Space Starts Here!

Check out our Tommy Bahama Outdoor Furnishings collection!

Contact us to Schedule your FREE Consultation!

HOT TUBS ■ FIREPLACES ■ GRILLS & SMOKERS ■ BACKYARD FURNITURE & DECOR

3351 W. New Haven Ave. Suite 102 Melbourne, FL 32904

321.727.7565 MRFIREPLACEANDPATIO.COM

Serving Melbourne and Florida’s Central East Coast for over 40 Years WINTER 2020

95

Hip Hotel on Horizon for Arts District

By Shawna L. Lucas, Publisher

If you take a good look around, there is construction happening just about everywhere on the pace Coast. rom behemoth installations in Cape Canaveral to tidy townhouses in Indialantic, it seems that every conceivable space where something can be built has a project happening or one in the works.

96 102

SPACE SPACECOAST COASTLIVING LIVING| | SPACECOASTLIVING.COM SPACECOASTLIVING.COM

Caption needed here

The Eau Gallie Arts District is no exception, albeit at a smaller scale. A few projects have risen up in the area over the past decade and a newer one, Pineapples EGAD - billed as a restaurant, venue, rooftop bar - has come along nicely.

lsewhere around the district, the limited availability of new building space has helped the area retain its artsy, vintage vibe and careful planning around architecture and design should help it remain that way. here is, however, one builder who s been patiently waiting his

turn to develop an exciting new project arry arnes of Northboro uilders. In ay, his company was selected from among a number of bidders to purchase the oosaner Art useum, along with an adjacent property the former oosaner ducation Center.

OCTOBER WINTER2020 2020

103 97

arnes, who has developed and built franchise restaurants nationwide over ,000 in the past 5 years as well as airport restaurants, retail and healthcare facilities, has a uni ue vision for the site which will cater to a hip, chic crowd a bouti ue hotel filled with local art, wide spanning views of the Indian River and Atlantic Ocean, two specialty restaurants and a rooftop pool and lounge. he project is expected to break ground in the third uarter of 0 .

Passion Project in Three Parts he passion project for arnes has been percolating in his mind for some time. A resident of the arts district for years, he said he hoped he d find a way to blend his love for the area with a project that would help anchor the uirky, artsy (and uni ue small town vibe) further in the community.

98 104

SPACE SPACECOAST COASTLIVING LIVING| |SPACECOASTLIVING.COM SPACECOASTLIVING.COM

he second piece of the puzzle is a planned parking garage with 505 spaces and electric charging stations that will flank the project in a joint venture with the City of elbourne through a Community Reinvestment Act. he garage will provide parking for hotel and restaurant guests via valet services and will include hundreds of free parking space to visitors who wish to come explore the area and enjoy all it has to offer, said arnes. inally, uni ue food hall, retail and entertainment venue will be built in the space where the oosaner ducation Center now sits empty. he space will include food vendors, dining space, i i access and plenty of spots (and encouragement) for working folks to spread out and answer emails or host informal gatherings with clients. All three projects will be built concurrently. arnes is in talks with remier ifestyle Hotel rand and

management company ream Hotel roup from New York to operate a bouti ue nscripted Hotel on the site. And although final design details such as interior design, wall colors, lighting fixtures furniture choices still have to be finalized, to expect less than ber cool from this project would be underestimating the potential of his vision. hat arnes said he does know for sure is that the hotel will have 0 rooms on floors including a high end rooftop restaurant with cantilevered dining balcony, rooftop pool, and cocktail lounge with unobstructed views of the river. A second restaurant will be located on the second floor, with a stylish cocktail lounge and exterior balcony overlooking the park next door. here are also plans for ,000 s . ft. of flex conference room venue space which will accommodate weddings and large group events and ,000 s . ft. of premium retail space.

One tenant is already confirmed, arnes said. e re going to bring an Orlando business partner of ours into the space, as well, he said, to help them expand their footprint in Central lorida. oxtail Coffee, which launched in Orlando some years ago, will roast their own uni ue blends and operate a trendy gourmet coffee and foods shop on site.

“We know we are growing as a destination downtown and this particular kind of project will serve the locals well while drawing more visitors to the district.

I couldn’t be more excited,” Lisa Packard, Executive Director of the Eau Gallie Arts District.

OCTOBER WINTER2020 2020

105 99

Community Anticipation he project garnered enthusiastic support from local government officials and shop owners who look forward to introducing the district to new generations of families and who want to help increase exposure to the artsy enclave and its uni ue retail and service shops. isa ackard, xecutive irector of the au allie Arts istrict, is especially excited it. e know we are growing as a destination downtown and this particular kind of project will serve the locals well while drawing more visitors to the district. I couldn t be more excited, she said.

Northboro uliders is a Central lorida based, nationwide design build construction company specializing in turn key restaurant solutions, revitalizing commercial properties by developing uni ue restaurants, ghost kitchens, bouti ue hotels, office centers and medical facilities. or more information, email Larry@Northborobuilders.com or call 774-696-6000.

Larry Jarnes of Northboro Builders

106 100

SPACE COAST LIVING | SPACECOASTLIVING.COM

N at i o n a l D e s i g n - B u i l d F i r m 25 Years of Project Excellence, RESTAURANT / HOSPITALITY SPECIALISTS

COMMERCIAL DEVELOPMENT

LUXURY RESIDENTIAL

Whatever it Takes.

WANT TO KNOW

MORE?

Call CEO Larry Jarnes Directly

774-696-6000

larry@northborobuilders.com

126 E LUCERNE CIR., ORLANDO, FL 32801 1509 LAKE ST., MELBOURNE, FL 32901 WINTER 2020

101

20200732

Public radio

WFIT-FM is your source for public radio on the Space Coast with news, music and more. Listen live via app, iTunes or web browser streaming.

wfit.org/listen-live

us on

MENTION THIS AD TO RECEIVE

for the Space Coast

and look us up on

*

10% OFF

tree services * $ 4 0 0 m i n . Ca l l Fo r De t a i l s

• Workers Compensation • 2 Million GL Insurance • BBB Accredited A+ Rating

102

SPACE COAST LIVING | SPACECOASTLIVING.COM

• All of the right state of the art equipment for safety • Highly skilled, drug free & experienced employees

CabinetDesignsCFL.com

WINTER 2020

103

S M A R T, V E R S AT I L E , L I VA B L E F L O O R P L A N S .

SUPERIOR BUILDING PRODUCTS & PRACTICES. AWA R D - W I N N I N G S U S TA I N A B L E & SOLAR-POWERED HOMES. 104

SPACE COAST LIVING | SPACECOASTLIVING.COM

(321) 727-8188

www.BuildingALifeStyle.com

FOR MORE GREAT STORIES AND EVENTS Check us out online

spacecoastliving.com EVENTS | ARTS | BUSINESS & MORE

CONNECT WITH US

*BRING IN THIS AD AND SAVE $15 OFF ANY $50 OR MORE PURCHASE. Discount valid on full retail price of Richard’s Paint labeled products only and cannot be combined with sale, markdown, promotional discounted items, closeouts or on previous purchases. Discount not valid toward shipping or sales tax. Company reserves the right to limit quantities. Any return of purchase will reduce your savings proportionately. No cash value. COUPON EXPIRES DECEMBER 30, 2020.

AVAILABLE AT THESE STORES RICHARD’S PAINT STORES ACE TITUSVILLE

ACE BEACHSIDE Miramar Ave

Garden St

MERRITT ISLAND

SpaceCoast_Living_Mag

MELBOURNE

321-225-8725

@SpaceCoast.Living

321-459-2950

•

E Merritt Island Cswy

Viera Blvd

Washington Ave

321-724-1558

•

S Patrick Dr

Post Road

VIERA

321-632-2271

321-242-1864 PALM BAY

•

321-267-1030 321-724-1558 ACE COCOA BEACH

321-984-0323

N Atlantic Ave

SCL

Stack Blvd

321-783-1030 WINTER 2020 LA_20110_SpaceCoastLiving_OctAd_4x9.875_Interior_V3Alt.indd 1

105

9/4/20 9:52 AM

DISCRIMINATING & DIFFERENTIATING Burke & Company Estate Sales

By Eric Wright, President

When you enter the showroom of Burke & Company Estate Sales on N. Babcock Street in Melbourne you aren’t greeted by the musty smells or floor-to-ceiling clutter sometimes common in antique and used furniture shops.

Instead, Carole Burke has created, or rather curated, a gallery-like setting of the finest pieces in her collection, using a keen eye and understanding of value and design based on decades of estate sales and appraisals.

106

SPACE COAST LIVING | SPACECOASTLIVING.COM

She helps clients deal with two familiar attributes of home dwellers: The collection of things that fill our homes and strike our fancies, from autographed baseball cards to antique lamps to heritage quilts to crystal and china. The other is our portability: According to the last

census report, Americans average almost 12 property moves in their lifetime, and as many as about three after turning 45.

When people decide it’s time to downscale to a more manageable home or when their heirs are faced with liquidating a lifetime of collectibles, there can be great anxiety and confusion about what to do next.

With a voice and demeanor that communicates both warmth and experience, Carole explains. “Fair market value is the price at which the property would change hands between a willing buyer and a willing seller, neither being under any compulsion to buy or sell and both having reasonable knowledge of relevant facts.” It is the kind of answer that helps set her apart in an increasingly crowded market.

Priceless Experience

Serendipity led Carole into the business. After successfully spear-

heading the launch and managing The Haven for Children’s thrift store in Melbourne, Carole launched her own career by moving into the estate sales business when there were few in the area. She realized soon after that people living in condominiums or gated communities had limitations that would prevent hosting a typical estate sale, so she transitioned into liquidation sales. This became especially helpful with the seniors living in the area as they transitioned from family homes into smaller condos or assisted living facilities “I help clients determine the value of the pieces that either they or their family do not want to keep, and then I make them a cash offer or consign the better pieces to my showroom. Then I assist them in selling off the remainder of the inventory,” she explained.

It is an option that clients find both gratifying and seamless. The showroom is more than a sales floor, it is an inviting and homey place for

browsers to relax or enjoy a book in one of their many comfortable chairs.

When asked about placing value on furniture or collectables she responded,

“I help clients determine the value of the pieces that either they or their family do not want to keep, and then I make them a cash offer.”

—Carole Burke “There are a number of factors. Most people think if it is old, it has more value, but that isn’t always the case,” she said. “First of course is the condition, is it pristine or is it worn. Secondly, how many were made? Often, thousands

of the item were mass produced, like ‘Collector plates’ or art sold on cruise ships, which dramatically impacts value. Finally, what is the demand?” Like a stock price, the market sets the value, which ebbs and flows with the economy and people’s tastes.

Burke shared an article that appeared in Smart Money back in 2011, describing America as the “Accumulation Nation,” because of our tendency to buy and collect. It went on to say, as the title suggested, that we are facing “The Big Sell-Off”, as 8,000 Baby Boomers a day turn 65. That reality has created a market niche in which Burke serves as a mediator between those who want and need to sell, and a market that is looking for beautiful and unique pieces.

Burke & Company Consignment Store & Gallery is located at 327 N. Babcock St, Melbourne. For more information, call 321-917-2815 or online at www.estatesalesbycarole.com.

WINTER 2020

107

State licensed swimming pool contractor specializing in new pool construction and remodeling

WATER IN TRANSIT

NEW POOL CONSTRUCTION POOL REMODELING SPECIALTY POOLS CUSTOM SPA ADDITIONS Commercial & Residential

LINE:

FOLIO ON

.com t i s n a r t n i water

R PORT VIEW OU

Just Add Water 108

SPACE COAST LIVING | SPACECOASTLIVING.COM

Hermann Bach Owner

Rafael “Raffa” Ramirez Project Manager

321-349-5777 WaterInTransit@gmail.com CPC 1457906

!

LTATION U S N O C FREE

110

SPACE COAST LIVING | SPACECOASTLIVING.COM

FOUNDATION POWERS

SAILING TEAM TO

Championships

By Sue DeWerff Panzarino, Contributing Writer

ith the Space Coast boasting not one but two majestic rivers, the sport of sailing can be a great way to enjoy scenic views, get some Vitamin D, and even learn a skill that can be enjoyed for a lifetime.

These are just a few of the goals of Brevard’s Space Coast ailing ducation oundation, a non profit 50 (c) program designed to introduce sailboat racing and educate youth sailors about one of the breeziest sports on water.

In its sixth year, the organization offers youth ages a variety of opportunities to learn important fundamentals of the sport and skills necessary for competing. Prior to joining the team, sailors are required to demonstrate adequate swimming skills and must be able to travel to competitions around the region and state as schedule dictates.

“My goal is to teach kids something they can enjoy for a lifetime and provide them with key racing techniques” said Ben McKissick-Hawely, the newly appointed Director of Space Coast Sailing Team. Since learning the sport at age 4, he has been an avid competitor and was an instructor for six years in three states.

“My goal is to teach kids something they can enjoy for a lifetime and provide them with key racing techniques” Ben McKissick-Hawely, Director of Space Coast Sailing Team

WINTER 2020

111

From Student to Teacher: Sailing’s in his Blood McKissick-Hawely, a graduate of Jacksonville niversity ( ), competed for four years with the JU sailing team, and saw the team rise in their national ranking during the four years he attended.

“Our team really was a rags-to-riches story,” McKissick-Hawely said.

Coach on audree, who was named the 0 Collegiate Sailing Coach of the Year, has taken the JU program to eight straight national semifinals. rior to that, cKissick Hawely said JU’s team was “basically unknown.”

“I think it goes to show what is possible with the right coaching and a strong will,” he added.

“What motivates me to coach is not just how incredible the sport is, but the opportunities that lie ahead for those who desire to learn it,” he said.

112

SPACE COAST LIVING | SPACECOASTLIVING.COM

Provided by the Eau Gallie Yacht Club and the Melbourne Yacht Club, the sailboats include single hand (O en and Optimists kiffs) and double hand (4 0 s). tudent sailors sail out of both clubs.

In response to CO I , the program is taking serious precautionary measures to keep all participants safe. Social-distancing and masks are required for on-land instruction and symptom checks are conducted before each practice.

Governance The Space Coast Sailing Foundation is governed by a board of directors that include member partners from both the Eau Gallie Yacht Club and Melbourne Yacht Club, as well as members-at-large, and include sailing legend and Space Coast resident Dick Tillman.

Tillman, a National Intercollegiate Sailing Champion with the U.S. Naval Academy in 5 , was a member of the United States sailing team at the ummer Olympics as an alternate and was named U.S. Sailor of the Year in 5.

Phil Spletter, Space Coast Sailing president, expressed his endorsement of Tillman, who serves as a role model for the sailors.

Linda Tillman Youth Sailor Award In 0 , illman established an honorary annual award for the foundation in memory of his late wife, Linda Tillman.

“We could not be more fortunate to have Dick join our board and are appreciative of his generous gift of this annual award,” Spletter said.

This year—the Linda Tillman Youth Sailor of the Year award— one that recognizes leadership qualities and excellence in the sport—was granted to Elizabeth Johnson of Indialantic.

Johnson, a former member of the Space Coast Sailing competitive team, is now a junior at Jacksonville University studying sustainability and a member of the JU sailing team. he is also a evel instructor.

“It’s very touching to have been chosen for this honor, as Linda Tillman was such an accomplished sailor,” said Johnson.

WINTER 2020

113

Shelley Johnson, Elizabeth’s mother, also a board member, said Space Coast Sailing is where her daughter learned to sail and race, and also had an impact on where she attends college.

“Regatta results and photographs were posted to Instagram and college coaches started to recruit her because of the skills she learned through this program,” she said.

Champions on the Water In just five years, pace Coast ailing oundation supported teams have produced several champions in many statewide regattas. tandouts include the 0 ast Coast ailing eries O en IC champion en orhman, and 4 0 series champions Sailor Mohrman and Gia Rivers. •

“My mission for Space Coast Sailing is to grow our number of members and build a strong, competitive racing program.

I want to teach every kid the same thing that I learned.”

Ben McKissick-Hawely, Director of Space Coast Sailing Team

UPCOMING REGATTAS The Space Coast Sailing Racing Team competes around the state in the Florida East Coast Series.

Upcoming regattas:

Dec 06

10:00AM – 3:00PM Melbourne Yacht Club, 1202 E River Dr, Melbourne, FL 32901, USA

Dec 12-13

2020 USA Junior Olympic Sailing Festival USSCMC

Mar 26-28, 2021

The O’Pen Bic North American Championship FLORIDA March 26th-28th, 2021

For more information, visit: www.spacecoastsailing.org 114 114

SPACE SPACE COAST COAST LIVING LIVING || SPACECOASTLIVING.COM SPACECOASTLIVING.COM

BRAZILIAN JIU-JITSU | MUAY THAI | MMA

TRAIN BEST WITH THE

Get in Top Shape Learn Practical Self-Defense

,F

AND BECOME YOUR BEST!

NE

Be Part of a Community

L

Make New Friends

M

BJJ Gi, NoGi & Muay Thai

Beginners to advanced, we have classes for everyone.

Women’s Only BJJ Learn the most effective Jiu-Jitsu self-defense techniques and reach your fitness goals in a safe and empowering environment.

Self-Defense & Self-Confidence skills that last a lifetime. Bully Prevention Program.

Call us to Schedule Your Free Trial Class Today! Kids & Adults.

880 MC CLENDON ST, MELBOURNE, FL

R

SPECIALTY PROGRAMS:

Kids Classes

TRY A FREE CLASS

U ELBO

321-890-8037

Become part of something greater than yourself.

(ON US1 DIRECTLY BEHIND BURGER INN)

| BJJMELBOURNEFL.COM WINTER 2020 115

NO GRADES, NO PROBLEM! Identifying Other Measures of Student Success

Ayana Verdi, founder of Verdi EcoSchool. Photo by Marcus Cote

By Jenna Reid, Contributing Writer

rior to the 2020 pandemic, the pace of change was pressuring schools nationwide to prepare students for a rapidly changing, competitive workforce and accurately track each individual’s progress.

Today, that pressure is compounding as students, parents, and teachers brace for consistent changeups to the traditional classroom setting. These days, students are juggling in person with online learning, school shutdowns, testing delays and ongoing uncertainty as districts try to address hotspots, containment, testing requirements and CDC guidelines.

Out of the chaos, however, silver linings have emerged for pilot schools that became early adopters of the Montana-based Mastery Transcript Consortium (MTC). MTC senior director of partnerships Ben Rein says the consortium has joined with more than 334 schools in the last four years to reduce dependency on grades as a measure of a student’s success.

The Verdi EcoSchool in Eau Gallie is one of five lorida based schools to adopt the C model in the past year.

Rather than requiring schools to use classroom time or the pace of learning as a measure of success, Rein said MTC is a gradeless measure that instead captures each student’s unique, strength and skills holistically.

116

SPACE COAST LIVING | SPACECOASTLIVING.COM

Student images photo provided

by Verdi EcoSchool

Innovative Learning Verdi EcoSchool Founder Ayana Verdi says she has been pleased with the pilot program. he says she founded the not for profit urban farm school three years ago and that MTC has enabled the school to embed an entrepreneurial mindset throughout the school’s entire K-12 curriculum.

“EcoSchool is unique because our curriculum is entirely project-based,” Verdi said.

“We practice place-based education, so the community and its local businesses are our classroom, and each student’s contributions are a key measure of their success. We choose to work with MTC to ensure that who our students are and what they’ve accomplished is fairly articulated to their future employer or college of choice.”

For parents that may be hesitant to buck the traditional grades and testing based system, Rein says 100 percent of students using the MTC transcript have been accepted to college today and that more data will be needed to determine whether participating students have any definitive advantage of any kind.

“We recognize that right now may not be the time for all schools to reinvent themselves,” Rein said. “But the traditional transcript, the way most schools measure success today, is 120 years old. And if we’ve learned anything the past four months, it’s that today’s kids are going to need tremendous amounts of flexibility and adaptability to solve tomorrow’s big problems.”

For more information on the Verdi Eco-School, call 321-298-2501 or online at www.verdiecoschool.org WINTER 2020

117

YOU’RE THE PIONEER, WE’RE MISSION CONTROL.

We are a strong team of Internet marketing professionals with a passion for digital marketing and a track record of success.

SEO • GOOGLE • SOCIAL MEDIA • VIDEO PRODUCTION • WEB DESIGN

Give us a call today to discover how we can help you reach your marketing goals.

118

SPACE COAST LIVING | SPACECOASTLIVING.COM

255 East Dr Suite L, Melbourne, FL

|

321.339.1423

|

nxtlm.com

d n u o r a Paddling

By Jess Mack, Contributing Writer

WINTER 2020119119 WINTER 2020

jess mack

eme parks reporter has been our intrepid th her insight, for the past year. We love descriptions of insider tips and detailed inment venues. But, rides, treats and enterta kaibosh on park when Covid-19 put the for a bit (like we all attendance, Jess sat still tions. did) and considered op cause the truest Af ter discussion, and be has been the rollercoaster ride of 2020 virus spreads, who uncertainty of how this st avoid it, we it attacks and how to be ay from the parks decided to shift focus aw eational activities. cr re y ar lit so e or m to on and d recently decided Jess lives in Orlando an r park comfort zone to venture outside of he ntral Florida’s more Ce of e m so e or pl ex d an natural environs.

Jess:

There have been tons of things I’ve wanted to do around Florida that I haven’t made time to experience.

I love the outdoors, and I’ve been taking this time to get outside more and explore natural Florida.

Since I’m more of a planner, I don’t just like to jump in and see what unfolds. So, after some research, I decided to book a kayak tour to explore Rock Springs Run State Reserve in Sorrento, right outside of Apopka (and about 90 miles northwest of Melbourne).

120

SPACE COAST LIVING | SPACECOASTLIVING.COM

After more research, I opted to for a tour with Get Up and Go Kayaking, and it was an excellent choice.

Get Up and Go Kayaking operates from 11 different locations around Florida, one of which is a bioluminescent tour in Titusville which I definitely have on my list to check out. I was lucky enough that one of their tours explored a beautiful waterway that was nearby, so I decided to check it out.

Get Up and Go is the original clear kayak tour company. This is a wonderful way to kayak, with no obstructions between you and what’s underneath you in the water.

The Rock Springs tour is a great way to immerse yourself in the ancient, natural beauty of Florida, and winds you up mainly crystal-clear water which is, the majority of the time, between two to four feet deep. It’s meant for beginner/intermediate paddlers with the first half of the two to two-and-a-half-hour tour going completely upstream. If this is your first time on a kayak, it might seem a bit challenging, but trust me, the trip upstream makes the relaxing drift back really worth it.

Each tour is capped at 10 paddlers, which makes it easy to stay with the group, hear your guide and not feel overwhelmed. An additional bonus is the ease of social distancing while paddling a 10-12-foot kayak!

I’m no stranger to kayaking, but it has been quite some time since I ventured out in one. Following the expertise and instructions of a ualified tour guide made me feel so much better about being out on the water.

Our tour guide was very accommodating to our early struggles and even helped us in and out of the kayaks. He was very knowledgeable about the area and the history of the springs and made sure the whole group stayed together and enjoyed the adventure.

Tours are scheduled from 8 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. We booked an 11 am tour, but I can understand the appeal of booking the first run at 8 am, where you are the only paddlers out on the water.

By 11, there were more locals out on paddleboards and kayaks and at King’s Island, the canoe and kayak launch where you start the tour, they were in full swing assisting walk in customers.

Each tour is capped at 10 paddlers , which ay makes it easy to st with the group, hear your guide an d d. not fe el ov erwhelme

WINTER 2020

121

You’ll know it when on you st art to float ter the crys tal-clear wa that this is on e of tif ul Florida’s most beau kayaking spot s.

Starting the tour at King’s Island, you paddle upstream towards the springs and as you do, you notice the water changing before your eyes. he first stop isn t too far from the start, and a quick stop allows a brief paddle break and the first deeper water swim of the day. Then it’s back onboard your kayak to continue upstream.

122

You’ll know it when you start to float on the crystal-clear water that this is one of Florida’s most beautiful kayaking spots.

If you’re lucky enough to have the sort of beautiful day we did, the sun will shine down on the water, turning it the deepest blue-green color. Soon after, you’ve arrived at SPACE COAST LIVING | SPACECOASTLIVING.COM

your second stop to enjoy the water and sun for a bit.

Paddling again to the turning point, there is another quick stop before heading back downstream where you’ll have the opportunity to jump from a tree into the gorgeous water. It’s quite frightening but also great way to put an exclamation point on your tour.

Get Up and Go Kayaking donates a portion of each booking to Florida Land & Springs conservation.

For more information about tours and pricing: www.getupandgokayaking.com. •

Are you reaching 100% We of 500k and up homes? are.

CHARLOTTE VARNES, KID’S ALRIGHT > PAGE 20 • SPACECOASTBUSINESS.COM OCTOBER 2020

How You Can Help Our

ZOO

Advertise with us!

727-685-7696 SarahD@spacecoastmagazines.com

DIRECTORY Gatto’s Tires & Auto Service www.gattos.com

Gatto’s Tires & Auto Service is Brevard’s go-to for friendly customer service, leading tire brands and ASE-certified technicians. Started by Mike Gatto in 1971, Gatto’s continues to be a locally owned and operated family business with 6 locations across the county. Whether you have a car, truck, RV or a commercial fleet, Gatto’s is dedicated to providing quality work at an honest price.

Burke Consignment & Gallery

327 N. Babcock St., Melbourne, FL - (321) 917-2815

We offer quality collectibles like Waterford and Lladro, as well as costume and fine jewelry, and original art work. With us, you can find brand name furniture like Drexel, Henredon and Tommy Bahama, that is in such good condition that local interior designers purchase from us. We also buy individual items or whole estates with high-end items, which is a great solution for HOA’s that don’t allow estate sales.

“Once You Visit, You’ll Keep Coming Back.” Hours of Operation: Wednesday-Friday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Saturday close at 3:30 p.m.

SPCA of Brevard Thrift Store & Boutique 790 S. Apollo Blvd. Melbourne, FL - (321) 327-8305

When you shop at or donate to SPCA of Brevard Thrift Store & Boutique, you are helping to save the lives of more than 2,600 animals every year. This location features a high-end boutique, including women’s designer fashion, shoes, and purses. Donations are accepted seven days a week and pick up is available for large items.

Q’s Cabinetry, Inc.

340 Cox Rd. Cocoa, FL - (321) 446-8162 Q’s Cabinetry is, simply put, all about the details required for a flawless cabinet and countertop install. This starts with tweaking your plans from your builder or architect. If you do not have plans, we will draw them up for you. During your first visit to Q’s we will discuss your needs and show you how we can accomplish them.

Sunrise Facial and Oral Surgery

1325 Pine Street, Suite 102, Melbourne - (321) 725-5377

Dr. Rick Schmid has been practicing oral and maxillofacial surgery in Melbourne, Florida since 1983. He is one of only two surgeons in Brevard County that has earned Board Certification as a Diplomate of both the American Board of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery and the National Dental Board of Anesthesiology. Sunrise surgeons, Drs. Schmid, Kim, and Kossak practice a full scope of oral and maxillofacial surgery with expertise ranging from corrective jaw surgery, trauma and dental implants to wisdom teeth removal. Website: SunriseOralSurgery.com

124

SPACE COAST LIVING | SPACECOASTLIVING.COM

DIRECTORY MI-BOX Space Coast

Melbourne, FL - (321) 500-4344

Locally owned & operated, our goal is to take the stress out of moving. Traditional methods of moving are simply becoming outdated. Don’t cram what should be a few weeks of work into a day. MI-BOX storage containers can be used at home, at the office, during events, at construction sites, during remodeling projects, or anywhere else you need secure, weathertight, convenient storage. MI-BOX portable storage containers come in three convenient sizes so you only rent the space you actually need. We are proud to offer 8’, 16’, and 20’ mobile storage containers. www.getmibox.com

Dental Choice of Melbourne

402 N. Babcock St. Suite 103 Melbourne, FL - (321) 600-4487 At Dental Choice of Melbourne, we will be delighted, if you choose to join our family of happy and satisfied patients. The practice provides full scope of general, cosmetic, and restorative dentistry. Dr. Julia Bunker, New York University graduated, brings to practice over 20 yrs. of experience in dentistry. Come and Meet our caring, knowledgeable, and friendly team.

Sara Hawks Houston State Farm Agency 1950 Viera Blvd. Suite 104, Viera, FL - (321) 425-5444

68a State Farm”

Home Inspection Services A Mark Above, LLC

At Sara Hawks Houston State Farm Agency in Viera you will immediately feel the difference! Our local Agency is known for our strong commitment to our clients and to our community. State Farm is proud to be #1 in Auto and Homeowners Insurance in the Country! At our agency we take the time to get to know you, your individual needs, goals and dreams! We then work with you to remove liability risks, protect your assets and help you achieve your financial goals!

A Mark Above, LLC amarkabovehomeinspections.com • 321-745-8577 Mark has worked in the home and construction industries for more than two decades. ith his recent home inspection certification, he has obtained the most current knowledge in the home inspection industry as a Florida licensed home inspector (HI ) and certified wind mitigation inspector. ark is a knowledgeable and trustworthy professional available to help both existing homeowners and potential buyers

YOUR LISTING HERE Annual DIRECTORY Listing Plan CALL 321-622-5986 ADVERTISING@SPACECOASTMAGAZINES.COM WINTER 2020

125

126

Hell ‘n Blazes Brewing Company is Brevard County’s finest craft brewery and GastroPub/Restaurant.

HnB brews all beer on premises and there are usually 18 or more different styles to try on any given day. HnB’s beer styles rotate seasonally so there is always something new to try. They maintain a comprehensive wine list as well. Their menu represents local, fresh American-style pub food, made fresh daily. Daily specials round out their menu offerings.

Located waterfront on the beautiful Indian River Lagoon, River Rocks has long been regarded as one of Brevard County’s premier waterfront restaurants. Dinner is served nightly featuring fresh seafood and steaks in the stunning modern dining room with expansive waterfront views. The bar provides a perfect spot for business networking over innovative cocktails or sharing a bottle of wine and appetizers with friends. A delicious ala carte morning brunch menu is served on Saturday and Sundays along with unlimited mimosas and bloody marys. River Rocks specializes in spectacular events of all sizes with multiple private dining options and a personal event coordinator to help plan your occasion.

Hours

Hours

Monday 11AM–9PM Tuesday 11AM–10PM Wednesday 11AM–10PM Thursday 11AM–10PM Friday* 11AM–1AM Saturday* 11AM–1AM Sunday 11AM–9PM *Kitchen closes at 11PM

Monday 4PM–9PM Tuesday 4PM–9PM Wednesday 4PM–9PM Thursday 4PM–9PM Friday 4PM–10PM Saturday 4PM–10PM Sunday 4PM–9PM Brunch 8AM-2PM Sat. & Sun.

321.821.4052

321.757.7200

772.918.4229

321.757-0142

Location

Location

Location

Location

1002 E New Haven Avenue, Historic Downtown Melbourne, FL 32901

6485 S. US-1 Rockledge, FL

1732 Indian River Drive Sebastian, FL

6485 S. US-1 Rockledge, FL

SPACE COAST LIVING | SPACECOASTLIVING.COM

Watch the fishing boats pull up and unload the day’s catch while enjoying some of the freshest seafood on the coast. Open daily for lunch and dinner, Captain Butcher’s features a large deck overlooking the marina.

The happy hour specials at the waterfront bar always draw a crowd and are a local favorite. Inside, the inviting dining room is the perfect spot for a relaxing meal and includes private rooms to accommodate events of all sizes. Come join us!

Open daily for lunch and dinner, The Dock Bar and Grill is the more casual outdoor experience at River Rocks. With a perfect water view and dockage if you come by boat, the Dock features a family friendly menu focused on fresh seafood, sandwiches and salads. The 5,000 square foot covered deck is the perfect place to while away the afternoon or sip cocktails while listening to the area’s best live acoustic entertainers. Locals tend to quickly fill the large outdoor bar for great happy hour specials daily. Sit around the fire pit, feed the catfish off the dock, or pull up a stool on the waterfront boardwalk. The Dock welcomes groups of all sizes, come relax in true Florida style!

Hours Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday Sunday

Hours 11AM–9PM 11AM–9PM 11AM–9PM 11AM–9PM 11AM–10PM 11AM–10PM 11AM–9PM

Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday Sunday

11AM–10PM 11AM–10PM 11AM–10PM 11AM–10PM 11AM–11PM 11AM–11PM 11AM–10PM

Want your restaurant featured in our pages?

Q’s Crackin Crab and Seafood Kitchen is a soulful seafood restaurant with a homestyle flair. eautifully nestled in Cocoa each, between the world famous Cocoa each ier and Ron ohn surf shop, it has quickly become a destination for tourist and locals alike. Once a dream to owner/operator uinisha redwood, s is now fulfilling the cravings of foodies near and far. Come on in and Crack into some Q’s.

Hours Wednesday 12pm - 8pm Thursday 12pm - 8pm Fri. - Sat. 11am - 9pm Sunday 1pm - 6pm Mon. - Tues.

Closed 321-613-4044 qscrackincrab.com Location 5240 N. Atlantic Ave, Unit 100, Cocoa Beach, FL 32931

Call Sarah de la Hoz for more information, 727-685-7696 or visit online at

spacecoastliving.com WINTER 2020

127

LET LIGHT BE.

STUDIO A R T & YO G A C L A S S E S ⌘ P O W E R YO G A ⌘ V I N YA S A F L O W ⌘ R E S T O R AT I V E 8 8 0 M C C L E N D O N S T, M E L B O U R N E , F L | 3 2 1 . 9 1 7.1 5 9 9 | L U X D E I S T U D I O . C O M

128

SPACE COAST LIVING | SPACECOASTLIVING.COM