Ceremony will honor Purple Heart recipients


SENIOR LIFE Matt Clark
St. Luke’s Chapel still has three original stained-glass windows dating back to 1889.
BY LINDA JUMP
Since 1889, St. Luke’s Chapel has provided Episcopal worship experiences.
After the Civil War, three Episcopalian cousins from Charleston, South Carolina relocated first to Eau Gallie, then to the north end of what was then called Merritt’s Island in
the 1870s.
“They’d heard that Florida was becoming a land of plenty,” said Gary Young, a historian who offers tours of the adjoining cemetery. “They pulled a wagon all the way here.”
Continued on page 23
BY JEFF NAVIN
Take a break on the Wednesday before Labor Day to attend the third and final in the summer series of Senior Life’s free Senior Day events.
Free watermelon will be provided from 10:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 27 at the Brevard Veterans Memorial Center at 400 South Sykes Parkway on Merritt Island as Senior Life presents the Slice of the Good Life Expo. A watermelon carving contest will be held as Senior Life
honors a fruit the world has loved for countless centuries.
“Watermelon is so refreshing,” said Jill Blue, the CEO and publisher of Senior Life. “It’s the perfect fruit for a hot summer day. Everyone will get to vote for the best-carved watermelon. Now that’s exciting.”
A variety of exhibitors and demonstration booths will be featured, as well as free entry to the military museum. Take a peek
Continued on page 3
Key
Sept. 21-24, 2025
Cunard - Fort Lauderdale Getaway
Oct. 15-28, 2025
Biltmore Christmas - King Tut - Gingerbread
Dec. 28-31, 2025
Alaska Cruise, Train & Land
June. 8-20, 2026 - Group
Volume 28, Issue 3
Senior Life of Florida
7350 Shoppes Drive, Suite 102
Viera, FL 32940
321-242-1235
myseniorlife.com
Jill@bluewatercreativegroup.com
Publisher Jill Blue
Editor
R. Norman Moody
Office Manager
Sylvia Montes
Copy Editor
Jeff Navin
Art/Design/Photography
Matt Clark
Feature Writers
Ed Baranowski
Chris Bonanno
Ernie Dorling
Mike Gaffey
Susan M. Houts
Linda Jump
Flora Reigada
Amy Tremante
Emily Warner
You’ve heard about AI (artificial intelligence), but have not taken advantage of it. Why not check it out and see if it can be of use to you in any way.
If you use digital assistants such as Siri and Alexa, you are already using it. However, there is so much more for which you can use AI in daily life. We explore some other uses in a story in this edition of Senior Life
Use AI but, also know that it can be used against you. Scammers are finding more and more ways to use AI to cheat people. They can use it to clone a voice to make you think you are talking to a family member or friend. We also investigated that, and hope that you learn something from what we found in order to help protect yourself from the scammers.
Did you have a stamp collection as a child? Many of us did. Others got back into it as adults and are dedicating time to the hobby. Hobbyists use their collection as a basis to delve into the subjects depicted on the stamps — learning about history, geography and more. There is a local club of stamp collectors who are always eager to share their knowledge about philately. Check out our story on the subject.
You might also want to check out our Travel Time story if you are considering at least one more day trip with your children or grandchildren before school is back in session. Go to Orlando. Not the tourist traps, but to the real Orlando. The modern Orlando Science Center offers so much for children and adults. And, it is near several parks, the Mills Market and lots of other good places for a leisurely lunch. It could be a good quality time with your grandchildren or with friends.
Have you noticed how you can capture your children’s or grandchildren’s attention with stories about your youth or other times in your life? Well, maybe you should consider writing down some of those stories for your heirs.
We have an article in this edition on Senior Life about writing your memoirs and stories. I hope it encourages you to look into it.
You should also check out our questionnaire and respond to questions such as where do you pick up your copy of Senior Life each month? What stories moved you? What regular features do you like most? What other kinds of stories would you like to see us write about?
Stay well. Stay in touch. SL
R. Norman Moody norm@myseniorlife.com
Continued from page 1
of the new Veterans Memorial Amphitheater through the periscope inside the museum.
Free hot dogs, chicken nuggets, coffee and drinks will be served by The Salvation Army.
“The Veterans Center is excited to have us back again,” Blue said. “It’s so peaceful on the water. It’s the perfect place to be. The new amphitheater under construction is going to be a wonderful addition to the Memorial Park.”
Morning at the Museum with Senior Life and Friends was held June 27 at the Brevard Museum of History & Natural Science in Cocoa.
“These summer series events have been wonderful and popular,” Blue said. “They bring additional excitement to the long, hot summer. We enjoyed seeing everyone.” SL
For information, call 321-242-1235 or check out boomerseniorexpo.com
BY R. NORMAN MOODY
More than 10 years ago, Todd Hause struck up a conversation with a young man who is originally from Panama.
— Jim Hancock
“I asked him ‘what are you going to do for the 100th anniversary of the Panama Canal,’ ” Hause said. “He whipped out his cell phone to look it up. He said, ‘how did you know that.’ ” Hause’s response: “I’m a stamp collector.”
The Panama Canal celebrated its 100th anniversary on August 15, 2014. Philately, the collection and study of stamps, has allowed Hause and
others worldwide to learn about many different topics by researching the subject of the stamp depicted.
Hause is a member of the Missile Stamp Club based in Palm Bay. The thriving club was established in 1960.
The club is a member of the American Philatelic Society, which is the largest nonprofit stamp collecting foundation of philately in the world.
“Pick a subject,” the philatelist said. “You can learn about it through stamps.”
The hobby is also a passion of Jim Hancock of Malabar. He is eager to share information with others about stamp collecting as he did recently at a Senior Life event at the Brevard Museum of History and Natural Science.
“Stamps give you a lot of information on history, architecture …” he said. “I learned a lot of geography, I learned about presidents through stamps.”
Learning about different subjects through stamps comes from being involved in the hobby, research and talking with other collectors.
Hause collected stamps for a while as a child, then restarted the hobby in 1990. He would go past a stamp store every day and wondered what it would be like to collect all the stamps since his son was born.
“Once I stopped by (the stamp store), I got hooked again,” he said. “I have every one since he was born until 2001, maybe 2002.”
Among his collection is a stampless folded letter with a cancellation dated Dec. 19, 1844 in Savannah, Georgia. Stamps came into use in 1847 and became compulsory in 1855. Through that letter, Hause researched and learned a lot about the sender, the hotel in Jacksonville where the sender stayed and a doctor who died in a duel where the letter went. The cost to send the letter more than 300 miles was 25 cents.
“It turned out to be an interesting story just from that letter,” he said.
Hause readily shares information about his hobby. So do other members of the Missile Stamp Club.
The club meets at 2 p.m. on the first Thursday of the month at Peace Lutheran Church at 1801 Port Malabar Blvd. in Palm Bay.
For information about the club, visit MissileStampClub.org. SL
321.339.0551
8085 Spyglass Hill Road
Viera, Florida 32940
Monday – Friday 8:30 am – 5 pm
Visit OneSeniorPlace.com
For 20 years, One Senior Place has been a trusted hub of comfort, care, and connection for seniors, veterans, and caregivers in Brevard County. We offer free support groups and clubs that foster community, purpose, and meaningful relationships. That’s why we proudly offer a wide range of free support groups and clubs designed to uplift, educate, and bring people together.
Whether you’re navigating memory loss, grieving a loved one, caring for someone with a chronic condition, or simply looking to connect—there’s support for you at One Senior Place.
• Alzheimer’s & Dementia Support
• Caregiver Support
• Grief, Loss & Bereavement
• “Connected” Spiritual Exploration
• Circle of Friends Luncheon
• Veterans Support
• Quit Smoking Classes
• The Club for Active Seniors – Weekly Games & Fellowship
While many of these programs are hosted at One Senior Place, others take place at trusted local partner locations—making it easier to find something close to home.
Because no one should face life’s challenges alone.
By Randal C. Hill
At 74, Janis Ian has built a career on just two hit songs whose inspirations had come about under the most ordinary of circumstances.
Born Janis Eddy Fink in New Jersey, Ian mastered the acoustic guitar as a young girl and began pursuing dreams of becoming a folk singer. At age 12, she composed her first tune, the haunting “Hair of Spun Gold.”
A short time later, while riding her middle-school bus, Ian noticed a young interracial couple. The result of that observation led to the creation of her debut recording of the controversial “Society’s Child (Baby I’ve Been Thinking).”
The 1960s were bringing numerous changes to American society, and Ian’s 1967 tune about an interracial teen romance caused an upheaval in certain circles. She received hate mail and death threats, as did some disc jockeys who dared to spin her hit Verve Records disc on their turntables.
Ian’s heady days of success proved short lived, though. The next several years saw her battling depression, substance abuse and a manager who ran off with all her
earnings. But along the way she continued to release quality works of brutal honesty, soldiering on before appreciative but dwindling concert audiences. Discouraged at times, she briefly contemplated becoming a veterinarian.
By the mid-1970s, Ian was living with her mother and writing a song a day, all to no avail. It was then that another ordinary-seeming moment changed her life.
“One day, I was sitting at the dining table, reading the New York Times Magazine,” Ian recalled later.
“There was an article about a woman who had thought her life would change and be perfect when she had her debutante ball. The first line was ‘I learned the truth at eighteen.’”
There it was — the idea for her next composition and one that would resuscitate her faltering career.
During high school, she may have been the hip artist heard on Top 40 radio, but as a student she never experienced a homecoming or a prom or a party or even a date to the movies.
Ian spent three months writing “At Seventeen.” (The phrase flowed better than “At Eighteen.”)
I learned the truth at seventeen
That love was meant for beauty queens And high-school girls with clear-skinned smiles
Who married young and then retired
The Valentines I never knew
The Friday night charades of youth
Were spent on one more beautiful
At seventeen I learned the truth
It was long and far away
The world was younger than today
When dreams were all they gave for free
To ugly duckling girls like me
In time, her Columbia Records single became a million seller, as did the album from which it came: “Between the Lines.”
Later in 1975, Ian performed her anthem of angst on the first “Saturday Night Live.” Eventually, she received a Grammy award for Best Female Pop Vocal Performance for her iconic offering.
Thought: One must consider the idea that ugly ducklings become beautiful swans, so there is potentially hope for all of us. SL
BY CHRIS BONANNO
Hundreds of area residents might now feel better prepared to weather a storm after attending the Senior Life and Viera Voice Hurricane Prep Rally & Senior Fair at St. John the Evangelist Catholic Community in Viera.
They had the opportunity to meet with representatives from a wide array of community partners and exhibitors at the July 18 event. Attendees to the three-hour event left with valuable information on emergency responses, evacuation zones and routes, poststorm planning, dealing with pets and special needs shelters and what people with disabilities should do in the event of a storm.
Will Ulrich, the warning coordination meteorologist with the National Weather Service in Melbourne, captured the attention of a full auditorium with his presentation on “Hurricane Season 2025: Focus on
Longtime broadcast meteorologist
Amy Sweezey, who served for 20 years in the Orlando TV market, also was one of the presenters. Sweezy, who is an author, podcaster and contributor with CNTV, Orange County Government and Carnival Cruise Line, presented “Hurricane Ready: Preparing for the 2025 Season.”
“We talked about the forecast and
some preparation tips,” Sweezey said. “And my biggest mantra of course for everybody is, ‘don’t be scared just prepare.’”
The Salvation Army Emergency Disaster Services canteen demonstrated some of the services the organization can provide following disasters. Salvation Army volunteers provided breakfast snacks and a lunch of hotdogs and chips for attendees. Presenting sponsors were Health First, State Farm Arty Pagan and Rhodes Law.
Doris Garcia Duran of Health First said she was pleased with the event. “Letting the seniors know their options is an amazing idea. Its a great event to keep coming to year after year.”
Other community partners at the event included the Brevard County Sheriff’s Office Animal Services division, the City of Rockledge, Aging Matters in Brevard and the
Brevard Humane Society.
“We always encourage everyone to have a prepare-and-go bag filled with at least five days of pet supplies and make sure we have all paperwork necessary and then always have some pet-friendly hotels,” said Desiree Zink of the Brevard Humane Society. “It’s important that we’d like to note that all Brevard County hurricane shelters are pet-friendly.”
Other partners included 211 Brevard, the American Red Cross and Brevard County Fire Rescue’s Fire Prevention.
“Some of the biggest safety issues we run into over and over again is people running generators in their garages,” said Ryan McLaurin, a fire inspector with BCFR. “… Do not run a generator in your garage. Make sure it is ventilated away from your garage. Do not run anything gas-powered in your garage during a hurricane or in general. Just avoid it.” SL
BY SUSAN M. HOUTS
At 102 years old, Luz Tirado continues to inspire those around her with a life story rich in love, resilience and quiet wisdom.
Born in Puerto Rico, Tirado married her husband on the island before moving to the U.S. mainland in search of the best opportunities possible for her family. They eventually settled in Chicago, where she spent 24 years working at the Zenith Corporation, a job she truly enjoyed.
Tirado is especially proud of helping both her son and daughter graduate from college. It was a lifetime goal for the centenarian.
Tirado moved to Glenbrooke at Palm Bay six years ago and quickly became a cherished member of the community.
“She is kind, friendly and fun,”
Life Enrichment Director Wendy Hoover said. “She brings light to everyone around her.”
Team member Reshna Lachman also regularly spends time with Tirado.
“She is so kind,” Lachman said. “She’s always worried about others and constantly taking care of those around her.”
Though her husband passed away six years ago, Tirado holds tightly to their many memories, including a cross-country trip they took with their son to visit their daughter. She also fondly remembers the many years of dancing with her husband. She still participates in music activities at the Glenbrooke Community as much as possible.
When asked her secret to a long, happy life, Tirado’s advice is simple: “Be calm. Sleep, eat and relax a lot.” She’s also known to remind others,
“What are you in such a rush for? You have time!”
With her gentle presence and generous spirit, Tirado has become a
SL
BY SUSAN M. HOUTS
The dining room of West Melbourne Health and Rehabilitation was filled to capacity as community members, local leaders and loved ones gathered to celebrate the 100th birthday of Marjorie Reichard, a strong athlete, respected educator, devoted mother and cherished resident.
The event on June 12 honored a century marked by physical vitality, leadership and dedication to family and community.
Born in 1925, Reichard was a lifelong athlete who turned her passion into a career teaching physical education.
In a time when opportunities for women in sports were limited, she broke barriers by coaching her son’s baseball team, despite not being allowed the formal title of coach.
She taught by example, instilling values of discipline, sportsmanship and determination in both her students and her children. Her strength, both physical and personal,
defined her role in the lives of those around her.
The very festive 100th birthday celebration featured a large decorated throne, live jazz music by The Jazzey Boys, refreshments and a sparkling cider toast. The room was full, with residents, guests and staff gathered in celebration. Some residents even
joined in dancing, adding to the joyful atmosphere. Colorful decorations, cheerful greetings and heartfelt laughter filled the air.
West Melbourne Mayor Andrea Young offered words of tribute. Young was elected mayor in 2024 after more than a decade on the city council. Also speaking was Jordin T. Chandler,
the government affairs manager for West Melbourne. A Florida Tech graduate and civic leader, Chandler praised Reichard’s lifelong energy, spirit and commitment to service.
Kristine McFadden, a discharge planner and team leader at West Melbourne Health and Rehabilitation Center, also shared her appreciation for Reichard’s inspiring presence and influence within the facility.
Messages of congratulations and gratitude were presented by several local partners, including Stellar Transport, Assisting Hands Home Care and St. Francis Hospice. Each recognized Reichard’s legacy as an educator, athlete and community role model.
When asked how she felt by one of the presenters, Reichard replied simply, “Overwhelmed.”
As the event drew to a close, Reichard’s son, John Reichard, reflected on his own professional achievements, crediting his strong and dedicated mother for establishing the foundation. SL
OASIS, Operation America
Standing in Support, had set aside about three hours before Independence Day to pack care packages for U.S. troops serving overseas.
“We packed our boxes in less than an hour,” said Tess Brady Heribacka, the cofounder of OACIS.
The boxes were packed so quickly because of all the help OASIS gets as it supports the troops.
Volunteers show up every time the organization calls for help. This time, there were more than enough.
The care packages carry supplies and items that remind the troops of home and that there are people in Brevard County who care for them
and support them.
With packages going to hundreds of troops, monetary and other support is always needed. But there are organizations and individuals who are always there to pitch in.
American Legion Post 359, Post 1 and Post 22, raise money and collect items among its members for the care
packages. Bank of America, Seacoast Bank and Brown & Brown Insurance have also supported the cause.
“They have been very supportive in helping us raise funds,” Heribacka said. “We are very appreciative of them.”
More than 150 boxes were sent to the troops before the Independence Day holiday.
The organization sends themed care packages out before holidays such as Valentine’s Day. Easter, Fourth of July, Halloween, Veterans Day and Christmas.
The packages are designed to provide an escape and a little bit of fun from back home.
OASIS started 18 years ago when
Heribacka and one of her cofounders had sons deployed to Iraq. They began by sending packages to their sons and the troops with which they were serving. Those men have long since completed their service.
“When they came home, God put it on my heart to keep going,” Heribacka said.
The work of OASIS continues to grow and now has an army of volunteers and supporters.
The organization is now in need of a volunteer program coordinator who has Microsoft Office skills.
For more information about the volunteer program coordinator position or to learn more about OASIS, visit oasisofcfl.org SL
BY ERNIE DORLING
In 1960, the U.S. government still had the military draft, obligating those who received notice to report for active duty. That same year, Bobby Darin released his hit single, “Beyond the Sea.”
“I was eligible for the draft and living in Atlanta, Georgia at the time. I didn’t want to go into the Army,” Dan McIntyre said. “So, on December 23, 1960, I joined the U.S. Coast Guard and, seven weeks later, I was in boot camp at Cape May, New Jersey.”
McIntyre was a machinery technician rising to chief petty officer and eventually promoted to chief warrant officer 4 (CWO4) and became a naval engineer.
“I was in the Coast Guard for 42 years, including eight years of active duty,” McIntyre said. “Most of my reserve time was served at the U.S. Coast Guard Station in Miami Beach. That is my most memorable duty station because I was part of the Seventh District Coast Guard Inspection Team visiting all major reserve units throughout the district.”
In 2002, McIntrye answered a
voluntary recall from the Coast Guard in the wake of the 9-11 attacks on the country.
“I was assigned as an instructor and administrator in the Leadership Development Center at the Coast Guard Training Academy in New London, Connecticut,” McIntyre said.
Edited by Margie E. Burke
“I remained on active duty there until 2005.”
In 2008, McIntyre joined the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary.
“Our main focus is youth recreational boating safety,” McIntyre said. “We provide safety training classes for elementary and high school students and after-school and summer programs for students.”
In 2024, McIntyre was awarded the Coast Guard Auxiliary Medal for designing the youth safety boating course framework, which is now the nationwide model for youth education courses.
McIntyre spent more than 30 years working for the Xerox Corporation when he wasn’t on reserve duty.
“I worked just about everywhere in the company,” McIntyre said. “I trained technical service personnel and later taught leadership courses to marketing representatives and
administrative personnel.”
McIntyre eventually took his quality performance training and became a quality performance consultant for the Coast Guard in Miami. From 1992 to 2012, he served as master examiner and team leader for the Florida Governor’s Sterling Award Council, recognizing organizations that demonstrate excellence in performance, leadership and operations.
McIntyre eventually moved to Melbourne with Mary, his wife, a U.S. Coast Guard retiree with 27 years of service.
“We wanted to be close to family who live in the area,” McIntyre said.
In his spare time, he is active in the Military Officers Association of America, Cape Canaveral Chapter.
Like Bobby Darin, Dan McIntyre did and continues to go far “Beyond the Sea.” SL
BY R. NORMAN MOODY
It can be difficult for people who have not served in the military to understand the sacrifices of those who have been awarded a Purple Heart.
“You may be standing next to someone in the grocery story and might not know the challenges they have overcome,” said Keith Van Buren, the commander of the Military Order of the Purple Heart Chapter 453.
Chapter 453 will honor 10 local recipients of the award at its ninth annual ceremony at 2 p.m. Aug. 10 at the Brevard Veterans Memorial Center on Merritt Island.
The public and even family members hearing the stories of the veterans should be able to better grasp the challenges, the sacrifice and the difficulties they face.
“I don’t think that America really knows what these men went through,” said Paul Marek, the chaplain of Chapter 453.
Marek’s son Russ Marek was serving in Iraq with the Army’s 3rd Infantry Division when he was critically wounded in a roadside bombing on Sept. 16, 2005, in which two soldiers were killed.
Russ Marek lost his right arm and right leg and suffered a brain injury and burns.
The Purple Heart is a military decoration awarded to those wounded or killed while serving with the U.S. military.
Carl Miller, a past commander of Chapter 453, started the yearly ceremonies nine years ago to honor 10 Purple Heart recipients.
“I spent a year of my life in a Philadelphia hospital,” said Miller, who was a U.S. Marine lance corporal serving in Vietnam when he was critically wounded in February 1969. “The whole idea came to me while I was in the hospital.”
Since implementing it nearly a decade ago, the ceremonies and the chapter have grown, though there are still many recipients in Brevard County who are not yet active in the chapter.
“I spent a year of my life in a Philadelphia hospital. The whole idea came to me while I was in the hospital.”
— Carl Miller, Purple Heart recipient.
2 p.m. August 10
Brevard Veterans Memorial Center
Last year’s ceremony drew a crowd that filled the largest hall at the Brevard Veterans Memorial Center.
“The ultimate goal is to have Iraq and Afghanistan veterans join us,” said Van Buren, who at 37 is the youngest member of Chapter 453.
Van Buren was injured in 2014 while serving with the U.S. Army in Afghanistan. SL
By MIKE GAFFEY
Gary Gilbert wants girls and young women to reach for the stars, even if they fall short of becoming an astronaut.
Gilbert’s new self-published anthology, “Spacegirl II: 21 Women Write About Their Careers On Earth In The Space Industry,” features stories from women who pursued fulfilling, but Earthbound careers in America’s space program.
“I got responses from women working on a Ph.D. in astrobiology to a woman who was the spacesuit technician for astronaut Mae Jemison, the first African-American woman to fly into space,” the Merritt Island resident said.
“Not all of them are rocket engineers or aerospace engineers, but some of them are.”
A South Carolina native and retired 20-year Navy veteran, Gilbert, 64, came up with the idea for the book while visiting the International Space University in Strasbourg, France in 2012.
While at the event, he met a professor who arranged a tour of the Moscow-based main mission control center of Roscosmos, the Russian space agency. But a woman he had met at the event had to turn down the invitation because she already had budgeted for the remainder of her school year and didn’t want to change the budgeting process, Gilbert said.
“I just thought, ‘Well, there should be a scholarship for this type of thing,’ ” Gilbert said. “And finally I decided that I was going to get the book together and put it out there. My goal is to have 95 percent of the money of the profits it makes go back to schools for scholarships.”
Gilbert emailed women working in the space industry and got 21 responses, he said. Each woman wrote about 1,200 to 1,500 words about their journey to a career in the industry.
Island resident Gary Gilbert’s new anthology, “Spacegirl II: 21 Women
About Their
On Earth In The
Industry,” features stories from 21 female space workers.
“Each person has their own chapter,” Gilbert said of the 165-page book. “Some are retired, some aren’t. There are a few that are currently working at NASA right now.”
In the book, space journalist Brooke Edwards wrote that “a bright future in space exploration was dawning, and I sincerely want to be a part of it as a space science communicator.”
Respondents urged girls and young
women to stay in school, pursue their passion and take science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) classes, he said.
Gilbert said he “ran into some problems” with the book’s original “Spacegirl” title. “So I had to pivot and do ‘Spacegirl II,’ ” he explained.
Gilbert’s goal is to get his book in as many classrooms and school libraries as possible in the hopes that it inspires the next generation of
young women to consider working behind the scenes in the space industry.
“I hope that it ignites a spark somewhere,” he said. “There’s a quote about wise men who plant seeds that become the trees that they’ll never sit under. I just want humanity’s future to be like that of ‘Star Trek Next Generation.’ ”
To order Gilbert’s book, go to flyinggoddesspublishing.com. SL
The Free 2025 Boomer Guide Find everything you need to live your WAY on the Space Coast, from clubs to activities, to health care and recreation, the best places to live, play and thrive. Pick one up at our August event.
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Mail in your survey to Senior Life, 7350 Shoppes Drive, #102, Melbourne Fl 32940 or bring it to the Slice of the Good Life Senior Expo Aug. 27 at the Event Hall, Brevard Veterans Memorial Center on Merritt Island. Drawing Sept. 1.
BY NICHOLE YUAN
Living in Viera has its perks. There’s beautiful scenery, fabulous restaurants and enough stores to shop until you drop.
But when all is said and done, this cozy gem in Brevard County still lacks some fun family activities that can be found a short drive away.
To keep things interesting and young minds curious, the Orlando Science Center is a wonderful place for both children and adults alike to have fun, burn off some excess energy and learn something new all while in the comfort of air conditioning.
Just less than an hour away, visitors have opportunities to view live animals in the Life exhibit as well as encounter ambassador animals during stage shows. In addition to wildlife, the Orlando Science Center offers live science experiments targeted for younger audiences. The cool Science presentation demonstrates the properties of liquid nitrogen and the popular Powers of Pokémon show educates young trainers on the science behind their favorite battle
buddies’ special abilities.
“I did the Pikachu thing,” said Oliver Yuan, recalling his experience as a volunteer during the Powers of Pokemon show. “I got to hold, like, I forget what it was but like, if we touched it, it made electricity.”
“I like the play area and I also like where we make rocket ships,” added Lyra Yuan.
And if that isn’t enough excitement, the current exhibit will have guests teaming up with popular super heroes such as Batman and Wonder Woman to take down evil villains. Visitors can even choose to borrow a hero cape prior to undertaking different training and missions for the full experience. But take note that the hero exhibit is only available until September 7.
After all the physical and mental exercises guests can encounter at the Orlando Science Center, families can opt to eat on site at 4Roots Cafe
where options include customizable bowls, sandwiches and even dinosaur chicken nuggets.
Alternatively, families might consider checking out Mills Market, an Asian cafeteria-style eatery only a short 10-minute drive away from the Orlando Science Center.
Once inside, customers can expect to find fresh bakery items such as pineapple buns and taro bread along with a variety of other foods from different Asian countries such as Vietnam, China and Japan. The simplistic yet immersive decor adds to the cozy atmosphere. Near the door visitors will spot a couple small prize-catching games and anyone feeling lucky can opt to test their skills before heading back to Brevard.
After such a full day of fun and food, the only thing families can expect to hear from their children is the question of when they can do it all again. SL
BY EMILY WARNER
Living in a technology-driven era, there’s always a new product on the market, with AI currently being the hot commodity.
Artificial intelligence (AI) can be defined as machines having the capability to think and learn like a human.
While businesses, cars and phones already have a variety of AI technology that is implemented daily, some consumers might have yet to take full advantage of AI and how it can help improve their lives.
Specifically for older adults, AI technology has been developed to encourage further independence. Fall detection systems are a prime example. Fall risks and consequent serious injuries account for a significant concern for older adults, especially those living alone.
With AI-powered cameras and sensors placed throughout your home, they are able to monitor normal movement while being programmed to detect if someone has fallen. When a slip or fall is detected, this technology can help someone quickly receive assistance or medical help.
AI can also be integrated into houses to create what many define as a smart home. This technology truly can be life changing, as it is a way to streamline daily tasks to better suit changing physical capabilities as someone ages and help make their everyday life easier.
Mark Mantooth has been using smart home devices and AI technology in his house for the past 10 years.
“Really, it’s just the convenience,” Mantooth said. “You walk in a room and say ‘good morning’ and it turns on the lights to a level that is appropriate for that time of day. No matter how many lights I have
on, when I say ‘goodnight,’ it turns off all of them. including the outside.”
Older adults now have the option to switch items in their homes to voice activated. These can include turning on music, the television or the coffee pot, adjusting the thermostat and controlling the lights. AI can also be used to improve the safety and security of your home. Using facial recognition software, cameras can alert a homeowner to unknown visitors or suspicious activity, which is helpful for when someone is home alone or away on a trip.
Although artificial technology has many benefits, it’s vital that caution is used when implementing it. When selecting any form of AI technology to use
within a home, be sure to research the company’s code of ethics, transparency, security, privacy, fairness and accountability. Additionally, look into a company’s history or track record. SL
BY NICHOLE YUAN
Scams have been around for as long as people can remember. From Ponzi schemes, fake classifieds and telemarketing fraud, criminals always seem to find a way to exploit vulnerable citizens. As technology becomes more advanced and innovative, scammers tend to follow suit.
Many people may recall scamming attempts in the 1990s as the internet became more accessible in homes. With more global availability and a faster means of communication, many online users began receiving emails
from a supposed Nigerian prince. He made a request for financial assistance to access frozen funds with the promise of sharing this wealth after doing so. Then, as cell phones became more commonplace, scammers upped their game by using text messaging with malicious links and fraudulent phone numbers.
As we enter a new era of artificial intelligence, con artists have found yet another tool at their disposal.
Now, these imposters use AI to mimic voices and appearances of friends, loved ones and even celebrities. But more than that, scammers can even use AI to quickly create fake websites
and false advertisements to convince viewers to make a purchase for an item they will never actually receive.
According to the Identity Theft Resource Center website, there has been a spike in travel scams where scammers use AI to create emails that seem legitimate. Then, users who attempt to book reservations or travel arrangements unknowingly give financial access to the con artist.
Scammers are trying harder to fool people, so it’s imperative to take necessary precautions. Brevard County Sheriff’s Office Public Information Officer Tod Goodyear warns that the rise of AI use has helped facilitate criminal activity such as simplifying and expediting a scammer’s research. But one thing that remains consistent among most types of scams is a sense of urgency. This tactic is designed to further manipulate people into not thinking clearly as they are pushed to commit quick actions.
“Verify everything,” Goodyear said, recommending that potential victims ask people for their name, contact number and company. Tell them you’ll return their call. After hanging up, do the research. If a caller
says they’re from a local bank, check the bank’s phone number and dial it. Since many scammers spoof numbers, it’s important that people do not simply tap to call back.
“Have code words in the family,” Goodyear also stressed. He advises that the code word be something unique that an impostor wouldn’t know.
Lastly, beware of anyone asking for payment in the form of gift cards or cryptocurrency. Goodyear explained that since crypto can be harder to track, it’s more desirable to criminals.
If you think that you or someone else may be the target of a cyber attack, whether through AI or otherwise, contact the Brevard County Sheriff’s Office Economic Crimes Unit at 321-633-8410.
History – Then and Now features Space Coast landmarks or sites in pictures and what those same areas look like today in photographs.
Imagine a lifestyle that blends the comfort of home with the ease of resort-style living. With flavorful, chef-prepared dining, engaging social events, and group fitness classes that celebrate wellness and connection, every detail of our all-inclusive lifestyle lets you focus on all the things you want to do. This is retirement living as it's meant to be — effortless, vibrant, and full of possibility.
BY AMY TREMANTE
Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) is often associated with infants and young children, but it’s increasingly recognized as a serious threat to adults especially to those over 60 or with underlying health conditions.
While most adults experience mild cold-like symptoms, RSV can lead to severe respiratory illness, hospitalization and even death in vulnerable populations.
RSV spreads through respiratory droplets, much like the flu or Covid. Symptoms include cough, nasal congestion, sore throat, fever, wheezing and fatigue.
For healthy adults, these may be resolved in a week or two.
For seniors and those with chronic heart or lung disease, however, RSV can escalate into bronchitis or pneumonia.
According to the Centers for Disease Control, RSV causes an estimated 60,000 to 160,000 hospitalizations and 6,000 to 10,000 deaths in the U.S. each year in adults age 65 and older. Despite these numbers, public awareness remains low and RSV often goes underdiagnosed.
Early diagnosis is a key. Adults who develop worsening cough, shortness of breath or chest pain —
especially those with pre-existing conditions — should seek medical attention. A simple nasal swab can detect RSV.
The good news is that in 2003 the FDA approved the first RSV vaccines for older adults.
These vaccines are now widely available and recommended for those with weakened immune systems or chronic illnesses.
Healthcare providers also urge patients to stay up to date on all respiratory vaccines, including RSV, flu and Covid — for comprehensive protection.
Preventative measures are similar to those for any viral respiratory
illness: frequent handwashing, wearing a mask in public, indoor spaces, avoiding close contact with sick individuals and staying home when not feeling well.
As RSV season peaks between fall and spring, now is a good time to talk with your doctor about your risk level and vaccination options.
Protecting yourself and others starts with awareness and prevention. By staying informed, older adults can take simple, yet effective steps to reduce their risk of RSV and maintain respiratory health year-round. SL
Amy Tremante is a registered nurse living in Brevard County.
BY LINDA JUMP
Elaine Heine, 80, has been journaling about her life and taking memoir classes periodically most of her life. So far, she has produced seven booklets with photos and stories.
“My writings are a memory tool, to remember when we did that or where we were. They are also a time capsule of life at a certain time for ordinary people, including what we were doing and what we thought about important
historical moments,” she said. Heine is in a weekly class at Buena Vida Estates in Melbourne, where she lives.
Classes and books about writing your life story are popular not only at senior residential facilities, but in libraries, adult learning sites and within writing groups. Many seniors use memoir writing for emotional growth, mental health, processing thoughts and emotions and sharing their wisdom and life lessons for descendants.
“There are different audiences — yourself, your family and friends and the general public. It’s very therapeutic,” said Hugh Nicolay, 84. Nicolay began attending a class to fill in for his wife, Mary, and has continued ever since.
“There’s structure in a class,” he said. “Sometimes we need a push.”
He shares his stories with his brother, while John Edmiston shares his with 23 first cousins.
“Not only do my cousins enjoy it, but their kids and grandkids too, because it shows how we lived. We did typical things that people did (in Chilhowie, Virginia) when they didn’t have money.”
His life describes a farm that sustained a rural family. He has also compiled booklets about working in coal mines and for electrical companies.
Joann Guy created two combbound books for friends and family about her life, organizing stories written over decades running a CPA office with her husband. “It’s good medication to ward off Alzheimer’s,” she said.
Adelaide “Timmie” Jones is writing her life’s story to preserve memories, not stuff. “I have
decluttered, and even though I have to get rid of things, I’m cataloging them in my stories. My grandkids can’t believe I walked part way to school by myself in New York City.”
Cathie Widenhoeft is writing “to hopefully remember the adventures so my family can understand how I got to be me.”
Tips on how to write your memoir:
• Write one story at a time. Begin with the story you’d tell a grandchild or great-grandchild who climbs into your lap and asks about your life. Editing comes later.
• When you get stuck, write about where you were and your reaction to the first moon landing, the assassination of President John F. Kennedy or Martin Luther King, 9/11 or the recent pandemic. Your descendants will thank you.
• Set realistic goals, such as one or two stories a week.
• Share stories with family members. But know that their recollection may not match yours.
• Be mindful of what is your story to tell and what is not. SL
Linda Jump is the author of “Five Steps to Your Memoir” and she leads memoir classes.
National Bartender Day SATURDAY 1 2 321 Latch
a.m. - 12:30 p.m. A community, familyfriendly event honoring and celebrating breastfeeding families on the Space Coast. Space Coast Health Foundation 1100 Rockledge Blvd. Rockledge 321-795-8721
Rummage Sale 8 a.m. - 1 p.m.
Vietnam and All Veterans of Brevard 2401 Post Road Melbourne 321-690-0805
Local Singer Michele Woods 2 - 3 p.m. Woods sings the songs of today and yesterday. Suntree Viera Library 902 Jordan Blass Drive Suntree, 321-255-4404 3 4 5 6 7 8 9
Sunset in the Hollows 6 - 8 p.m. Walk the trails around the old basins and have a chance to observe gopher tortoises and other animals.
Hundred Acre Hollows 1170 Rock Spring Drive Suntree, hundredacrehollows.org
Italian American Club of South Brevard 1471 Cypress Ave. Melbourne 321-242-8044
Bone Builders 9:30 - 11 a.m. Cocoa Library 308 Forrest Ave. Cocoa, 321-806-3760 Computer Basics Class 10 a.m. - noon Mims/Scottsmoor Library 3615 Lionel Road Mims, 321-264-5080
Purly Girls Knitting and Crochet Club 10 a.m. - 1 p.m. Cape Canaveral Library 201 Polk Ave. Cape Canaveral 321-868-1101 "A Musical Expedition" Aug. 6 and 7 7 p.m.
Smart Ways to Stay at Home 10 a.m.
A concert presented by the Melbourne Municipal Band. Travel the world through music. Melbourne Auditorium 625 E. Hibiscus Blvd. Melbourne 321-724-0555
A seminar designed to help you and your loved ones remain safe and independent at home.
One Senior Place 8085 Spyglass Hill Road Viera, 321-751-6771
Senior Tech Talk 1 - 2:30 p.m.
Helping seniors feel confident with technology.
Helping Seniors of Brevard 1344 S. Apollo Drive, Suite 2-C Melbourne 321-473-7770
Dance/Fundraiser
5 p.m.
Live music, food 50/50 and Chinese auction. Titusville Elks Lodge 2113 3450 Kilmarnoch Lane Titusville, 321-268-2113
Cars and Coffee with the AAACA 8 - 11 a.m. First Watch 795 E. Merritt Island Causeway Merritt Island 321-266-7481 10 11 12 13 14 15 16
Chess Club
1 - 4 p.m. Chess lessons and competition. Cocoa Library 308 Forrest Ave. Cocoa, 321-633-1792
A.W.A.K.E. Sleep Support
6 - 7:30 p.m. Exchange information and awareness of sleep, sleeping disorders and related health concerns. Parrish Healthcare Center 5005 Port St. John Parkway Cocoa, 321-268-6408
Jazz Music Night 6:30 - 8:30 p.m.
Gospel Music with Elvis 3:30 p.m.
Italian American Club of South Brevard 1471 Cypress Ave. Melbourne 321-242-8044
Enjoy hearing beautiful renditions of your favorite gospel songs in the style of Elvis Presley. Shell Harbor 2855 Murrell Road Rockledge 321-265-6875
2025 Human Trafficking Symposium 7:30 a.m. - noon Learn from professionals about how to combat human trafficking and hear a survivor share her story.
EFSC - Bernie Simpkins Auditorium 1519 Clearlake Road Cocoa, 321-632-1776
Technical Training and Education
Phone/Tablet Beginner2:30 - 3:15 p.m.
Phone/Tablet advanced 3:15 - 4 p.m.
Laptop computer 4 - 4:30 p.m. Wickham Park Senior Center 2785 Leisure Way Melbourne 321-255-4494
Summer Evenings Series 3: "All in the Family" 7 p.m. A concert presented by the Brevard Symphony Orchestra. Suntree United Methodist Church 7400 N. Wickham Road Suntree, 321-345-5052
17 18 19 20 21 22 23
Cool Summer Bash
2 - 5 p.m.
The Space Coast Parrot Head Club presents a musical afternoon to benefit the Walk to End Alzheimer’s.
Moose Lodge 3150 N. Courtenay Parkway Merritt Island, spacecoastparrotheads. com
Back Brevard Heroes Monthly Meeting
6 p.m. Learn about volunteering, upcoming events and share updates. Brevard Veterans Memorial Center 400 Sykes Creek Parkway Merritt Island 321-960-2033
Downsizing 11 a.m. Enjoy a chef-prepared lunch and discover useful tips on how to navigate the downsizing process with ease.
Shell Harbor 2855 Murrell Road Rockledge 321-265-6875
Digital Afterlife: Managing Online Accounts After You’re Gone 10 a.m. Presented by Attorney Ruth Rhodes. One Senior Place 8085 Spyglass Hill Road Viera, 321-751-6771
Space Coast Health & Wellness Expo 10 a.m. Health experts, wellness products, fitness demos, free health screenings and healthy food samples.
Space Coast Health Foundation 1100 U. S. Highway 1 Rockledge 321-459-2200
Friday Night Karaoke 6 - 10 p.m.
Hook & Eagle Tavern 2300 Clubhouse Drive Viera, 321-639-3487
Master Gardener Clinic 10 a.m. - noon Cocoa Beach Library 550 N. Brevard Ave. Cocoa Beach 321-868-1104
Tuxes & Tails Gala 5:30 - 8:30 p.m. Brevard Humane Society. Radisson Resort Cape Canaveral 321-636-3343
Heroes & Hounds 5 p.m.
Heroes and the adoptable hounds on the catwalk. SPCA fundraiser Hotel Melby Melbourne, 321-567-3615
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Sunday Night Karaoke
8 p.m.
Merritt Island Moose Lodge
3150 N. Courtenay Pkwy. Merritt Island 321-452-9061
Scottish Country Dancing
6:30 - 9:30 p.m. Springs of Suntree 8300 Holiday Springs Road
Suntree, 321-427-3587
Yoga for Seniors 11:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. North Brevard Senior Center 909 Lane Ave. Titusville, 321-268-2333
Coin Talk 6 - 8 p.m. Bring your coins or old money and talk to a local Numismatic. Suntree/Viera Library 902 Jordan Blass Drive Suntree, 321-255-4404
Platinum Show Chorus 4 p.m. Enjoy live entertainment and a chef-prepared dinner. Shell Harbor 2855 Murrell Road Rockledge 321-265-6875
A Slice of the Good Life Senior Expo 10:30 to 1 p.m. See ad on page 15 BCSO Shred Event 9 - 10:30 a.m. Limit of two boxes of personal shredding. Melbourne Square Mall 1700 W. New Haven Ave. Melbourne 321-264-5100 Senior Fitness with Polly 1 - 2 p.m. Increase your stamina, strength, energy and balance. Bring weights and water. Cocoa Beach Library 550 N. Brevard Ave. Cocoa Beach 321-868-1104
Cream Social 1 - 3 p.m.
Continued from page 1
They found barren scrub brush with flat virgin land where they could grow sugar cane, then pineapples and finally citrus.
The Homestead Act of 1862 granted 160 acres of surveyed public land to settlers who lived on it at least five years, built a home and produced crops.
“They could clear half an acre in a day. Fresh water was relatively easy to get with a cistern and there was the lagoon to swim and bathe in,” said Tom McFarland, the chapel historian.
Relatives followed. Founding families with surnames Sams, LaRoche and Porcher initially worshipped at John Sams’ Cabin, now part of Pine Island Conservation Area and the oldest standing structure in Brevard County, using the Book of Common Prayer.
Bishop John Freeman Young met a wealthy woman as he traveled to visit the pioneers, and she donated $500 to build three churches in Brevard County and a fourth in Palm Beach.
Local hardwood milled at James LaRoche’s nearby Rockledge sawmill was used following a template from the time. “The wood was pine, but called Merritt Island Mahogany.”
The organ and bell tower were added later. Three original stainedglass windows are behind the altar. The congregation grew and joined the Diocese of Central Florida in 1974. A new church with indoor plumbing was constructed nearby in 1978, with a cemetery in between. About 250 people, including the pioneers, are buried there, with space for another 500, Young said.
The Rev. Beth Pessah, the rector, said the Gothic chapel, opened in 1889 and renovated about 2001, still offers a service at 10:30 a.m. on the
first Wednesday of each month. The new church services are at 9:30 a.m. each Sunday and livestreamed on Facebook.
St. Luke’s Day will be celebrated Saturday, Oct. 18 and Pioneer Days in February. “It’s a great time to walk the grounds and see the chapel and the cemetery,” she said.
The chapel, listed on the state and federal Historic Register, is also used for weddings, funerals and events, although there is no restroom. “It’s a charming place where I feel the Holy Spirit with a warm atmosphere,” McFarland said.
Tours are available by calling 321-452-5260 or go to stlukesmi.org.
BCOA meetings are open to the public and are held the second Thursday of each month at the government center in Viera.
For information, contact Cindy Short at 321-633-2076, FAX 321-633-2170 or email cindy. short@brevardfl.gov. BCOA is located at 2725 Judge Fran Jamieson Way, B-106, Viera, FL 32940.
A new type of blood test called Galleri MCED by GRAIL Inc. can detect many deadly cancers that currently do not have good screening modalities and could revolutionize the future of screenings by addressing the unmet need in cancer screening. It consists of finding deadly cancers in early, asymptomatic stages when treatment options offer potentially much better patient outcomes.
This new type of cancer screening known as Multi Cancer Early Detection, MCED for short, is promising to be the future of cancer screening and GRAIL Inc. and the Galleri MCED are leading the charge. Recent innovations in molecular screening technology allows cancer to be detected by a simple blood test. Not all cancers can be detected through the blood, but many cancers release what is known as Cell Free Tumor DNA, which is able to be detected by this new technology. Often MCED tests can detect small fragments of tumor DNA long before patient symptoms occur.
Currently, there are more than 14,000 health care professionals and more than 60 health systems offering
Galleri MCED as a cancer-screening option for patients. However, many providers may not have heard of Galleri. It is advisable for patients to ask their providers about it.
Age and cancer risk
Cancer is predominantly a disease of aging, making age the most powerful and universal risk factor. While cancer can affect anyone at any stage of life, the risk increases significantly over the age of 50. Additionally, the risk factor for those ages 65 and older is 2.5 x higher than those ages 50 to 64.
Cancer is the second-leading cause of death and projected to become the number one cause of death in the near future. 70% of cancer deaths are caused by cancers without recommended screenings. Finding these cancers early represents the unmet need in cancer screening and the reason GRAIL Inc. launched Galleri.
Currently, recommended early cancer screening tests are available for five types of cancer: breast, lung, prostate, colon and cervical cancer. These screening tests have had tremendous positive impacts on five-year survival rates for patients
diagnosed early. But what about the dozens of other cancers that have no screening tests and aren’t typically detected until they’ve advanced and spread? When these cancers are detected in late stages, treatment options — and the likelihood of survival — are drastically reduced. This is where multi-cancer early detection blood tests can help.
Patient awareness and insurance coverage
Galleri MCED is by prescription only and is available to be ordered through Quest Diagnostics by healthcare providers. Most health insurance plans do not cover the cost of Galleri. Check with your provider for more details.
TRI-Care Insurance now covers Galleri MCED
Very recently, TRI-Care, the military insurance provider, decided to cover Galleri as a benefit. TRI-Care now covers the Galleri multi-cancer early detection test for beneficiaries age 50 and older with an elevated risk for cancer, as determined by their healthcare provider. Prior authorization is required, which your provider will submit to TRI-Care to confirm coverage.
A bill introduced in the House and Senate aims to improve future equitable access to new and innovative cancer screenings among Medicare beneficiaries in order
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to increase early detection of more cancers for more individuals. The Nancy Gardner Sewell Medicare Multi-Cancer Early Detection (MCED) Screening Coverage Act (House)/ Medicare MCED Screening Coverage Act (Senate) would allow Medicare to cover MCED tests, once approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and clinical benefit has been shown. The evidence overwhelmingly supports that detecting cancer earlier can be the difference between life and death. When cancer is detected at an earlier stage, it is often easier and less costly to treat and patients are more likely to survive.
Final thoughts
Cancer is the second-leading cause of death and is quickly becoming the number one leading cause of death, outpacing heart disease. Cancer is predominantly a disease of aging and, if found in late symptomatic stages, is often too late for optimal treatment. Early detection blood tests such as Galleri MCED offer an additional cancer screening tool to augment existing recommended cancer screenings. These existing screenings together with MCED technology now give providers and patients the tools needed to find many deadly cancers early when treatment options are optimal in the fight against cancer. Please ask your provider about MCED blood tests such as Galleri. SL — H. Matters
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The Indian River Lagoon is the most diverse estuary in North America, hosting more than 3,000 different plants, animals, fish and bird species, according to helpthelagoon. org/our-lagoon/lagoon-facts/. We humans who have migrated here to enjoy this natural wonder must learn how to live with and help maintain this natural diversity or it will die and it won’t be or smell pretty.
We all love to boat on or fish in its waters. So, let’s do everything we can to preserve this paradise.
This month, we are looking at natural shorelines, a critical component of a healthy Indian River Lagoon. We will focus on restoring the natural shorelines to help repair the degraded lagoon ecosystems by improving water quality, restoring critical habitats, such as oyster reefs and enhancing shoreline resilience. These efforts are often multifaceted, involving public-private partnerships, community involvement and a combination of ecological engineering, monitoring and adaptive management.
Key aspects of Indian River Lagoon habitat restoration are living shorelines:
Living shorelines utilize natural materials such as mangroves trees and shoreline grasses to stabilize shorelines, reduce erosion and create new habitats for birds, fish and other wildlife that feed in the shallow waters of the Indian River Lagoon. These solutions provide a natural alternative to manmade bulkheads and coquina seawalls. They absorb wave
energy and can create a beach by slowing down waves and allowing the suspended sand to settle to the bottom. In severe storms, the more robust root structure of these natural shoreline plants prevent erosion by retaining the soil.
Lagoon restoration projects in Brevard County:
The Federally funded Indian River Lagoon National Estuary Program (IRLNEP) combined with the Brevard County Save Our Indian River Lagoon (SOIRL) program funded through a voter approved half-cent sales tax are the main funding sources for restoration efforts in the Indian River Lagoon. The Brevard County SOIRL Program provides funding for local
organizations to create and install Living Shorelines oyster reefs and clam rehabilitation Community engagement:
Public awareness and involvement are essential for the success of Indian River Lagoon restoration projects. This includes volunteer opportunities, educational programs and community-based monitoring
initiatives.
Local organizations that have volunteer opportunities:
Brevard Zoo Restore Our Shore Program
Volunteer opportunities restoreourshores.org
• Oyster reef building
• Shoreline plantings
• Clam distribution
Marine Resources Council Opportunities to manage growth and installation of Mangrove. lovetheirl.org
Monitoring and adaptive management:
Regular monitoring of water quality, habitat conditions and the success of restoration efforts are crucial for assessing progress and making adjustments as needed. We are continuously learning how to create more resilient shorelines and techniques for rapidly deploying these solutions. Recently, a new wave-breaking technology was installed along one of the Max Brewer Causeways to Kennedy Space Center, which will prevent erosion and create a shallow beach area for horseshoe crabs to mate.
You can learn more about opportunities to volunteer and educate yourself on what you can do to help the Indian River Lagoon at our website helpthelagooon.org/
You can also sign up to be a member and get regular updates on opportunities to volunteer and when and where the next educational event sponsored by the Brevard Indian River Lagoon Coalition will occur. SL
BY FLORA REIGADA
The City of Titusville is employing natural means to reduce water pollution and enhance water quality in the Indian River Lagoon.
The environmental project involves the installation of 20 tree boxes in high downtown traffic areas, such as City Hall, The Commons, Brevard Street and Grace Street.
“The pre-manufactured concrete boxes are a type of eco-friendly stormwater infrastructure, designed to collect the first flush of storm water,” said Sue Williams, the City Redevelopment Agency Planner. “They are installed in the ground, filled with soil and topped with a noninvasive native tree.”
The box lies beneath a square metal grating. The tree grows through a hole in its center. Downtown Titusville landscape standards require the tree boxes to be a minimum of four-feet square.
Several have been installed. Twenty are expected to be set in place by the end of the fiscal year. More may be set up in other areas of the city.
Williams explained that the tree box functions as a compact
This tree box, set up near Titusville City Hall, is ready to do its job filtering stormwater, as well as offering greenery.
bioretention system where there is low impact development. (LID)
“The tree boxes help prevent flooding and runoff from going into the Indian River Lagoon,” she said. “They filter contaminants and the flow of harmful elements into the Lagoon.”
So far, most are located on Indian River Avenue or in the immediate vicinity. One can be found in front of Titusville City Hall and another across
the street from the Titusville Towers Assisted Living facility.
The $898,000 project is grantfunded by the Save Our Indian River Lagoon and the Florida Department of Environmental Protection.
Ann Revels, a volunteer at the Downtown Art Gallery, applauds the effort.
“In addition to cleaning the Lagoon, the trees will provide shade for
Help! My primary care doctor is moving to Atlanta. My retinal specialist is moving to Guam. My urologist is retiring and leaving his practice.
Now I need to start all over again with a new doctor. We hear this from friends and neighbors in Florida with the largest number of seniors.
Florida publications sometimes refer to present doctor conditions as a crisis. Others confidently refer to the situation as a challenge.
Did you hear that the Stewart Medical Group filed for bankruptcy? Did you know that the Rockledge Hospital is closed? Where have all the doctors gone? Predictably, planners and administrators along with the medical professionals jumped into action.
Some seniors say: “wait times in emergency rooms are unbelievable.” There are options. Check urgent care facilities. Primary care doctors are overloaded with paperwork and government regulations. Schedule Wellness visits and routine six-month checkups ahead of time.
Emergencies occur. One senior went to urgent care due to severe ear pain. Attempts to remove the impacted ear wax failed. A referral to an ear specialist resulted in a two-week delay. However, the clinic provided ear drops for relief.
Another senior suffered leg pain that hobbled him as he walked. The primary care doctor had no openings, but a solution was found. An ultrasound was ordered. After analysis, it was determined that there was nothing abnormal. What is normal
Ed Baranowski
for an 87-year-old person? The next appointment is in six weeks. Bring on the Tylenol.
Your current doctor of 20 years is leaving. A new doctor, a freshly minted one, may bring you a second opinion. You may get a fresh look at a lingering issue.
A senior had a throat problem. He went directly to a specialist. After putting a small camera down his throat, the doctor recommended laser surgery. A week later, the retiree’s medical insurance provider changed. He had to get a new primary care doctor. After a visit with the new doctor, he learned he had acid reflux. A prescription for Tagamet remedied the ailment.
Navigating the health care world can be a challenge. Be a strong partner with your doctor. Follow good health practices, focus on wellness and become your own advocate. A new set of eyes, ears, experiences and outlook go far as you race to the 100 finish line. SL
Ed Baranowski is an award-winning writer, artist, speaker, and seminar leader. He lives in Melbourne Florida and can be contacted at fast75sr@gmail.com
SL