Issuu

DECEMBER 2018

CocoaBeachLifestylePubs.com

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321-543-3509

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LIFESTYLE LETTER

For Auld Lang Syne AS THE SAYING GOES, TIME FLIES WHEN YOU’RE HAVING FUN. And time sure has flown by this year as we can’t believe this is the one-year anniversary

DECEMBER 2018 PUBLISHER

Mandy York | Mandy.York@lifestylepubs.com

issue of Cocoa Beach Lifestyle. It seems like just yesterday we were sitting down to

EDITORIAL COORDINATOR

write our January letter to all of you—talking about resolutions and renewal—and

Rebecca West | Rebecca.West@lifestylepubs.com

yet, here we are, almost time to do it again. As I reflect on the past year, I want to take the time to thank everyone who has supported the magazine including the readers, advertisers and contributors. It has been a year filled with fun, adventure, challenges and fulfillment. Your support means the

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Rebecca West CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Hassan Patterson, Benjamin Thacker

world to me, and I thank you for your input, feedback and contributions. Cocoa Beach Lifestyle is all about community and was created for and about businesses and residents in the Cocoa Beach area. The vision has always been simple: we hope to play a small role in helping our community flourish and give exposure to businesses and residents with a quality publication we can all be proud of. We hope we have done that, and we will always strive to highlight our community in a positive and impactful way. There’s a unique perspective that working in publishing brings. While we certainly don’t want to wish our lives away, we’re always looking toward the future. Whether it’s planning our next issue or developing story ideas for the next year, we’re often already fast forwarded to future months before the current month has even begun. The fast-paced lifestyle this industry calls for can often make it difficult to really settle down and absorb what’s going on around us and, before we know it, the year is over and it’s time to move forward again. So this December, we hope you take the time to slow down a little bit. With the holiday season upon us, we hope you make the time to take it all in. Enjoy your time with family and friends, bask in the magic of the season, reflect on past memories you hold closely in your hearts and keep the new ones you create in the present for as long as you can. From our family to yours, happy holidays, and we can't wait to see you next year!

CORPORATE TEAM CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt CHIEF SALES OFFICER Matthew Perry CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DeLand Shore ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson EDITORIAL MANAGER Nicolette Martin EDITORIAL Kate Baxendale AD MANAGER Chad Jensen AD COORDINATORS Cyndi Harrington | Alicia Huff | Jessica Soetaert LAYOUT DESIGNERS Cyndi King | Dana Rudolph | Emily Stout Hailey Stepanek | Adella Wrisinger FIELD SUPPORT Carli DiMarco | Victoria Perry PUBLISHER SUPPORT Melanie Carlisle ACCOUNTANT Austin Park APPLICATION ARCHITECT Michael O’Connell WEB DEVELOPERS Tejaswini Jagarlamudi | Harshith Potu

Mandy York, Publisher

CocoaBeachLifestylePubs.com

514 W 26TH ST., KANSAS CITY, MO

ON THE COVER Justin & Corine Connors with daughters Ava, Emma and Abby Holiday Decorations by Shannon Reichel/Interior Stylings

PHOTOGRAPHY BY HASSAN PATTERSON 4

Cocoa Beach Lifestyle | December 2018

Proverbs 3:5-6 Cocoa Beach Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the Cocoa Beach areas’ most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle Publications’ opinions. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. Information in Cocoa Beach Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

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INSIDE THE ISSUE DECEMBER 2018 FEATURES 18 All I Want for Christmas Holiday Gift Guide Four Cocoa Beach Community Members Provide Their Gift Guides for the Season of Giving

24 Surfing Santas Invade Cocoa Beach Christmas Eve A Cocoa Beach Tradition that Has Grown to Include Thousands

26 Decorating Three Ways for the Holidays by Shannon Reichel from Interior Stylings in Cocoa Beach

18 28

28 All Aboard the Nawrocki Express! Christmas Memories Abound with Toy Train Sets Around the Tree A Holiday Train Display to Feast Your Eyes Upon at the Offices of Nawrocki Dental

DEPARTMENTS 4

Lifestyle Letter

Good Times

Around Town

Back Stage

Travel Destination

24 Local Limelight 26 Renovate & Refine 28 Open House 30 Lifestyle Calendar 34 Localâ€™s Choice

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GOOD TIMES 1.

Grand Opening of Interior Stylings Interior Stylings owner Shannon Reichel recently celebrated her grand opening in conjunction with Kelly’s Kustom Kurtains in downtown Cocoa Beach. From her newly styled boutique, she offers design consultation and custom drapery services while also selling carefully curated furniture and accessories.

10.

Cocoa Beach Lifestyle | December 2018

NEW CONSTRUCTION G AT E D WAT E R F R O N T C O N D O S

S TA R T I N G AT $ 6 4 5 , 0 0 0

ELLEN RUBINO |

The Rubino Group 3 2 1 s o l d 2 4 7. c o m

This luxury resort style community features only 32 exclusive residences, all ideally located on a lush barrier island just South of downtown Cocoa Beach. Residences are mere steps away from the beach! Amenities include a Swimming Pool and Aqua Spa, Outdoor Fitness Trail, Exercise Facility, On-Site Theater and Marina Slips. All corner units: 3 Bedroom, 3.5 Baths, floor to ceiling sliders open to the wrap around balcony with electric storm shutters.

D: 321.765.3247 E: 321sold247@gmail.com

O f f i c e s : C a p e C a n a v e r a l , Ro c k l e d g e , S a t e l l i t e B e a c h , M e l b o u r n e & P a l m B a y Information is deemed reliable, but is not guaranteed.

AROUND TOWN More than 350 people attended the event on Friday, Sept. 28 at the Cocoa Beach Country Club. Thirteen food and beverage vendors gave the public a chance to sample their delicious appetizers, entrees, desserts and beverages. Eighteen

local

business

vendors

displayed

their information and products. Also, those who attended enjoyed winning prices from the 98.5 The Beach Spin-to-Win wheel, bidding on more than 50 silent auction baskets and listening to live music by the Gypsy Rain Band. Coasters Taphouse was presented the 1st place People’s Choice Award, determined by a popular vote of the attendees. Rising Tide Tap & Table

INTERIOR STYLINGS GRAND OPENING Interior Stylings owner Shannon Reichel

received 2nd place People’s Choice, and Florida’s Fresh Grill received 3rd place. The Best Decorated Vendor Table went to the Brevard Humane Society.

recently celebrated her grand opening in conjunction with Kelly’s Kustom Kurtains in downtown Cocoa Beach. From her newly styled boutique, she offers design consultation and custom drapery services while also selling carefully curated furniture and accessories. Shannon’s 17 years of industry experience has led to her passion for tying rooms together with a variety of accessories and draperies. The key to her success is creating unique rooms that reflect her clients’ refined tastes and lifestyles. Her new boutique is styled in the high-end beach aesthetic, which she finds easily translates to most design genres. “We invite everyone to shop with us and use our services. It’s a lifestyle we love and live and are sure others will also want to display in their homes," Shannon says.

COASTERS TAPHOUSE TAKES TOP HONORS AT ANNUAL TASTE OF THE COAST

The project design includes 241 spaces, bathrooms, showers, kiosk parking, charging stations for e-cars and a small visitor center.

Coasters Taphouse took top honors as the

“We are super excited about this new devel-

People's Choice winner with its seafood mac 'n'

opment in downtown. We feel strongly that

cheese and beef tenderloin sliders with beer-

the garage will spur redevelopment in the

braised onions on herb butter toasted brioche at

downtown corridor and assist downtown busi-

the Fifth Annual Taste of the Coast presented by the

ness,” said Melissa Byron, director of Economic

the Cocoa Beach Regional Chamber of Commerce.

Development and CRA.

“The event was a huge success! We are thankful for having such great support from our local community. We are looking forward to hosting the event again next year,” said Jennifer Sugarman, CBRCC CEO and president.

NEW PARKING GARAGE UNDER CONSTRUCTION IN DOWNTOWN COCOA BEACH

Cocoa Beach Lifestyle | December 2018

BACK STAGE

DUB MA STER S

Set to Take the Stage New Year's Eve at the Sandbar JAMMIN' THE NIGHT AWAY WITH POPULAR REGGAE GROUP

Dub Masters on stage

ARTICLE REBECCA WEST PHOTOGRAPHY IMAGES VIA DUB MASTERS FACEBOOK

READY TO REGGAE? Well, whether you are or not, the Dub Masters

traditional calypso in Trinidad and Tobago. Predominantly from the

definitely are, and they'll be taking the stage at 9 p.m. New Year's Eve

island of Dominica, the Dub Masters, as a high-energy reggae band

at the Sandbar in Cocoa Beach, so you've still got plenty of time to

today, is arguably one of the most entertaining outfits currently on

gear up for the show. That's right, the Central Florida-based reggae

the live-music circuit.

group has been booked for months at the sports bar and grill, and

With potent Rasta and Caribbean vibes and raw sound power,

with just weeks to go, fans of the sextet are gearing up for a night of

they never fail to deliver the kind of "feel-good" reggae experience to

fun and jammin' at the year-end event now.

audiences with each and every performance of their distinct brand

Comprising members Kahlil "Huggi" Caesar, Dexter Valmond,

of groovy roots and jammin' rock-steady niceness. As such, the

Hank John, Mikey Ranglin, Elias "Ganza" Charles and Mikely John,

band's repertoire features an endless selection of contemporary hits

the popular band is known for such songs as "Clap Your Hands" off of

and current reggae mixed in with the band’s original music.

their album Keep On Searchin', "Shining Dub" and "Ram Dancehall."

The Sandbar will be offering New Year's Eve partiers a free

Officially formed six years ago, the group regularly tour and lay down

Champagne toast and money balloon drop at midnight, and

tracks on both vinyl and plastic.

there is no cover charge for entry, which makes the setup all the

If you're not familiar with them, their musical genres stretch to

more attractive. The money you save can easily be applied to a

include soca (soul of calypso) music as well. Soca is usually credited

cab or car service, should the revelry prove too much and a ride

to performer Lord Shorty back in the early 1970s as a way to revive

home is in order.

Cocoa Beach Lifestyle | December 2018

For your listening pleasure, here is the top 10 playlist you can expect to hear at the Sandbar New Year’s Eve 2018:

“SHINING DUB” “HERE COMES TROUBLE” BY DUB MASTERS

“SWEAT” BY INNER CIRCLE “RED,

BY CHRONIXX

“ SHE ’ S MINE ” BY BARRINGTON LEVY

“RAM DANCEHALL”

“STIR IT UP”

RED BY DUB BY BOB MARLEY

WINE ” MASTERS “G I O FOE DE ”L BY UB40 BY BERE S HAMMOND “LET THEM TALK” BY BERES HAMMOND “THREE LITTLE BIRDS”

BY BOB MARLEY

“HOT HOT HOT” BY ARROW

No matter where you end up this New Year’s, please drink responsibly and get home safely! Brevard tow truck services often offer free tows during the holidays to get everyone home in one piece, and cab companies have been getting in on the act specifically for New Year’s Eve, so plan accordingly. Having said that, may 2019 be an even better year for all. Cheers! Dub Masters 407.670.8824, Facebook.com/DubMasters Sandbar Sports Grill 4301 Ocean Beach Blvd., Cocoa Beach, 321.799.2577, SandbarSportsGrill.net

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December 2018 | Cocoa Beach Lifestyle

TRAVEL DESTINATION

HISTORIC ARTICLE REBECCA WEST

PHOTOGRAPHY FLORIDA HISTORICAL SOCIETY/OC PARKS & RECREATION

C H R I S T M A S, F LO R I D A ,

Where the Yuletide Season is Recognized Year-Round

A FLORIDA FAVORITE FOR HOLIDAY POSTMARKS AND “SANTA’S MAILBOX” — A HOTLINE TO THE BIG GUY IN RED

Cocoa Beach Lifestyle | December 2018

FOR MORE INFORMATION, REFER TO THE FOLLOWING RESOURCES: + NBBD.com/godo/FortChristmas + CHRISTMAS, FLORIDA, POST OFFICE 23580 E. Colonial Drive (State Road 50),

and 60,000. There's lots of food, pioneer demonstrations, a

407.568.2941

huge craft fair, an antique engine and tractor display, and the Christmas Post Office even has a booth set up so you can get

+ FORT CHRISTMAS HISTORICAL PARK

your Christmas cards hand-stamped while you're there, beating

(ORANGE COUNTY PARKS & RECREATION)

the crowds mid-month.

1300

Fort

Christmas

Road,

407.254.9312,

OrangeCountyFL.net/cultureparks/parks

That's the other reason people make the trip to Christmas— and probably the most common—is to visit the famous post office in person. In addition to getting your cards and packages stamped with the official Christmas, FLA., postal mark, kids can mail their letters directly to Santa in a specially marked box

THERE'S NO ARGUING YOU WON'T FIND

located inside. There's also a fun red-ink Santa stamp you can

ANY SNOW-COVERED CABINS OR COZY

have applied as well, just to make it super-duper extra official. For

B&BS BLANKETED IN WHITE SNUGGLED IN

the curious-minded, the hundreds of letters "Santa" receives are

THE MOUNTAINS OR EVEN FOOTHILLS OF

answered by local plant workers who kindly volunteer their

FLORIDA BECAUSE THERE SIMPLY AREN'T

time—but let's keep that on the Q.T. The kids don't need to know.

ANY. But that's the picture-postcard image

If the thought appeals to you, be aware that it appeals to a lot of

conjured up by millions when thinking about

other Christmas revelers, too. By Dec. 4, the holiday mail starts roll-

Christmas-y destinations. So what's a Floridian

ing in and continues till Christmas Eve, depending on which day it

looking for some holiday cheer to do?

falls (if it's a Sunday, then the last day for postmarks is the 23rd). On

Regardless of elevation, or lack of it, central

average, about 1,000 pieces of mail go through the Christmas post

Florida's east coast has plenty of season spirit,

office each day during the month of December, with the busiest

and it isn't just limited to the holidays. In one small

often being around the 18th.

town by the name of Christmas—yes, Christmas, Florida—the

But there's more to do there than just visit the post office and his-

yuletide vibe is embraced all year long, and a towering per-

torical park. The town of approximately 1,150 residents is full of fun

petual Christmas tree adorned with bulbs and garland stands

sights, like the enormous year-round Christmas tree situated at the

testament to its name and spirit.

corner of State Road 50 and Fort Christmas Road. Accompanied

Located along State Road 50, roughly 40 miles from Cocoa

by a small nativity scene, a jolly Santa and a bright red wooden

Beach, it's a quick 45-minute drive to this tiny burg named for

sleigh, a nearby sign explains that the tree is "the symbol of love

the supply fort that was originally constructed back in 1837 on

and good will: the Christmas Spirit every day in the year."

Christmas Day. It was during the second Seminole Indian War

There are also a handful of little shops in the area with

when some 2,000 U.S. soldiers and Alabama volunteers arrived

Christmas-inspired themes and business signs, as well as

to build the fort, a full-sized replica of which stands upon the

street signs with names like Reindeer Road, Bethlehem, Comet,

site today. According to resident and historical society member

Rudolph, Candy Cane, Frosty, Cupid, Blitzen, St. Nicholas,

Becky Hamilton, “The town started with 21 pioneer families.

Sleigh Bell and several others. Kids and the young at heart will

There are still descendants living in the community today.”

get a kick out of these.

While many individuals and families sojourn throughout the

Not that it's much of a drive, but if you've come all that way and

year to see Fort Christmas Historical Park, with its well-main-

you still want something to do but you're already Christmased out,

tained grounds, museum and early pioneer structures, most

there are a number of other activities to consider. The fort and con-

folks visit during the holiday season—December specifically—to

sequent town were built on the St. Johns River, so you've got air-

take part in the annual event known as the Cracker Christmas

boat rides to book; local wetlands to explore; and even a nearby

celebration. Scheduled for Dec. 1-2, this year marks the 41st

gator farm boasting "the world's largest gator," swamp cruises and

anniversary of the megapopular tradition.

wildlife shows. (Who'd have guessed it in Florida, right?)

The park's 25 acres include three large picnic pavilions with

So, if you're counting off the days with the fervor of a young

grills and ample seating, a children's playground, basketball and

child armed with an Advent calendar, you might as well make it a

tennis courts, and a small baseball field. Entrance to the two-

full-on Cracker Christmas celebration in ZIP code 32709 where

day event is free, and attendance figures reach between 40,000

it truly is Christmas each and every day of the year, Virginia. December 2018 | Cocoa Beach Lifestyle

ALL I WANT FOR CHRISTMAS HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE

FOUR COCOA BEACH COMMUNITY MEMBERS PROVIDE THEIR GIFT GUIDES FOR THE SEASON OF GIVING ARTICLE REBECCA WEST | PHOTOGRAPHY HASSAN PATTERSON

IF YOU’RE LIKE A LOT OF PEOPLE, YOU PROBABLY

HAVEN’T

EVEN

FINISHED

WRAPPING UP YOUR CHRISTMAS SHOPPING, MUCH LESS THE PRESENTS. Fear not. We’ve put together a little gift guide compiled from four different members of the community with a variety of interests to offer you some shopping inspiration this holiday

1. Cocoa Beach Spa Lemongrass Soy Candle

season. Here are their picks grouped into two convenient segments.

Pampering & Indulgences Everyone knows someone who love, love, loves the good life, and they’re not always so easy to shop for. Of course, they want to be pampered, and of course, they want to be indulged, but where to begin? Whether it’s dripping with jewels or drenched in a relaxing beauty bath, these gift ideas may be just what you’re looking for. 18

Cocoa Beach Lifestyle | December 2018

Cocoa Beach Spa MELISSA COATES, CO-OWNER

Jesse the Jeweler JESSE ROSS, OWNER

Cocoa Beach Spa is a relaxed and friendly day spa and salon set

According to custom jeweler Jesse Ross, he’s been pro-

in an adorable vintage beach house just steps from the sand. With

fessionally designing and selling bling longer than any other

more than 30 years of combined experience in the beauty and

jeweler in the area. This gives him an edge on what individu-

pharmaceutical industries, Mellisa and her husband, Dan Coates,

als with an eye for fine jewelry might find appealing. Here are

opened the full-service spa in 2008. They and their dedicated team

Jesse’s sparkling picks for holiday “trimmings.”

enjoy serving locals and visitors from around the world. Here’s

6290 N. Atlantic Ave., Cape Canaveral, 321.784.8769,

Mellisa’s holiday list:

JesseTheJeweler.com

117 Barlow Ave., Cocoa Beach, 321.613.2943, CocoaBeachSpa.com

2. Cocoa Beach Spa Hot/Cold Neck Wrap

3. Cocoa Beach Spa Couple's Massage

4. Cocoa Beach Spa Gift Certificate

1. Lemongrass double-wick soy candle Aromatherapy candle created from eco-friendly soy and palm wax scented with rich, crisp, aromatic fragrances such as lemongrass and a hint of sage. Crafted by a small group of artisans in the U.S. $23.50 2. Spa neck wrap 2-piece gift setIndulge in the warm, soothing aroma of chamomile, cinnamon, mint and fresh-cut lavender using hot or cold therapy. $30 3. “Merry Christmas, Darling” couple’s massage A relaxing one-hour couple’s massage scheduled for two in an exclusive massage room. Includes the use of Holiday Peppermint-Vanilla Foot Scrub. $148 4. Holiday gift certificates Not that you need to wait until the holidays to get a gift certificate here, but they make wonderful inclusions for Christmas cards and stockings. Available for purchase

1. Jesse the Jeweler Cocoa Beach Collection

2. Jesse the Jeweler Diamond Ring

3. Jesse the Jeweler Diamond Bracelet

4. Jesse the Jeweler Alamea Collection

1. Cocoa Beach Collection Highlighting playful, one-of-a-kind Cocoa Beach pieces exclusive to Jesse the Jeweler, such as the iconic I Dream of Jeannie bottle made famous by everyone’s favorite genie, Barbara Eden, and aeronautics and space jewelry. $70-$900 2. Diamond ring Dazzling two-tone diamond ring made of 14K white and pink gold set with a 1.58-carat diamond (SI2 E in color). $1,000 3. Straight diamond line bracelet, 7 1/2 inches Bracelet made of 14K white gold containing 2 carats of sparkling diamonds. $6,318 4. Alamea Collection Featuring Sea Life Jewelry line including necklaces, bracelets, earrings and rings. This collection is from Hawaii and incorporates the most stunning elements in nature. $100-$800

CONTINUED >

of specific services or in any denomination. December 2018 | Cocoa Beach Lifestyle

ALL I WANT FOR CHRISTMAS (CON TI N U ED)

Florida Lifestyle Surfing and the island vibe is a big part of our culture here in Cocoa Beach, so it should come as no surprise that surf shops and purveyors of beach lifestyle merchandise will be doing a booming business during the gift-giving season. If you’ve got individuals on your list who embrace these mindsets, here are some gift ideas for you.

1. Core Surf Shop Surfboard by Hobie

1. Hobie surfboard Rock someone's world with a surfboard for Christmas this year! Dennis can work with you to help you decide which board might be best based on your input if you don't already know specifically what the recipient on your list desires. $500-$1,000 2. Surf fins New fins for a pre-existing board make top-notch gifts, especially if you're on a budget or just looking for something smaller to round out the presents or pop into a stocking. $30-$100 3. 6-foot board leash Another great affordable gift for a surfer or surfers on your Christmas list is a board leash. Core carries a variety to choose from, like Bully's, Creatures of Leisure and others. $25-$30 4. Board wax The ultimate stocking stuffer for the surfer or skimboarder who has everything but can use regardless is board wax, hands down. Pick up a few bars of Sticky Bumps brand at Core. $2

Core Surf Shop DENNIS GRIFFIN, OWNER Dennis Griffin, who relocated to Cape Canaveral in 2002, started Core in 2012 with the desire to create a smaller 3. Core Surf Shop Bully’s 6’ Board Leash

back-to-basics surf shop of old. The idea stemmed from his love of working in shops where hands-on help and advice in a more intimate setting was the order of the day—which is exactly what he’s created at Core: a small, more personal full-service surf shop that doesn’t exclusively carry big brands, collaborating instead with smaller companies to design, manufacture and showcase many of their own product lines. Here’s Griffin’s surf life list. 7008 N. Atlantic Ave., Cape Canaveral, 321.613.2982, Facebook.com/THECORESURFSHOP 20

Cocoa Beach Lifestyle | December 2018

2. Core Surf Shop Surfboard Fins

4. Core Surf Shop Sticky Bumps Board Wax

1. Luna Tikis Smaller 2’ tiki

Luna Tikis CHRIS GRAY, OWNER Chris Gray started carving tikis in 2016 as a form of therapy after suffering a difficult personal loss. His father, a carver for decades taught by the late-great Wayne Combs of Mai Tiki back in the ‘80s, handed him a chisel at the time with the promise that carving was therapeutic. Two years later, Chris has to agree, having carved every day since. With his business taking off, these are his colorful and expressive oneof-a-kind gift guide suggestions for Florida lifestyle pieces. 321.821.8812, LunaTikis.com, Facebook.com/LunaTikis With these interesting suggestions to work from, you’re bound to find something on our list for the special someones on your list. Now get cracking!

1. 2-foot Luna Tiki These smaller tikis are excellent choices for people with less footage (inside or out), as gifts or for people working with limited tiki funds while still providing the Luna Tiki experience. $120 2. Miniature

2. Luna Tikis Miniature Desktop Tiki

desktop tiki Perfect for the office, as souvenirs or anywhere with restricted space, these tiny tikis are made from a palm log split into quarters and are miniature versions of full Luna Tikis. They typically range from 12 to 14 inches and make great gifts and stocking stuffers. $45 3. Electric pineapple wall hanging Made of cypress, the electric pineapples are sure to catch your eye with bright oranges, yellows, greens and a fade to red. Spot-on for anyone who is into beach style, pineapples or colors that pop. $754. 4-foot Luna Tiki Available in a number of diameters and wood types carved from top to bottom 360 degrees around, meaning the design doesn’t cut off at the back. These, and any of the other Luna Tikis, can be fitted with

3. Luna Tikis Electric Pineapple Wall Hanging

4. Luna Tikis Full-sized tiki standing 4’ tall

Bluetooth speakers upon request. $275-$400 December 2018 | Cocoa Beach Lifestyle

Cocoa Beach Lifestyle | December 2018

LOCAL LIMELIGHT

SURFING SANTAS

INVADE COCOA BEACH CHRISTMAS EVE A COCOA BEACH TRADITION THAT HAS GROWN TO INCLUDE THOUSANDS FAR FROM THE BITTER NIP OF JACK FROST,

If you're from here, you know you read that cor-

HERE IN SUNNY FLORIDA WE HAVE OUR OWN

rectly. If you're new to the area or from out of town,

TRADITIONS DURING THE HOLIDAYS. And on the

you may have just laughed or even rolled your eyes,

morning of Christmas Eve in Cocoa Beach, one of

but it's a great tradition that has slowly gained trac-

them is surfing with Ol' St. Nick. That's right, surfing

tion here in Brevard County, so don't knock it till

with Santa—actually, hundreds of them.

you've tried it!

“ THE COMMUNIT Y’S SUPPORT HAS BEEN OVERWHELMING, AND SURFING SANTAS COCOA BEACH THANKS EVERYONE WHO WANTS TO RIDE THE SURFING SANTA WAVE.”

Cocoa Beach Lifestyle | December 2018

ARTICLE REBECCA WEST PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED BY SURFING SANTAS

What started as a family outing on Christmas Eve back in 2009 when George Trosset went surfing dressed as Santa with his son and daughter-in-law (who dressed as elves) has morphed into a huge event. How? The media, of course. When a local newspaper published a picture of George decked out in Santa gear hanging 10 on the front page of the Christmas edition, George’s friends saw the image and expressed the desire to accompany him the following year—dressed as Santas themselves, of course. By 2014, 300 Surfing Santas, 18 Sky Surfing Santas and more than 4,000 spectators participated in the event. Two years later, those numbers doubled to 600 Surfing Santas and 8,000-plus spectators who made their way to Cocoa Beach for some holiday fun in the sun.

D O Y O U K N O W W H A T S A N T A A N D M R S . C L AU S D O I N B R E VA R D C O U N T Y A F T E R C H R I S T M A S ?

While it has grown wildly popular among locals, it is still as chill as it was back in 2010, the year after George made his inaugural run. Everyone is welcome, whether to surf or just to spectate, there is no registration nor fees for surfers or the general public, and all

T H E Y V O L U N T E E R AT H O S P I C E O F ST. F R A N C I S !

that's expected of you is to have a good time. Pretty simple. Not only is it a wonderful way to spend time with friends and family on the beach in a festive atmosphere, but the event also benefits two causes close to the hearts of the Surfing Santas. They are Grind for Life and the Florida Surf Museum, and so far they've been able to raise more than $60,000 through the sale of Santa swag. Grind for Life provides financial aid to families suffering from the devastating effects of cancer. The Florida Surf Museum preserves and documents the unique history and culture of Florida surfing. It's also a place where you can experience the heritage and traditions of the surfing community through events, exhib-

There are many ways you can share the gift of your time with our patients and their families. Some of the ways our volunteers help include: • • • • • •

Companionship Visits with Patients and Families Care Center Greeter Crafts/Sewing/Quilting Staffing Community Outreach Events Hospice of St. Francis Office Assistance Companion Animal Visits (For those who have appropriately registered animals)

its and programs. Without their efforts, and those of the Trosset family and its legion of volunteers, the Christmas Eve Surfing Santas tradition might not be what it is today. Their help has been invaluable. In fact, their immense success has seen the event grow so large that four years ago it needed to be relocated to the downtown area, where it was then—and continues to be—received

W E H AV E A V E RY T H O R O U G H O R I E N TAT I O N P R O C E S S D E S I G N E D TO H E L P YO U F E E L C O M F O RTA B L E I N YO U R R O L E A N D W E S T R I V E TO M ATC H YO U R S K I L L S A N D I N T E R E S T S W I T H T H E R I G H T VO LU N T E E R P O S I T I O N . S E RV I N G A L L O F B R E VA R D C O U N T Y

with open arms. And to think it all started with a picture... If you'd like to go this year and you're not hip to its time and location, you'll find a sea of red and white at the end of the Minutemen Causeway in Cocoa Beach at 8 a.m. on Dec. 24. There's a costume contest that's in its second year, which starts at 9 a.m., followed by Santa surfing out at 10 a.m. Just bring your Santa suit and board—or your elf ears and green felt booties— and don't forget the sunblock. SurfingSantas.org FloridaSurfMuseum.org

Please call 321-269-4240 for more information about v o l u n t e e r i n g a t H o s p i c e o f S t . Fr a n c i s , a n d v i s i t o u r We b s i t e a t w w w . h o s p i c e o f s t f r a n c i s . c o m a n d c l i c k o n t h e Vo l u n t e e r b u t t o n a t t h e t o p r i g h t . December 2018 | Cocoa Beach Lifestyle

DECORATING THREE WAYS

Coastal Christmas

FOR THE HOLIDAYS

PHOTOGRAPHY HASSAN PATTERSON

BY SHANNON REICHEL FROM INTERIOR STYLINGS IN COCOA BEACH

ARTICLE MANDY YORK

RENOVATE & REFINE

Cocoa Beach Lifestyle | December 2018

Look 1: Coastal Christmas »»Nautilus shell, $185 »»African recycled glass beads, $45-$66 »»Bliss mother-of-pearl table lamp, $348 »»Mercury glass netted jar, $65 »»Ribbon coral on acrylic base, $98 »»Flower coral on crystal base, $75

Traditonal Christmas

Look 2: Traditional Christmas »»Traditional biuffet lamp, $125 »»Mercury glass decorations, $15-$35 »»Reindeer candelabra, $35

Glamour & Glitz Christmas

Look 3: Glamour & Glitz »»Crystal candelabra, $95 »»Crystal decanters, $35-$55 »»Crystal vase, $65 »»Pearlized Christmas trees, $20

IN ALL THREE LOOKS »»Asian antique Mongolian buffet cabinet, $1,750 »»Eclipse silver leaf mirror, $550

December 2018 | Cocoa Beach Lifestyle

OPEN HOUSE

ALL ABOARD THE NAWROCKI EXPRESS! CHRISTMAS MEMORIES ABOUND WITH TOY TRAIN SETS AROUND THE TREE

A HOLIDAY TRAIN DISPLAY TO FEAST YOUR EYES UPON AT THE OFFICES OF NAWROCKI DENTAL ARTICLE REBECCA WEST PHOTOGRAPHY BENJAMIN THACKER

REGARDLESS OF AGE, ONE OF THE MOST CHERISHED HOLIDAY MEMORIES FOR GENERATIONS IS THE SIGHT AND SOUND OF A TOY TRAIN SET CHUGGING AROUND THE TRACK BENEATH A CHRISTMAS TREE. The memory is so nostalgic that for many people that delight is carried over into adulthood to form similar traditions with their own families. Some people get bitten by the locomotive bug later in life, as was the case with Dr. Gary C. Nawrocki, DMD, in Cocoa Beach. But it doesn't matter when it happens. The point is it sticks with you, and it's something you just can't help sharing with others. For Dr. Nawrocki, the contagion hit about 25 years ago. "There's a lot of history involved in trains, and we're doing a poor job of understanding or learning from that history," the doctor mused in October. "It started back in the Industrial Revolution. Engineering using simple basics brought amazing societal accomplishments that most people don't realize stem from the construction of trains and railroads. They had to be precise. It was the beginning of time zones. Railroads brought it all together, connecting East to West, and it solved a lot of engineering problems we'd been faced with that are really underappreciated today." In recent history, however, Dr. Nawrocki is a full-blown, yearround railroad enthusiast whose Christmas displays are what his family, friends, office staff and patients look forward to every season—not that he doesn't dabble in the hobby on a regular basis. As stated, he is a full-blown railroad enthusiast. He likens his family's Christmases past to that of the Griswolds of National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation, dragging home a 14-foot tree and having to cut it down to accommodate a 9-foot ceiling 28

Cocoa Beach Lifestyle | December 2018

Dr. Nawrocki

as just one of the comparisons. But it's the family memories of the simple setting up of the train around the tree that made for the warmest memories. From there, it grew with the addition of more cars and longer tracks. It's still something he shares with family at home, including his grandsons who might one day go on to carry on the tradition with their own children and grandkids, but it's his office display at which the public gets to marvel. The setting up of the annual extravaganza starts around Thanksgiving and takes roughly three weeks to complete, so it makes sense he leaves it up till January. While he changes the trains up each year to keep it fresh—which is easy to do when you have six different sets—he runs four trains on three tracks at the office that includes a Disney set running along a shelf around the ceiling, two tracks that are 40 feet long carrying a Christmas trolly and circus train and one short track (only 15 feet in length!) with an Alaskan train set. He's also got a beer train, but that's for other occasions. All of this is complemented by a soundtrack of railway noises. His enthusiasm for trains and the holidays don't end there, either. Besides the tree and multiple train tracks, his office has a huge mural done by local artist Frank Rao depicting some of America's greatest sights, like the Grand Canyon, Yosemite, Yellowstone and other natural wonders. The office is also covered in holly, lights and a decorative cigar store Indian and black bear dressed for the holidays this time of year. The result is absolutely magical. If you can't resist the temptation to sneak a peek at the display sometime, keep in mind that the good doctor has a steam compressor being constructed so he can blow a real train whistle! Some people thankfully never grow up. 4301 N. Banana River Blvd., Cocoa Beach, 321.783.7514 CocoaBeachDentist.com

December 2018 | Cocoa Beach Lifestyle

DECEMBER

LIFESTYLE CALENDAR

COCOA BEACH CHRISTMAS STREET PARADE

south through residential canals.

to land on a giant inflatable Santa

Bring lawn chairs and blankets for

chair. Great family fun.

shoreline views.

The first group of Santas lands at 11

For boat parade route map and more

a.m. Aircraft will then return for the

info, visit CocoaBeachRotary.org.

next load of jumpers and continue process until 3:30 p.m.

Downtown Cocoa Beach

The annual Christmas parade will be taking place again in downtown Cocoa Beach. The event includes fun activities for kids, plus Surfing Santa will be in attendance to make it a true

Facebook.com/SantaSkydivers

23RD ANNUAL CAPE CANAVERAL REINDEER RUN 5K

Cherie Down Park

SURFING SANTAS

The parade starts at 1:30 p.m. at the

The annual Cape Canaveral Reindeer

End of Minutemen Causeway, Cocoa Beach

old Glass Bank and heads south on

Run 5K starts at 8 am. Proceeds

Surfing Santas Cocoa Beach is

A1A. Don't miss it!

benefit the Brevard County Sheriff's

an annual Cocoa Beach tradition

CocoaBeach.com/festivals-events

Office Charities, Inc. - YDC Program.

that brings hundreds of surfers

Florida holiday happening.

dressed up as Santa. Watch them

COCOA BEACH MAIN STREET WINTER FESTIVAL

DRAGON BOATING ON THE BANANA RIVER

Oars and Paddles Park, Indian

observe the fun.

Cocoa Beach Main Street presents

Harbour Beach

SurfingSantas.org

the Third Annual Winter Festival,

Learn how to paddle a 20-seat,

Blizzard at the Beach!

human-powered dragon boat while

Free event from 2-10 p.m. featuring

experiencing

real snow falling on the Minutemen

Banana River with the Heart and

Causeway in front of City Hall. In addi-

Soul Dragon Boat team. Free event,

tion, the festival will include Santa, a

paddles and PFDs provided. Pre-

Christmas train, Christmas music, stilt

registration is required by emailing

walkers, crafts, vendors, and much,

heartandsouldragon@gmail.com.

much more.

Seating is limited. Ages 18 and up,

MainStreetCocoaBeach.com

all fitness levels. 4:30-6 p.m. Visit

Downtown Cocoa Beach

ride in on the waves, and kick off your Christmas holiday beachside

the

beauty

at this free event. Just head on out to the Minutemen Causeway at 8 a.m. to join in on the action or just

the

HeartAndSoulDragonBoating.org

for more info.

COCOA BEACH CHRISTMAS BOAT PARADE Banana River

Witness the holiday tradition of the Cocoa Beach Christmas Boat Parade

Westgate Resorts Cocoa Beach Pier

We are always accepting sub-

Watch

sk ydivers

missions for events you'd like to

lit stem to stern cruise down the

dressed as Santa demonstrate var-

see included in our Calendar sec-

Banana River.

ious skills and high-speed landings

tion. Submissions are accepted

The parade starts at 6 p.m. at Marker

swerving around inflatable Christmas

via

101 (south side of SR520) and runs

trees, carrying flags and attempting

CocoaBeachLifestylePubs.com.

where brightly

SANTA SKYDIVERS COCOA BEACH

decorated

boats

Cocoa Beach Lifestyle | December 2018

professional

the

Contact

tab

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Cocoa Beach Lifestyle | December 2018

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Cocoa Beach Lifestyle | December 2018

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