Issuu

Local WORSHIP Services

CLUB ZION COMMUNITY CHURCH

It’s All About Jesus!

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

RIVERSIDE PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH

WORSHIP FOR ALL! SUNDAY 10AM Online and In-person

Praise and Traditional Music

3400 N. Atlantic Avenue

Cocoa Beach www.riversidepresbyterianchurch.org RiversidePresbyterianChurchCB

THE POINTE CHURCH

82 N. Atlantic Ave., Cocoa Beach

Join us Sundays 8am • 9:30am • 11am www.ThePointe.Online

MyPointe MyPointe

EDITOR’S LETTER

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

GLIMPSES OF INDIA: A CULTURAL CELEBRATION 8 9 13 10 12 14 19 18 22 25

SURFIN’ CITY HALL: TIDINGS, TIDES & SANTA RIDES

SCCA: CHEERS TO 50 YEARS & A BRIGHT 2026 AHEAD

LOCAL HEARTS, LOCAL HANDS: RETRO REEF BOUTIQUE & COASTAL TREASURES

JOIN THE COCOA BEACH CHRISTMAS PARADE

FROM MY HEART TO OUR TOWN

CELEBRATING THE HOLIDAYS ONE BITE AT A TIME

AARP TAX-AIDE RETURNS TO COCOA BEACH

THE BEST SEAT IN THE PARADE: A HOLIDAY NIGHT ABOARD COCOA BEACH DOLPHIN TOURS

WANDERING THROUGH PATAGONIA: WHAT TRAVEL TEACHES US ABOUT THE WORLD— AND OURSELVES

Articles and advertisements printed in Cocoa Beach Explorer do not necessarily reflect the opinion of the publisher. Explorer Multimedia, LLC and Cocoa Beach Explorer assume no liability for the content and shall not be held liable for any errors or omissions.

CAPIZZI’S COMMENTARY

A MESSAGE FROM THE MAYOR

& Santa Rides Tidings, Tides

to view the parade, so drop anchor early to catch the incredible view of this Cocoa Beach tradition.

Another Cocoa Beach tradition is an event that won’t leave you… board for shore. Surfing Santas is back again. Hundreds of surfing Santas take to the waters with this unique event on 24th at 7:30 A.M.

Coconuts on the Beach there, paddle on over to the Surfin’ Mingle located at Minutemen Causeway

8:00 A.M.–1:00 P.M. various food trucks and unique vendors for your last-minute holiday shopping!

All these events are sure to make even the great Kelly Sleigh-ter proud.

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 the Radisson Resort at the Port, Cape Canaveral, for our next seminar: “Water, Water Everywhere!” and “Repair vs. Replace – Who Decides?” 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.

Then, mark your calendars for the SCCA 2026 Trade Show on Saturday, February 7th, from 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM in the Conference Center at the Radisson Resort at the Port, Cape Canaveral. 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. org.

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!

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

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

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 tradition that reminds us why Cocoa Beach feels like home.

This year, Cocoa Beach Explorer Magazine is 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 want Cocoa Beach Explorer to cover their fee.

To register and receive the sponsored entry, contact Brian at brian_smith12@cfl.rr.com or 912-655-5027 and mention the Cocoa Beach Explorer offer.

A COMMUNITY TRADITION BUILT BY YOU

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 work behind the scenes ensures that this cherished holiday tradition continues to

A MESSAGE FROM KIWANIS CLUB OF COCOA BEACH

thrive—bringing together residents, schools, nonprofits, churches, civic groups, and local businesses in a way that feels authentically Cocoa Beach.

What makes this parade 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 creative 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.

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 your 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.

Kiwanis

So many things have been out of our control this year. Like many of you, I’ve had to navigate unpredictable changes and challenges — both personal and work-related.

My solace is water. Beach or river, sunrise or sunset, eyes closed and a deep breath… telling myself it’s going to be okay. It works most of the time — give it a try.

We are fortunate to have a caring community that rallies for each other. A lost lizard or cat or dog — we’re on it until it’s found! Someone has an accident — we raise money. Someone is ill — we send love and prayers. I am so proud of us. Family, friends, neighbors, in-laws and out-laws — it’s our Cocoa Beach community. It’s home.

I am sending out a call to the community! NOW is the time to rally for our downtown businesses. This year has been incredibly difficult with the lack of tourism to help sustain them. Our downtown businesses are here for you — for our community, first and foremost. And for the first time in years,

we have so many choices! All creatively unique and specialized.

Show your community love by exploring and discovering what downtown has to offer. I challenge you to make at least two purchases from two different businesses before December 31, 2025. If you need suggestions, email me at kenne.cbms@gmail.com, and I will help direct you.

I hear the phrase “hidden gem,” and I cringe. No one wants to be hidden! Every business wants to be found. Downtown Cocoa Beach is a shining star. Embrace the uniqueness. Explore + discover. Shop + eat + play. It’s all right here in our backyard.

Looking forward to 2026 Be purposeful with your spending. Every dollar counts. Put it back into your community. Shop. Eat. Relax. Celebrate. Downtown Cocoa Beach is the place to do it. Volunteer your time and talents — a little or a lot — and feel how good it is to give back.

2026 is the year to put the “local vibe” back in downtown Cocoa Beach.

Sending holiday blessings and love to all.

CONTRIBUTING WRITER:

Kenne Wells, Executive Director Cocoa Beach Main Street

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.

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

AARP TAX-AIDE RETURNS TO COCOA BEACH

INFORMATION CONTRIBUTED

BY:

Kevin M. Pollard, Local Coordinator, AARP Foundation Tax-Aide

The AARP Foundation TaxAide Program remains one of Cocoa Beach’s most valued community services. 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 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 helps ensure more appointment availability 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 the Cocoa Beach and Central Brevard community throughout the 2025 tax season.

Tax Preparation Dates: Feb. 3, 2025 – Apr. 15, 2025

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

BREVARD LIBRARY 308 Forrest Ave., Cocoa, FL Open: Tue., Thu., Sat. 9:00 AM–1:00 PM

In-Person Appointment Dates: Jan. 20, 22, 24, 27, 29, 31 9:00 AM–1:00 PM Online Appointments: (begin Jan. 26) tinyurl.com/397xpd37

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 Cocoa Beach 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

Community Corner

ALONE, WE CAN DO SO LITTLE; TOGETHER, WE CAN DO SO

MUCH ~ Helen Keller

SINGLE, SEPARATED, WIDOWED AND DIVORCED (SSWD) GROUP

ALL ARE WELCOME TO ATTEND. For additional details, please call (502) 299-8949. The Single, Separated, Widowed and Divorced (SSWD) group will meet for lunch:

Dec. 5

Island Waterfront Bar & Grill, 1891 E. Merritt Island Cswy., M. I. on Friday, Dec. 5 at 12 noon.

Dec. 18

Christmas potluck lunch at the Angel Room, Church of Our Saviour, 5301 N. Atlantic Ave., Cocoa Beach on Thursday, Dec.18 at 12 noon. Please bring a dish to share.

MIRACLE ON MINUTEMEN

Nonprofit organizations can submit information on upcoming events, fundraisers and community announcements for inclusion in the Community Corner to info@explorermultimedia.com. Please submit information no later than the 10th of the month prior to publication month (i.e. for August edition submit info by July 10th). Placement is on a first come basis as space is limited.

Event Details Saturday, December 6th 5:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.

Dear Cocoa Beach Families and Friends,

You’re invited to experience the magic of the season at Miracle on Minutemen, hosted by DMSGA at Cocoa Beach JSHS!

Take a walk through our enchanted, light-filled path as actors bring to life the story of “’Twas the Night Before Christmas – Cocoa Beach Style.” Along the way, you’ll be guided by narration, surrounded by sparkling lights, festive scenes, and the true spirit of Christmas.

Your journey will lead you into a Magical Christmas Marketplace, filled with holiday cheer, clubs, and seasonal surprises. Finally, the evening concludes at Mrs. Claus’s Bakery, where each guest will receive a complimentary baked treat to enjoy.

Join us for an evening of lights, laughter, and community as we celebrate the magic of Christmas — Cocoa Beach style!

Cocoa Beach Junior Senior High School $10 admission at the door

All proceeds benefit Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children

Irish & Celtic Gifts

*Registration required. Sign up at reference desk or call (321) 868-1104

MEDIUM JOHN ROGERS Wed., Dec. 10, 6 – 7:45 PM. Topic: Do Past Lives Help You?

OVEREATERS ANONYMOUS Mondays and Thursdays, 11 AM –12 PM

AL-ANON FAMILY GROUP Tuesdays, 4 – 5 PM. Fridays, 11:30 AM – 12:30 PM

12:30 PM. Tues., Dec. 3 & 17, 2:15 –

SOCIAL MEDIA FOR BEGINNERS,

Tues., Dec. 9,

PM. Free crochet class for adults! Limited supplies provided.

QI GONG BREATHING EXERCISE CLASS & DRUM CIRCLE Fri., Dec. 12, 11 AM – 12 PM

FLIGHT CLUB: ADULT DRONE CLASS* Thurs., Dec. 18, 1 -2 PM

UKULELE JAM Sat., Dec. 27, 1 –2:30 PM.

APRIL COBB PRESENTS: THE WRITING WORKSHOP SERIES Tues., Dec. 2, 11 AM – 1 PM

SPACE COAST AUTHOR & POET: JEFF TRESSLER Wed., Dec. 3, 6:30 – 7:30 PM. Poetry: The Basics of Rhyme & Reason

NAVIGATING THE HOLIDAY SEASON WITH A GRIEVING HEART PRESENTED BY VITAS HEALTH CARE & GRIEF SUPPORT Wed., Dec. 10, 11 AM – 12:30 PM. Call: 321-831-2145 for more info.

CRIBBAGE Wednesdays, 1 – 3 PM

MASTER GARDENER CLINIC Fridays, 10 AM – 11:45 AM

WONDERFULLY WINTER

STORIES Tues., Dec. 9, 6 – 7 PM. For families and children.

YOUTH SERVICES PROGRAMS (see Youth Services Desk for details)

• Gift Wrap Scavenger Hunt

• Winter Holiday Look & Find

• Story Stroll

READ YOUR WAY TO K: TODDLERS Tuesdays, 10 – 11 AM. For ages 2 – 5.

VIDEOGAME NIGHT Tuesdays, 4 – 5 PM. No Videogame Night Dec. 23. Play Nintendo Switch games on our big screen projector! Games and controllers provided. For children of all ages.

GAME NIGHT FEATURING TABLETOP ROLEPLAYING GAMES Wednesdays, 3:30 – 5 PM. No Game Night on Dec. 24 & 31. For ages 10+.

READ YOUR WAY TO K: BABIES Thursdays, 10 – 11 AM. No RYWTK:B on Dec. 25. For ages 6 months – 2 years.

BUILDERS CLUB Thursdays, 4 – 5 PM. No Builders Club Dec. 25 For ages 5+

FOR A FULL LISTING OF ALL EVENTS AT THE COCOA BEACH LIBRARY PLEASE VISIT: www.brevardfl.gov/PublicLibraries/Branches/CocoaBeach

CONTRIBUTING WRITER: Darcy

Mehta

Owner | Vivacityproductions.com Host | YouTube.com/@FreshlySqueezedmorningshow

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 understand it, and its people, just a little more.

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

Manav Mandir and Indiafest are delighted to present Glimpses of India, a vibrant cultural program coming to Brevard County. This special event celebrates the rich traditions, music, and spirit of India—brought to life through captivating dance, rhythm, and color for an unforgettable evening.

Bringing a program of this magnitude to our community has been both exciting and challenging. It has required tremendous teamwork, creativity, and dedication—as well as generous financial support. Thanks to the enthusiasm and kindness of our friends and supporters, this dream has become a reality.

The entire program and narration will be presented in English, inviting friends from all backgrounds to connect and share in the beauty of India’s heritage.

We are honored to host this celebration at the historic Cocoa Village Playhouse – Broadway in Brevard County, a true gem in our community and a longstanding home for artistic excellence and cultural expression.

With heartfelt gratitude, we thank everyone who has encouraged and supported us on this journey. We look forward to welcoming you to the theater for an evening of joy, unity, and cultural splendor.

Warm regards,

The Glimpses of India Team

Andrea, Founder

MONDAY

SPECIALS MONDAY-FRIDAY START @ 4PM

SUNDAY @ 8PM

TUESDAY

1/2 PRICED NACHOS W/ 1ST PITCHER

$3.25 JACK, JIM, JOSE

$2.50 BUSCH LIGHTS

THURSDAY

LARGE PIZZA @ SMALL PIZZA PRICE

$4 SKYY VODKA FLAVORS

1/2 PRICED TACOS & DOMESTIC DRAFTS

FRIDAY

$10 OFF 1LB OF CRAB LEGS

$3.50 CORONAS

WEDNESDAY 8 WINGS 50% OFF W/ EVERY PITCHER

$3 FIREBALL

$3 GOOD BOY SELTZERS

SUNDAY

$2 MILLER & COORS DRAFTS

$3 TEQUILA & FIREBALL