Decades
Senior Life Expos are more than just events — they’re a place where people naturally come together. From the moment guests walk in, there’s a sense of energy and welcome with friendly conversations happening at every turn. Whether it’s chatting with a local vendor, sharing a laugh about food samples or sitting in on a helpful presentation, connections form easily and organically. Many attendees arrive on their own but leave having met new friends, exchanging numbers, and discovering shared interests. It’s that simple — genuine interaction that turns a day out into something more meaningful. EXPO, page 18
INSIDE THIS ISSUE
FROM THE
No need to travel far for a good break away from home
Summertime calls for vacation, travel and outdoor activities.
Not everyone can or wants to travel overseas or long distances. When we created the Time to Travel section in Senior Life, it was to tell you about those short, quick trips in and around Central Florida and other parts of the state.
There is so much to see and do on those day trips or overnight trips, including many hidden gems that are so close to the Space Coast.
In this edition, we will tell you about Jungle Trail, which is a great hike that is a short distance south of Sebastian Inlet, near the Pelican Island National Wildlife Refuge.
Hiking or biking the Jungle Trail might also be a good opportunity to visit Pelican Island, established in 1903 as the first national wildlife refuge in the nation.
We brought you these stories about day trips, then thought, why not tell you about some unique parks and places to visit here in Brevard County?
In the previous edition, we told you about Erna Nixon Park. This time, we visit a 207-acre, partially wooded park off Canaveral Groves Boulevard.
This month, we also wanted to look at men’s health.
COUPONS & DISCOUNTS
It is said that sometimes men tend to put off seeking medical help. Since June is Men’s Health Awareness Month, we wanted to see if that attitude of “I am supposed to be strong and resilient” is true and, if so, what can be done about it. What will get men to seek regular medical checkups? We did not know what we would find. Check out the story in this edition.
Oftentimes, people retire and have no hobbies or pastimes. We have brought you stories about many who have found different hobbies and passions that keep them busy and enjoying their retirement.
Surfing is one of those passions that carries on from youth. There are some senior surfers who have been practicing the sport since they were teenagers. Read about some of those surfers in this edition of Senior Life
These are only a few of the kinds of stories you like that you will find in this edition.
Let us continue to hear your feedback. SL
Publisher
Editor R. Norman Moody
Office Manager
Sylvia Montes
Copy Editor
Jeff Navin
Design/Photography
Jorjann Blake
Feature Writers
Ed Baranowski
Chris Bonanno
Ernie Dorling
Hillard Grossman
Randal C. Hill
Elaine Moody
Lillian Nguyen
Betty Porter
Flora Reigada
Emily Warner
R. Norman Moody norm@myseniorlife.com
Jewelry Appraisals for Seniors
Downsizing? Settling an estate, or just curious about your
Pritchard House’s tea brings nation’s rich history to life
BY FLORA REIGADA
The community is invited to an Afternoon Tea and Tour at Titusville’s historic Pritchard House.
It will be a tribute to Betsy Ross, who created the nation’s first flag, and the 250th anniversary of the United States. Ross will be the “guest of honor.”
“The porch will be beautifully decorated with buntings. Come inside and meet Betsy. Hear her explain how she helped George Washington design the flag and why he chose her to make it,” said Roz Foster, president of the North Brevard Heritage Foundation.
Guests can have their picture taken with Betsy Ross, who will be
portrayed by Carol Pedersen.
In addition to tea, scones with cream and jam, savory tea sandwiches and desserts will be on the menu.
The tea will be followed by a tour of the Pritchard House, a historic Queen Anne-style home built in 1891 for Capt. James Pritchard and his family.
The house, located at 424 S. Washington Ave. in Titusville, now serves as a home museum.
The cost is $40 per person and reservations are required.
For reservations for the Afternoon Tea and Tour, call 321-607-0203, email thepritchardhouse@yahoo. com or check out their Facebook page. SL
Viera author pens story for new ‘Chicken Soup for the Soul’ book
BY CHRIS BONANNO
There’s a local connection to the newest “Chicken Soup for the Soul” book.
Linda C. Wright, who has been a Viera resident for the last 17 years, has authored a piece entitled “We Are One,” as part of “Chicken Soup for the Soul: Celebrating America,” which was released on May 5.
“I’m very excited,” said Wright on having her work selected for publication in the book. “I was thrilled when they said they had selected my story ’cause it’s not an easy task to get into any ‘Chicken Soup for the Soul’ book. So, I was thrilled.”
“The theme of ‘We Are One’ is I was on a business trip when 9/11 (referring to the Sept. 11, 2001 terrorist attacks in America) happened. I was in California,” Wright said. “Obviously, there were no airplanes. I couldn’t get home. So, it’s the story of how people that I worked with and the hotel where I was staying kind of rallied around everyone to make sure that everybody was safe and taken care of.”
The newest release marks the eighth time Wright has had a work be part of a “Chicken Soup for the Soul” book, she said.
“My very first story was a dog story,” Wright said. “It’s in ‘My Dog’s Life’ and it was about my dog Ginger flunking out of obedience
school. So, that’s where I got my start.”
The Chicken Soup stories are 1,200 words. Wright said writing each work takes “a few weeks, maybe a month” after writing and re-writing.
“I’ll write it and re-do it and then I’ll let it sit for a little, kind of marinate and then come back to it with fresh eyes and see how I can make it better — what editing I might have missed in the past.”
Wright said.
“Like a lot of writers, I had a regular life.” — Linda C. Wright
Wright has also written three fiction novels, and she has another coming this summer entitled “Caught in Cleveland,” which references where she was raised. Wright also indicated that she’s been writing for around 20 years.
“Like a lot of writers, I had a regular life,” Wright said. “I was a CPA (Certified Public Accountant) for my career and then came back to writing later.”
Wright also called writing her “passion.”
“Every day I like to write and, if I’m not writing, I’m thinking about the next thing I’m going to write. It’s really a big part of my life,” Wright said. “I love it.” SL
SENIOR LIFE Courtesy of the North Brevard Heritage Foundation
Wearing old-fashioned wide-brim hats, guests at a recent Pritchard House tea experience old-fashioned hospitality.
SENIOR LIFE Chris Bonanno
Linda C. Wright, a resident of Viera for the past 17 years, has had eight published stories for “Chicken Soup for the Soul.”
HOBBIES & PASSIONS
THE 22ND FEATURE IN A SERIES ON HOBBIES & PASSIONS
Waves, modern medicine keep Freeman young at heart
BY HILLARD GROSSMAN
Two strokes, three heart procedures, a right knee that’s been operated on four times, renovations on both hips, and a pacemaker.
“Nothing to it,” quips Bob Freeman, toweling himself off after an hour surfing session at Cape Canaveral’s Jetty Park. “Thanks to good doctors and spare parts, I’m still here.”
Freeman, who turns 78 in two months, is a local icon when it comes to the senior surf scene. Having collected hundreds of trophies while competing on the Eastern Surfing Association circuit since 1967, he’s now “graduated” to Grand Legends status.
“It just means you’re old,” he says, joking.
But, he likes the competition — especially against the younger guys
being a decent person ... no politics, everyone enjoying the moment.”
Through his thousands of miles of travel to exotic locations, Freeman has been bumped by a shark, came face to face with a crocodile in Costa Rica, and even saw the body of a missing 10-year-old boy floating near his home surf break in North Carolina.
He’s donated most of his collection of trophies, but keeps the important ones, like the 1968 Florida State Championships in Daytona Beach at the time surfboards were transitioning from the 10-foot “logs” to the mid-range 8-foot size.
Among the senior surfers in the Central Florida District, a nonprofit organization led by Mario DeLuca, are Grand Legends (60-and-older) guru Steve Moldenhauer and fellow Legends (50 to 59) Mike Osborne and Gino Tommasello.
National Kidney Foundation contest in October, which is the 40-and-older
“I love it; I have nothing to lose,”
he says. “It makes it fun, and they sure as heck don’t want to lose to
SENIOR LIFE Courtesy of Bob Freeman Bob Freeman, 77, is a local senior surfer icon with a passion for life. He enjoys being around younger surfers, especially during competitions.
SENIOR LIFE Lillian Nguyen
Florida Heritage Landmark
BAAB fights blindness through local programs
BY BETTY PORTER
Residents in the county who are vision impaired or are blind have an impactful resource in the Brevard Association for the Advancement of the Blind (BAAB) located in Satellite Beach.
This fully volunteer, nonprofit organization has made a difference in the lives of those who are losing or have lost their sight.
“We have been a nonprofit in Brevard since 1966, but are not very well known,” Operations Manager Brelaine Stroner said, adding, “Our goal for this year is to reach more of our community.”
BAAB, through its volunteers, provides classes which teach independent skills for the visually impaired, including personal care and hygiene, health and safety, cooking and home management, financial management, and communication and social skills.
“These personal independent classes are an incredible resource to people who are going through the transition from being able to see to being legally blind,” BAAB board member Lea Gaffen said, adding, “Most were not born blind, but because of medical conditions, and many times genetic disease, they are going blind. It’s a huge physical adjustment as well as an emotional adjustment.”
Gaffen, who herself is now legally blind, experienced the transition from being able to see to becoming
Lea Gaffen, accompanied by her guide dog, Marston, is a licensed clinical social worker. She volunteers her time to talk about the mental health aspect of vision loss.
blind due to a genetic disease called Retinitis Pigmentosa (RP) for which there is no cure.
Gaffen, who is a licensed clinical social worker, volunteers her time to go to the independent living classes to talk about the mental health aspect of vision loss. Her guide dog accompanies her, which generates much interest in the process of
Emergency care that’s in the neighborhood, and on your side.
obtaining a guide dog.
BAAB, located at 674 South Patrick Drive in Satellite Beach, hosts Coffee Talk from 10 a.m. to noon every Thursday. It is free.
Persons with vision impairment, or those who know of people who because of vision problems need help, are welcome to attend to learn what is available.
New technology is making life easier for those with visual impairment or blindness. META glasses are AI-powered glasses that
help users navigate, identify objects, read text ... even menus.
Angel Lopez, who lost his sight due to a disease called Stargardts, wears META glasses, which allows him enhanced independence and accessibility.
Lopez, who spent six years in the military and then started to experience vision loss, was medically discharged. He came to BAAB for skills classes 15 years ago and has now become a volunteer teaching about new technology, and computer and iPhone skills.
“BAAB is a great resource with a friendly environment and offers speakers who can help you keep adapting to your situation,” Lopez said.
Lopez, who loves music and writes and performs songs, volunteers at many of the special events that BAAB hosts. Social events take place three times per year, including in the spring, summer (ice cream social) and the fall. There is also a yearly fundraiser event at which he performs. A favorite of his personally written songs is called “Lemonade” and is about how to adapt when life gives you lemons. It is available to hear by searching Releasing Rufo on YouTube.
More information about BAAB is available on the website and by emailing BAAB@ baabhelpfortheblind.org or by calling the office at 321-773-7222 which is open from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Monday through Friday. SL
SENIOR LIFE Courtesy of BAAB Angel Lopez, who spent six years in the military, wrote a song titled “Lemonade” that is about how to adapt when life gives you lemons.
SENIOR LIFE BAAB
Chateau Madeleine residents will celebrate centenarian milestones
BY BETTY PORTER
Two centenarian residents at the Chateau Madeleine senior living center in Suntree will celebrate their birthdays in June. Geneva Kuhm will become a centenarian by turning 100 on June 12 and George Milo will turn 102 on June 14.
Both will be presented with their own cakes at a celebration set for June 10. Every month, Chateau Madeleine celebrates the birthdays of its residents.
Kuhm was one of the first residents to come to live at Chateau Madeleine, which opened in 2019.
She had been married to Merlin, a jeweler, who died in 1989 at age 65. “I have been alone for a long time,” she said.
They had joined Suntree Methodist Church when they first came to the area and she still enjoys being in the church’s book club and once a month having Community Outreach Pastor Steve come to serve communion.
Kuhm is active on the residents board at Chateau Madeleine and enjoys being in their word activities group as well as reading activities. She had been a teacher for 37 years.
For nine of those years, she taught in a one-room country school with students in all nine grades. Her favorite time as a teacher was when she taught first grade. She still keeps
in touch with one of her students through yearly Christmas cards and she hears from another former student from time to time.
Kuhm has always loved horses. Her dad raised saddle horses on their farm when she was growing up and a cousin was a veterinarian.
“I have a picture of me on a horse in my dad’s arms when I was only five days old,” she said proudly.
Asked about the secret to her longevity, Kuhm said that she loved her job as a teacher. Growing up on a family farm gave her access to the freshest of foods from their big garden. Her mother canned a lot, so she consistently had home-grown food year round.
“I don’t have any aches and pains and I feel good all the time,” she said. “As long as I feel good, I am happy.”
Food might play into George Milo’s longevity as well. He has an Italian heritage and stated how authentic Italian fare was a staple his entire life. He was born on June 14, 1924 in Brooklyn, New York. His father had come to America at the age of 14 and passed onto Milo many of the traditions of Italy, including recipes.
Milo was married to Anne, a nurse, for 62 years.
One of Milo’s sisters lived to be 100, so he can’t help but think genes could also have played a role.
Milo moved from New York to Fort Lauderdale about 65 years ago. In 2013, he moved to Brevard County to be closer to his son, Dr. Scott Milo of Viera, and his daughter, Barbara Milo-Lenhard, who lives on Merritt Island.
After 80 years of driving, Milo said he decided that was enough and turned in his driver license at the age of 95. He moved into Chateau Madeleine four years ago at the age of 98.
Here, he enjoys having visits from family members six days a week, having a Knights of Columbus member pray with him each Sunday, visits by therapy dogs that come to the facility, and friendly visits from Chateau Madeleine residents and staff.
Milo watches old, popular films and listens to band music from the 1950s. SL
SENIOR LIFE Lillian Nguyen Geneva Kuhm, a teacher for 37 years, turns 100 on June 12. She was one of the first residents to live at Chateau Madeleine in 2019.
SENIOR LIFE Lillian Nguyen
George Milo, whose dad came to America at the age of 14 and shared many of Italy’s traditions, turns 102 on June 14.
REMEMBER 9/11
REMEMBER 9/11 IS A SERIES OF PERSONAL STORIES LEADING UP TO SEPTEMBER 11, 2026
Retired NYPD lieutenant recalls chaos, courage, loss on 9/11
BY ERNIE DORLING
On the morning of Sept. 11, 2001, New York Police Department Sgt. Al Foppiano was on duty just 20 blocks north of the World Trade Center when the first plane struck the North Tower. Like many, he initially reacted with confusion.
“We all heard about a plane hitting the tower,” Foppiano said. “I thought it was some kind of horrible accident.”
That uncertainty vanished minutes later when he witnessed the second plane slam into the South Tower. In that instant, the reality became unmistakable — the United States was under attack.
“(The younger generation) didn’t see it, didn’t feel it. It’s important we remember — not just what happened, but how people came together. ... never forget how close, united and patriotic we all were on and after 9/11.”
— Al Foppiano
Sirens pierced the air almost immediately. Civilians flooded the streets, many screaming, pointing skyward or running without direction. Foppiano described the unfolding scene as something out of a disaster movie.
“People were in shock — confused, terrified,” he said. “They didn’t know where to go. They just knew they had to get away.”
Assigned at the time to the Manhattan South Task Force, Foppiano quickly became part of a massive emergency response
scale of the disaster overwhelmed even seasoned first responders. Yet, Foppiano stayed grounded.
“At some point in this job, you become immune to chaos,” he
Despite the horror of that day, Foppiano remembers the extraordinary response from ordinary people. Thousands of civilians converged on the area in the hours and days that followed, volunteering in any way they could.
“People showed up,” Foppiano said. “They wanted to help. That’s something I’ll never forget. There were moments of humanity and kindness that were on display as I’ve never seen in my lifetime,” he added. “It was a time when virtually everyone was proud to be an American.”
Still, the day left deep personal scars. Among the lives lost was a close friend from Foppiano’s youth, firefighter Patrick Lyons. Lyons responded to the towers that morning and became trapped inside. His body was never recovered.
More than two decades later, Foppiano remains concerned that the memory of that day could fade with time.
“The younger generation didn’t live through it,” he said. “They didn’t see it, didn’t feel it. It’s important we remember — not just what happened,
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Kevin M. Murtha Attorney and Counselor at Law
forget how close, united and patriotic one defined by fear, resilience and an
SENIOR LIFE Courtesy of Al Foppiano
Al Foppiano, promoted to lieutemant, retired in 2009 after 20 years with the New York Police Department.
SENIOR LIFE Ernie Dorling
Al Foppiano, who lives in Viera, enjoys the outdoors, working on home projects and playing golf.
STRI PES
Vets Driving Vets is falling short of volunteer drivers
For veterans who do not have a car or who do not drive, getting to a medical appointment or another necessary location can be a big challenge.
Fellow veterans who advocate for their former Brothers in Arms dedicate some of their time to help those without transportation. Using their own vehicle, the volunteers drive veterans to the Viera VA Outpatient Clinic, to other similar appointments and even to pick up some groceries.
There simply are not enough veterans or other drivers to volunteer to do the driving.
Vets Driving Vets is a program of Aging Matters in Brevard that
offers transportation services to veterans in Brevard County, ensuring they can reach necessary healthcare appointments and resources in a safe and dependable manner.
However, more veterans and non-veterans are needed to drive vets not only to the Viera VA Outpatient Clinic, but also to other medical appointments, to the grocery store
and other places they might need to go.
“I have more requests than I have drivers,” said Mechelle Taylor, the program manager for Aging Matters in Brevard’s Sunflower House and the coordinator for Vets Driving Vets.
“I am definitely looking for volunteers. I do struggle to find volunteers.”
The drivers are usually asked to transport a fellow veteran from the area where the volunteer lives. There simply are not enough of them. Drivers can volunteer as needed once a month or several times a month.
The way the program works is if a veteran needs transportation to an appointment, he or she requests the ride. Taylor then sends out a
request to drivers to see who can take the rider at the appointed time. There is also the option of the Senior TranServe program, but too often there is also no driver available. In that case, Taylor must call the rider to let him know there is no one available to drive him.
Individual riders must possess the mobility to walk independently and be able to get in and out of a vehicle without assistance.
Taylor said she cannot accept requests from additional veterans needing rides until more volunteers come forward.
To volunteer, check out agingmattersbrevard.org/ or call 321806-3787. SL
Between worlds — Corpsman still bears moral weight of war
BY ERNIE DORLING
By all accounts, Jim Cejka never stopped being Doc.
It’s a title that followed him from the moment he became a Navy corpsman in 1963, a name spoken in urgency, in trust and sometimes in desperation.
Decades later, long after the uniform came off, the instinct behind that name still defines him.
“I still enjoy being able to help people,” Cejka said.
But behind that modest statement lies a life shaped by difficult choices, moral conflict and the quiet weight carried by those trained in the military to save lives under impossible conditions.
Cejka enlisted in the U.S. Navy in 1963 while living in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.
Like many young men of his generation, he entered the service at a time when the world — and America’s role in it — was rapidly changing.
After basic training, Cejka was sent to Hospital Corps School in San Diego, California, where he learned the fundamentals of military medicine. The training was fast, demanding and practical.
“Corpsmen were expected to be ready for anything — because often, they were the only medical help available,” Cejka said.
That reality would define his career.
But even in those early days, Cejka began to understand that medicine in the military wasn’t just about skill; it was about judgement.
Like many Navy corpsmen, Cejka was assigned to Marine units. Serving with the Marines outside of Da Nang, Vietnam, from 1966 to 1967, he became their lifeline — the one they called when things went wrong.
“To them, you’re just Doc,” he said. “You’re all things medical.
“After researching the issue, I found that military medical personnel often experience a distinct form of trauma — one rooted not just in what they saw, but in what they couldn’t do.”
— Jim Cejka
Treating casualties, military and civilian, you know exactly what needs to be done — but sometimes, all you have is a first-aid bag. And there’s no higher care to send them to.”
It’s in those moments, he says, that the real burden begins.
“It’s a no-win situation. You’re trained to help — but you can’t always do what needs to be done.”
These experiences left a lasting impression, shaping not only how he saw medicine, but also how he understood responsibility. Cejka believes that military medical personnel carry a unique kind of trauma — one that is often overlooked.
“People think of PTSD (posttraumatic stress disorder) as
coming from combat,” he says. “But for medical personnel, it can be different. It involves deep moral issues.”
The conflict stems from being forced to make decisions — or accept limitations — that run counter to the very reason many became corpsmen or medics in the first place: to help people.
“As a corpsman with the Marines, you’re the medical provider,” he said. “In the civilian world, you’re limited by licenses, policies, procedures.”
Cejka left the Navy in 1967 after returning from Vietnam. He worked as a nurse and helped create EMT and paramedic training in Wisconsin.
Years later, Cejka came to recognize something in himself that he hadn’t fully understood before: he
had been living with PTSD for more than 30 years.
“After researching the issue, I found that military medical personnel often experience a distinct form of trauma — one rooted not just in what they saw, but in what they couldn’t do,” he said.
Cejka now works with veterans, hoping to help others navigate similar struggles.
“We are organizing therapy groups for corpsmen, medics, nurses, doctors and military medical personnel who suffer from medical PTSD,” Cejka said. “Through the Melbourne Vet Center, we’re hoping to help care for those who have cared for others. Because once you’ve been Doc, you never really stop being Doc.”
For more information about this Medical PTSD group, contact the Melbourne Vet Center at 321-2543410. SL
SENIOR LIFE R. Norman Moody U.S. Navy/Marine Corpsman Jim Cejka works with veterans suffering from medical PTSD. They were trained to save lives under impossible conditions.
SENIOR LIFE Courtesy of Jim Cejka U.S. Navy Corpsman Jim Cejka learned the fundamentals of military medicine after basic training. In 1966, he was assigned to the Marine units outside of Da Nang, Vietnam.
AVET Project luncheon celebrates military women
BY LILLIAN NGUYEN
On June 12, 1948, President Harry S. Truman signed the groundbreaking Women’s Armed Services Integration Act into law, allowing women to regularly and permanently serve in the United States Armed Forces.
“Even the military women don’t know about this date,” said Kim Cone of AVET Project (American Veterans Empowerment Team.) “So, it’s really important that everyone knows, that everyone attends and comes out to show their support.”
To celebrate Women Veterans Recognition Day on June 12, AVET Project will host its fourth annual Celebrate Our Heroes: the Military Women luncheon.
The event will take place from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at Holiday Inn Viera. Individual tickets are $50 each. Military women with identification will not be charged for admission, but must RSVP.
Alongside veterans resources and networking opportunities, attendees can expect to hear from guest speakers in various military branches.
“It’s going to be hard hitting,” said Garren Cone, the founder and president of AVET. “The ladies get treated like queens — the red carpet treatment, the interviews, the sash, the crowns. … It’s a lovely lunch and they get to listen to the speakers.”
Proceeds from the silent basket auction will benefit AVET Project’s numerous programs, which support veterans and military families.
Congressman Mike Haridopolos
The AVET Project will hold its fourth annual
from 11:30
often
The Celebrate our Heroes: the Military Women luncheon has become a popular event in Brevard County.
will attend the event as a Special Honored Guest. Everyone can RSVP by going to
avet-project.org and registering under the Events/Sponsors/Volunteer tab. SL
SENIOR LIFE Jill Blue
Celebrate our Heroes: the Military Women luncheon
a.m. to 1:30 p.m. June 12 at Holiday Inn Viera. It’s an
overlooked event honoring women in the armed forces.
SENIOR LIFE Jill Blue
Weekly golf outing at Patrick Space Force Base filled with camaraderie
BY ERNIE DORLING
On most Friday mornings between 9 and 10 a.m., a familiar gathering takes shape on the greens at Patrick Space Force Base. The close-knit, but welcoming group of golfers are known simply as the Militia.
For more than 15 years, the Friday morning league has served as much more than a weekly golf outing. It has become a standing tradition built on camaraderie, competition and community among current and former members of the military, Department of Defense employees, retirees and local civilians.
While the league’s roots are grounded in military service, organizers emphasize that the Militia is open to everyone.
“No one is turned away,” said John Gowing, the current leader of the group. “Golfers of all backgrounds and skill levels, both men and women, are welcome and encouraged to participate. We also have a number of snowbirds who are members and play while they’re here for the winter.”
The group is made up primarily of military veterans, former Defense Department workers and retirees, along with a handful of civilian players who have become regular fixtures on the course. What keeps many returning each week is not only the game itself, but also the fellowship that comes with it.
“It’s about the friendships as much as the golf,” said Steve Murray, a longtime member. “A lot of us have known each other for years, and every Friday feels like a reunion.”
This past April, the league marked a new milestone by launching its inaugural tournament, a special event featuring four-person teams representing the various branches of the U.S. armed forces, as well as civilian participants. The inaugural competition added a spirited new tradition to the longstanding league, blending friendly rivalry with the same sense of unity that has defined the Militia through the years.
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“The event was designed to celebrate both military service and the group’s inclusive nature, with teams drawing on past service affiliations while welcoming civilian golfers into the mix,” said Alex Basso, a retired Marine and tournament director. One of the two
U.S. Air Force teams won this year’s tournament.
Access to the base requires golfers to have military or Department of Defense credentials.
Civilians are also welcome, but must obtain a valid golf pass to access the base and course.
Applications for golf passes are available online at gopatrickfl.com/ golf-course.html
For many members, the Militia represents more than a tee-time period. It is a tradition of fellowship, service and shared love of the game that continues to grow with every Friday sunrise.
Those interested in joining the militia golf group can do so by emailing Gowing at jagowing@ yahoo.com or by contacting him at 240-298-4537. SL
Courtesy of John Gowing
John Gowing is the coordinator of the Patrick Militia golf group.
SENIOR LIFE Ernie Dorling Steve Murray also helps with the coordination of the Patrick Militia golf group.
By Randal C. Hill
Behind the Beat
‘Welcome Back’ — John Sebastian
From 1965 to 1968, the John Sebastian-led Lovin’ Spoonful band racked up 10 Top 40 singles on Kama Sutra Records. Eventually, though, the quartet’s flower power folk rock gave way to heavier sounds by such groups as the Doors and the Jimi Hendrix experience.
When the Spoonful disbanded, Sebastian recorded as a solo artist. With the magic seemingly gone, the one-time hitmaker faded from the music scene until a serendipitous event years later returned him briefly to the spotlight. Ironically, it was in the role of composing and singing a one-hit wonder to a new audience.
Sebastian recalled, “I got a call from a guy called Alan Sacks from
unknown John Travolta) would have fun and yet find hope for the future in each half-hour airing.
Sacks wanted a short, lighthearted Lovin’ Spoonful-ish ditty to play over the opening and closing credits. What better artist to tap than the Spoonful founder and leader Sebastian!
Sebastian recalled, “I saw a pilot and read some early scripts and went away thinking, ‘I could hit this out of the park!’ ” But Sebastian was thrown a curve ball when he slammed into a creative wall — he simply couldn’t find an appropriate rhyming word for Kotter at the end of a lyric line.
Sebastian tried — and tossed —
Welcome back to that same old place that you laughed about Well, the names have all changed since you hung around
But those dreams have remained and they’ve turned around Who’d have thought they’d lead ya Back here where we need ya
Ironically, Sebastian was about to be dropped from Reprise because his last several singles had tanked. Not so this time, as “Welcome Back” rocketed
Celebrating our 20th issue
BREVARD COOKBOOK
Blueberry Crunch French Toast a recipe worth sharing
BY ELAINE MOODY
We have a neighbor that loves to bake. Anytime she calls to ask if we would like to try something she made, we know it’s going to be good.
Just recently, she shared some delicious blueberry French toast with us. It was so tasty that I told her I would like to share this delightful recipe with our readers.
It’s perfect for a family breakfast or even a carry-in to your next potluck function. The great thing about this recipe is that it can be served immediately or be refrigerated and reheated for another day. It’s a breakfast dish, but it can be served as a dessert, too.
I made it the following week and found that it’s easy. This recipe makes approximately 10 to 12 servings. SL
INSTRUCTIONS:
Preheat oven to 375 degrees.
Arrange half of the bread slices in a greased 13 x 9 casserole dish and top with 1 cup blueberries.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk eggs, half and half, vanilla and nutmeg until well blended. Dip the remaining bread in this mixture and place on top of the other slices. Pour remaining egg mixture over the bread and leave sitting until all the liquid is absorbed.
Place the remaining blueberries on the top layer of bread.
INGREDIENTS:
1 loaf French bread — cut into 1-inch slices
8 large eggs
1 cup old fashioned oats
1 cup packed brown sugar
¼ cup all-purpose flour
1 cup half and half
½ tsp. vanilla
½ tsp. cinnamon
½ tsp. nutmeg
½ cup cold butter
2 cups blueberries (fresh or frozen)
1 cup crushed walnuts (optional)
In a small mixing bowl, combine the old-fashioned oats, brown sugar, cinnamon and flour. Cut in ½ cup cold butter until the mixture is crumbly. Sprinkle evenly over the top of the blueberries and bread. (If desired, crushed walnuts can be added at this time.)
Bake uncovered at 375 degrees for approximately 35 minutes. Remove from oven and let stand at least 5 minutes.
While the French toast is baking, make a simple berry syrup as follows:
1 cup blueberries or berries of your choice
1 cup warm water
1 cup white sugar
1 teaspoon lemon juice
Whisk together berries, water and sugar in a small saucepan over low heat until sugar is dissolved (about 5 minutes). Increase heat to medium and bring to a gentle boil, stirring often, until syrup is thickened for about 15 minutes. Then, add lemon juice and stir well.
Remove from heat and serve over French toast.
As always, enjoy!
SENIOR LIFE Elaine Moody Blueberry Crunch French Toast is easy to make.
NORTH BREVARD
News for Titusville, Mims & Port St. John
Moon homes hold special lore in Titusville’s past growth
BY FLORA REIGADA
An old adage says, “If these walls could talk.”
This can apply to Titusville’s midcentury modern structures. “They represent an important period of growth and identity tied to the Space Age and post-war development,” said Sue Williams, the Redevelopment Planner for the city of Titusville.
Titusville’s Historic Preservation Board talked about the homes during the committee’s annual workshop on May 28 at the Harry T. Moore Social Services Center at 725 S. DeLeon Ave.
“We called them moon homes because of their prevalence during the space race, when they were assembled for Space Center workers,” said Ar Ro, whose father built more than 100 of the homes. “Each home took three weeks — start to finish.”
Examples of these can be seen in developments such as Hickory Hill, Imperial Estates, Gardendale, Royal Oaks, Lantern Park, Country Club Hills and Indian River Heights.
If you see streets with women’s names, you’ll know you’re in Imperial Estates. Streets named for
famous golfers mark the Royal Oaks subdivision.
The historical board selected two commercial structures and two residential structures for recognition.
Commercial structures: 3880 S. Washington Ave. 2825 S. Washington Ave.
Residential structures: 1760 Diane Drive
301 Nelson Place
“The initiative began in October 2025,” Williams said. “Rather than pursuing formal historic designation, the board explored the concept of recognition without designation. This allows for community awareness and appreciation while maintaining flexibility for property owners. It is an important step in preserving Titusville’s architectural heritage, while fostering community pride.”
“They cost $7,000 on a federal contract. I lived in many of them as they were built.”
Elizabeth Johnson and her husband enjoy their 1966 home.
Moon homes are typically block structures with terrazzo floors, rock roof coverings and jalousie windows,” Ro said.
“From the breezeway blocks around the front garden to the clam shell baseboards in each room, there are small details that foster a nostalgic feeling of what Titusville was like in the ’50s and ’60s,” she said. “I wish more people could see
the beauty in these homes. Wood used in their construction was denser than the wood used today.”
“We called them moon homes because of their prevalence during the space race, when they were assembled for Space Center workers.”
— Ar Ro
Toni Shifalo, a member of the Historic Preservation Board, concurs.
“I hope that the workshop will renew appreciation of this architectural style for homeowners and home buyers,” she said. “They can be renovated and still retain their integrity.”
Questions will be encouraged at the next meeting of the Titusville Historic Preservation Board at 1 p.m. June 1 in Titusville City Hall’s Council Chamber at 555 S. Washington Ave. For information, call 321-5673778 or check out titusville.com/549/ Historic-Preservation-Board SL
SENIOR LIFE David Reigada
The Washington Plaza Office Complex, built in 1960 at 3880 S. Washington Ave., boasts tall arches, open walkways and a lot of glass. It is considered to be typical of Mid-Century Modern Architecture.
SENIOR LIFE Courtesy of Toni Shifalo
This moon home on Nelson Place in the Royal Oak subdivision is a fine example of MidCentury Modern Architecture.
SENIOR LIFE David Reigada
The Imperial Towers apartments at 2825 S. Washington Ave. were built in 1964. Now called the Dream Apartments, they boast a circular glass lobby with a double-round vaulted ceiling that harkens to Mid-Century Modern architecture.
BE STORM READY?
• Hurricane Preparedness Stations
• Speak with Emergency Responders
• Vendors • Educational Displays
• Do you live in an evacuation zone?
• Plan your evacuation route
• Plan for your pet
• Special Needs Shelter information
• Post Storm Planning
HURRICANE PREP HUB Be Safe Through the Storm
Just how are tropical storms and hurricanes named?
2026 Atlantic hurricane season names
Arthur, Bertha, Cristobal, Dolly, Edouard, Fay, Gonzalo, Hanna, Isaias, Josephine, Kyle, Leah, Marco, Nana, Omar, Paulette, Rene, Sally, Teddy, Vicky Wilfred
All but one of these names were last utilized during the 2020 season.
BY CHRIS BONANNO
You might have at some point wondered how tropical cyclones are named.
Well, tropical cyclone names are rotated in six-year increments by the World Meteorological Organization (WMO), which maintains and updates the list, according to the National Hurricane Center (NHC).
As part of the cyclical process, names are retired, or taken out of use, when a storm is “so deadly or costly that the future use of its name on a different storm would be inappropriate for obvious reasons of sensitivity,” according to the National Hurricane Center.
To that end, Leah is a new name on this year’s list. Leah is a replacement name for Laura, which made landfall as a Category 4 hurricane in Louisiana in 2020.
Two other names, Eta and Iota, were retired, though both monikers were used under a previous policy of using Greek alphabet names after all of the initial names had been used.
One name from last year’s list,
Melissa, was retired by the WMO, according to the NHC.
Last year, Melissa made landfall in Jamaica as a Category 5 and later brought impact to areas as a hurricane to places that included Cuba and The Bahamas.
Should the number of named storms exceed the number of names for the season, names for those storms would be drawn from a supplemental list created by the WMO. Those names that would be used, in order, are: Adria, Braylen,
Previously, storms in this scenario were named after letters in the Greek alphabet, but a supplemental list began to be put into use in the Atlantic in 2021, according to the WMO. The reasoning for the change was the impracticality of retiring a letter in the Greek alphabet should the need arise. SL
Forecasts show slightly below-average activity for 2026 season
BY CHRIS BONANNO
The Atlantic basin could see slightly below-average tropical cyclone activity in 2026, according to a seasonal forecast made in May by the National Oceanographic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA).
The forecast calls for eight to 14 named storms to form during the season, which began on June 1 and will run through Nov. 30. NOAA is also calling for three to six hurricanes to form with one to three of those reaching major hurricane status, meaning that they become a Category 3, 4 or 5 hurricane with a maximum of 111 mph sustained winds or greater.
An average hurricane season produces 14 named storms, seven hurricanes and three major hurricanes, according to the NOAA. Last year’s season saw 13 named storms form, with five of those becoming hurricanes and four of those intensifying into major hurricanes.
One of the reasons for the forecast relates to the potential presence of
the phenomenon known as El Nino, which is part of the El Nino Southern Oscillation Cycle that also includes La Nina. El Nino refers to a warming of the waters in the central and eastern Pacific Ocean, while La Nina refers to a cooling of those waters.
El Nino, according to the NOAA, causes the jet stream to move south and spread farther east. This helps to produce wind shear, which can inhibit tropical cyclone development.
Still, Michael Brennan, director of the National Hurricane Center, urged caution relative to letting any guard down even with the forecast of El Nino.
“Regardless of what you hear about El Nino or any type of seasonal forecast, we have to prepare every year as if we’re going to be affected because that risk is there every year, regardless of what any seasonal forecast says,” Brennan said.
To that end, NHC deputy director Jamie Rhome added that more factors beyond El Nino are considered when forecasting tropical cyclones.
SENIOR LIFE Chris Bonanno Michael Brennan is the director of the National Hurricane Center. Despite the prediction for a light hurricane season, Brennan says the public should be prepared for the worst.
“The most commonly talked about factor that goes into the seasonal forecasts is the presence of El Nino or La Nina,” Rhome said. This year, it looks like an El Nino year based off the current information. That can lead some people to believe that the season is going to be inactive. If El Nino alone was the sole determinant in the
seasonal outcome, that might be a fair deduction. But there are other factors that go into the seasonal forecast and the overall seasonal activity. There’s actually probably another five or six factors that go into this that people don’t really talk about. … These other five or six factors are not easy to predict as El Nino and La Nina.”
The NOAA forecast will next be updated in August.
“We’ll respond to the changes that we’re seeing in the atmosphere and El Nino’s not the only, only factor,” Brennan added. “And I would say that even in seasons where overall activity is low, there can still be periods of time and areas that develop within the season where you can have activity happen. You can have storms become very strong and one of the challenges in Florida, in particular, is you can have storms develop and make landfall within just three or four days. You don’t always get a lot of lead time, so people have to be prepared with that plan at the beginning of the season.” SL
Caridad, Deshawn, Emery, Foster, Gemma, Heath, Isla, Jacobus, Kenzie, Lucio, Makayla, Nolan, Orlanda, Pax, Ronin, Sophie, Tayshaun, Viviana and Will.
SENIOR LIFE Shutterstock
The World Meteorological Organization has released the 21 names that will be used for hurricanes in 2026.
HEALTH & WELLNESS
June is Men’s Health Month; learn to prioritize your health
BY EMILY WARNER
June is Men’s Health Month, marking the perfect time for men to prioritize their physical and mental health. According to a study by the National Center for Health Statistics, men are less likely than women to visit their physician.
Between avoiding getting blood work and postponing having yearly check-ups, these delays often compound into more serious issues in long-term health.
Men often avoid going to the doctors because they believe they’re already in good health, fear that something is wrong, have scheduling issues or are nervous about what to expect. If you, or someone you know, is hesitant to schedule an appointment, consider calling your physician beforehand to clarify what to expect during the exam, asking your friends about their recommended doctors or having someone accompany you to the appointment.
One of the best ways to prioritize your own health, in addition to physical exams, is knowing which tests to schedule regularly. While outwardly you may appear healthy and feel great, it’s always worthwhile to ensure that your internal health is up to par.
According to the Cleveland Clinic, there are a few common exams and tests that men should have throughout their life:
• Physical exams, which will also
check blood pressure, heart rate, temperature, height, weight, ears, and eyes
• Blood testing, which can detect diabetes, high cholesterol and
numerous other conditions
• Colonoscopies, to screen for colon cancer, especially for men in their 40s and older
• Testicular exams, to check for testicular cancer, which is the most common cancer for younger men
• Prostate exams, particularly important for men in their 50s and older, to ensure no cancer has formed on the prostate
The frequency and types of testing you should have can vary from person to person, but should be discussed with a personal care physician. Some determining factors for these tests are based on family medical history, current health and age.
Men’s mental health is equally as important as their physical health, though for many, it’s just as easy to push aside.
To better take care of mental well-being, try implementing a few practices such as validating and recognizing emotions, creating a support system, finding enjoyable hobbies and practicing mindfulness through breathing exercises, journaling and staying active.
Although taking care of health needs may feel daunting or intimidating at first, it can often lead to becoming a healthier and happier version of yourself. SL
The Free 2026 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. See page 15 for pickup locations.
Car shows are a popular event for men. Brandon Norton of
& Show will feature luxury-brand vehicles on
Edited by Margie E. Burke
One Senior Place gets set for Men’s Day
BY LILLIAN NGUYEN
What do men like? If the answer is beer, chili and cars, then Men’s Day at One Senior Place is the place to be.
A day just for the guys will include plenty of giveaways and door prizes from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. June 5. Local businesses and vendors will be present.
The event, sponsored by Rhodes Law, P.A., will feature beer tasting by Intracoastal Brewing Company and a chili cook-off.
Several local senior living communities will compete for the
honor of best chili recipe. This year’s car show, organized by Brandon Norton of Coastal Auto Rally & Show, will feature luxurybrand vehicles.
In addition to privately owned cars, Porsche of Melbourne, Mercedes Benz of Melbourne and Jaguar/Land Rover/Lincoln of Melbourne will showcase their own luxury vehicles.
One Senior Place is located at 8085 Spyglass Hill Road in Melbourne. To RSVP for the event, call 321751-6771. SL
SENIOR LIFE Courtesy of One Senior Place
Coastal Auto Rally
Men’s Day.
New Life Mission helping mothers in need
BY CHRIS BONANNO
For more than a decade and a half, locally based New Life Mission has been helping single mothers who are homeless or who are in danger.
The organization, which approaches its work through the lens of Christianity, provides women and children with shelter, mental health counseling, child care, access to health care, transportation, nutrition, education and job training. The organization has helped more than 500 people since it opened.
“Right now, we serve about 20-to25 families,” said Karem Sapp, the donor relations officer with New Life Mission. “We have the capacity to serve more with the means that we have.”
The families helped are primarily local, but Sapp indicated that families have come from far away in the past, citing at least one instance of a woman coming from an abusive relationship from North Carolina as an example.
New Life Mission has four living facilities:
• New Life Village can house 15 to 18 families in group-style living
• Casa Carol can house eight families in individual apartment units
• Joy’s Place can house five families in individual apartment units; and
• The Cottages, where eight graduate families are housed in individual cottages.
New Life Village, whose location is kept private out of respect to the
families that stay there and at the other facilities, is undeniably peaceful and is replete with facilities for children, including a playground and children’s academy, and even a chapel.
New Life Village is considered the home for the first step in its program.
“We are not a temporary shelter,” Sapp said. “Our moms and their children live on campus and they walk through a program that’s usually about a year to two years. So, all that’s part of how they find out about us. Then,
we go through the intake process, interview and then we decide if this is a family that is ready for our program.”
Casa Carol and Joy’s Place are where those in the program would take one step further after being at New Life Village.
“I have a career. I have saved the most money I’ve ever been able to save. I’m preparing to buy my first house. ... I’m just super grateful for the program.”
— Serena Figueroa
“Once they’re able to get all their needs met, they have a full-time job, they have benefits for their children,” Sapp said. “Their children are stable and going to school and they themselves feel like they can provide 100 percent for their families, then they graduate from our program and we have a 90 percent success rate in our program.”
Serena Figueroa came to New Life Mission in September 2024. She is a success story.
“I actually came up from St. Lucie County,” Figueroa said. “I just kind of searched everywhere where I could possibly go. I found myself
in Palm Bay in a shelter, if you will and, eventually, I was looking around, looking for something more permanent. I found New Life Mission, I applied and here I am. My journey has been a complete 180 on my life. I went through a lot of things, unfortunate things that most people — we just shouldn’t be going through.”
Figueroa further discussed the positive changes that have occurred in her life since coming to and eventually graduating from the New Life Mission program.
“I have a career,” Figueroa said. “I have saved the most money I’ve ever been able to save. I’m preparing to buy my first house, and I have so many ventures that I’m kind of getting into right now. I’m so happy with the progress of my kids. It was very tough when they came, but they’re excelling right now. I’m just super grateful for the program.”
Those interested in volunteering or donating to New Life Mission can do so through the organization’s website at newlife-mission.org
“My family and I have seen different moms graduate from this program, whether that be a mom that came in through an abusive relationship and goes through our program, Sapp said. “(She was) able to find a job and become a massage therapist and graduate. Her and her son are very independent and doing great. I’ve seen moms graduate as nurses, as firefighters here in the Brevard community.” SL
SENIOR LIFE Chris Bonanno
New Life Mission has four private campuses well-furnished with facilities for children. One campus also has a chapel.
1 2 3 4 5 6
Sit ‘n Knit
2 - 4 p.m.
Knitting and crocheting.
Palm Bay Library 1520 Port Malabar Blvd. NE, Palm Bay 321-952-4519
SHINE
9 a.m. - noon
Counselors assist seniors with Medicare and Medicaid questions.
DeGroodt Library 6475 Minton Road SE Palm Bay, 321-345-1057
Painting with Pearl
10 a.m. - noon
A fun-filled instructor led class to paint a watercolor or acrylic painting.
Cocoa Library 308 Forrest Ave. Cocoa, 321-633-1792
Fitness Fun
9:15 - 10:15 a.m.
Greater Palm Bay Senior Center 1275 Culver Drive NE Palm Bay, 321-724-1338
Wednesday Morning
Bocce
9 a.m.
Italian American Club of South Brevard 1471 Cypress Ave. Melbourne 321-242-8044
Pilates Class
9:30 - 10:30 a.m.
Veterans Memorial Complex 2285 Minton Road Melbourne 347-609-3355
Senior Safety with Sheriff Wayne Ivey
6 p.m.
Bowe Gardens
Baptist Church 2700 Sarno Road Melbourne 321-254-5622
Strength and Balance 9:30 a.m.
Improve balance/ flexibility build muscle. Cocoa Beach Senior Center 5000 Tom Warriner Blvd. Cocoa Beach 321-783-9505
Men’s Day
10 a.m. - 1 p.m.
Luxury car show, chili cook off, beer tasting. One Senior Place 8085 Spyglass Hill Road Viera, 321-751-6771
Brevard Comedy Fundraiser
7 p.m.
Benefits Brevard County Foster and Adoptive Parent Association. Kiwi Racquet Club 30 Tradewinds Drive Indian Harbour Beach 321-773-2116
Sixth annual Raider Pride Golf Tournament
8 - 11 a.m. Proceeds will support student programs. Rockledge Country Club 1591 S. Fiske Blvd. Rockledge, 321-636-6022
Luau Bingo Fun-raiser 4 - 6 p.m. Come dressed in your favorite Hawaiian shirt. Forester Recreation Center 960 Cogswell St. Rockledge, 321-684-7920
7 8 9 10 11 12 13
"Contemporary American Composers"
3 p.m.
Presented by the Community Band of Brevard. Merritt Island High School Auditorium 100 Mustang Way Merritt Island, 321.258.5580
A.W.A.K.E. Sleep Support Group
6 - 7:30 p.m. Parrish HealthCare Center 5005 Port St. John Parkway, Port St. John 321-268-6408
Brevard Genealogical Society 9:30 a.m. Cocoa Library Cocoa, 615-504-2041
Adult Tap Dance 5:15 - 6:15 p.m. Short routines to challenge the brain and improve balance, endurance, muscle strength and flexibility. Wickham Park Community Center 2815 Leisure Way Melbourne 321-608-7490
"Coming Home: A Musical Tribute to America"
7 p.m. Presented by the Melbourne Community Orchestra. Melbourne Auditorium 625 Hibiscus Boulevard Melbourne 321-285-6724
Cook the Book Club 6 - 7:30 p.m. Sourdough Demonstration Mims/Scottsmoor Library 3615 Lionel Rd Mims, 321-264-5080
14 15 16 17 18
Space Coast Cars and Motorcycles
8 - 11 a.m.
Ford’s Garage 5480 Lake Andrew Drive Viera, 201-658-2004
Purse Bingo
1 - 4 p.m.
Frenchie Rescue benefit. Springs of Suntree 8300 Holiday Springs Road, Suntree 321-989-5514
Senior Strength Training and Health Education 9:30 a.m. Participants lift light hand weights to improve bone and muscle strength. while also working to improve their balance.
Merritt Island Library 1195 N Courtenay Pkwy Merritt Island 321-455-1369
Medicaid Planning 10 a.m. Presented by elder law attorney William A. Johnson. One Senior Place 8085 Spyglass Hill Road Viera, 321-751-6771
Sunshine Brass Quintet 4:30 - 5:30 p.m.
Eau Gallie Library 1521 Pineapple Ave Melbourne 321-255-4304
Law School for Life: Scam Prevention 101 10 a.m. Rhodes Law, P.A. One Senior Place 8085 Spyglass Hill Road Viera, 321-751-6771
Third Thursday 5 - 8 p.m. Enjoy live music, complimentary snacks, and a free drink or ice cream. The Avenue Viera 2261 Town Center Ave. Viera 321-634-5390
Celebration of our Military Women 11:30 a.m. - 1 p.m. Benefiting the AVET Project. Holiday Inn Viera 8298 N. Wickham Road Viera, avet-project.org
Afternoon Tea with Betsy Ross
2 - 4 p.m. Pritchard House 424 S. Washington Ave. Titusville, 321-607-0203
Speed Puzzle Showdown 2 - 3:30 p.m.
Complete a 300-piece jigsaw puzzle in an hour. Cocoa Library 308 Forrest Ave Cocoa, 321-633-1792
19 20
ShuttleFest V 8 a.m. - 8 p.m. Meet astronauts and NASA legends. Hilton Cocoa Beach 1550 N. Atlantic Ave. Cocoa Beach 321-264-0434
Live Concert 3 - 4 p.m. Cocoa Beach Library 550 N. Brevard Ave. 321-868-1104
Charity Golf Scramble
7 a.m.
This special event honors the legacy of George Artz, the founder of Coconuts On The Beach and a beloved figure in the Cocoa Beach community. Cocoa Beach Country Club 5000 Tom Warner Blvd. Cocoa Beach 321-868-3351
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Sunday Night Karaoke
8 p.m. Karaoke with Winterhawk Entertainment.
Merritt Island Moose Lodge 3150 N. Courtenay Parkway Merritt Island 321-452-8383
Florida History Lecture 3 - 4 p.m.
James Zacharias discusses Early History of Tourism in Northeastern Florida. Cocoa Beach Public Library 550 N. Brevard Ave Cocoa Beach 321-868-1104
Retire Well in Brevard 5:30 p.m. Wine and cheese happy hour featuring local experts talking about retirement.
One Senior Place 8085 Spyglass Hill Road Viera, 321-751-6771
“Songs for America250 Years” June 24 and June 25
7 p.m. Presented by the Melbourne Municipal Band.
Melbourne Auditorium 625 E. Hibiscus Blvd. Melbourne 321-724-0555
Estate Planning 10 a.m. Presented by elder law attorney William A. Johnson. One Senior Place 8085 Spyglass Hill Road Viera, 321-751-6771
BCSO Shred Event 9 - 10:30 a.m. Titusville Library 321-264+5201
Paint Night Therapy 5:30 - 8:30 p.m. AVET Project benefit. RISE Viera 8353 Auterra Drive Viera, avet-project.org
Titusville Twilight 6 - 9 p.m. Food trucks and music. Downtown Titusville 419 S. Hopkins St. 321-348-4748
"National Toby Keith Tribute Show" 7 p.m. Tribute artists
TIME TO TRAVEL Jungle Trail
Historic Jungle Trail offers nature’s
BY EMILY WARNER
As you drive south along A1A, it’s easy to spot a variety of beautiful beaches and trails along the highway.
One of the oldest and perhaps most unique trails could easily be missed. Partly tucked among the trees just south of Sebastian Inlet is Jungle Trail, a nearly eight-mile dirt road near Pelican Island Wildlife Refuge.
Originally built in the 1920s, the trail was created for local citrus growers so they could easily move their produce along the barrier island. It passes near houses and a golf course, though most of it is through woods.
Local resident Richard Jones played a major role in cultivating this route. In the late 1800s, Jones’ father built their small home on the family property by the Indian River. Eventually, Jungle Trail ran through what was Jones’ property.
local history as they take their own journey along the dirt road. Whether choosing to bike, hike or drive (slowly), there is much to see and experience along the way. The Jones’ house, now known as the Jones’ Pier Conservation Area, is open to the public from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. each Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday.
Located closer to A1A along the Jungle Trail, visitors can also check out the Pelican Island National Wildlife Refuge. A beautiful spot for time in nature and observing wildlife, it also has a few scenic trails ranging from less than a mile to a three-mile loop.
Local resident Bridget Burke has biked and hiked the Jungle Trail many times through the years.
“Hiking allows you to notice the smaller details — the quiet movement of wildlife, the texture of the old canopy overhead and the stillness of the lagoon nearby. While biking gives you a greater sense of the trail’s length and rhythm,” Burke said. “The Jungle Trail (is) one of the most peaceful and naturally beautiful places. There’s a sense of calm there that feels increasingly rare. … It’s one of those places that leaves a distinct impression because it feels connected to an older, quieter side of Vero Beach.” SL
Jones was a farmer known in the area for operating a fruit stand. He eventually opened a small pier near his home and the trail. People then began mooring their boats, fishing and transporting goods from the mainland to the barrier island.
Today, visitors can step back into
SENIOR LIFE Emily Warner
The Jungle Trail weaves through a variety of beautiful Vero Beach neighborhoods and right along the Indian River Lagoon.
SENIOR
Pussyfooted
Striped shirt wear-
Bumbler
Operative
Hurry
Comic Conway
Women’s rights activists
The America’s Cup trophy, e.g.
Split 27. Dangerous biters
32. Divides into halves 33. Attention-getter
Layer 36. Minuscule 38. Bouquets 39. Pipe type
Pursue
Go to and fro
Entirely 45. Giant syllable
Not a good confidant
48. Turning point? Solution on page 26
THE 11TH FEATURE IN A SERIES ON 19TH AND EARLY 20TH CENTURY CHURCHES
Brevard County’s oldest Catholic church undergoes renovation
BY LILLIAN NGUYEN
St. Joseph Catholic Church is Brevard County’s oldest Catholic church still in active use. Located at 1422 NE Miller Street, the historic wooden church was dedicated in 1914 by the original settlers of Tillman, now named Palm Bay.
The building was built entirely by the parishioners with the assistance of a local sawmill.
The church is currently undergoing refurbishment.
The parish quickly outgrew the building. Instead of constructing a side building or addition, the parishioners decided to extend the church.
“They cut the building in half,” said Deacon Greg Kapral, who is overseeing the restoration of the building. “Pushed the back half farther west and inserted about a 20-foot section.”
To get to the church, parishioners rode horse-drawn wagons on dirt or tar-coated roads.
“They were doing it all by hand,” Kapral said. “... and horse.”
The bell was hung in the belltower using a block and tackle pulled by a horse. When the bell was taken down in 2020, the parish was shocked to find that it was still the original. The bell will be restored by its original manufacturer, which still operates in Ohio.
“They
cut the building in half. Pushed the back half farther west and inserted about a 20-foot section.”
— Greg Kapral, Deacon
The adjacent cemetery contains the families of the founding parishioners. The founding parishioners were originally buried to the west of the church, across the street, but were relocated to the new cemetery in the 1920s.
“The problem was that you had to move your own relative,” Kapral said. “You had to dig them up and move them yourself. … So there are seven bodies that are still on that other side of the road, in what was originally the cemetery.”
St. Joseph Miller Street Catholic Church was added to the U.S. National Register of Historic Places in 1987. The St. Joseph Catholic Community remains an active parish, with the main church building now at 5330 Babcock St. in Palm Bay.
Once the refurbishment is completed, the Miller Street chapel will remain in active use for the adjacent cemetery. SL
Space Coast Communities Sports Complex offers useful, unique facilities
BY CHRIS BONANNO
The Space Coast Communities Sports Complex offers a wide variety of facilities for residents to enjoy outdoor activities.
The Canaveral Groves-based complex at 662 Canaveral Groves Blvd. encompasses 207 acres. It includes baseball fields as the home of the Port St. John Little League, football fields as the home of Space Coast Panthers Football and Cheer, and soccer fields as the home of Port St. John United Soccer.
The complex also includes a hobby airplane paved landing strip and a wooded walking trail.
“I like the community, definitely. We’ve become a family at this point with the amount of time we spent here,” said Karina Souza, a parent. “It’s a nice park. Definitely needs a little bit more maintenance on the Parks and Rec side and we try to make that and coordinate during the offseasons to get as much as possible.”
In addition, Space Coast Communities Sports Complex also has a basketball park, playground and pavilion as well.
Don Walker, the Brevard County director of communications, said the complex officially opened in 2000.
That’s also when Sky Beck served as a football coach with one of the Port St. John teams.
“Being a coach there and my son playing was the highlight for me,” Beck said.
To this day, Beck still has a connection to the park.
“My son gives baseball lessons on the side,” Beck said. “It’s just a couple of miles from our house, so it’s nice having it right there.”
Despite that official 2000 opening, it’s actually two areas that were established on the land prior that might set it apart from other parks. Walker indicated that land was purchased in 1967 from private owners and that in 1973 the land was rezoned for use by “mini-bikes,
motorcycles and dune buggies.”
From there, the park then became known as Off Road Vehicle Park in 1974. Under that name and in the late 1980s to the early 1990s, a go-kart track and radio-controlled airfield, where the Spaceport RCers now operate, were both established, according to Walker.
“I did go watch the model
airplanes,” Beck said. “My stepfather was big into building them. Once he retired, he built them and we’d go out there and watch him fly them. Did that quite a few times.”
Spaceport RCers meet at 11 a.m. the second Sunday of each month at the airfield within the Space Coast Communities Sports Complex. For information, check out spaceportrcers. club
The Space Coast Full Throttle Speedway offers classes and events twice a month. The next events are scheduled for June 6 and June 20. For information, check out scfullthrottlesw. com
No matter the activity, it’s clear the park is seeing significant traffic with Walker stating that recreation partner attendance (comprised of the Little League, Panthers Football and Cheer, United Soccer Club and the RCers) in 2025 was 79,259. SL
SENIOR LIFE Lillian Nguyen
St. Joseph Catholic Church is Brevard County’s oldest Catholic church with worship services and an active congregation.
SENIOR LIFE Chris Bonanno
The Spaceport RCers operate a model aircraft landing strip at the Space Coast Communities Sports Complex in Canaveral Groves.
SENIOR LIFE Chris Bonanno Go-kart races take place at the Space Coast Full Throttle Speedway in Canaveral Groves.
BCOA NEWS
Brevard Commission on Aging
BCOA meetings are open to the public and are held the second Thursday of each month at the Government Center in Viera.
For information, contact Cindy Short at 321-633-2076, FAX 321-633-2170 or email cindy. short@brevardfl.gov. BCOA is located at 2725 Judge Fran Jamieson Way, B-106, Viera, FL 32940.
Aging without Limits will be theme for Older Americans Month
Each May, the Commission on Aging celebrates Older Americans Month. This year, the Commission on Aging has selected an exciting theme to help recognize the invaluable contributions of older Americans, highlight aging trends and reaffirm the commitment to advocate for older adults.
The Brevard Commission on Aging, established in 2001, addresses the evolving needs of an aging population through a collaborative effort among the public and private sectors, as well as engaged citizens.
This year, the Commission has selected Aging without Limits to be its theme for its 2026 Older Americans Month theme. It will focus on transforming how society perceives, discusses and approaches aging. The initiative encourages individuals and communities to challenge stereotypes and dispel misconceptions.
At a recent meeting, the members of the Commission on Aging voted to recognize M.E. Kelly, the United Way Space Coast interim president, and current City of West Melbourne Council member Helen Voltz with a
resolution.
This year, the members joined the Brevard County Board of County Commissioners in honoring the contributions of older adults with a resolution. The resolution presentation was held during the Brevard County Board of County Commissioner’s meeting at the Government Center in Viera on May 5.
The recipients selected are exploring meaningful ways to stay active and engaged. They also are celebrating the opportunities for purpose, exploration and connection that come with aging.
Kelly has a long history of public service. She was a member of the United States Air Force and later served as a Brevard County Sheriff’s Deputy during her professional career. Kelly also was heavily involved with Habitat for Humanity. She developed the first female military members/retirees building in the United States in Brevard County. This initiative was later adopted nationwide. Kelly is a board member for her church.
In retirement, Kelly also serves on the board of directors for various
nonprofits. Recently, while serving on the board for United Way Space Coast, she was asked to step in as interim president to lead the organization through a series of executive leadership changes.
Voltz, a former Brevard County Commissioner, has a long history of service. After the death of her first son, Voltz went back to school to become a registered nurse. She later became involved in politics and served three years on the Palm Bay City Council, as well as eight years on the County Commission.
During her service with the
public, she continued to go to school, receiving her bachelor’s degree from Barry University and a master’s degree from Webster University. Since retiring in 2009, Voltz has volunteered for several organizations and for several political campaigns. For 12 years, she volunteered as an RN at a summer camp for disabled adults. One summer, she helped deaf children at the Sertoma Camp Endeavor.
Voltz is currently a member of the Commission on Aging and continues to advocate for all seniors in Brevard County. SL
Senior Tsunami’s wave can’t be slowed down in 2026
Keep your head up! You are part of the WAVE — the Senior Tsunami. No, it’s not water, but a force caused by seniors retiring in Florida.
The late tsunami expert Dr. George Maul of the Florida Institute of Technology modeled the prospect of a big wave hitting our shores. No need to worry. It started in the Azores as a volcanic eruption, spread across the Atlantic, hit our coastline and stopped at I-95. Our Senior Tsunami just doesn’t seem to want to stop.
When I moved from Wisconsin to Florida in 1984, I told them to close the gates. There were a little more than 7 million people here. Housing developments sprung up all over the state and every type of industry found a new home. Concerns about potable water, the aquifer, flooding, air quality, garbage removal, sewage, hurricanes and wildlife habitat were reviewed. Solutions included: pave it over and build some more.
Every generation that visited or vacationed here became part of the wave. The Boomer generation focused on tropical Florida. It had an ideal climate, miles of beaches, water sports, no state income tax, a low-cost of living, theme parks galore and so much more. This magnet became part of the wave.
When our state has more than 1,000 new residents arrive each day, there were challenges. The tsunami effect covers every aspect of life.
At the recent Senior Life-sponsored BoomerFest! Expo, exhibitors from health care services, insurance, caregivers, estate planners, lawyers, housing — independent living, assisted
Challenges of Living to Age 100
living, memory care and many more were there.
The tsunami wave is heightened with lengthy waiting times to get into a care facility. Medical appointments often become difficult to get on short notice. A Primary Care doctor with 1,600 listed patients fearing burnout switches to a concierge MDVIP program with a $200 monthly fee for 600 clients. Traffic reduces our mobility. When we lose our driving privileges, transportation options are limited.
Think about our replacements. The new generations are opting out of having children.
Currently, there are 53 childbirths among 1,000 women of child-bearing age. Go ahead, ask your grandkids, “When are you going to have a baby?” Some solutions: AI, robots and other technological inventions to curb the wave. You are here. Accept the challenge. Maintain a positive attitude. Be part of the solution. Share your ideas. We are in this together. SL
Ed Baranowski is an awardwinning writer, artist, speaker and seminar leader. He lives in Melbourne and can be contacted at fast75sr@ gmail.com.
Ed Baranowski
Helen Voltz
M. E. Kelly
Owner: Joe DePinto
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