Senior Life, April 2024

The

Roper Romp with Stanley

Suntree couple cherish 70 years

BY WENDY SCHEURING

Dakota, a 45-pound mix of German Shepherd, Catahoula, Pit Bull and 2 percent Chihuahua, loves to greet visitors to the Loughrey household in Suntree. She’s the perfect representative for a couple who have been married for 70 years.

“She’s just the sweetest dog,’’ said Sheila Loughrey, who recently celebrated her platinum wedding anniversary with her husband Bill. “Our granddaughter is a veterinarian’s assistant, and you wouldn’t believe what a mess she was when

someone brought her in. They fixed her up, and we didn’t listen to the thought that we’re too old to have a dog. When we take her out on a leash, she immediately goes into a trot.’’

Sheila Loughrey, 90, is originally from St. John’s, the capital of Newfoundland in Canada, and Bill Loughrey, 91, is from Ardmore, which is a suburb of Philadelphia.

They met in 1951 and married three years later.

70 YEARS Continued on page 19

SENIOR LIFE Susie Parente

Members of the Bridgewater Divas social group gathered for fun during a Mrs. Roper Romp at the Space Coast Mural Festival in Cocoa Beach. Story, page 6.

myseniorlife.com

jill@myseniorlife.com

Publisher

Jill Blue

Editor

R. Norman Moody

Office Manager

Sylvia Montes

Copy Editor

Jeff Navin

Art Department

Jorjann Blake

Feature Writers

Ed Baranowski

Ernie Dorling

Mike Gaffey

Randal C. Hill

Linda Jump

Lindsay Sanderfur

Barbara Jean Mead

Flora Reigada

Wendy Scheuring

What are some of the things you look for to know if you are under too much stress?

I do not know if people can normally recognize their own stress in a way to help them cope, reduce or eliminate it.

At one time, I was under too much stress because the company I was working for was unpredictable as to upcoming changes and who would be laid off next. I did not recognize the stress until my doctor started asking me questions about it.

Stress can affect your physical health if it is not corrected or eliminated. After that conversation with my doctor, I decided I was not going to let stress affect me like it was. My physical health improved right away.

But it is not always that easy. That is why we decided to explore a story about stress. You can read it in this issue of Senior Life

It is usually a family member, a friend or a colleague who will first notice that you are stressed. Listen to their advice.

Stress is only one of the health and wellness stories which we hope will help you. We also are looking at what a Medicare yearly wellness check includes. The more you know, the better you will be equipped to ask your doctor questions. You want to make sure you are getting all the tests you are entitled to under your Medicare guidelines. Check out that story, too.

Now that it is spring and the weather is warm (hot some days), it is time to get out and enjoy the outdoors. We love bringing you stories about outings and day trips around the Sunshine State. This time, it is about the St. Johns Botanical Garden and Nature Preserve, a gem of a garden that is located less than a two-hour drive from Cocoa, or about an hour south of Jacksonville. Check out this month’s travel story. Most of these travel stories are for day trips or simple overnight trips around the state to help you get a break from the routine.

There is plenty of information you can use that is packed in this edition of Senior Life

We love hearing from you, so if there is a topic you would like to see us cover, send us an email or give us a call. SL

R. Norman Moody norm@myseniorlife.com

Brevard residents have a myriad of venues to enjoy jazz

BY LINDA JUMP

Forty-year touring trombonist Joel Greenblatt moved to Brevard County in 2005 from New York City primarily because of “the beautiful lineage of Space Coast jazz.”

“We have Jazz on the Beach concerts, Heidi’s Jazz Club, just cited as one of the top jazz clubs in the U.S. by DownBeat magazine,” he said. “Corked 1080, Space Coast Jazz Society scholarships and many big names have performed here. Jazz thrives in high school bands, club dates, open mic events and concerts led and promoted by many hard-working musicians and fans, including Jack Simpson and Helen Inglis.”

April is Jazz Appreciation Month, a time to celebrate the unique American music genre known for improvisation, complex chords, swing and blues notes. Thriving since the 1910 through 1920s Jazz Age, jazz incorporates classical music entwined with African rhythm and slave folk songs, blues, spirituals, marches, ragtime and other forms, everevolving through time.

Kurt Schulenburg of Fellsmere, a multi-instrumentalist who directs two swing bands, said, “The better you are at it, the more fun you’ll have.” Jazz and its many variations help players with concentration and focus, he said.

Roland Guilarte, the president of BMG Concerts, said jazz offerings do well in Brevard.

“Our Feb. 25 Spiro Gyra jazz concert drew over 700 people on a Sunday at the King Center.”

As a youth, Guilarte played

traditional jazz in Cocoa Beach. “I’ve been promoting smooth jazz recently because straight-ahead jazz has fallen behind with a drop in ticket sales since 2008, 2010. My biggest concern is we don’t see a lot of young people coming, compared with classic rock and blues.”

Gigi Gordon, a director of the Space Coast Jazz Society, said the allvolunteer group presents two $1,000 scholarships to Brevard high school students annually.

“Our goal is to educate people about jazz in its original form,” she said, and to encourage young musicians.

“Jazz is the fun music we got to play in high school that’s uptempo

continued on page 9

Thursday, April 4 from 3:00 - 5:00 p.m.

ESTATE PLANNING BOOKLET

SENIOR LIFE Linda Jump

Kurt Schulenburg, right, conducts the Swing Time Band at a recent concert.

Strength is key to maintaining good balance, helping prevent falls

BY WENDY SCHEURING

Good balance requires strengthening muscles and bones.

Strengthening helps to keep a good balance and prevent falls.

According to the NIH National Institute on Aging, “Balance is a major reason why older adults fall.” Falling can lead to broken bones and serious injuries, which is why being proactive can prevent accidents from happening. need a strong core, strong muscles and

strong bones,” said instructor Marcia Luhn, who teaches a Bones and Balance class at Wickham Park Senior Center on Monday mornings. “It all works together.”

Before beginning a new physical activity program, it is recommended to

“In order to have good balance, you need a strong core, strong muscles and strong bones.”

—Marcia Luhn Bone & Balance instructor

for nonmembers.

Luhn said there are several simple exercises that can be done at home. For example, while brushing your upper teeth, you can stand on one leg switch legs while brushing your lower teeth. Make sure to look at the mirror

“FUN”draiser “FUN”draiser

While watching TV, you can get up lift with one leg, while standing, then offers free on-demand online videos, which show how to perform strength

marching, while alternately swinging going at a comfortable pace, you can can also add core work by rolling your on your own or in a classroom setting, you can also work one-on-one with a trained professional at a location near

SENIOR LIFE photo

Exercises that strengthen muscles and bones are a key to keeping good balance to help prevent falls.

games and sports.

Space Coast Habitat for

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By Randal C. Hill

Behind the Beat

‘The Loco-Motion’ — Grand Funk Railroad

In 1962, fad dances were all the rage among record-buying teens. Included among the steps was the LocoMotion, where participants shuffled their arms to simulate the driving of steel rods that turned a locomotive’s wheels.

A chug-a chug-a motion like a railroad train now

Songsmiths Carole King and husband Gerry Goffin had created “The Loco-Motion” for 17-year-old Eva Boyd. Called Little Eva on records, Boyd’s million seller soared to No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.

Fast forward a dozen years, and “The Loco-Motion” regains the top chart slot again, but this time by a Flint, Michigan power trio called Grand Funk Railroad.

“We were loud, but there was a reason,” proclaimed leader Mark Farner. “We wanted to create an atmosphere in

which nothing existed but the music.”

Farner had apprenticed in two bands in high school before dropping out and assembling an eardrum-cracking aggregation with pals Don Brewer (drums) and Mel Schacher (bass). They gleaned their play-on-words name Grand Funk Railroad from a Michigan rail line named the Grand Trunk Western Railroad.

Wowing the crowd as an unknown (and unpaid) opening act at a 1969 Georgia rock festival, the threesome eventually signed with Capitol Records, the prestigious one-time home label of the Beatles and the Beach Boys.

Beloved by their fans but frequently ignored by Top 40 DJs or reviled by music critics who often saw them as unpolished and unnecessarily loud, Grand Funk Railroad found recording success right out of the gate, beginning

Fun-loving

with their “On Time” album late in 1969. After seven more hit LPs, they shortened their name to Grand Funk in 1973. In that year, Craig Frost came aboard to play keyboards with the band.

“Shinin’ On,” the rockers’ 10th album, included “The Loco-Motion.” Don Brewer recalled that, during a break in the recording studio, Farner had begun singing, “Everybody’s doing a brand new dance now!” Farner had been goofing around, but everyone there that day declared that the band could possibly pull “The Loco-Motion” off as a valid recording — if it were done right.

Their top-notch producer Todd Rundgren recalled the Beach Boys’ “Barbara Ann,” an oldie single lifted from their “Beach Boys’ Party!” LP and done in a studio but made to sound live, as at a casual music jam.

ladies go on Mrs.

Rundgren, a wizard at the recording console, made the band’s “The LocoMotion” sound live. Brewer explained, “Todd could really crank up everything with the hand claps and all of that stuff. It just had this huge sound to it. It sounded like a big party!”

“The Loco-Motion” became the headbangers’ second No. 1 single. (“We’re an American Band” had arrived a year earlier.)

Goffin later offered a diplomatic take on the hard-rock version of the iconic tune he wrote with King: “You can still hear how it appeals to the kids.”

Farner and friends never abandoned their roots. “People want the real thing,” Farner once proclaimed. “As long as there’s room for sledgehammer rock and roll, there’s room for Grand Funk Railroad!” SL

Roper Romp

BY MIKE GAFFEY

Cocoa Beach was overrun with Mrs. Ropers during the middle of March.

Decked out in colorful caftans, beads and red wigs to celebrate Helen Roper, the free-spirited landlady played by Audra Lindley in the hit 1970s television comedy “Three’s Company,” more than two dozen members of the Bridgewater Divas social group and their husbands gathered for fun times during a Mrs. Roper Romp at the Space Coast Mural Festival.

Mrs. Roper Romps started in New Orleans in 2013. Since then, the gatherings have spread across the country

“I thought it would be a lot of fun. … And I think next time it will be even bigger.”

—Valerie Pettus

and the bawdy Mrs. Roper has become something of a cult figure today.

Valerie Pettus, one of the members of the group from Bridgewater at Viera, a 55-and-older neighborhood in the master-planned community, said she learned about Mrs. Roper Romps after seeing an advertisement and decided to share the celebration last year with other Bridgewater Divas members.

“I thought it would be a lot of fun,” Pettus said. “And so we started here and I think the first time there were only about 18 of us and it’s doubled this time. And I think next time it will be even bigger.”

Nine husbands joined the Divas for the festivities, wearing T-shirts bearing the image of Mrs. Roper’s hard-edged, suspicious spouse and landlord Stanley, portrayed by Norman Fell. Roper was always looking for a reason to evict Jack Tripper, played by John Ritter, who shared a Santa Monica, California apartment with Chrissy, played by Suzanne Somers, and Janet, played by Joyce DeWitt. The popular sitcom ran from 1977 to 1984 and spawned a spinoff, “The Ropers,” which starred Fell and Lindley and aired in 1979 and 1980.

The Bridgewater Divas’ goal is to “be active,” member Tina Swenson said.

“We go out dancing, clubbing,” Swenson said.

Group members plan to meet quarterly and hope to present community-service projects in the future, Pettus said.

“I have seen that some of the Mrs. Roper Romps do a donation so maybe we can do that next time,” she said. SL

SENIOR LIFE Susie Parente

The Bridgewater Divas and their Stanley companions gathered for the Mrs. Roper Romp at the Space Coast Mural Festival.

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thinking of retiring soon. What do I need to know or do beforehand?

is about 10 years old. How do I know if it is still enforceable?

TECH KNOW TIDBITS

Pay with phone — digital wallet offers extra layer of security

BY BARBARA JEAN MEAD

Digital wallets are a way to use a smart phone or device or a computer to pay from a financial account. They can also be used to store boarding passes, concert tickets, gift cards, hotel reservations, coupons and loyalty cards (for example, Costco and Winn Dixie) in addition to credit and debit cards.

Apple Pay for iPhone users, Google Pay for Android users, Samsung Pay, Cash App, Zelle, Venmo and PayPal are all examples of digital wallets, and each has its pros and cons. Apple Pay is a favorite for security-minded individuals because of Apple’s excellent security.

“Why do people think it is scary? I know Apple is secure. My daughter and I use it to send money. I have never had a problem with it. It is fast and easy to use.” said Soledad Tibball of Titusville.

Many fast-food apps such as Starbucks offer digital wallets within the app that offer incentives such as “stars” that can be redeemed for free drinks, gift cards and other rewards.

Common concerns of security and safety keep many people from embracing the digital wallet. Digital wallets are safer than physical cards since they have the dual features of encryption and tokenization.

When you add your credit card or other information into a digital wallet,

encryption converts it into a unique code that can only be accessed by authorized entities. Tokenization goes a step further by taking the encrypted data and replacing it with a unique token which is randomly created every time a user makes a payment and only the merchant can match this token to accept the payment. This makes your information unreadable. Even if a particular retailer you shopped at is hacked, your personal payment is still protected.

With a digital wallet, there are often added layers of security that make them safer than paying with a physical card. If someone steals your physical credit card, it is much easier for them to use it. With a digital wallet, there are added security layers including password protection, facial recognition or fingerprint scans.

As of 2022, 89 percent of Americans have used at least one form of digital payment and more than twothirds expect to have a digital wallet within two years, according to a study by McKinsey & Company. SL

History — Then and Now

SENIOR LIFE Courtesy of the Brevard County Historical Commission

Mark’s Episcopal Church was renovated in

took on its Spanish look with a coat of stucco.

SENIOR LIFE Staff photo

St. Mark’s Episcopal Church was expanded in 1994 with care to preserve its original architectural style.

SENIOR LIFE Elaine Moody

Digital wallets offer added layers of security that make them safer than paying with a physical credit card.

JAZZ APPRECIATION

continued from page 3

and exciting,” said Jamie Gatchell of West Melbourne. She operates Jazz by Jamie in Melbourne, a niche trumpet gallery business, that “helps horn players find their voice.”

Although some jazz venues closed after the pandemic, Corked 1080 opened 18 months ago in Indialantic. Owner Kimberly McMillan said Wednesday through Saturday the tapas-style restaurant “offers a place for local jazz musicians to perform and for people to eat, listen to music and relax with friends.”

Places to hear jazz music:

• Tuesday, April 8, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m., Space Coast Big Band college and high school reunion All-Stars at the Italian-American Club at 1471 Cypress Ave. in Melbourne. $5 admission.

• Sunday, April 14, 2 to 4 p.m., Space Coast Jazz Society monthly concert at the Brevard Veterans Memorial Center with the Ron Texeira Trio. $15 advance, $20 at the door.

• Wednesday, May 15, 7 p.m., Melbourne Municipal Band’s Battle of the Bands by Swing Time at the Melbourne Auditorium. Donations accepted.

• Sundays, 3 to 5 p.m. Jazz and blues jam at El Mojito Bar and Lounge in Melbourne, sponsored by Joel

and the Jazz Cats, free.

• Various clubs around the county also offer live jazz music. The choices include Heidi’s Jazz Club & Restaurant, Corked 1080, The Blind Lion Jazz, and Lou’s Blues Bar & Grill.

Col. Hal Gibson honored on his 100th birthday

Col. Hal Gibson, who conducted the U.S. Army Field Band from 1968 to 1974,

will be honored on his 100th birthday with a Melbourne Municipal Band concert.

The band will play at 7 p.m. April 17 and 18 at the Melbourne Auditorium. A pre-show at 6 p.m. features the Sunshine Brass Quintet. The concert is free, although donations are encouraged.

Expected are current Field Band Conductor Col. James Keene and several former directors, as well as Col. Gibson, who now lives in Viera. The band, based

outside of Washington, D.C., was established in 1946 as a touring branch of the Army and now performs more than 400 concerts a year in all 50 states and 25 countries. The band leads the presidential inaugural parade. Col. Gibson has received numerous awards for his 75-plus years with bands, including Field Band conductor emeritus and the National Band Association’s distinguished legacy award. He worked with the Melbourne Municipal Band for three decades. SL

SENIOR LIFE Linda Jump

Trombonist Joel Greenblatt, top, has performed at Carnegie Hall, the French Woods Festival and on cruise ships. Swing band pianist Overda Page Stonerock, top right, plays the piano, keyboard and flute with several local musical groups, including jazz. The brass section, bottom right, of the Swing Time Band performs regularly at the Melbourne Auditorium.

STRI PES

Brevard Veterans News

FRA quietly advocates for sea services members, families

Some veterans’ organizations, such as the Fleet Reserve Association, seem to go about doing what they do to help other veterans and the community without making waves and drawing attention to themselves.

So, I thought it would be good to tell you a little about the FRA Cape Canaveral Branch 263, which meets at the Brevard Veterans Memorial Center on Merritt Island.

The FRA is celebrating its 100 years of service.

The organization advocates for pay and benefits and other issues for its members, who are retired or current Reserve, or active-duty members of the U.S. Navy, U.S. Marine Corps or the U.S. Coast Guard, who served honorably and can show a military

VETERANS CALENDAR

April 5 • 6 to 10 p.m.

2024 Shrimp Feast

Port Canaveral Terminal 5

For information or to register, contact 321-698-5296 or go to Facebook: Propeller Club of Port Canveral.

April 6

Space Coast Honor Flight Trip to Washington D.C. for selected veterans to visit memorials. Guardian volunteers and other supporters welcome for ceremony to launch the flight — 1:30 a.m. at the Senior Center in Wickham Park, Melbourne. For information, contact SCHF at 321-456-7031 or info@spacecoasthonorflight.org

April 12

National Veterans Homeless Support third annual Golf Tournament

For more information, go to nvhs.org

April 22

Space Coast Honor Flight

May 5 to 12

Traveling Memorial Wall and Reunion Wickham Park

See story on page 11.

May 5, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Back Brevard Heroes Hero Fest Celebration and BBQ Honors first responders and veterans at the VMC Plaza, buildings and park.

identification, or DD214.

The FRA works to preserve and enhance pay, benefits and quality-oflife programs for all members, their families and the community.

“Advocacy is a great deal for us,” said Wayne Barron, the local branch membership chairman. “We try to get people in touch with the help they need.”

In addition to helping the members of the sea services, the FRA is involved with Wreaths Across America and patriotic-themed essay contests that lead to prizes and scholarships for students in the community. The students need not be connected to the services.

Students in grades seven through 12 participate in the local essay contest, with the winners going on to regional competition. Each phase has cash awards for the winners. Those who come out at the top in the regional competition then go on to nationals. More than 140 students in Brevard County participated last year. The competitions start in August or September. Information about it is posted on the Fleet Reserve

Association website at fra.org

In December, the FRA participated in Wreaths Across America. Through the organization’s sponsorship, Wreaths Across America was able to place 100 more wreaths on the graves of veterans in Brevard County.

The organization, which was founded in 1924, also has a fund to assist FRA members, widows of deceased members and immediate families stricken by a catastrophic disaster.

The FRA also provides more than $100,000 in undergraduate and graduate scholarships to members and their families. The awards are applicable toward tuition at trade schools, community colleges and fouryear universities. SL

Naval service led to rewarding career in submarine industry

BY ERNIE DORLING

Born on an Army-Air Force Base in Indiana, Robert Gabriel, Gabe to his friends, knew he was destined for military service.

“My father flew both bombers and jet fighters,” Gabriel said. “Serving in the military was part of growing up in our home. It was never really a question for me. I was excited about serving.”

In 1966, Gabriel enlisted in the U.S. Navy and was sent to boot camp at Naval Station Great Lakes, Illinois.

“When boot camp was over, I simply walked across to the base where I started school to become an electronics technician,” Gabriel said.

After completing his training, Gabriel began his 10-plus years in the U.S. Navy as a submariner. “I was sent to Charleston, South Carolina and assigned to the USS Whale,” he said. “I went out on the maiden voyage of that submarine.”

The USS Whale was a Sturgeonclass nuclear-powered attack submarine that was decommissioned in June 1996.

“Living aboard a submarine is not for those who are claustrophobic or faint of heart,” Gabriel said. He recalled one experience when, during a long voyage underneath the north pole, the sub surfaced through the ice. “It was Easter Sunday and it was minus 40 degrees. But we’d been under so long, I really didn’t care.”

During his Naval career, Gabriel continued to develop his skills in electronics and navigation, eventually becoming a shipboard instructor. “My

job was to teach others how to take care of much of the hardware that ran the boat,” Gabriel said.

But after 10 years at sea, Gabriel’s wife decided it was time for him to settle down. So, Gabriel, who had achieved the rank of first class petty officer, left the Navy and settled in Gales Ferry, Connecticut, where he built his own home.

“I loved working with tools,” he said. “I even built furniture and occasionally did some remodeling for friends.”

Gabriel also went to work for the Naval Undersea Warfare Center in New London, Connecticut.

“I was now part of a team that went to sea to evaluate and assess new systems hardware on the subs,” Gabriel said. “Sometimes we’d go out on day cruises, while at other times, we’d go

out for a week or two. The idea of being home more with an 8-to-5 job simply wasn’t in the cards. But I was helping make sure the equipment on those submarines worked exactly as they were designed. It was important that the submarine was able to do its job when needed and that the people that operated the boat were able to do so in as safe a manner as possible.”

Today, he lives at The Lenox at Merritt Island, a retirement community where he gets around in a motorized wheelchair. “I’ve lost the use of my legs,” he said. But that hasn’t stopped Gabriel from enjoying life. “I love the people here. I especially enjoy the camaraderie that I have with the former military members who reside in our community.” In his spare time, Gabriel is active in his Mason Lodge. SL

SENIOR LIFE Courtesy of Robert Gabriel and Ernie Dorling Robert Gabriel spent a lot of his time in the Navy working on submarines.

Veterans, families will flock to Wickham Park for annual reunion

BY MARIA SONNENBERG

Like migratory birds, the veterans return to Brevard, traveling from as far as England and Australia to renew friendships forged in the military. It’s the 36th year for the Florida Vietnam and All Veterans Reunion, one of the nation’s largest and longest running events of its kind.

Reunion director Richard (Doc) Russo will be there again, as he has for 31 years. Russo, a former Navy medic, began his involvement as a midnight guard for the Vietnam Traveling Memorial Wall, which is on display 24 hours a day at the event, which this year runs from May 9 to 12. The reunion now marks the start of the travel season for Russo, who leaves Brevard County a week after the event to travel with the Wall for memorial events ranging from Texas east and north to the Canadian border. The Wall is particularly special to him.

“I have a cousin on the Wall and a cousin on the 9-11 tribute,” he said.

This is the last year the Vietnam and All Veterans of Brevard group will host the event. A new group of younger veterans will take over next year, ensuring the reunion continues.

“There will be a reunion and nothing’s going to change,” reunion chair Doc Holiday said.

The reunion’s official DJ, Holiday, will be spinning discs for days, starting Sunday, when he welcomes the massive motorcycle escort of the Vietnam Traveling Memorial Wall. At 10 a.m.,

Vietnam Traveling Memorial Wall

Sunday, May 5 at 10 a.m.

The wall travels from EFSC’s Cocoa campus to Wickham Park for a picnic.

Monday, May 6 at 7 p.m.

Opening ceremony. Wall available for viewing until the end of the reunion.

Sunday, May 5, the Traveling Memorial Wall, which now also honors the heroes of 9-11 and Afghanistan, winds its way from Eastern Florida State College’s Cocoa campus to Wickham Park, where Holiday, and a picnic, await. Although the reunion does not officially start until May 9, the Wall opens with a ceremony at 7 p.m., Monday, May 6, and will remain available for viewing until the

end of the reunion. While the bulk of visitors can be found during the daytime, it is not unusual for veterans and families to enjoy contemplative time with their lost ones late into the night. Attendance is estimated to hover around 30,000, with the majority being Vietnam veterans and their families. Wickham Park is abuzz with activities — and campground reservations — come

reunion time.

“The campground is full, as is the rustic area, and we have a waiting list,” Russo said.

The reunion features plenty of live music, a Sunday car show, a performance by Alfie Silva from the Tangiers and by members of the Melbourne Municipal Band, and special displays such as the USS Wainwright Mobile Museum, staffed by sailors who served aboard the guided missile destroyer that received four battle stars for its service during the Vietnam War.

Ultimately, however, the opportunity for renewed comradeship is the big draw.

“You become young again,” Holiday said.

For more information, check out floridaveteransreunion.com or call 321-652-4185. SL

SENIOR LIFE Maria Sonnenberg Doc Holiday, right, and Chris Noel talk for a moment. She was the first DJ who worked for Armed Forces Radio stationed in Vietnam.

SENIOR LIFE Maria Sonnenberg

The Florida Vietnam and All Veterans Reunion always draws large crowds to Wickham Park.

Veterans advocate’s kindness comes full circle with new roof

BY FLORA REIGADA

The late George Taylor Sr. is remembered in Brevard County for his long and tireless advocacy for veterans.

A Vietnam veteran, he served in the Army’s 173rd Airborne Brigade. He came home suffering from PTSD and became homeless, living in the woods. After receiving treatment at a VA facility, he understood his fellow veterans’ plight and founded the National Veterans Homeless Support. Thanks to him, many are no longer homeless; they have stable jobs and a roof over their heads.

His widow, Jan Taylor, recently found herself needing that very thing — a new roof. She had lost her homeowners’ insurance because individuals who previously reroofed her house, did not get a county permit. Taylor was devastated to learn that because of this her homeowner’s insurance would not be renewed.

“I was ready to return to Tennessee,” said Taylor, who remains active in helping veterans through NVHS. “Roof replacement estimates were for $37,000. Who has that kind of money?”

But things were going on behind the scenes. The combined efforts of Owens Corning, a roofing manufacturer, Jason Deloach, the marketing manager for Florida Roof Specialists, Lou Napolitano from the National Veterans Homeless Support

and Purple Heart Homes teamed up to provide a free reroof for Taylor. Napolitano mentioned Taylor’s plight to Deloach, things got rolling and the group came together to help.

“People who help others as much as the Taylors have, deserve good things to happen,” Deloach said. “It’s not about money, but helping others who have helped hundreds, if not thousands.”

Taylor was in disbelief when she learned that the group had come together wanting to reroof her home, which will allow her to again get homeowners insurance.

“I was overwhelmed and kept thinking it was a scam. It was too good to be true,” she said. “When the shingles were delivered, I thought they had the wrong address. A lot of Taylors live in Brevard County and things don’t come free in this world anymore.”

She has since gained a different perspective.

“I consider it a miracle and I’ve had a lot of them lately.”

On that list is quitting her fourpack-a-day smoking habit.

“I’d been on a suicide mission since my husband died,” she said.

But the community the couple served had come to the rescue.

“It is a small token of what the Taylors deserve. I’m honored to be a part of it,” Deloach said.

“I am grateful to everyone involved,” Taylor said. SL

You may be able to qualify for a Special Enrollment Period if you:

Have Medicare and Medicaid • Recently moved

Are new to Medicare or recently turned 65

Have a medical condition like diabetes, asthma, or other qualifying chronic conditions

Not a complete list of life events to qualify for a Special Enrollment Period.

Brevard and Indian River counties. CarePlus is an HMO plan with a Medicare contract. Enrollment in CarePlus depends on contract renewal. The Part B Giveback Benefit pays part or all of your Part B premium and the amount may change based on the amount you pay for Part B. Important: At CarePlus, it is important you are treated fairly. CarePlus Health Plans, Inc. complies with applicable Federal civil rights laws and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, ancestry, ethnicity, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, disability, age, marital status, religion, or language in their programs and activities, including in admission or access to, or treatment or employment in, their programs and activities. The following department has been designated to handle inquiries regarding CarePlus’ non-discrimination policies: Member Services, PO Box 277810, Miramar, FL 33027, 1-800-794-5907 (TTY: 711). Auxiliary aids and services, free of charge, are available to you. 1-800-794- 5907 (TTY: 711) CarePlus provides free auxiliary aids and services, such as qualified sign language interpreters, video remote interpretation, and written information in other formats to people with disabilities when such auxiliary aids and services are necessary to ensure an equal opportunity to participate. This information is available for free in other languages. Please call our Member Services number at 1-800-794-5907. Hours of operation: October 1 - March 31, 7 days a week, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. April 1 - September 30, Monday - Friday, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. You may leave a voicemail after hours, Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays and we will return your call within one business day. Español (Spanish): Esta información está disponible de forma gratuita en otros idiomas. Favor de llamar a Servicios para Afiliados al número que aparece anteriormente. Kreyòl Ayisyen (French Creole): Enfòmasyon sa a disponib gratis nan lòt lang. Tanpri rele nimewo Sèvis pou Manm nou yo ki nan lis anwo an. H1019_MKBNDMFNPRphoneringer2024_M

SENIOR LIFE David Reigada

Roofers put on a new roof for Jan Taylor, who needed one after her homeowners insurance was not renewed.

SENIOR LIFE Dan Reigada

Jan Taylor, the widow of the late veterans’ advocate George Taylor Sr., was in need of a roof until local businesses and veterans groups got together to provide it for free.

F i n d i n g r e l i e f a f t e r L o n g C O V I D

“ I h a v e t w o w o r d s f o r L o n g C o v i d : T h e

W o r s t , ” s h a r e s J o h n P . o f M e l b o u r n e B e a c h . ”

W h i l e t h e i n i t i a l a l a r m o f t h e C o v i d - 1 9 o u t b r e a k h a s s u b s i d e d , t h e f a l l o u t f r o m t h e p a n d e m i c i s o n g o i n g M a n y c o n t i n u e t o f e e l l o n g t e r m i m p a c t s f r o m t h e i r i n f e c t i o n I n f a c t , n e a r l y 2 3 m i l l i o n A m e r i c a n s ( a n d 1 0 0 m i l l i o n p e o p l e g l o b a l l y ) h a v e l e a r n e d t h a t r e g a r d l e s s o f t h e s e v e r i t y o f t h e i r i n i t i a l i n f e c t i o n , t h e y m a y c o n t i n u e t o e x p e r i e n c e d e b i l i t a t i n g s y m p t o m s f o r w e e k s , m o n t h s o r e v e n y e a r s I n a n u m b e r o f t h e s e c a s e s , s y m p t o m s w o r s e n w i t h t i m e , e v e n t u r n i n g d e a d l y “ I g o t C o v i d e a r l y l a s t y e a r a n d i t w a s p r e t t y b a d , ” s h a r e s J o h n . “ I w a s h o s p i t a l i z e d f o r 9 d a y s a n d t h e r e w a s a p o i n t w h e r e I w a s n ’ t s u r e I w a s g o i n g t o m a k e i t . I ’ m s t i l l h e r e s o I g u e s s G o d h a d o t h e r p l a n s b u t m o n t h s p a s s e d a n d I w a s s t i l l g a s p i n g f o r a i r I c o u l d n ’ t d o e v e r y d a y t a s k s l i k e c u t t h e g r a s s o r w o r k i n t h e y a r d , m u c h l e s s e n j o y a q u i c k b i k e r i d e . A n d t h e n t h e r e w a s w h a t m y d o c t o r c a l l e d , ‘ b r a i n f o g ’ I ’ d l o s e m y t r a i n o f t h o u g h t m i d - s e n t e n c e o r f o r g e t w o r d s f o r s t u p i d t h i n g s l i k e p l a t e s a n d t o i l e t p a p e r . I t f e l t l i k e I ’ d h a d a s t r o k e m o r e t h a n i t d i d a v i r u s ” O f f i c i a l l y d u b b e d L o n g C o v i d , t h e a f t e r m a t h o f t h e o r i g i n a l v i r u s h a s t a k e n o n a l i f e o f i t s o w n . D o z e n s o f s y m p t o m s h a v e b e e n r e p o r t e d a n d i n c l u d e e v e r y t h i n g f r o m s h o r t n e s s o f b r e a t h a n d c o g n i t i v e i s s u e s t o a s u d d e n o n s e t o f d i a b e t e s a n d c a r d i o t h o r a c i c c o n d i t i o n s T h e s e s y m p t o m s a r e s o w e l l - d o c u m e n t e d a n d c o m m o n t h a t t h o s e s u f f e r i n g n o w q u a l i f y f o r d i s a b i l i t y a s s i s t a n c e

U n f o r t u n a t e l y f o r J o h n a n d s o m a n y o t h e r s , t h e t r e a t m e n t o p t i o n s t h u s f a r h a v e b e e n l i m i t e d

“ I s t a r t e d w i t h m y p r i m a r y c a r e d o c t o r a n d s a w s p e c i a l i s t a f t e r s p e c i a l i s t . A p u l m o n o l o g i s t f i n a l l y t o l d m e , ‘ T h i s i s

J o h n w a s n ’ t s a t i s f i e d w i t h t h a t a n d d e c i d e d t o d o h i s o w n r e s e a r c h , w h i c h i s h o w h e e n d e d u p a t B o d h i T r a d i t i o n a l C h i n e s e M e d i c i n e & A c u p u n c t u r e i n M e l b o u r n e “ I f u l l y b e l i e v e t h e h u m a n b o d y h a s t h e a b i l i t y t o h e a l i t s e l f , b u t s o m e t i m e s i t n e e d s a l i t t l e p u s h . I ’ v e u s e d a c u p u n c t u r e i n t h e p a s t t o h e l p m e t h r o u g h a b o u t o f s c i a t i c a a n d j u s t k n e w i f a n y o n e c o u l d h e l p m e w i t h t h i s L o n g C o v i d b u s i n e s s w a s D r A n d r e a i n M e l b o u r n e “ Y o u m i g h t t h i n k t h a t a n o v e l v i r u s n e e d s a n o v e l s o l u t i o n , b u t i f s o , y o u ’ d o n l y b e h a l f r i g h t W h i l e t h e s t a f f a t B o d h i T C M A c u p u n c t u r e d o e s u s e i n n o v a t i v e s o l u t i o n s l i k e A T P R e s o n a n c e B i o T h e r a p y R t o c o m b a t L o n g C o v i d , b e c a u s e i t a i d s i n t h e h e a l i n g a n d r e p a i r o f s p e c i f i c c e l l s a n d t i s s u e s , i t ’ s a m u c h m o r e t i m e - t e s t e d s c i e n c e t h a t ’ s g e t t i n g p a t i e n t s b a c k t o l i v i n g t h e i r l i v e s

“ O u r O 3 R e B o o t T h e r a p y R h a s a l le n c o m p a s s i n g a n d p o w e r f u l h e a l i n g c a p a b i l i t i e s , ” s h a r e s D r . A n d r e a . “ O z o n e t h e r a p y h a s b e e n u s e d s i n c e t h e

1 8 0 0 ’ s a n d w a s a c t u a l l y a p o p u l a r t o o l f o r D o c t o r s d u r i n g t h e f i r s t w o r l d w a r b e c a u s e o f i t s a n t i b a c t e r i a l , a n t i v i r a l , a n d a n t i - i n f l a m m a t o r y p r o p e r t i e s W e u s e i t t o d a y t o i n a c t i v a t e a n y r e s i d u a l C o v i d v i r u s , s t i m u l a t e o x y g e n m e t a b o l i s m , a n d a c t i v a t e t h e i m m u n e s y s t e m T h e w h o l e t r e a t m e n t t a k e s a b o u t 1 5 m i n u t e s a n d i s c o m p l e t e l y n o n i n v a s i v e ”

A s w i t h B o d h i T C M o t h e r s e r v i c e s , O 3 R e B o o t T h e r a p y R r e q u i r e s c o n s i s t e n t a n d r e p e a t e d t r e a t m e n t t o a c h i e v e m e a s u r a b l e a n d l o n g - l a s t i n g r e s u l t s

“I’m in my second month of treatment and back to riding my bike and breathing better than before I even had Covid. Everyone at Bodhi TCM has been amazing! I really feel taken care of everytime I walk in the door.”

Dr Andrea Izquierdo, Bodhi’s founder and leading practitioner, has been successfully treating chronic pain and complicated conditions for over 7 years With over 10,000 treatments performed she has developed effective protocols to treat seemingly hopeless conditions like peripheral neuropathy, fibromyalgia, and postherpetic neuralgia When Covid-19 emerged three years ago, she and her team got right to work researching and developing therapies that would effectively address that complex virus Based on the testimony of patients like John, our efforts have been a smashing success

For more information on Dr. Andrea and her treatments and to view video testimonials from our patients scan the QR code below with your phone or visit www.bodhitcm.com.

In an effort to do their part in helping people through this difficult time, they are reducing the $240 new patient consultation to $65 and will even apply that as a credit if you are a good candidate for their treatments.

Ready to schedule? Call (321)312-0771

HEALTH & WELLNESS

Stress often leads to physical, mental health issues

BY MARIA SONNENBERG

Stress: can’t live with it, can’t live without it.

A universal human experience, stress — believe it or not — can be good for you, in the right amount, of course.

According to the American Psychological Association, “good” stress, also known as eustress, is the feeling we get when we do something demanding yet enjoyable.

The problem is that stress can take up residence in your brain, leading to anxiety and poor health.

Chronic “Stress and negativity tend to go together, and people who generally have a negative outlook tend to have more medical problems that are more diverse,” said Dr. Kamil Cieply, who practices family medicine at Health First’s Palm Bay medical office building.

Recognizing the symptoms of too much stress is the first step, but not an easy one to take.

“We’re so busy with life that we ignore or don’t recognize when we are deviating from the norm or feeling

overly stressed,” said DeAnn Collins, a behavioral services clinical manager for Health First’s Behavioral Wellness service. “When you are deviating from your normal, and especially if you’re avoiding things that had brought you pleasure, that’s when you’re under too much stress and must act.”

We may not want to admit we’re stressed, but our loved ones can help

us see it.

“What we all notice is that if someone seems like they’re having difficulty with stress, they aren’t the same person they’ve always been,” Collins added.

Telltale signs are a “short fuse” with things that hadn’t previously bothered a person. They may be angry for extended periods or feel tired all the

time. Alcohol usage is another coping strategy.

“They’re drinking in ways they haven’t before,” Collins said.

Collins underscores the importance of regular check-ins with one another, be they family or friends, for it can be difficult to notice changes if connection happens only once a year.

For many, self-help is the first step. A simple walk around the neighborhood can be relaxing. When outside guidance is needed, a primary care provider can be the first step.

“Research suggests that one in 20 appointments with a primary care provider is primarily to do with mental health concerns,” Collins noted.

To help individuals with mental health issues, Health First two years ago launched Onsite Collaborative Care, a bridge between patients and mental health services at four Health First PCP locations from Palm Bay to Viera.

Behavioral care managers are available at primary care offices upon request and a consulting physician reviews and consults on prescriptions

Keep your health on track with annual Medicare wellness visits

BY LINDSAY SANDERFUR

When Melbourne resident Ed Reinhardt turned 65 and became

eligible, he purchased Medicare Part B. As a retired firefighter, he is also covered by his group insurance. Part of his Medicare coverage

includes annual wellness visits.

The wellness visit with a doctor is to “develop or update your personalized plan to help prevent disease or disability based on current health and risk factors.”

Reinhardt gets annual preventive visits and a big part of those visits are blood tests, his wife, Diane Reinhardt, said.

“The doctor checks to see if anything is off kilter, if your glucose is too high, if you need changes in your medication,” Diane said.

She said there are also screening questions like, “Have you been feeling depressed lately?”

Reinhardt had a single bypass on his heart three years ago. Medicare and his retiree group insurance also covered removal of a sarcoma in his upper arm. Since then, he and his wife make sure to follow up with his cardiologist.

“Once a year, I go to the Mayo Clinic for a comprehensive exam,” Reinhardt said. “They are looking for a recurrence of the tumor. They do an MRI and a CT scan to see if it’s spread to my lungs or chest.”

The two are happy with their retiree group plan and Medicare package. “It’s great insurance,” Diane said.

For those with Medicare Part B, the annual wellness visit sounds like a yearly physical. It isn’t, according to Orlando Medicare insurance broker Steve Lindsey.

“The more important thing is the preventive services that you’re entitled to from zero copay,” Lindsey said. “You have to be careful not to conflate the two — the annual preventive and the initial wellness visit.”

It’s a matter of semantics. Upon enrollment in Part B, Medicare sends you a welcome letter that entitles you to one wellness visit in the first

year. This is basically a consultation, opening up communication. After 12 months, you can start receiving yearly preventive visits. These include screenings, labs and tests.

These annual visits are critical for catching health issues early.

The following preventive or screening services are covered by Medicare Part B:

• Aneurysm (abdominal aortic)

• Alcohol misuse and counseling

• Blood-based biomarker tests

• Cardiovascular disease

• Cancer (cervical, colorectal, lung, prostate)

• Depression

• Diabetes

• Glaucoma

• Hepatitis and HIV

• Mammograms

• Nutrition therapy services

• Obesity

• One time “Welcome to Medicare” visit

MEDICARE WELLNESS

Continued on page 16

SENIOR LIFE Courtesy of Dr. Kamil Cieply and DeAnn Collins

Dr. Kamil Cieply, left, and DeAnn Collins have made it part of their life’s work to help people cope with stress. Cieply practices family medicine at Health First, and Collins is a behavioral services clinical manager for Health First.

SENIOR LIFE Courtesy of Ed Reinhardt Ed Reinhardt, a retired firefighter, is covered by his group insurance and Medicare Part B.

Sharing Center still serving clients during needed renovations

BY LINDA JUMP

The South Brevard Sharing Center has closed temporarily until next month for facility renovations. It still is serving clients, just in different locations or remotely.

“While we regret any inconvenience this closure may cause, we are delighted at the prospect of creating a more resilient and welcoming environment for those we serve,” Pamela Huffman, the executive director, said.

During the closure, food distribution will be conducted at the Salvation Army at 1080 Hickory St. in Melbourne. Clients who need resource specialists or case managers can reach them remotely through phone consultations or Zoom meetings, by email at help@mysbsc. org or by calling 321-727-8581. Clients were informed about the changes.

“Each client will get exactly what they want and have more dignity shopping, as though they were in a grocery store.”

— Chris Stagman

When the center at 17 E. Hibiscus Blvd. in Melbourne reopens in May, development director Chris Stagman said it will have “a new choice pantry model” that allows clients to choose a certain poundage of items from its food pantry, rather than receiving pre-made bags of staples.

“Each client will get exactly what they want and have more dignity shopping, as though they were in a grocery store,” he said.

One reason for the change was to avoid waste, since families have different tastes. “A mother might have received carrots and her family doesn’t eat them, for example,” Stagman said.

The renovation includes a larger thrift store relocated to the east side of the building that can handle more donations. “Last year, we had to stop taking all donations, and the SPCA thrift store nearby is taking them,”

Stagman said. A capital campaign is planned to raise $350,000 to $400,000 to fund the improvements. The independent nonprofit empowers families to achieve self-sufficiency by providing food, clothing and rental assistance and referral and help with benefit applications. “We’ll be out with tin cups,” Stagman quipped. He said the 12,000-squarefoot facility was built in 1965 and was “literally starting to sink into the ground.” An engineering firm last summer determined that the

foundation was compromised, but not an immediate danger. Replacement of the building was estimated at $3 to $4 million, so instead, the board decided to renovate. Steel piers were installed in the lime-rock base and interior concrete walls replaced with less-bulky material. “We reimagined our space to enhance the functionality,” Stagman said.

“We are grateful for the ongoing support of our community and partners as we embark on this journey toward a strong and more efficient South Brevard Sharing Center,” Huffman said. SL

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MEDICARE WELLNESS

Continued from page 14

• STIs

• Tobacco cessation

Additionally, the following immunizations are covered:

• COVID-19 vaccines

• Flu shots

• Hepatitis B shots

• Pneumococcal shots

The shingles shot is covered by Medicare Part D.

While your cost for these services is nothing, Lindsey said, you have to see a doctor that accepts Medicare assignment.

“These preventive services are covered and available to you whether you have traditional Medicare or a Medicare Advantage Plan,” he said. “Most people buy a supplement that covers the monthly deductibles.” His company, Senior Insurance Plans, assists clients with choosing the right plan.

“If you are taking a lot of medications, especially brand name, you’re better off keeping the plan you have because the prescriptions available in the Medicare program are not as robust a platform as commercial plans.” SL

SENIOR LIFE Courtesy of the South Brevard Sharing Center

The demolition of interior walls is being completed at the South Brevard Sharing Center. The renovation will provide a more resilient and welcoming environment.

Ground breaks at new, spacious Cape Canaveral Hospital

SPECIAL TO SENIOR LIFE

Donning traditional hard hats and ceremonial shovels, Health First officials officially broke ground March 21 on the new Cape Canaveral Hospital and Medical Office Building at 255 Borman Drive on Merritt Island.

To add a celebratory flair to the event, Health First chose March 21, also known as 321 Day in Brevard County — a special nod to the region’s 3-2-1 area code and heavy aerospace/technology industry concentration.

“We are happy to celebrate where we come from,’’ said Kent Smith, the Health First board chair. “Cape Canaveral Hospital first opened its doors to our community on July 22, 1962. It was the first and only hospital to serve the beach and barrier island communities in Brevard County at the time. Since then, Cape has received numerous awards, accreditations and recognitions and was most recently named to Newsweek’s “Best Hospitals” list for the fourth year in a row, and we’re not done yet.’’

The project had been planned for quite some time.

“This new project truly speaks to Health First’s vision, mission and strategy to set our community up for success today and beyond,’’ Smith said. “We are focused on caring for the exact needs of our community. This moment reminds us of that.’’

Expected to cost approximately $410 million, construction is scheduled to finish by the end of 2026 and the hospital will officially open to the public in early 2027.

The hospital was designed for and will be built to withstand a Category 4 hurricane. Continuation of care and the potential for evacuation will be evaluated for individual storms, in consultation with state officials. Additionally, the entire campus site will be constructed 13 feet above sea level to withstand storm surge. The campus will be served by an on-site Central Energy Plant, built to ensure continuous power function even during tropical storms and hurricanes.

The campus will feature ample parking, including 296 paved/surface parking spots and 533 covered/structure parking spots. The three-deck parking structure and surface parking spots will provide easy and convenient access within the campus.

The new project will also include a new three-story, 92,000-square-foot Medical Office Building. Construction is expected to be completed by late 2026 and begin serving the community in

Health First has begun construction on the new Cape Canaveral Hospital on Merritt Island. This is a rendering of the new campus.

New Cape Canaveral Hospital by the numbers

268,000 square-foot hospital

• 92,000 square-foot medical office building

120 private inpatient hospital beds

25 Emergency Department treatment rooms

• Six operating rooms

• 296 parking spots and 533 covered/structure parking spots.

$410 million project

early 2027 — simultaneously with the new Cape Canaveral Hospital.

Anne Clayton-Orrison was present to describe her unique experience with Cape Canaveral Hospital. She was born at the hospital, as were her three children, and she has spent the majority of her nursing career there.

“I have had the honor and privilege of working for Health First. But my connection here goes much deeper. I was also born at Cape Canaveral Hospital. And even better than that — all three of my children were born there also. And so was my nursing career,” she said.

“I have worked for Health First for nine years as a registered nurse and am currently the director of Patient Care Services at Holmes Regional Medical Center. Before that, I worked at Cape Canaveral — serving as an oncology nurse — then worked my way up to

nurse manager, all on 4West at Cape Canaveral,” Clayton-Orrison said.

“Cape Canaveral Hospital will always be home for me and that building itself holds a huge piece of my heart and my own life history,’’ ClaytonOrrison said. “Cape Canaveral cares for so many of the people that I love personally and professionally. It’s an icon in our community for its longstanding history, amazing views and truly unique culture. I am incredibly excited for this part of Brevard to have the opportunity to experience a state-ofthe-art facility that I know will exceed the expectations of our associates and customers. And I am proud to have a hand in its past, present and future.’’

The groundbreaking for the new Cape Canaveral Hospital campus comes just two weeks after Newsweek named Cape Canaveral Hospital to its “Best Hospitals” list for 2024 — the fourth consecutive year Cape Canaveral has landed on the prestigious list — joining just two other Central Florida hospitals and 17 across the entire state of Florida.

“This Newsweek inclusion placing Cape Canaveral Hospital among the best hospitals in the nation and state of Florida is a tremendous honor for every one of our clinicians, associates and volunteers, and certainly kicks off what we are anticipating being a very impactful year at Health First,” said Brett Esrock, the executive vice president and CFO/COO of Health First.

“As we are planning for and making progress toward the future of our new Cape Canaveral Hospital, this honor is reflective of Health First and Cape’s commitment to providing the best wellness and medical care for our residents and visitors today and well into the future.”

While construction takes place during the next two years, Health First officials will continue to engage with state officials in Tallahassee to determine the future of the current Cape Canaveral Hospital site at 701 W. Cocoa Beach Causeway, Cocoa Beach, which resides in a special taxing district. SL

SENIOR LIFE Courtesy of Cape Canaveral Hospital Cape Canaveral Hospital opened in 1962.

SENIOR LIFE Courtesy of Health First

Satellite Beach Lions Club/PAL Pancake Breakfast

8 a.m. – noon

Satellite Beach City Hall 565 Cassia Blvd.

Satellite Beach 321-773-3607

Melbourne Home Show

April 6 & 7 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Melbourne Auditorium

625 E. Hibiscus Blvd.

Melbourne 877-730-7469

Pinwheel Planting with Sheriff Ivey and the Special Victims Unit 10:30 a.m.

Pinwheels will be planted in honor of those children lost to child abuse and as a sign of hope for the many children saved.

Brevard County Sheriff’s Office 340 Gus Hip Blvd. Rockledge 321-785-8880

Mah Jongg 12:30 - 3:30 p.m. Sunflower House 3125 Fell Road W. Melbourne 321-806-3752

Music Monday 6 p.m.

Music by Anja Conklin. Cape Canaveral Library 201 Polk Ave. Cape Canaveral 321-868-1101

The Science of Cheese Making 2 - 8:30 p.m. The basics of cheese making and providing an opportunity to make two different types of cheese. UF/IFAS Extension 3695 Lake Drive

Grandparents Raising

ANEWS's fifth annual Unmasking Freedom Masquerade Ball 6:30 - 10 p.m. All proceeds help fight human trafficking. The Grand Manor 1450 Sarno Road Melbourne 844-673-2639

Herb Garden Workshop 6:30 - 8:30 p.m. Includes: plants, soil and box.

Turkey Creek Sanctuary 1518 Port Malabar Blvd. NE, Palm Bay 321-676-6690 Florida Tech Homecoming 5K 5:30 p.m. Run through the beautiful Florida Tech campus. Florida Tech Panther Plaza 150 West University Blvd. Melbourne runsignup.com

SHINE Medicare Counseling

9 a.m. - noon Sunflower House 3125 Fell Road W. Melbourne 321-452-4341

Lunch & Learn Get a taste of the resort lifestyle 10:30 a.m. Shell Harbor 2855 Murrell Road Rockledge 321-252-1221

Bingo 10 a.m. North Brevard Senior Center 909 Lane Ave. Titusville, 321-268-2333

Brevard Corporate 5K 6:30 p.m.

Melbourne Airport 1 Air Terminal Parkway Melbourne brevardcorporate5K.com

National Day of Commuy Service

Sixth annual Runway of Dreams Fashion Show Lunch show at 11:30 a.m. Dinner show at 6 p.m. Fundraiser for Promise in Brevard. Promise in Brevard 4105 Norfolk Parkway W. Melbourne 321-722-7400

Fourth annual Out of This World Golf Tournament 7 a.m.

Fundraiser for GRG Turtle Creek Golf Club 1378 Admiralty Blvd. Rockledge, 321-631-7776

Parkinson's Awareness and Fundraiser Fun Day and Pickleball Tournament 8:30 a.m. - 3 p.m.

Jimmy Moore Complex 2801 Sarno Road Melbourne, 321-693-9246

Third annual Golf Tournament for Homeless Vets 7 a.m.

Rockledge Country Club 1591 S. Fiske Blvd. Rockledge 321-205-7643

"Benefits of Medical Marijuana" 10 a.m. One Senior Place 8085 Spyglass Hill Rd. Viera, 321-751-6771

Monthly Fly-in Breakfast 8 - 10 a.m. Fly-in or drive-in and have a chef-prepared breakfast before seeing the museum for free.

Warbird Air Museum 6600 Tico Road

Titusville, 321-268-1941

Solution on page 26

Crossword

Each row must contain the numbers 1 to 9; each column must contain the numbers 1 to 9; and each set of 3 by 3 boxes must contain the numbers 1 to 9.

HOW TO SOLVE: Solution to Sudoku:

Solution on page 26

(Answer appears elsewhere in this issue)

BCOA NEWS

Brevard Commission on Aging

BCOA meetings are open to the public and are held the second Thursday of each month at the government center in Viera. For information, contact Cindy Short at 321-6332076, FAX 321-633-2170, cindy.short@brevardfl.gov, brevardf l.gov/HumanServices/CommissionOnAging or at 2725 Judge Fran Jamieson Way, B-106, Viera, FL 32940.

April is Parkinson’s Awareness Month

BY BARBARA FRADKIN

Parkinson’s disease is a chronic progressive neurologic disease. With Parkinson’s, a part of the brain deteriorates, causing more severe symptoms over time.

While this condition is best known for affecting muscle control, balance and movement, it is more than that. There are many other effects on the person’s senses, thinking ability, mental health and more. One thing to remember, when you meet one person with Parkinson’s, you meet one person with Parkinson’s. Symptoms can be quite different from one person to another.

In Brevard County, there are more than 5,000 people with Parkinson’s. The Parkinson’s Disease Foundation estimates 90,000 Americans are diagnosed with PD each year. By 2040, the number of people diagnosed is projected to double again to at least 12.9 million people. The incidence

... when you meet one person with Parkinson’s, you meet one person with Parkinson’s. Symptoms can be quite different from one person to another.

of PD increases with age, but about 4 percent of people are diagnosed before age 50. Men are 1.5 times more likely to have Parkinson’s disease than women. Environmental factors and an aging population are driving this disturbing trend.

Management of Parkinson’s can be complicated, including challenges in diagnosis, medication, hospitalization, nutrition and exercise. While there is no cure, there is help and hope.

The Brevard Parkinson’s Alliance is a nonprofit organization created to help those with Parkinson’s Disease and their care partners. We work toward coordinating different organizations in Brevard that offer services to the Parkinson’s community. Our main objective is to provide the community with resources, support

and education. Five support groups throughout the county offer a safe and supportive environment for those affected and their caregivers who are going through similar experiences. The Alliance also helps provide scholarships and funding support to Rock Steady Boxing, respite care and transportation.

Exercise is an important part of staying healthy with Parkinson’s. Studies in the 1980s and 1990s indicated that forced, intense exercise, emphasizing large movements, balance, core strength, and rhythm, could favorably impact range of motion, flexibility, posture, gait and activities of daily living.

There are different programs in the community, which include Rock Steady Boxing, Parkinson’s Wellness

Recovery, Dance for Parkinson’s and voice and speech therapy.

April is Parkinson’s Awareness Month. Every six minutes, someone will be diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease in the United States. This year, take six minutes to raise awareness so that you and your loved one can have better lives together.

The Brevard Parkinson’s Alliance will conduct its third annual run/walk on April 27 at the Veterans Memorial Museum on Merritt Island. This is a fun morning of friendship and exercise to help raise awareness in the community. For more information, go to brevardparkinsons.org or contact Running Zone.

Remember: support comes in different forms and there are many resources available. What matters is finding the right mix of care and support that works for you. Keep communication open and honest with your healthcare providers and the care partners that are helping you. SL

TIME TO TRAVEL

St. Johns Botanical Garden — a gem created in rural Hastings

BY MARIA SONNENBERG

A couple of decades ago, Dr. John Rossi happened upon an overgrown 17acre plot in rural Hastings, about an hour south of Jacksonville. The veterinarian was drawn to the possibilities of the mature oaks and rambling little creek that blessed the land.

“When I first entered this property many years ago, I knew it was a special place,” said Rossi, whose parents, Dr. Roscoe and Mrs. Rosalind Rossi, live in Melbourne.

Rossi knew that with a little love, this hidden gem would sparkle, so he got to clearing out the bush, and planting, planting, planting. The native critters — the egrets, herons, tree frogs, fox squirrels, otters and many more — embraced his efforts, as did the humans who have made St. Johns Botanical Garden & Nature Preserve.

“It’s an easy walk through the gardens with so much to see as you stroll long,” visitor Joy D’Elia said.

D’Elia recommends taking a guided tour to learn about the extensive variety of flora and fauna visitors encounter. Special events such as the Honoring Armed Forces & Family Day event on April 13 and May Day Bash come May 5 add food, music, vendors and additional activities to a day at the garden.

Christine White and husband Hank toured in January and, like D’Elia, were impressed. They also appreciated the

garden was open to the canine member of the family.

“We walked all the trails with our little dog and were amazed at the wide variety of plants,” she said.

Visitors can return home with some of the same types of plants on display, albeit smaller in size.

“You can bring some of the palms home as there is a gift shop/nursery on

the premises,” D’Elia noted.

The garden welcomes group tours of all ages, but children and seniors receive a special bonus of a complimentary souvenir-sized plant for each member of the group.

Many of the plants Rossi has included are rare or endangered, such as the giant windowpane palm, aka Madagascar coconut palm. Stunningly beautiful specimens feature partially fused leaves that create the look of a fan palm leaf but with holes between the fused leaflets.

“We walked all the trails with our little dog and were amazed at the wide variety of plants.”

—Christine White

A dream for birdwatchers, St. Johns Botanical Garden & Nature Preserve attracts a variety of avian species that include scarlet tanagers, rose-breasted grosbeaks, kingfishers and many more, all equally drawn to the garden’s tall trees and abundant grassy areas and water resources. Lepidopterists can also have a field day seeking the rare species of butterflies that enjoy flitting about the garden.

“Myself and my passionate team strive everyday to conserve, educate and create a welcoming paradise for all who visit,” Rossi said.

St. Johns Botanical Garden & Nature Preserve is at 8310 County Road 13 in Hastings. The garden is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Thursday through Monday and by appointment on Tuesday and Wednesday.

Admission is $15 for adults up to 64 years old, $10 for seniors 65 and older, $8 for children eight to 17 and free for youngsters less than eight years old. Group rates are available.

For information, call 904-540-3294 or go to stjohnsbotanicalgarden.org SL

SENIOR LIFE Courtesy of Dr. John Rossi St. Johns Botanical Garden & Nature Preserve is hidden in the small town of Hastings, about an hour south of Jacksonville.

Country Club celebrates 100 years of golfing tradition

BY ERNIE DORLING

In the current age of elite private clubs and faraway destination resorts, a semiprivate affiliated golf course in an urban area is a welcome friend in a local community.

As it’s described on its website, the Rockledge Country Club is “renowned for its lush, authentic Florida landscape where the fairways are lined with mature oaks, pine trees and historic palms.”

The Rockledge Country Club (RCC) is indeed such a place and is just one of the many public/private courses that have fueled a renewed interest in golf around the country.

“RCC just celebrated its 100-year anniversary,” said Andrea Beyel, the general manager of the RCC.

The club has a storied history. The nine-hole course, believed to be the first in the county, was known as the City Municipal Golf Links. It was on the east side of U.S. 1 near the present location of Rockledge Regional Medical Center. In 1924, it became known as the Poinsett Golf and Country Club.

In 1936, the course expanded to a new 18-hole golf course. During the past 100 years, the club has been known by several names including the Cocoa-Rockledge Golf Links.

The Florida Division of Historical Resources lists the Rockledge Country Club on the Florida Historic Golf Trail. A newspaper clipping on the state website shows an advertisement in 1948 for Rockledge Golf and Country Club.

Sometime around 1983, the name changed to the Rockledge Country Club. And while the name has changed through the years, so has the exact location of the clubhouse.

“The first location for the clubhouse, years ago, became the kindergarten that I attended as a child,” Beyel said.

Today, the par-71, 18hole course features five sets of tees playing from 4,300 to 6,400 yards. The club’s

traditional feel, and scenic views, make for an enjoyable walking course.

Beyel doesn’t even play golf. She never heard or understood what the term “a round” meant, when she and her husband bought the course in 2014. She was skeptical when he first suggested the idea of even buying the club. Looking for a career change from managing salons, she was confident that her management and people skills would transcend into the world of golf.

“I’m a quick learner and am still learning every day,” Beyel said. “I am also a lifelong resident of Rockledge,

and I feel a profound sense of belonging and responsibility toward this community.”

During the past 10 years, Beyel has sought to move the Country Club away from being an equity-owned club. Members previously paid a huge upfront initiation fee for membership along with annual membership dues.

“By moving away from the equity model, the club has a broader appeal and is accessible to more members of the community. The club is actually attracting more members who are more cost-conscious but who are still seeking a quality golf experience,” Beyel said. “We want to provide a semiprivate club experience that is affordable.

Beyel is committed to making the RCC accessible to everyone, not only for golf, but for the range of amenities the club offers, including a satisfying dining experience.

Beyel recently hired golf professional Matt Morrison as the head pro at RCC. Morrisson has more than 22 years of golf experience as a teaching professional and brings a host of experience to the club.

“We are lucky to have Matt join our team,” Beyel said. “Matt enjoys an excellent reputation around Brevard County as a very

accomplished golf instructor. I know that the experience he brings with him will only help us as the RCC continues to improve on every aspect of

the golf experience we seek to offer to our members as well as those who simply want to have an enjoyable round of golf.” SL

SENIOR LIFE Ernie Dorling

The Rockledge Country Club has offered challenging rounds of golf for 100 years.

SENIOR LIFE Courtesy of the Rockledge Country Club

The Rockledge Country Club was once named the Poinsett Golf and Country Club. It started as a nine-hole golf course in 1924.

SENIOR LIFE Ernie Dorling

Andrea Beyel, the Rockledge Country Club general manager, is a quick learner and enjoys learning new things every day.

Boomer Guide models represent Brevard County’s diversity

BY JEFF NAVIN

The 18th annual Boomer Guide is better than ever. Just ask the 11 models chosen to represent boomers and seniors from all over Brevard County.

They come from all walks of life, areas of the United States and many different professions. Some have made career changes with a lot to boast about in either career choice.

Nancy Johnson, a Vassar graduate, was an actor, a voiceover star and successfully ran a bed and breakfast with her late husband Mel Johnson. She’s the cover model.

Bill Antonetz, a native of Connecticut, shares his knowledge of cars for the greater good. His monthly car shows help local charities. Antonetz also volunteers at the American Muscle Car Museum, which is always seemingly helping the

community with its fundraisers.

Shryrl Johnson-Holley rebounded from tragedy to become a jazz singer and an actor in local theatrical performances. Her husband, Mark Holley, a former New York City

bellman, golfs, bowls and plays chess.

John Prink has exchanged his police uniform for the rural life of raising horses on a small ranch. But, it’s not all bib overalls for Prink. He plays the drums for a blues band, still acts in a few films and shares his thoughts on podcasts.

Kim Gabriel hasn’t let a heart transplant deter her from acting. After recovering, she played a small role in the human-trafficking film “Don’t Say My Name.’’

Quebec native France Lefebvre, a hospice nurse who worked in interior design years ago, has always wanted to model. She crossed that off her bucket list by gracing the pages of the Boomer Guide.

Linda Knoblock-Raupp was president of the MGB Car Club for six years. You might see her driving her black 1980 Limited Edition MGB in Melbourne.

Martha Andes, a nurse, did a tandem jump out of an airplane at 18,000 feet. The 70-year-old native of Colombia walks to stay fit and enjoys nature photography.

Lynn McBride enjoy line dancing and has been a fan of the Boomer Guide since its inception.

Marianne Kulac has backpacked the world with approximately 137 stamps on her passports through the years. She walks five miles a day on the beach and loves to garden.

Trying to coax an old friend from Michigan or Maine to move down to Brevard County? Send a copy of the 2024 Boomer Guide

Seniors have plenty of options to maintain the same hobbies they enjoyed up north. It could be the many martial arts offered, swimming, tennis or pickleball, or playing a round of golf at all the wonderful golf courses dotting the area. SL

Senior Life celebrates National Poetry Month with local submissions

A BARN

A barn is a cathedral, long and wide, a monument to the countryside; made of stone, steel, and wood, plain and steady, and misunderstood. Peppering hillsides high and low, with weathervane and silo; a structure that is seasoned or old, giving shelter from rain and cold.

A place of lofts, beams, and stalls, few windows and overalls; where life is teeming, born and bred, with much to do, and little said. Rugged dwellings with simple decors, strange odors and dirty floors; a home for cats, birds, and owls, dirty hands and no towels.

A garage for tractors, wagons, and hay, and little time to get away.

A storehouse for a season’s crop; a place to chat when neighbors stop. A workshop open at all times; a haven of grunts, snorts, and whines. Where hens gather and roosters crow, and livestock huddle at ten below.

A place for forks, shovels, and wrenches, or odds and ends on tool benches; oil cans, saws, and rusty nails, milking stools and water pails; a symbol for all work and toil; a place to change the tractor oil.

Where moms and dads and kids pitch in, with neighbors, friends, and next of kin.

THE SKY THE BEAUTIFUL AND MAGNIFICENT BLUE SKY

The sky is high just like the almighty high, who is the most high so keep your head up high and your spirit high which will help you to keep your frequency high and your productivity high

The sky is blue just for you

It’s a reminder for you to never feel blue But to stay true to yourself and others

It’s a mirror that reflects what’s inside of you. The true inner you

Just make sure you remain true as a loving and compassionate human being

The sky is a guide

I am flying high

Because I almost die

So I decided to keep an eye on the sky and I spy on the sky which make me wonder why not emulate the blue sky. Once I started to my perception on all things became new and my intentions were renewed

When I die,

Will I become a part of the sky?

Why wait until then

Where boys become men, forged and hammered, disciplined and mild mannered; a place to labor night and day, to keep the creditors away.

Where steadfast workers, skilled and able, make provision for their table.

A common shed much overlooked, where God was born when rooms were booked. The sacred temple of every farm, a nation’s mainstay, and right arm.

Written by Joe Masterleo, Rockledge

So I decided to be like the sky before I die I am now clean and crisp just like the clear blue sky. Slowly I have been released I am no longer apart of anything I am now free and transparent with no attachments just like you OH BEAUTIFUL & MAGNIFICENT BLUE SKY.

Written by Paulette King Morin

Beach fire

A fire makes you want to sit, and feel the quiet awe in it. Alone, in company or song, affirming we indeed belong.

Written by Joe Masterleo, Rockledge

North Brevard Art League marks its 59th show

BY FLORA REIGADA

Among many things, spring in Brevard County brings colorful azalea bushes and fragrant orange blossoms. It also brings talent to display at the North Brevard Art League’s Annual Art Show and Competition.

This year marks the 59th show. Admission and parking are free.

The show will take place Thursday through Sunday, April 4 to 7 at the Holiday Inn at 4715 Helen Hauser Blvd. in Titusville.

“We are excited to feature this year’s art on new display boards ordered from Pro Panels,” said Franci Kettman, the Art League’s director of publicity and social media.

The event will include a show for adults and another for youth, a silent auction, raffle baskets and more than $4,000 in awards for the artists.

Many art forms will be

SENIOR LIFE David Reigada

After the art show, art will be on display at the North Brevard Art League building.

on display for viewing and purchase. They include oil, acrylic, watercolor, mixed media, fiber arts and collage, photography and digital art, sculpture and three-dimensional art, colored pencil, graphite, pen and ink, pastels and printmaking.

The rest of the year, the artists stay busy working on their art and teaching adult and youth classes. The Art League is located at 1421 Draa Road. For more information, call 321-383-7441 or check out northbrevardartleague.com/.

Economic challenges, need for routine leads to work after 65

Have you noticed an increased number of gray-haired, old folks working in stores, restaurants, nursing homes and hospitality businesses? Why do they work?

Unfortunately, in an ever-changing world, some seniors have to find work again to survive. Economic changes, inflation, reduced retirement income and the loss of a spouse often creates the need to work.

As seniors become challenged by the need to get back into the workforce, AARP through its foundation provides assistance. The Back To Work 50-plus program can get you started with a call to 855-850-2525. In Melbourne, there is a senior employment counseling center in the Sharing Center at 17 E. Hibiscus Avenue.

CareerSource Brevard provides employers and potential employees the tools to obtain, develop and retain older workers. Call 321-504-7600 for a Career Center near you. You can register for no-cost services at employflorida.com easily from your home. You can find work that will make you happy.

Money is often the motivation to get back to work. For other seniors, they miss the daily routine and being with people. I remember Lillian when I managed Fairwinds Credit Union in Orlando. She walked into a branch office and asked if she could volunteer. She was tired of playing Bingo, going to lunches and hanging out at Senior Centers.

She asked, “Could I be a greeter like they have at Walmart?”

We gave her a try and found how valuable she was to our business. We

Challenges of Living to Age 100

Ed Baranowski

hired her as a receptionist and she worked well into her mid 90s.

For some people, “W-O-R-K” is a four-letter word. When my son Mike dropped out of the university, I asked him “what do you want to do?” He responded “I want to be a truck driver.” I responded “Will that make you happy?” He said: ”Yes!” I told him “Go and be the best truck driver you can be.”

Mike is now 62; he’s been driving for more than 40 years. But, he is looking forward to retirement. He’s challenged to go fishing.

If you don’t need to work, consider activities that can make you happy. Aging Matters in Brevard provides many senior services. Volunteer for Meals on Wheels, Sunflower House and many other places. Call 321-6312744. Check out the new Senior Life’s Boomer Guide for work, fun and volunteer opportunities. Stay happy! It’s your senior life! SL

Ed Baranowski is an awardwinning writer, artist, speaker and seminar leader. He lives in Melbourne Florida and can be contacted at fast75sr@gmail.com.

SENIOR LIFE Dan Reigada

The North Brevard Art League building displays colorful murals at 1421 Draa Road in Titusville.

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