830 S Atlantic Ave., Cocoa Beach (321) 799-4340 | www.CZChurch.org
Sunday 9:30am • Tuesday 7:00pm Club Zion
FIRST CHRISTIAN CHURCH COCOA BEACH
You’re in the Right Place!
470 S. Brevard Ave., Cocoa Beach (321) 213-9431 | www.firstcccb.org
Saturday 7pm & Sunday 10:30am All are welcome. Come as you are.
FIRST UNITED METHODIST CHURCH
COCOA BEACH
3300 N. Atlantic Ave.
Join us Sundays 9:30am Modern, 11:00am Traditional www.fumccb.com
First United Methodist Church Cocoa Beach
LUTHERAN CHURCH OF THE RESURRECTION
We have a place for you here... Sunday: Traditional Worship 9:30am Contemporary Service 11:15am Saturday: Cafe Service 5pm 525 Minutemen Cswy., Cocoa Beach 321-783-0852 | goresurrection.com Lutheran Church of the Resurrection
Just like that, we’ve arrived in December. The holiday season seemed to sneak up on us, and now we’re right in the heart of it. I hope you enjoy every moment—every event, every gathering, every bit of warmth this time of year brings.
As we wrap up 2025, I want to say thank you. This community makes putting this magazine together feel less like work and more like an ongoing conversation with neighbors. Your tips, your feedback, your enthusiasm, and your support are what keep this whole thing moving forward.
You might also notice a different editor’s photo this month. As I mentioned in last month’s letter, Tracee and I just returned from a transatlantic cruise, and the picture we’re sharing was taken at Mount Teide on Tenerife in the Canary Islands. It’s a volcano—the highest point in all of Spain—and standing there truly felt like being on another planet.
Make sure to get out and enjoy the festivities happening all month long. There’s nothing quite like sharing the holiday spirit with friends and neighbors.
Tracee and I wish you a relaxed, joyful, and blessed Christmas. May your holidays be warm, bright, and—if you’re lucky—a little sandy.
Doug Baker
AT A TIME AARP TAX-AIDE RETURNS- FREE TAX HELP FOR ALL AGES
THE BEST SEAT IN THE PARADE: A HOLIDAY NIGHT ABOARD COCOA BEACH DOLPHIN TOURS
LOCAL HEARTS, LOCAL HANDS: RETRO REEF BOUTIQUE & COASTAL TREASURES
JOIN THE COCOA BEACH CHRISTMAS PARADE
SCCA: CHEERS TO 50 YEARS & A BRIGHT 2026 AHEAD
WANDERING THROUGH PATAGONIA: WHAT TRAVEL TEACHES US ABOUT THE WORLD— AND OURSELVES
ON THE COVER
Cape Canaveral Mayor Wes Morrison along with his wife and neighbors cheering on participants in the annual Reindeer Run.
MESSAGE MAYOR’S
CAPE CANAVERAL UPDATE FROM MAYOR MORRISON
CONTRIBUTING WRITER:
SPONSORED BY
Hello Neighbors and Friends,
December is here, and in this season of gratitude, I’d like to begin by welcoming Council Member Tom Shoriak as he assumes his position on the Cape Canaveral City Council. I look forward to serving alongside him. I also extend my sincere thanks to Mayor Pro Tem Mickie Kellum and Council Member Kim Davis for their dedicated service to our community.
We also recognize an important transition in public safety. Thank you to Commander Byron Keck for his years of leadership, and please join me in welcoming Major Brian Neal as he becomes our new BCSO Commander. We look forward to continuing our strong community partnership with the Brevard County Sheriff’s Office.
While we were fortunate to avoid hurricanes this year, heavy rainfall reminded us why our ongoing focus on stormwater and infrastructure remains essential. We will continue strengthening these systems to protect our neighborhoods.
I want to thank the many Cape View Elementary families and concerned citizens who have been engaged in Cape Canaveral during the School Board’s consideration of a possible school merger. Your respectful dialogue and thoughtful participation at our recent City Council meeting made an impact. This Council unanimously supports Cape View and encourages collaboration with Brevard Public Schools as they continue through their process. Please continue staying involved with your School Board members, sharing ideas, and attending public meetings. Your voice matters.
We also witnessed another example of neighbors helping neighbors when Good Samaritan Derek Buckner used a DrownZero rescue ring to save two people caught in a dangerous rip current on Tyler Avenue. The Canaveral Fire Department is recognizing his brave actions, and we are grateful for his quick thinking and community spirit.
Looking ahead, the 30th Annual Reindeer Run takes place on Saturday, December 13, at 8:00 a.m. at Cherie Down Park. And please save the date for our Sea Oat Planting Event on February 14, 2026, from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m
Thank you for staying engaged and supporting one another. Wishing you and your families a joyful Christmas and holiday season and a bright start to the new year.
Sincerely,
Wes Morrison Mayor City of Cape Canaveral
Mayor Wes Morrison
As we move into the winter season, our campus is energized with learning, activities, and the holiday traditions that make this community so special. This time of year always reminds me how fortunate we are to be in a place where students work hard, families stay connected, and the community supports one another. I am proud to share a few updates from Cocoa Beach Jr./Sr. High School as we finish the semester and head into the holidays.
We are nearing the end of the second quarter and the close of the first semester, and our students are preparing for midterm exams at the end of December. They will also complete their FAST PM2 assessments in math and ELA at the beginning of the month. Our teachers continue to use data from last year’s PM3 and this year’s PM1 to guide instruction and ensure every student is positioned for meaningful learning gains. I also want to recognize two outstanding students for exceptional district honors. Helena Davis has been named the district’s Presidential Scholar nominee, and Lucy Cummings was selected as the runner-up. Rising to the top of 35 applications is an impressive accomplishment, and we are proud of both of them. Helena now advances to the state level of competition, and we wish her the very best.
Our winter sports programs are well underway, and our athletes continue to represent the Beach with pride. Wrestling, basketball, and soccer are competing with focus and energy. I am excited to celebrate the accomplishments of our JROTC cadets at this year’s State Raider Championships. Our Female Raider Team earned their fourth State Championship in five years after dominating a field of 21 teams. Our Male Raider Team also delivered a strong performance, finishing third in the state out of 27 teams. Both teams showed tremendous teamwork, heart, and discipline, and we are proud of the example they set.
CONTRIBUTING WRITER:
Tim Powers, Principal of CBJSHS
We are also continuing to move forward with the addition of the IB Career-related Programme. With our consultation visit complete, we are now entering the authorization phase. The positive feedback we received reflects the dedication of our staff and students and reinforces the outstanding work happening across our campus.
As we enter the holiday season, I encourage everyone to enjoy the Cocoa Beach traditions that bring our community together—Surfing Santas, the Cocoa Beach Boat Parade, the Christmas Parade, and the many local festivals throughout town. We are also excited to introduce a new tradition of our own. On Saturday, December 6th, Cocoa Beach Jr./Sr. High School will host DMSGA’s Miracle on Minutemen, an evening event open to families across the area. We hope you will join us for a fun night as we celebrate the season.
Wishing you joy, health, and a wonderful holiday season.
Go Beach!
Tim Powers Principal Cocoa Beach Jr./Sr. High School
Celebrating the Holidays
One Bite at a Time
CONTRIBUTING WRITER: Jen Burk, Wife & Mom Extraordinaire
Tis the season for tinsel, lights, carols, cookies, and parties! Growing up I loved tagging along with my parents or grandparents to a holiday party. The opportunity for conversation, a variety of foods to taste and a game to play with a possible gift exchange all added up to an exciting evening, which could also go past my bedtime. Whether spending time with extended family, schoolmates, people from church, neighbors, and/ or their coworkers, each party brought its own flare and festive fun. There were parties where I was able to dress up in a pretty holiday inspired dress and those where the dress code was an ugly sweater. Gift exchanges with sincere and worthy of being kept gifts and then the white elephant kind, leading to embarrassment, laughter, or the notion to save it and regift for the next year. The variety of flavors to taste at the parties was exciting because they seemed to only be available this time of year. As a child I wondered if the reason for this was because of the availability of ingredients or if it was just a way to ensure those items remained special by only being prepared one time of the year. Today, as an adult I have amassed a collection of holiday recipes and yes, I only pull them out this time of the year. I’ve learned by doing so it provides a sense of nostalgia for my family and gives one’s palate something to look forward to. From my family to yours, Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays!
DECEPTIVELY
DELICIOUS INGREDIENTS
4-5 medjool dates
2 Tbs old fashioned oats
½ cup peanut butter
½ cup chocolate chips
½ Tbs coconut oil
INSTRUCTIONS
1. Remove pits and add dates to food processor. Pulse until they form a sticky ball. Add in oats and pulse until combined.
2. Add peanut butter and process until combined, if mixture is too oily add another Tbs of oats.
3. Scoop out peanut butter dough by the Tbs and roll into balls. Place on parchment paper. Place in freezer for a couple of hours to overnight.
4. Combine chocolate chips and coconut oil and melt, if using microwave, use increments of 30 seconds, until the chocolate is melted.
5. Dip the chilled peanut butter balls in the melted chocolate and place back on the parchment paper. Place back in the freezer to harden.
6. Store in refrigerator until ready to serve.
INGREDIENTS
2 (8 oz) pkgs cream cheese, softened
1 (1 oz) pkg. Ranch dressing mix
1 (5 oz) can chunk chicken, drained ½ cup chopped pecans
INSTRUCTIONS
1. In a medium bowl, combine cream cheese, ranch dressing mix and chicken. Form the mixture into a ball.
2. On a cutting board spread out the chopped pecans.
3. Roll the ball over the pecans until it is fully covered. Wrap the cheese ball in plastic wrap and chill for 1 hour.
4. Store in refrigerator until ready to serve with your preferred crackers or pretzels.
Additions & Remodels
Outdoor Living Spaces
Impact-Resistant Doors & Windows
Custom Kitchens & Bathrooms
Wine Cellars & Specialty Spaces
Full Design-Build Services
AARP TAX-AIDE RETURNS
INFORMATION CONTRIBUTED BY: Kevin M. Pollard, Local Coordinator, AARP Foundation Tax-Aide
The AARP Foundation TaxAide Program remains one of the most valued community services for residents of Cape Canaveral and Cocoa Beach. Last year, volunteers prepared over 900 tax returns locally and more than 3,000 across Brevard County — demand was so high that the Central Brevard Library ran out of appointments and referred taxpayers to the Cocoa Beach site. This year, the team hopes to exceed 1,000 returns.
Designed primarily for seniors and lower-income individuals, the program is open to everyone, with no
age or AARP membership requirements. Volunteers are IRS-certified and trained annually, offering knowledgeable, patient assistance with a wide range of federal tax situations.
As more Space Coast residents seek reliable help due to rising tax-prep costs and frequently changing tax rules, Tax-Aide continues to meet a growing community need. Highlighting both library locations this year ensures greater appointment availability for families and individuals across our barrier-island communities and reduces the chance that residents will be turned away.
All appointment details, intake forms, and scheduling links for the Cocoa Beach Library and Central Brevard Library appear in the sidebar accompanying this article.
With its experienced volunteers and long-standing commitment to service, AARP Tax-Aide remains a trusted, no-cost resource for local taxpayers. The team looks forward to supporting residents across the Cape and Central Brevard during the 2025 tax season.
Required Intake Form available at the Library Reference Desk or a fillable PDF is available at this link: tinyurl.com/436mxbum COCOA BEACH PUBLIC LIBRARY 550 N Brevard Ave., Cocoa Beach, FL Open: Tue., Wed., Thu. 9:00 AM–1:00 PM
In-Person Appointment Dates: Jan. 15 & 21 • 9:30 AM–12:30 PM Or any day Tax-Aide is open Online Appointments: (begin Jan. 22) tinyurl.com/2rxuj455
Most people watch the Cocoa Beach Christmas Boat Parade from a lawn chair, a dock, or the edge of a canal. And that’s perfectly fine—you still get the lights and the music. But after riding in the parade aboard the Cocoa Beach Dolphin Tours boat with Tracee and some friends last year, I can say without hesitation: watching from land doesn’t compare.
From the moment we stepped on board, the night took on that easy, festive beachside energy. Friends were catching up, strangers were chatting like old neighbors, and holiday music drifted through the air. When a light drizzle rolled in at the start, those covered seats immediately proved their worth— everyone stayed dry and smiling.
This three-hour parade cruise runs from 6–9 p.m., includes a free drink and a holiday gift, and costs $59.99 plus tax. With a friendly captain and mate/guide, comfortable seating, and even a restroom on board, the night is effortless from start to finish.
Once we joined the parade route, the waterfront came alive. Lights that look pretty from shore become dazzling from the water—bigger, brighter, and mirrored across the Banana River. Each passing boat showed off its personality, from elegant classics to wonderfully over-the-top displays that had the whole boat laughing.
One of the unexpected joys was trying to pinpoint exactly where we were along the canals—calling out docks, guessing which house was which, and debating who owned the place with the giant shark coming out of the wall. Seeing familiar homes from the water at night turns the parade into a delightful guessing game.
But more than anything, it was the people who made the night special. Being on the water brings out a relaxed warmth in everyone. Tracee and I caught up with old friends, made new ones, and shared those spontaneous “look at that!” moments that only happen
when you’re surrounded by lights, laughter, and the rhythm of the river.
By the end of the night, my voice was a little hoarse, and my phone was full of bright, slightly blurry pictures—much like the ones accompanying this article—that still couldn’t capture the full magic. As we headed back to the dock, I remember thinking how incredible it felt to be in the parade rather than watching from afar.
And once you’ve experienced the Cocoa Beach Christmas Boat Parade this way—right in the heart of the lights and the community spirit—it’s hard to imagine watching it any other way.
2025 COCOA BEACH
CHRISTMAS BOAT PARADE
DATE: Sat., Dec. 13, 2025 TIME: 6 - 9 PM
ROUTE: Starts near Centennial Park on SR 520 and travels south through the residential canals of the Banana River HOST: Cocoa Beach Rotary Club
Local Hearts, Local Hands
Retro Reef Boutique & Coastal Treasures
Danielle Masucci’s journey to opening Retro Reef Boutique has been much like a connect-the-dots puzzle. She is a local Space Coast gal, born and raised in Merritt Island. She gives credit to her father, Jack of Jack Masucci Jewelers, Merritt Island, who sadly retired after 40 years in 2023, for igniting her creative spark. She fondly reminisces, “After picking me up from school, my dad would bring me back to his jewelry shop and hand me the gemstone identification wheel. He proceeded to dump out a pile of gemstones, challenging me to sort them according to their month. I loved being in his shop! There are so many special memories I made there. The sights of his wearable work and sounds of the customers made it a comforting and exciting place to be.” The skills she learned from her father—making and repairing jewelry—proved quite helpful to her as a dancer. She would rhinestone her own dance costumes, saving herself money, and was able to assist fellow dancers when they, too, needed rhinestone repair. Her creativity and unique, one-of-a-kind pieces of jewelry and clothing have opened doors to a variety of outlets, including participating in area craft shows, partnering with local artist Derek Gores to design a hole at Dreamland, the indoor art museum and playable putt-putt in Melbourne, FL. She resurrected her rhinestone talents through bedazzling hats, denim, and customizing bridal wear. She is also a realtor with Relentless Real Estate, and in spring of 2024, friend and fellow realtor Jennifer Mobley was looking to relocate her real estate office. The landlord was hopeful to fill the space with a boutique shop that would draw more people traffic along this section of A1A. Jennifer thought of Danielle, and Retro Reef Boutique was
born! (Jennifer will be opening a sister store in Merritt Island in December 2025 called Final Stitch). With this space, Danielle is intentional in every area you peruse. Her creativity is reflected in the variety of merchandise she carries, while being committed to providing a unique and enjoyable shopping experience no matter one’s age or gender. Yes, there are items for men, too! I am not exaggerating when I say every inch of Retro Reef Boutique exudes vintage, chic, and an homage to days gone by, inviting a much-needed smile while reminiscing.
Retro Reef offers a 15% discount to Brevard County residents.
When Darren and Tiffany Whitehead moved to the Space Coast area in 2021, they were excited to find a space to call home and were anxious to decorate it. Darren recalls, “We hired a wonderful interior designer who curated beautiful furniture for our space, but when it was completed, our space felt more like something from the pages of a magazine versus our home. All I could see was paint, flooring and furniture. We needed to make our space a reflection of us.” In response to their conundrum, they began to look along the island for décor, artwork and “pop” furniture pieces. Surprisingly, this proved to be more challenging than they anticipated. Instead of their circumstances leading them to order online or drive over the bridge to a big-box store, they decided to be a solution. They opened Coastal Thrift in 2022, in the Bailiwick Shopping Center. They were happily located there for two years, when family in North Carolina drew them away from Cocoa Beach. After only six months, the salt air, sunshine, surf and smiling faces in Cocoa Beach summoned them back south. Upon their return, they reopened their business—this time under a new name, Coastal Treasures, in April 2025. This time it is beside of Ace Hardware, in the A1A Plaza. When you enter their
Photo: Danielle Masucci, owner of Retro Reef Boutique
Retro Reef Boutique
Coastal Treasures
CONTRIBUTING WRITER: Jen Burk
new location, your eyes are drawn from floor to ceiling, captivated by a variety of “treasures” that await being claimed. Darren and Tiffany hand-pick the items they carry and are conscientious to offer a varied selection. Their design is to keep their customers in mind. Unlike browsing big-box stores that are teasing you with their samples on display, what you see is what is available for same-day purchase here. There is no 6–8-week wait time to have your “treasures” adorning your home. Because Darren and Tiffany keep their inventory selection fresh and moving, it is never the same. If you see something you love, you’d better buy it, because there is no guarantee it will be there the next time you visit.
Coastal Treasures is also a great business to connect with if you are looking to refresh your home and rehome any of your furniture or décor items. Reach out to them via their Facebook group page, Coastal Treasures, for details on this opportunity and to see their most current inventory selection.
Coastal Treasures offers First Responder, Military & Teacher discounts.
The common thread among both businesses is their intentionality to connect with their customers. Retro Reef Boutique and Coastal Treasures are a breath of fresh air! In a world that seems to prefer shopping from a box store or ordering via a finger swipe from a device, I want to encourage you to support local. Whether you are a local, snowbird, or a visitor passing through, be sure to visit Retro Reef Boutique and Coastal Treasures—and be sure to tell them I sent you.
Photo: Darren and Tiffany Whitehead, owners of Coastal Treasures
Cape Canaveral and Cocoa Beach have always moved in tandem—two sister cities sharing a shoreline, a history, and a community spirit that flows freely across the city line. That’s why the Cocoa Beach Christmas Parade has become just as beloved here in Cape Canaveral as it is in our neighboring town. Each December, countless Canaveral families and businesses head south on A1A to take part in a tradition that feels like it belongs to all of us along the Cape.
Every December, the Cocoa Beach Christmas Parade turns A1A into a festive, small-town celebration—one of those rare moments when the whole community comes together to share holiday cheer under our sun-splashed skies. Families line the street with lawn chairs, kids scramble for candy, and longtime locals wave from decorated floats, golf carts, and classic cars. It’s a celebration that connects our barrier-island communities in a way few events can.
This year, Cocoa Beach and Canaveral Explorer Magazines are proud to support that tradition by paying the parade entry fee for any business that has not yet registered and wants to participate. Civic organizations and nonprofit groups are always free to enter, but businesses can let Brian Smith with the Kiwanis Club of Cocoa Beach know they’d like the Explorers to cover their fee.
A COMMUNITY TRADITION BUILT BY YOU
A MESSAGE FROM KIWANIS CLUB OF COCOA BEACH
The Cocoa Beach Christmas Parade is organized each year by volunteers from the Kiwanis Club of Cocoa Beach, a group dedicated to serving children and strengthening our local community. Their behind-the-scenes work ensures this cherished holiday event continues to thrive— bringing together residents, schools, nonprofits, churches, civic groups, and local businesses in a way that reflects the warmth and creativity of our coastal towns.
What makes this parade truly special isn’t just the lights or the music—it’s the people who return each year with decorated floats, themed vehicles, dance teams, walking groups, and imaginative entries of every kind. Their dedication and enthusiasm are what give the parade its heart and keep it a beloved staple of the holiday season across Cocoa Beach, Cape Canaveral, and our connected communities.
To register and receive the sponsored entry, contact Brian at brian_smith12@cfl.rr.com or 912-655-5027, and mention the Cocoa Beach and Canaveral Explorer offer.
NEW PARTICIPANTS WELCOME
The Kiwanis Club of Cocoa Beach warmly invites new participants to join the fun this year. Whether you’re a business, organization, club, school, church, or neighborhood group, they want you to know:
You are wanted. You are welcome. And you will make a difference.
Joining the parade is more than a holiday activity—it’s a chance to show community spirit and place your brand in front of thousands of residents and visitors. Participants are encouraged to hand out candy or promotional items along the route and to decorate their entry in the festive spirit of the season.
Your entry can be as simple or as elaborate as you’d like:
• Fully themed towed floats
• Decorated cars, trucks, golf carts, or motorcycles
• Bicycles, scooters, or beach cruisers
• Walking groups, sports teams, school clubs, dance and cheer squads
Whatever format fits your group, the Kiwanis Club of Cocoa Beach will be thrilled to have your involvement.
COCOA BEACH
CONTRIBUTING
WRITER: Christiana C. Succar, Ph.D
Greetings Beachside Residents:
In this month’s Book Nook, I am excited to feature three books on Belize! If you haven’t been to Belize but are interested in natural beauty, fantastic cuisine, and an intriguing culture, please add it to your list of places to visit. Most people are familiar with Belize’s beaches from a brief cruise stop or the numerous travelers who arrive at the Belize International Airport and then take a connecting flight to San Pedro Island. In the following readings, you will learn that there is so much more to the country than its beaches.
I recommend starting with “A Brief History of Belize” by K.J. Smith. This concise and accessible read about Belize’s political and cultural history provides just enough background to understand the country. It highlights specific areas of interest that one may choose to explore further with another text. Belize gained its independence from the United Kingdom in 1981 and is the only English-speaking country in Central America. As a young country, it has been able to preserve much of its Mayan history and continues to unearth new history every day.
The Fallen Stones by Diana Marcum. This is a memoir of the author’s vacation in the hills of Belize’s southernmost Toledo District. This is a raw and revealing account of her experience living among nature, including the discovery of the blue morpho butterfly, the friends she makes, and the story of a country and culture that one will fall in love with.
Beka Lamb by Zee Edgell. This is a beautiful narrative of a 14-year-old Belizean girl and her experience growing up with the backdrop of the country’s struggle for independence. This comingof-age novel immerses the reader in the local milieu, complete with the local dialect and daily life.
Other recommended reads: The Last Flight of The Scarlet Macaw by Bruce Barcott, I BELIZE YOU CAN COOKBOOK: Fifty Shades of Great Belizean Food Recipes (Caribbean Cookbook) by Dr. Gregory Arana, and Jaguar: Struggle and Triumph in the Jungles of Belize by Alan Rabinowitz.
There are numerous travel guides, anthropological discoveries, nature stories, and memoirs from expats who have moved to Belize for its natural beauty. These are just a few that certify why I love Belize and long to return soon.
Happy Reading!
Christiana C. Succar
As 2025 draws to a close, the Space Coast Communities Association (SCCA) extends warm holiday greetings to all our members, partners, and friends. This year has been remarkable—filled with learning, connection, and celebration as we marked the SCCA’s 50th Anniversary of service to the Space Coast’s condominium and homeowners’ associations.
Throughout the year, we’ve welcomed expert presenters who shared invaluable insights on everything from legislative changes and budgeting to painting, SIRS planning, and insurance responsibilities. We’re deeply grateful to our speakers, whose expertise keeps members informed; to our attendees, whose engagement makes each session a success; and to the exhibitors and vendors who helped make our annual trade show another standout event.
As we look ahead to 2026, the SCCA remains devoted to breaking down relevant laws and regulations while continuing our mission to educate, advocate, and connect.
To kick off the new year, join us on Wednesday, January 14, 2026, from 9:00 to 11:30 AM in the Jamaica Room at Radisson Resort at the Port, Cape Canaveral, for our Water, Water Everywhere!” and “Repair vs. ” presented by Adam Copenhaver of Ask an Adjuster. This session will help condominium owners understand how to protect their buildings when water damage or plumbing issues arise—how to distinguish between maintenance problems and insurable losses, what steps to take after a leak, and how Florida law defines responsibility between owners and associations.
SCCA 2026 Trade Show 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM Radisson Resort at the
. This free event brings together local industry experts and contractors—engineers, property managers, attorneys, accountants, insurance agents, and more—for valuable networking and one-on-one discussions. Find details and exhibitor sign up information at scca-online.
As we celebrate the close of an incredible year and look forward to the next, we thank you for being part of the growing SCCA community.
Wishing you all Happy Holidays and a joyful New Year from the SCCA Board!
BEACH FISH CAMP GRILL
1 (Mon) Karaoke - 7pm
2 (Tues) Trivia - 6pm
3 (Wed) Dueling Pianos - 6pm
4 (Thur) Line Dancing - 7pm
5 (Fri) Micro Wrestling - 6pm
6 (Sat) Line Dancing - 9pm
7 (Sun) NFL Football - All Day
9 (Tues) Trivia - 6pm
10 (Wed) Dueling Pianos - 6pm
11 (Thur) Line Dancing - 7pm
13 (Sat) Line Dancing - 9pm
14 (Sun) NFL Football - All Day
15 (Mon) Karaoke - 7pm
16 (Tues) Trivia - 6pm
17 (Wed) Dueling Pianos - 6pm
18 (Thur) Line Dancing - 7pm
20 (Sat) Line Dancing - 9pm
21 (Sun) NFL Football - All Day
22 (Mon) Karaoke - 7pm
23 (Tues) Christmas Themed Trivia - 6pm
25 (Thur) Open (Special Christmas Day Menu)
27 (Sat) Line Dancing - 9pm
28 (Sun) NFL Football - All Day
29 (Mon) Karaoke - 7pm
30 (Tues) Trivia - 6pm
1 (Mon) Writers Night - 7:30pm
2 (Tues) Trivia Tuesday - 7pm
3 (Wed) Ukulele Collective - 7pm
4 (Thur) Traditional Irish Music Session -7pm
5 (Fri) Dave Birks - 7pm
6 (Sat) Damion Suomi - 7pm
7 (Sun) Sarah & Dave - 6pm
9 (Tues) Trivia Tuesday - 7pm
10 (Wed) Ukulele Collective - 7pm
11 (Thur) Traditional Irish Music Session -7pm
12 (Fri) Beachside Bards - 7pm
13 (Sat) Michael “Dunigan” DeAngelis - 7pm
14 (Sun) Finnegan Tim - 6pm
16 (Tues) Trivia Tuesday - 7pm
17 (Wed) Ukulele Collective - 7pm
18 (Thur) Traditional Irish Music Session -7pm
19 (Fri) Dave Birks - 7pm
20 (Sat) Brendan O’Conner - 7pm
21 (Sun) Wild & Blue - 6pm
23 (Tues) Trivia Tuesday - 7pm
24 (Wed) Ukulele Collective - 7pm
26 (Fri) JJ Smith - 7pm
27 (Sat) JJ Smith - 7pm
28 (Sun) Paul Rowan - 6pm
30 (Tues) Trivia Tuesday - 7pm
31 (Wed) Traditional Irish Music Session -7pm NOLAN’S
SANDBAR SPORTS GRILL
4301 Ocean Beach Blvd.
1 (Mon) Jam Band - 8pm
2 (Tues) Matt Simpson - 8pm
3 (Wed) Trivia w/ DJ Josh -5:30pm
3 (Wed) Serious Animal - 8pm
4 (Thur) Karaoke - 8pm
5 (Fri) Adam Sean - 4pm
5 (Fri) Rokslyde - 9pm
6 (Sat) Dakota & The Hired Gunz - 4pm
7 (Sun) DJ Salt Shaker - 9pm
9 (Tues) Adam Sean - 8pm
10 (Wed) Trivia w/ DJ Josh -5:30pm
10 (Wed) Jake Salter - 8pm
11 (Thur) Karaoke - 8pm
12 (Fri) 506 Crew Duo - 4pm
12 (Fri) Karalyn & The Dawn Patrol - 9pm
13 (Sat) Syndicate - 9pm
14 (Sun) DJ Salt Shaker - 9pm
15 (Mon) Jam Band - 8pm
16 (Tues) Adam Sean - 8pm
17 (Wed) Trivia w/ DJ Josh -5:30pm
17 (Wed) Syndicate Duo - 8pm
18 (Thur) Karaoke - 8pm
19 (Fri) Mondo Tikis - 4pm
19 (Fri) Bullet Dodgers - 9pm
20 (Sat) Hot Pink -9pm
21 (Sun) DJ Salt Shaker - 9pm
22 (Mon) Jam Band - 8pm
23 (Tues) Matt Simpson - 8pm
24 (Wed) Trivia w/ DJ Josh -5:30pm
24 (Wed) Terrell on the Keys - 8pm
26 (Fri) Leah Orchid - 4pm
26 (Fri) Over / Under - 9pm
27 (Sat) Cheetah Coalition - 9pm
28 (Sun) DJ Salt Shaker - 9pm
29 (Mon) Jam Band - 8pm
30 (Tues) Catgut Stitches - 8pm
31 (Wed) Trivia w/ DJ Josh -5:30pm
31 (Wed) Love Valley - 9pm
THE ALIBI COCKTAILS & BITES
231 Minutemen Causeway
Cocoa Beach, FL 32931
4 (Thur) Esh & Schief - 6pm
5th (Fri) DJ Manley - 8pm
6 (Sat) DJ Como - 8pm
11 (Thur) Josh Miller Band - 6pm
12 (Fri) DJ Manley - 8pm
13 (Sat) DJ Como - 8pm
18 (Thur) Esh & Schief - 6pm
19 (Fri) DJ Manley - 8pm
20 (Sat) Black & Red Anniversary
Party w/ DJ Como - 8pm
26 (Fri) DJ Manley - 8pm
27 (Sat) DJ Como - 8pm
28 (Sun) Burlesque - 7pm
31 (Wed) DJ Como - 8pm
COCOA BEACH MAIN STREET EVENTS
6 (Sat) Winterfest 10am Downtown Cocoa Beach
24(Wed) Surfin’ Mingle 8am Downtown Cocoa Beach
CAPE CANAVERAL REINDEER RUN
8330 Ridgewood Ave. Cape Canaveral, FL 32920
13 (Sat) Cherie Down Park Starts 8:00am go to RunSignup.com to register
RIVERSIDE PRESBYTERIAN
CHURCH
3400 N Atlantic Ave.
Cocoa Beach, FL 32931
7 (Sun) Dr. Vernon Boushell Concert Series “An Old Fashioned Christmas” 3:30pm
13 (Sat) Space Coast Symphony Orchestra “Hooray for Hollywood - the Sequel” 7:00pm
SURFING SANTAS
Downtown Cocoa Beach (on the beach at Coconuts)
24 (Wed) End of Minutemen Cswy. Starts at 7:30am
5 (Fri) Matilda Jr. (Wormwoods’ Cast) - 7pm 6 (Sat) Matilda Jr. (Wormwoods’ Cast) - 1pm 6 (Sat) Matilda Jr. (Honey’s Cast) - 5pm 6 (Sat) Merry Beachmas: Improv Showcase - 8pm 7 (Sun) Matilda Jr. (Honey’s Cast) - 2pm 13 (Sat) Touchstone Independent Film Festival - 2pm 14 (Sun) Readers Theater December 2025 (Holiday Shorts) - 2pm
Cape Canaveral Programs & Events
FRIENDS OF THE LIBRARY BETTER BOOK SALE!
Thur., December 11 - Friends of the Library Members only preview sale: 9 – 11AM. Public sale: 11AM – 4PM & Fri., December 12: 9AM – 4PM.
FAMILY MOVIE NIGHT: A MUPPET CHRISTMAS CAROL
Monday, December 1, 6-7:30 PM. The Muppet Christmas Carol (1992) is rated G and runs for approximately 90 minutes. Bring some holiday cookies to share!
COMMUNITY SUPPORT DAY: SECOND HARVEST
Wednesdays 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Second Harvest representative will help you apply for SNAP food assistance. Walk-ins only. No Second Harvest on Dec. 24, 2025.
COMMUNITY SUPPORT ADVOCATE
Wed., Dec. 10, 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Help you with housing, job/ career, social security benefits, senior resources and other types of assistance. Call 321-868-1101 for an appointment. No CSA on December 24, 2025.
MUSIC MONDAY: “WINTER WONDERLAND” WITH DAVE DELUCA
Monday, December 8, 6-7 PM
A feel-good, family-oriented event filled with yuletide whimsy.
GAME NIGHT: HOLIDAY TRIVIA EDITION
Monday, December 15, 6-7 PM
Bring a plate of cookies to share!
MUSIC MONDAY: LIVING BY THE STREAM
Mon., December 22, from 6-7PM Free performance by fatherdaughter duo Living by the Stream!
CHAIR YOGA WITH PAM
Mondays from 12:15 – 1:15 PM
$5/class
PURLY GIRLS KNITTING AND CROCHET CLUB
Tuesdays from 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM
JAPA MEDITATION WITH DEB
Tues., Dec. 16 from 2 – 2:45 PM
Bring your own mala beads; mala beads will be available at the class. $5 a class. Email Deborah.Mores@ gmail.com for more info.
NEUROGRAPHIC ART WITH DEB
Tues., Dec. 16, 3:00 – 4:30 PM
$5 for class and $5 for supplies Pre-register at the Reference desk.
INTRO TO STAMPING AND CARD MAKING WITH DONNA
Thur., Dec. 4, 1:00 – 2:00 PM
$2 for included supplies. TEXT Donna at (321) 794-2137 to reserve
CARD MAKING WITH DONNA
Thur., Dec. 4, from 2:00 – 4:00 PM
$5/class + $5/class for materials. Please bring your own adhesive and scissors. TEXT Donna at (321) 794-2137 to reserve your spot.
When I sat down to write the December issue, nothing felt fresh. I tried everything: holiday recipes, gift guides, reflections on the magic of the season, even a few notes about Sagittarius energy—my birthday kicks off on December 1st, after all. But nothing seemed inspired.
And then I realized, inspiration is all around me. I’m writing this on a small tour bus winding through Patagonia, staring out at Torres del Paine—the “blue towers”—while the sky shapeshifts by the minute.
Maybe it’s the Sagittarius in me—freedomloving, adventure-seeking—but travel is my element. After the warm response to my Portugal story, I realized a travel piece is always welcome here. And Patagonia? It practically writes itself.
A LAND THAT BIRTHS POETS
Today we passed the lake where Gabriela Mistral stayed—the landscape that inspired her poem Desolación. Seeing it, I finally understood what she meant: not emptiness, but a serene, expansive quiet that fills you. Pablo Neruda came from this country too, and suddenly the old saying makes sense: Chile es el país de poesía.
CHILE & PATAGONIA TIDBITS
I’ve only been on vacation for four days— Santiago and Puerto Natales/Patagonia—and already my soul is full. Despite early wake-up
calls and an annoying husband determined to wake me before the alarm—travel and new adventures is ALWAYS worth it.
This is my first time in South America, experiencing life below the equator. MidNovember here is spring heading into summer, and now I understand what it means to experience four seasons in a day. Actually: four seasons in five minutes.
In just a few days, I’ve learned so much:
• The five main animals of Patagonia, and we were lucky to spot two of these: condors soaring and guanacos wandering.
• How caves preserve Ice Age stories.
• That the sweet and sour Calafate berry is everywhere and makes for delicious jam, liquor, and more!
• Santiago is green, hilly, clean, and filled with people proud of their culture.
• Watermelons are in season and sunset is at 10 p.m. and only getting later.
• Patagonia’s “land of giants” nickname comes from when Magellan’s crew encountered tall natives.
• King crab thrives here, sea urchin is offlimits until January, and Chilean hot dogs are definitely a thing.
As I write this, snow is falling outside the bus window. Twenty minutes ago, it was sunny. Before that: rain, sleet, and winds strong enough to make the car sway. Patagonia is nothing if not
committed to keeping you humble.
But here’s the thing I return to: people are the same everywhere. They work, play, love good food, adore music, want to explore, laugh, feel connected. Our driver—who speaks very little English—is singing along to American rock songs, proving my point.
Nature is shaped by its environment and so are people. It’s up to travelers—the curious—to discover this for ourselves.
You can read about Patagonian wind or be told what king crab tastes like. But until you feel the gusts shake your bones… until you watch a condor open its wings and soar… you don’t know it. Not really.
Travel wakes us up. It fills us with wonder and perspective. And Patagonia—wild, poetic, unpredictable—reminds me why I seek out new corners of the world. Because every time I do, the world feels bigger and smaller at once. And I
