Senior Life, April 2026

Find everything you need to LIVE YOUR WAY on the Space Coast — from clubs to activities, to health care and recreation and best places to live, play and thrive.

See page 15 for information

BY LILLIAN NGUYEN

Get ready to explore the Space Coast without limits — with the award-winning Boomer Guide! The newest edition of the premier magazine will make its debut and be available to take home at the annual Space Coast BoomerFest! Expo.

This year’s Expo will be at the Viera Regional Community Center at 2300 Judge Fran Jamieson Way. The event marks the release of the 20th edition of the Boomer Guide — two decades of providing information to Brevard County residents.

The free magazine makes it easy to find local clubs, organizations, support groups, senior centers, emergency hurricane information, sports, veteran meetings and more. It’s essential for both newcomers and longtime Floridians.

“We are excited to present the latest edition of the Boomer Guide because we know that our readers have been waiting for it,” said Jill Blue, the publisher of the Boomer Guide, Senior Life and Viera Voice. “This will be another exciting BoomerFest! Expo. So come on out for the Expo and pick up your copy of the magazine.” BoomerFest! will be held from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Friday, April 24. Orlando Health — Melbourne, Rhodes Law. P.A. and Parrish Medical Center will be the presenting sponsors.

Attendees will enjoy live music as they visit exhibitors, watch demonstrations, seminars and learn about valuable resources. There will be giveaways, and the first 250 lucky attendees will receive an exclusive tote bag. Guests will enjoy snacks and a coffee bar sponsored by Lucky Goat Coffee Company.

A mobile shredding truck will be available on site sponsored by Health First.

“There is something for everyone at this wonderful and informative gathering,” Blue said. “Come and enjoy the Expo and enjoy the exhibitors, seminars and barbecue sponsored by The Brennity.”

The theme this year is Exploring Without Limits. Local models, maybe your next-door neighbor, are chosen to grace the cover and

es of the magazine. SL

INSIDE THIS ISSUE

E ditor FROM THE

Celebrate 20 years of Boomer Guide, release of new edition

This month marks the 20th year of Boomer Guide, the Space Coast premier Boomer/senior resource guide.

Boomer Guide, along with Senior Life and Viera Voice, are publications of Bluewater Creative Group.

For two decades, Boomer Guide has been a comprehensive guide that gives users lists of hundreds of resources available on the Space Coast.

The guide has continually grown through the years. The newest edition of Boomer Guide with its theme Exploring without Limits will be unveiled April 24 during the BoomerFest Expo at the Viera Regional Community Center.

In Senior Life, we have expanded our series called This Old Church. Some of you have seen Derby Chapel in Cocoa Village and wondered about it. Read our story in this edition. It has been interesting learning about some of these historical church buildings.

I always find some of the hobbies people choose to be interesting. In this edition, we look at the instruments people choose to learn to play. A group of musicians get together once a month at the Cape Canaveral Public Library and jam. They come together, some of them for the first time, but in a brief time the group of about 40 or more are playing tunes together, directed by a leader.

Then there are the men and women of the Harbor City Harmonizers. They come together once a week to refine their harmonization. That is in addition to their time performing for groups or organizations.

COUPONS & DISCOUNTS

Perhaps one of these hobbies, passion or pastimes, will inspire others, especially retirees with time on their hands to find their niche. At the very least, you will learn what others are doing by reading these stories.

Also in this edition, we are featuring compelling stories about Brevard residents’ experience with the terrorist attacks of Sept. 11, 2001. We asked, “where were you on 9/11?” We are putting together the stories that will run each month through Sept. 11, 2026. We still have room for a story or two more. If you have one that might interest readers, let us know about it.

Again, this month, Senior Life is packed with stories that are sure to inform and entertain. We enjoyed researching these stories and think you will like reading them, too. SL

R. Norman Moody norm@myseniorlife.com

20th Boomer Guide: 20 years exploring

BY LILLIAN NGUYEN

2007 was a transformative year for pop culture: the iPhone took the world by storm, iconic pop songs such as Rhianna’s ‘Umbrella’ were released … and just when you thought it couldn’t get any better — Boomer Guide, the Space Coast premier resource magazine, debuted.

For two decades, Baby Boomers around the Space Coast have reached for the Boomer Guide to find local, essential resources. The comprehensive guide has hundreds of listings that can point you toward anything from attorneys to Zumba classes. Published and compiled annually by the Bluewater Creative Group, the award-winning magazine’s team believes that being well informed is the key to living a healthy life.

Each Boomer Guide has its own unique theme: 2016 was Young at Heart, 2021 had Peace Love &

Savor

Listings and 2025 was about Aging My Way.

This year is Exploring Without Limits — whether it’s traveling the world or going for a quick stroll on the beach, the world is your oyster.

Jill Blue, publisher for Bluewater Creative Group, describes the Boomer Guide as a comprehensive book.

“So, if they picked it up, they could find anything they wanted,” she said. “Or, if they’re new in town, they could use it as a resource. Anything that they might be interested in, is listed there.”

The Boomer Guide has certainly grown up from its youth as an eightpage pamphlet.

The 2026 Space Coast BoomerFest! Expo will be held Friday, April 24 at the Viera Regional Community Center on 2300 Judge Fran Jamieson Way. From 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., celebrate the 20th edition of the Boomer Guide with free

admission, live music, coffee and giveaways.

Want to learn more? Check out MyBoomerGuide.com or call 321-242-1235. To find the

HOBBIES & PASSIONS

THE 20TH FEATURE IN A SERIES ON HOBBIES & PASSIONS

Music lovers bring their passion to jam sessions

BY SUE DEWERFF

With smiles on their faces and fingers and voices creating the harmony, Brevard resident music lovers and a few visitors gathered for the Music Lovers Unite’s jam session.

They spent several hours jamming, singing and listening — even making new acquaintances — in the meeting room at the Cape Canaveral Library.

Susan Cook, who became the group’s director in the summer of 2025, coordinates the meetings and sets up the big screen that projects the music for the participants. She referred to the group as “a friendly orchestra of folks having fun.”

“They come from all backgrounds, education and cultures,” Cook said. “Many are newbies (just learning to play their first instrument), others are members of local bands or music groups, while some are here to just listen or sing along.”

Cook, one of the nearly 40 attendees, played her ukulele. The list of memorable Irish/St. Patrick’s Day songs, including “When Irish Eyes are Smiling,” were displayed in detail (notes and lyrics) for the musicians to follow.

“My love for music began in high school, when I played in the band and sang in the chorus,” Cook said. “It’s a lot easier to learn to play an instrument

these days, I think, with all the online tutorials, apps and other tools.”

Jan Scully of Viera, one of the regular attendees, learned to play the guitar when she was 16 years old.

Now in her early 70s, she recently learned how to play the baritone ukulele after borrowing one and then purchasing her own from a member she met while participating in Nolan’s Irish Pub music group.

“For me, it’s a way to stimulate the brain and meet wonderful like-minded friends. I enjoy playing with many great folks within the Brevard music groups. I regularly attend the Martin Andersen Senior Center in Rockledge, as well as enjoy going to Nolan’s.”

Carolyn McLeod, a recent widow (married 51 years), who lost her husband on March 1, said she decided

to join the group after taking a few ukulele lessons.

“Honestly, I think my husband would be proud,” she said with a smile. “I’m learning, and honestly feel comfortable here, because if I hit the wrong note, well, it’s likely no one would notice. We all do the best we can!”

Roy Yates and Rob Mayo, fellow bass players, sat together at the jam. Mayo, a first-time attendee, was quick to catch on and said he was quite impressed with the turnout.

Yates, who has been a participant in the monthly group for several years, is a member of the local Billy Love Band.

“I don’t mind being the only, or one of the few, bass players, and I hope to see more folks with other instruments

join us as we grow,” he said. “We even have a violinist who has joined us.”

Mark Elliott, known by the group as The Bear, has been bringing his Djembe drum to the jam for the past year.

“His addition to the group has really been great, as everyone appreciates his outgoing personality and helpfulness to others here,” Cook said.

“We encourage everyone, whether a seasoned musician or not, to join us, beginners welcome.

For more information about the Music Lovers Unite group, visit the Cape Canaveral Public Library at 201 Polk Avenue or call 321-868-1101.

The group meets from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. on the third week of each month. SL

Stephen’s

BY LILLIAN NGUYEN

In 2012, Saint Stephen’s Way was established with the mission of assisting families that were struggling with housing. An upcoming fundraising event will help with its mission. Thanks to support from the community, its mission has grown.

“It’s not just about providing them with safe, affordable housing for their families,” said Debbie Strawhand, the director of development for Saint Stephen’s Way. “It’s also to provide supportive services that help them — whether it’s financial, helping to make budgets and get their credit back on track. Those types of things.”

Saint Stephen’s Way is hosting its fifth annual Homes for Hope Breakfast Fundraiser on April 30. The sit-down breakfast will be held at the Crowne Plaza Beachside at 2605 N. A1A in Melbourne. Registration begins at 7:30 a.m., with the program beginning promptly at 8. Proceeds will fund Saint Stephen’s Way’s personalized programs, supportive services, education and housing.

The Homes for Hope Breakfast will be full of information with guest speakers such as Dr. Mildred Coyne of Coyne Workforce Solutions, who

8085 Spyglass Hill Road

Viera, Florida 32940

Monday – Friday 8:30 am – 5 pm

Appetizer & Dessert Samples Senior Living Resources Giveaways Vendors & Information

Friday, May 1, 10:00am – 1:00pm

• Fashion Show

• Signature Cocktail/Mocktail

• Hors D’oeuvres

• Self-Care Vendors

By Randal C. Hill

Behind the Beat

‘Bohemian Rhapsody’ — Queen

Opera: A dramatic work set to music for singers and instrumentalists.

Bohemian: An artist or musician from about a century ago who defied convention and standards.

Rhapsody: A classical music piece with distinct sections played as one movement.

“I always wanted to do something operatic,” Queen’s charismatic leader Freddie Mercury once said. “I don’t really know anything about opera myself. Just certain pieces. I wanted to create what I thought Queen could do.” The result became the quartet’s signature song.

Mercury’s now-classic offering is a six-minute suite consisting of several sections — an introduction, a ballad segment, an operatic passage, a hard rock part and a reflective coda — and all structured like Led Zeppelin’s dynamic “Stairway to Heaven.”

While “Bohemian Rhapsody” is a monumental production, many Queen fans ended up scratching their collective heads when it came to trying to interpret Mercury’s mystifying lyrics.

Mama, just killed a man

Put a gun against his head

Pulled my trigger, now he’s dead Mama, life had just begun

But now I’ve gone and thrown it all away

Was he confessing to an actual homicide?

When quizzed about the “Rhapsody” lyrics, Mercury declared, “It’s one of those songs which has such a fantasy feel about it. I think people should just listen to it, think about it, and then make up their own minds as to what it says to them.”

Mercury — born Farrokh Bulsara in Zanzibar (now part of Tanzania) in 1946 — had just broken up with his long-time love, Mary Austin, after revealing to her that he had fallen in love with a man.

It seems that, in the words of “Bohemian Rhapsody,” the Queen leader is literally addressing his mother.” She embraced Zoroastrianism, which is intolerant of homosexuality, and her son’s lyrics laid bare the angst he is suffering as he comes out as gay.

He’s killing the straight Mercury he has always shown the world.

The quartet’s record label bigwigs

Queen’s Freddie Mercury, left, said his “Bohemian Rhapsody” can be interpreted in many ways.

balked at the song’s length — just under six minutes — and worried that Top 40 radio would shun the single due to its unorthodox running

all the different moods of the song.’ So, we said no, it’ll either fly or it won’t.”

The tune’s length never proved to be a problem.

Once “Bohemian Rhapsody” — gleaned from the Queen album “A Night at the Opera” — hit the English airwaves, the recordbuying fans made the single a No.1 winner there for nine weeks.

In America, the 45 on Elektra Records became the group’s first entry into Billboard’s Hot 100 listing, climbing to the No. 9 spot in 1976 and reaching No. 2 on

Manhattan store owner recalls losing friends, business to 9/11 attacks

BY ERNIE DORLING

When Hallmark store owner Victor Panosian, of Armenian descent, immigrated to the United States from Lebanon in 1979 it was to escape the political turmoil of the Middle East.

He carried with him the hopes common to many newcomers — stability, opportunity and the chance to build something lasting.

Eight years later, in 1987, with the help of his brother, a New York City cardiologist, Panosian achieved a milestone of the American dream when he purchased a Hallmark gift store just one block from the World Trade Center in Lower Manhattan.

For more than a decade, Panosian’s shop served office

workers, tourists and neighborhood residents. The store’s glass cases displayed crystal and fine jewelry, while greeting cards and gifts lined the walls. It was a modest but thriving business in the shadow of

“It wasn’t just the loss of my business that is etched in my mind, it’s the loss of a number of regular customers, who I saw almost weekly for years, that were killed that day.”

— Victor Panosian

the Twin Towers.

That all changed on Sept. 11, 2001.

Panosian was driving to work that morning from his home in New Jersey when he first heard news reports on the radio that a plane had struck one of the towers.

“My wife, Silva, called, telling me to come home immediately,” Panosian said. “I turned around and made it home just in time to see, on live television, the second jet slam into the South Tower.”

Like millions of Americans, Panosian watched in disbelief as the towers burned and eventually collapsed — taking with them not only thousands of lives, but also his livelihood.

Amid the chaos, Panosian telephoned his store manager and instructed him to close immediately. But his manager told him that it was impossible. A few hundred people fleeing the disaster had poured into the store seeking shelter from falling debris and smoke.

“I told him to use his best judgment and do whatever he could to provide protection for those people,” Panosian said. For hours, people covered in dust remained inside, packed among card racks and display cases, waiting for the streets to clear.

Several hours later, the store was finally closed, and the last of the shaken occupants were escorted out. It was only later that Panosian discovered someone had remained hidden inside. By nightfall, much

of his most valuable inventory — including crystal pieces and jewelry — had been stolen.

The destruction of the Twin Towers had already devastated the neighborhood. Now Panosian faced mounting losses. After six months of negotiations with his insurance company, he received what he describes as only a small settlement — just enough to attempt reopening.

“I put all of the settlement money back into the store,” Panosian said. “I fought to keep the store alive, but after five years, dwindling foot traffic, and accumulated debt proved to be too much.”

In 2008, unable to pay creditors, suppliers and employees, Panosian lost the business he had spent two decades building.

“I lost it all,” he said.

“The events of the morning in September are burned into my memory forever,” Panosian said. “It wasn’t just the loss of my business that is etched in my mind, it’s the loss of a number of regular customers, who I saw almost weekly for years, that were killed that day.”

In 2015, seeking a quieter life and a fresh start, he moved to Viera, where he now resides.

“I haven’t been back since 2015,” Panosian said. “I just don’t want to relive the memory of that day.”

Though the storefront near the World Trade Center is long gone, Panosian’s story remains a testament to the fragility and resilience of the American dream in the face of tragedy. SL

STRI PES Brevard Veterans News

— a community jewel, will bring attention to Veterans Center

Veterans’ events such as Memorial Day commemorations or Veterans Day celebrations used to be held at the Brevard Veterans Memorial Park. But during the past decade or so, as more monuments and memorials were placed in the park, less space was available.

In recent years, those commemorations and celebrations were moved to the parking lot of the Brevard Veterans Memorial Center on Merritt Island.

Soon, there will be a better venue — an amphitheater for many of the events traditionally held in the center’s parking lot.

With a collaboration of government, agencies and the

Veterans Memorial Center, veterans now have a new multi-million-dollar amphitheater. Though veteran events are just a part of what will be held there, it is a boon for the center.

Memorial Center, the amphitheater is expected to be the venue for major concerts and events.

“It really has become a team effort,” said Donn Weaver, who serves as the liaison between the Veterans Memorial Center and the Brevard County Parks and Recreation, which will administer the amphitheater.

“We’ll be authorized 12 events per year,” Weaver said.

Now it has become one of the best venues of its kind in Central Florida. In addition to the veterans’ events, it will host major concerts, celebrations and community gatherings.

“It is a community jewel,” Weaver said.

Don Pearsall, the vice president of the Brevard Veterans Memorial Center, said the amphitheater will bring attention to the center and its military museum and library.

“There are a lot of people who don’t even know the center is here,” Pearsall said. SL Amphitheater

Built in collaboration between the Merritt Island Redevelopment Agency, Brevard County Parks and Recreation, the Tourist Development Council and the Brevard Veterans

The $8.2 million project was expected to be completed and inaugurated this month, after about a three-month delay. The project is on an 80-acre track that was once slated to be a housing project before the MIRA acquired the land.

The Brevard Veterans Memorial Center is at 400 S. Sykes Creek Parkway, behind the Merritt Square Mall, on Merritt Island.

From loss to light: a Navy veteran’s journey toward healing

BY ERNIE DORLING

In the spring of 1966, Simon and Garfunkel released their hit single, “I Am a Rock.” That same spring, with graduation from Mississippi State University on the horizon, John McMorrough faced a life-altering decision.

The Vietnam War was escalating, and after learning his draft status was 1A, he chose to enlist in the United States Navy rather than wait to be called.

Raised in Aberdeen, a northeast Mississippi town of just 3,000 residents, McMorrough carried with him the values of small-town America — faith, hard work and service.

He reported to the Naval Air Station Pensacola, launching a 20-year naval career defined by leadership and resilience.

Commissioned as an ensign in November 1966, McMorrough soon found himself deployed aboard the aircraft carrier USS Oriskany as an air warfare officer and stationed off the coast of North Vietnam.

“It was a perilous time in naval aviation history,” McMorrough said. “In July 1967, tragedy struck the aircraft carrier USS Forrestal when a

Jewelry

& Liquidation Solutions

catastrophic deck fire and explosions killed 134 sailors and injured 161 more. Our ship was ordered alongside to provide firefighting support and to receive the dead and wounded.”

“The grim task left a permanent mark,” McMorrough said. “It was a sobering reminder of how quickly life can change in a combat zone.”

During the next two decades, McMorrough alternated between sea duty and shore assignments.

He served on carriers operating in combat waters off North Vietnam and later took on leadership roles within

Appraisals

for Seniors

Downsizing? Settling an estate, or just curious about your jewelry’s value? We offer expert, trustworthy appraisals with a personalized approach.

Jewelry Appraisals for Seniors

Over 50 years of experience

Downsizing? Settling an estate, or just curious about your jewelry’s value? We offer expert, trustworthy appraisals with a personalized approach.

Accurate valuations for insurance coverage On-site & in-home services available Estate & liquidation guidance

• Over 50 years of experience

• Accurate valuations for insurance coverage

• On-site & in-home services available

• Estate & liquidation guidance

Guiding you with Expertise and Integrity

Guiding you with Expertise and Integrity

Contact Peter Indorf, GG, RGA for your free consultation today!

Contact Peter Indorf, GG, RGA for your free consultation today! 321-914-0118 www.jewelryappraisal-liquidation.com

321-914-0118 www.jewelryappraisal-liquidation.com 1103 West Hibiscus Blvd | Suite 307B | Melbourne, FL 32901

the Naval Reserve. He commanded two Naval Reserve centers — one in Bangor, Maine and another in Charleston, West Virginia. He retired in 1988 after 20 years of active duty.

Civilian life brought new challenges. McMorrough founded a small manufacturing company that designed specialized vacuum mixers. Over a decade, he grew it to 12 employees before selling the company to a venture capital firm. Soon after, DuPont recruited him to its research and development division in Buffalo, New York.

Eventually, McMorrough and his wife, Sue — his college sweetheart whom he met while both were working at the 1964 World’s Fair — relocated to the mountains of Colorado and later settled in Nashville, Tennessee. Tired of harsh winters, they vacationed in Destin, Florida, and ultimately chose to make their home at the Indian River Colony Club in Viera.

Their 60-year marriage has endured both joy and heartbreak. In

1978, their 14-year-old son Matthew died in a home fire.

“After Matthew died, I was searching for a lifeline,” McMorrough said. “I was and still am an avid hunter of elk. After organizing a fundraising banquet to preserve elk and their habitat, the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation (RMEF) invited me to serve on its board of directors, which I did for five years.”

In their son’s memory, John and his wife Sue established a scholarship at their son’s school, sustaining it for 39 years and counting.

Now, McMorrough follows what he calls a three-pronged approach to life: walking more than five miles a day, five days a week; writing to sharpen his mind; and crafting intricate leatherwork with deer antler and elk ivory inlays — proof that service, perseverance and purpose remain at the heart of his story.

Through a life of service and losing a son, McMorrough has indeed proven that he is, as Simon and Garfunkel said, “A Rock.” SL

Reich leads veteran’s organization focused on mission

BY LINDA WIGGINS

For former U.S. Air Force Capt. Rosa Reich, it is all about camaraderie, service and advocacy for veterans and active military members.

Reich is the second-ever female president in the 50-plus years of the Military Officers Association of America Cape Canaveral Chapter (MOAACC). She was installed Jan. 10.

Reich leads the Cape Canaveral Chapter, which is the largest MOAA chapter in the United States, with 1,440 members.

Camaraderie is one of the perks of serving veterans because it automatically places veterans among their peers. Fellow MOAACC leaders have welcomed her.

“I am a veteran first and foremost and have been treated with the same respect as any other veteran who has served our country.”

— Rosa Reich

“We are a team, focused on our mission,” said Reich, who served active duty as a launch missile officer from 1983 to 1987, receiving her commission through the University of Nebraska-Lincoln AFROTC

program. “I am a veteran first and foremost and have been treated with the same respect as any other veteran who has served our country.” Service is the second part of her philosophy that she shares with the association.

“Our motto is Never Stop Serving. I have volunteered or worked in the public sector for the majority of my life,” Reich said. She also served in the Air Force

Reserves from 1993 to 1997, attached to the 45th Space Wing Public Affairs office at the former Patrick Air Force Base. “What we do in MOAACC to support active duty members, reservists and veterans along with their families is aligned with my core beliefs.”

She shares those beliefs with her husband Doug Shull, who retired as an Air Force lieutenant colonel who was stationed in Brevard in 1992 at

the 45th Space Wing. He also served in the USAF Reserves.

“We made Brevard County our permanent home, raising our children here,” Rosa Reich said of their adult children Melody and Kyle. She also served a 17 years with the Brevard County government, organizing homelessness providers to attract more resources. She capped off her civilian career with eight years at Catholic Charities in Brevard.

Reich volunteers through her church, St. John the Evangelist Catholic Community in Viera, where she is a member of the Veterans Ministry and the Catholic Council of Women.

Reich is about advocacy.

“MOAACC is about camaraderie, service and advocacy. This year, we are focused on increasing the awareness of our members regarding the legislative program initiatives of MOAA National. By the end of this year, our goal is to increase the percentage of members participating in the democratic process of advocacy on issues of paramount interest to the overall military community— active duty, retired, separated, families and survivors.”

MOAACC leadership positions are for one-year terms.

Reich was nominated and elected to the office of second vice president, then first vice president, and then president.

For more information, go to MOAACC.org SL

DUDA celebrates 100 years of successful family legacy

BY LINDA JUMP

DUDA, a family-owned business begun by Andrew Duda and his 40acre celery farm, is entering its second century with his fourth and fifthgeneration descendants at the helm.

DUDA includes the Viera Company, community developers and subsidiary companies as well as Farm Fresh Foods, Duda Sod and Duda Ranches.

“Leading our family’s business at this historic 100-year milestone is both profound and humbling. For a century, DUDA has been guided by faith, family, integrity and a deep commitment to our people and the communities where we operate,” said

Sammy Duda, the CEO.

Andrew Duda emigrated from Slovakia with several other families to found the community of Slavia in Central Florida. Eventually, he and three sons operated a 40-acre celery farm called A. Duda & Sons.

The business expanded rapidly to become more market-driven and, in the 1980s, a master-planned community was envisioned on the company’s Cocoa ranch. In 1989, the community of Viera, which means faith in Slovak, was founded, and Viera Builder, Viera Pool and Outdoor Living, Duran Golf Club, Viera Commercial Properties and Addison Village Club were formed.

DUDA now owns or leases more than 45,000 acres of farmland and commercial properties that include office buildings, retail stores, restaurants, drug stores and warehouse distribution centers in 15 states. Agricultural enterprises are in Florida, Georgia, Texas, Tennessee, Alabama and Michigan.

Tyler Duda, the senior manager of land development, is one of 11 fifthgeneration descendants working for the company.

“The cumulation of hard work, dedication, innovation, community building and charity that spans generations of employees and families

has always inspired me to carry this torch onward into the next generation,” he said. “As I look toward the future, I’m optimistic that our core values will be the guiding beacon that directs our path.”

Tyler Duda said the Viera development embodies many of these guiding principles “and I’m very enthusiastic about the work that still remains. As we approach development into our western Village 3 footprint, I couldn’t be more excited about the potential of projects and community building that still lie beyond the horizon.”

DUDA has a board of directors with six family members and four others. The Duda Family Council was established in 2004 to address governing issues within the 198

descendants of Andrew Duda’s three sons. Thirteen families with 28 people remain in Brevard County.

Kate Quinones, a spokesperson for DUDA, said centennial events are planned for internal audiences such as sponsorship of A Taste of Oviedo and the International Fresh Produce Association Global Produce & Floral Show.

“While diversification, innovation and a willingness to learn from others have helped us adapt and endure over the years, our core values have never wavered. It’s a privilege to be here, building on the groundwork laid by those who came before me, as we celebrate our past and carry forward the steadfast principles that will lead us into the next century and beyond,” Sammy Duda said. SL

New life in America — Vietnamese refugee thrives after hardships of war

BY LILLIAN NGUYEN

It’s 1975 and the Vietnam War has ended.

The South Vietnamese government has fallen, and more than 175,000 Vietnamese refugees are starting new lives in the United States.

TV’s “Family Feud” is on the air. Richard Dawson shouts, “Name a word for someone who moves to a new country!” “Survey says: refugee.”

Ngoc-Mai Thi Pham — soon became one as she fled from Saigon in 1975 with her infant daughter.

“I remember … It was April 26, 1975, when the sky was blue and bright. My husband took me and my daughter, who was 8-months old, on his motorcycle,” Pham said. “We were rushing to Saigon Baptist Church.”

At that time, it wasn’t easy to leave Vietnam; a Vietnamese would have to know an American or somebody in a high position to help them get out.

The small family met with an American missionary who would take them out of Vietnam. Pham’s husband was a captain in the South

SENIOR LIFE Courtesy of Winn Ngo

In 1975, Camp Pendleton created a tent city to house more than 50,000 Vietnamese refugees, including Mai Pham, center, and her 8-month old daughter.

thousands of Vietnamese outside of the gate,” Pham recounted. “They were all trying to push each other aside so that they could get inside of the gate.” Four American military police officers stood at the gate, desperately trying to maintain order. Pham didn’t sleep for two days.

Finally, on April 28, 1975, a helicopter came. Pham remembers

would know who we were,” she said. Pham and her daughter later went from the Philippines to Guam, before finally reaching the United States. The two were then transferred to the quickly assembled tent city at Camp Pendleton, California.

Later, settled in Florida, she struggled as a newly single mother. Pham spoke Vietnamese and French

grandchildren into bright young women, who are now 17 and 20 years old.

Pham is a two-time breast cancer survivor and a devout Christian. In her free time, she enjoys gardening and writing stories. Pham makes sure

Viera Regional Community Center

Starting at 10:30 a.m. See the full list of speakers and topics at Boomerseniorexpo.com

Speaker Ruth Rhodes, Esq. Rhodes Law, P.A. Avoiding Senior Exploitation

Speaker Janet Rooks, MA, CDP Parrish

Speaker George Christophi, MD Gastroenterology Orlando Health Medical Group

Speaker Hunter Raforth, MD Board-certified

Senior center celebrates 40 years of serving the community

BY FLORA REIGADA

Fitness, karaoke, card games and so much more — for 40 years, the North Brevard Senior Center has enriched lives through a range of activities.

The milestone anniversary was celebrated March 5 with a ribboncutting ceremony.

Titusville Mayor Andrew Connors and North Brevard Senior Center President Anita James conducted the ceremony.

“The center had its beginnings in 1986, when city leaders discussed it,” said Paulette Amaral, the assistant operations manager. “Vern Jensen submitted a proposal.”

The groundbreaking for the building took place in 1988, with members of the center’s board of directors in attendance, as well as local officials such as State Rep. Bud Gardner, County Commissioner Charles Roberts and Titusville City Manager Randy Reid.

Throughout the years, many gave of their time and talents. They include the late Dottie Kunde. She volunteered her culinary skills at the center, and was known as Chef to the Astronauts. She spent 24 years cooking for them, including her special chocolate chip cookies.

The late George Van Staden volunteered to maintain a lake at the senior center. He was part of a triagency agreement between the county, city and senior center that cleared and maintained the lake. In 2012, the lake was named the George Van Staden Lake in his honor.

A resident alligator, Little George,

named for Van Staden, has since vacated the premises.

An adjoining Vern Jansen Park resulted from Jansen’s efforts and is named in his honor.

A one-third-mile long wheelchair accessible walkway surrounding the lake is open to the community.

“Our members love stretching their legs there,” said Linda Trawle, a bingo enthusiast and the operations manager of the center.

Trawle and Amaral make up the hospitality committee and serve a breakfast casserole prior to Bingo each Thursday. The door opens at 9 a.m. Bingo starts at 10 a.m.

“Breakfast is available, but any donation would be appreciated,” Trawle said.

There is something for everyone at the Senior Center.

“I play progressive rummy, hand and foot (a card game) as well as mahjong,” said Sandy Witt, a volunteer at the center.

Other activities, such as Zumba and Golden Hearts fitness, are also on her agenda.

The North Brevard Senior Center is at 909 Lane Ave. in Titusville. It has approximately 450 members.

For more information, call 321268-2333 or visit nbsc.website. SL

Advanced training for dogs builds bonds, creates good behavior

BY FLORA REIGADA

Ginger, a three-year-old Australian shepherd mix, walked calmly beside her owner, along with other dogs and owners, at Sandpoint Park.

This is no small accomplishment for Ginger, a formerly reactive dog, who often lunged at other dogs and barked at people. She is part of an advanced obedience class with ABC Dog Training.

“The class specializes in training dogs in public at four different locations around Titusville,” said Sally Gordon, the owner of ABC Dog Training. “The class is four weeks long. It is offered to dogs that have

“Sally taught me how to relate to Haylee in a way that makes sense to Haylee. It’s about building a relationship.”

— Debbie Dunn

completed their Canine Good Citizen test, and involves them wearing a collar or harness, with a loose leash, even with distractions around.”

For her milestone accomplishment, Ginger received a reward; a treat she knew was coming.

“I train using positive

reinforcement, which means I teach the dogs what we want them to learn and they get rewarded for it, usually by their favorite high-value treat,” Gordon said.

She also conducts agility training, a high-energy exercise in which a handler directs their dog through an obstacle course.

But the dogs aren’t the only ones receiving training.

“Training the owners is 80% of my job, because they need to be able to help their dogs when they are having a hard time in a situation,” Gordon said.

Dog owner Debbie Dunn of

Titusville knew something needed to be done after Haylee, her 11-monthold black lab/coonhound mix, ate her way through three leather couches, countless phone cords and dog beds.

“We started her out with some private lessons at ABC Dog Training. After one session, that behavior completely stopped,” Dunn said. “I tell Sally that she must know how to speak dog or spread fairy dust. Sally taught me how to relate to Haylee in a way that makes sense to Haylee. It’s about building a relationship,” Dunn said.

For information on ABC Dog Training, check out abchappydog. com SL

4 DAY BUYING EVENT

Fairfield Inn Viera

Clean, or Polish!

Antiques of all Kinds: Do Not Wash, Clean or Polish!

Art work: old oil paintings, old watercolors, old etchings, lithographs, old movie posters, cartoon art & more.

Statues: old bronze, carved jade, wood, marble, alabaster, pottery, porcelain

Old Toys: old toys, trains, old comics + baseball cards (prior to 1960) old Japanese toys, robots, old banks & old dolls

Oriental items: jade, statues, figurines, netsuke, old swords, oriental glass + porcelains

Historical items: letters, autographs (movie stars, presidents, political etc), old photos, political pins + ribbons, old fountain pens, old pocket knives, swords, military items, American, Japanese, German medals, advertising items, old stamps and old badges (police, fire, military).

Gold, Silver & Platinum Jewelry

We buy all types of gold jewelry, new, old and broken. Rings, (class rings, mothers rings, wedding sets, etc.). Bracelets, (charm bracelets, tennis bracelets, bangles, etc.). Earrings do not need to be a matching pair. Chains and pendants, broken is okay.

ALL THINGS GOLD!

We even buy old yellow gold teeth and crowns. Brooches, company year pins. We buy diamonds, emeralds and rubies.

Sterling & Silver Items

Any item made out of sterling silver. Silverware, forks, spoons, bowls, dishes, trays, tea sets, statues, sterling and .999 bars, sterling and .999 rounds, frames, candle sticks, trophies, salt and pepper shakers and jewelry. Broken and smashed is okay.

Gold

Silver

United States Coins,

Barbershop singers bring harmony, tradition, new members

BY LINDA JUMP

Think barbershop quartet and you probably imagine Disney’s Dapper Dans, men dressed in straw hats and striped vests, holdovers from vaudeville, tap dancing and tuning with a pitchpipe.

Probably not a group of men and women practicing with kazoos and led by a 30-something man with shoulder-length flowing curls whose musical influences were Pink Floyd and Iron Maiden.

Brevard’s barbershop singers Harbor City Harmonizers are changing their image and trying to use technology and social media to attract newcomers. Debra Ghilardi and Meredith Moeggenberg are two of the newer faces they want more of.

Founded in 1989, the 32 singers are directed by Brevard native Justin Walker, who also directs the Brevard Chorale and Brevard Community Chorus.

“It was an easy fit. I fell in love with the close harmonies,” he said.

Walker employs kazoos and cellphone apps including Tagpole during rehearsals held from 6:30 to 9 p.m. each Tuesday at Emmanuel United Methodist Church in Melbourne.

Originally all-male in 2017, the national affiliate Barbershop Harmony Society opened to women. Under Walker’s baton, the group was named most improved at last year’s annual convention/contest for its

Citrus chapter.

The group is busily preparing two pieces for the Spring May 1 and 2 contest/convention at World Golf Village in St. Augustine.

While still primarily retired men, the Harmonizers have recruited a handful of women, including Ghilardi and Moeggenberg, who sang with the former Platinum Show Chorus, a chapter of the Sweet Adelines International.

Pat Steckowich, another Sweet Adelines singer, joined five years ago. “When we moved here from Bucks County, Pennsylvania, I found out my husband and I could sing together. He sings bass; I sing tenor.”

Three-year member Peter Maselli of Titusville welcomes the women

Edited by Margie E. Burke

and hopes to also encourage younger men and women to join.

“We’re advertising on Meetup.com (social media) and trying to get the word out,” he said.

Last month, he and other singers donned formal wear to deliver singing valentines as a fundraiser. A subgroup, four-person Muddy River Boys and the Harmonizers, are both available for events.

Moeggenberg sings about 12 hours a week. “I just love it. For

me, the challenge of using my ear to make pitch is what I enjoy.”

Barbershop music, like jazz, began in America. The style features simple melodies sung in four-part harmony a cappella. The melody is usually sung by the second-highest range called the lead, below tenor. The lowest voice is bass, with baritone singing notes above and below.

For more information, go to hcharmonizers.org SL

Golden Steppers take to the spotlight with ‘All That Jazz’

BY LILLIAN NGUYEN

The Golden Steppers are a senior tap group with about 25 women tap dancers and one man. Their ages range from late 50s to 90s — but despite their ages, the Golden Steppers defy all expectations.

“Every year, the people, when we come out after the show and greet all the people, they just are in awe,” Golden Stepper Mari Dietz said. “They can’t believe that at our age, we do what we do.”

The Golden Steppers are gearing up for their next big show.

“We’ve been putting on shows at the Cocoa Village Playhouse for the past 37 years,” Dietz said. “This year, our show is “And … All That Jazz” and we do all different kinds of tap dancing.”

The 37th annual performance will take place at 2 p.m. Sunday, April 12.

The Indian River Cloggers and members of the Cocoa Village Players

will join the Golden Steppers on stage for several numbers. The show will be filled with numerous costume changes, about 30 different dance numbers and backed by nostalgic jazz music.

The newest member of the Golden Steppers, Phyllis Irvine, said that theatre goers can expect “a lot of colors, a lot of fans — a lot of big feather fans. It’s going to be spectacular.”

The show was directed and choreographed by lead dancer Martha Seymour.

“The choreography that Martha does is phenomenal,” Irvine said. She and Dietz both praise Seymour’s skills.

Tickets are $23 each. The proceeds will go toward funding scholarships for the Cocoa Village Playhouse’s Stars of Tomorrow program.

To purchase tickets, visit cocoavillageplayhouse.com or call 321-636-5050. SL

HEALTH & WELLNESS

Philanthropic artist performs for memory care facility residents

BY CHRIS BONANNO

Jay Allen, a musical artist who performs country and rock songs, has done incredible philanthropic work.

Allen’s mother, Sherry Lynn was 54 when she died from Alzheimer’s disease. Since then, Allen has raised more than $160 million to fight the disease.

“I’ve been touring full-time for nine years, I lost mom seven years ago,” Allen said. “I kind of hit a fork in the road and decided I’m going to keep doing this even though we lost mom. I’m going to continue on a path of hopefully raising funds to fight against dementia and then love on others. I found if you share your story of heartbreak and pain and loss, it creates a safe place for others to share theirs, and that brings a sense of healing. Music is so powerful.”

On Feb. 25, Allen performed for residents at the Palm Bay Memory Care facility as part of his Living Gracefully Tour.

“It means so much,” said Sarina Fuller, the life enrichment manager at the facility. “Music is such a big part of every day because that’s not taken away whenever they end up with

Through his music, Jay Allen has raised more than $160 million to fight Alzheimer’s.

dementia. The music never leaves. They can lose everything else and then come out of no talking and end up singing a song to us so it means a lot.”

Allen’s work earned him the opportunity to play in the first ever

concert held in the U.S. Capitol Building. He’s also won awards, including the 2024 All Country News Artist of the Year and The Caregiver Award given by the National Alzheimer’s Association.

“I made a vow to mom on her

deathbed,” Allen said. “I said I’m going to continue sharing your story and honoring your name ’til we find a cure.”

As part of his performance, Allen was interactive with residents at the facility. Fuller estimated that 85 to 90% of the residents there attended the show.

“We’ve just been hyping up our residents,” Fuller said. “They love any kind of music, really. But live music definitely. He has such a presence with them and just connects with them so easily that they just eat him up.”

Karen Burroughs, a resident of the facility, said she loved Allen’s performance.

“His voice was beautiful,” Burroughs said. “I could listen to that guy all day long.”

Residents had a chance to meet and talk with Allen and take photos with him.

At the finale of his show, Allen invited the caregiving staff to the stage as he performed his song, “Blank Stares.”

For more information about Allen and his tour schedule, visit jayallenofficial.com SL

‘Sew Sister’ stitched vital thermal protection for space shuttles

BY CHRIS BONANNO

Jean Wright and other seamstresses played an important safety role in the NASA space shuttle program.

Wright helped to sew thermal blankets that were used on space shuttles from 2005 to 2011.

According to the National Air and Space Museum, those blankets could cover one of the shuttle’s upper wings, fuselage and vertical tail.

Wright said the precise measurements were an indication of the importance of the work.

“You kind of get that impression when the measurements that we used were so extreme, like down to ... a thousandth of an inch,” Wright said. “I always knew the thermal protection system was the most important system on any vehicle because obviously it’s insulation and protection and things like that.”

Wright also indicated that her work, which helped to keep the orbiter cool during reentry, can be seen on shuttles currently on display.

“By the time I started, Columbia and Challenger were already gone, but from Discovery, Atlantis and Endeavour, I have parts on everything,” she said.

Wright said she became a seamstress after emailing someone who had been stitching up a thermal barrier by hand and was photographed in a local news report.

“I remember being excited and I called my twin sister and I said, ‘I knew there was sewing but golly there’s so much hand sewing involved,’ ” Wright said.

After making contact, Wright said she applied for a position.

“They don’t advertise for positions and so I didn’t hear anything for six months and then I tweaked my resume,” she said. “And then about four or five days later after I sent it in, I saw Kennedy Space Center on the caller ID and I thought someone was playing a mean joke because they knew how badly I wanted to work out there. But what it was is they had seen my resume and said they were interested in interviewing me for a position. They hadn’t hired anybody in eight years.”

Wright also said she gets a thrill when at the Space Shuttle Atlantis

exhibit at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex to take her pointer and see her work, including the blankets that she says are the “really visible ones” on the outside of the shuttle.

Wright also said she keeps in touch with a few of her fellow NASA seamstresses.

“I have a couple of them that are still at Kennedy,” she said. The work of Wright, along with that of the other seamstresses, was so compelling that a book was published in 2023 that was written by Elise Matich about the work she and others did. The book is entitled “Sew Sister: The Untold Story of Jean

Wright and NASA’s Seamstresses.”

Wright noted that she and Matich came into contact in 2009 after Matich’s husband urged her to speak with Wright.

“I remember I got a message from her probably a few weeks afterward saying that she was a writer and an illustrator and had done a few local publications and writings before,” Wright said.

“She said she was interested in starting a series on women who had careers that people had never heard about, similar to the Hidden Figures story. She said she wanted my topic to be the first in a series of books that she was writing.” SL

A Taste of Senior Living highlights choices, culinary competition

BY LILLIAN NGUYEN

The annual A Taste of Senior Living is back — with a culinary competition and senior living options.

Seniors and their families are invited to the Center for Collaboration at 1100 Rockledge Blvd. on Friday, April 17 to learn more about local senior living options.

The free event will run from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., with registration beginning at 10:30 a.m. and doors opening at 11.

Once they walk through those doors, seniors will find vendors and resources, from attorneys at Rhodes Law P.A. to moving companies and caregivers from Senior Partner Care Services. Attendees may also register for giveaways.

During A Taste of Senior Living culinary competition, 10 to 20 local senior living communities will exhibit appetizers, desserts and drinks prepared by their chefs and culinary teams for attendees to get a taste of what life is like at their community.

The event is organized by One Senior Place, the resource office and shopping center for seniors.

“There’ll be plenty of food, plenty of drinks, samples…” Director Angelina Higgins said. “But it’s also a really good time to find out what would be a good fit for their next move when that time comes.”

Previous years have seen wonders such as towering fruit skyscrapers, intricately decorated chocolate cakes, and freshly grilled shrimp kebobs.

This year’s lineup will include tasty treats by The Brennity at Melbourne, Royal Oaks, Alura, Palm Cottages, Salterra at Melbourne, YourLife of West Melbourne, Sonata East, The Fountains, Zon Beachside, Victoria Landing, Palm Bay Memory Care and Harborview of Melbourne.

“We’re excited to be back at the Taste of Senior Living competition this year,” said chef Ritchie Sorrentino of The Brennity at Melbourne. “Our team had a great experience last year, and we’re looking forward to raising the bar and competing again.”

After comparing local senior living options, seniors will cast their vote for best appetizer, best dessert and best decorated table.

RSVP to the event at OneSeniorPlace.com or by calling 321-339-0551. SL

Melbourne leaders unify to recall the past, model the future

BY LINDA JUMP

The third annual Founders’ Monument Prayer Breakfast last month drew more than 100 community leaders working to preserve the legacy of lesser-known minority leaders, including three freed slaves who colonized what is now Melbourne.

Gordon Patterson, a history professor at the Florida Institute of Technology, outlined not only the founding of the Crane Creek area by colonists Balaam Allen, Peter Wright and Wright Brothers, but also their descendants, who created “a trinity of family, church and school” as shown

drawing of the Crane Creek Founders memorial planned to be completed in 2028 to honor the three freed slaves who first

Melbourne.

left, a long-time

in preserving its African-American

through census records.

Patterson also described the history of racism in the county, including a 1926 lynching, community resistance to the 1965 integration of Brevard County schools and the home-bombing death of NAACP leader Harry T. Moore.

“If we forget our misdeeds, then our misdeeds will be done again. History needs to remember not only our triumphs,” Patterson said.

James Clark, an African-American chauffeur, was accused of rape in Eau Gallie by a young white girl. The police chief allegedly turned the man over to a mob of 10 men after he was

charged. They placed a noose around Clark’s neck, dragged him over a tree limb and shot him with a shotgun, leaving him hanging in a tree near Parkway Drive at U.S. 1. The street, named Lynching Tree Street, was renamed Legendary Drive in 1980 at the request of the Black

community.

“Racism came to Melbourne … in a season of hate and death,” Patterson said.

“Entire chapters have been reduced to footnotes or lost altogether,” said Nancy Gomez, a member of the Concerned Citizens Committee of South Brevard that sponsored the fundraiser held at the Crowne Plaza Oceanfront on Feb. 21.

“I have a passion to tell the stories of our forgotten past,” said Joseph McNeil, the president of CCSB.

The organization hopes to provide youth empowerment, community beautification, neighborhood revitalization and community engagement. For information, go to cccsb.org SL

Hello April

SATURDAY

National Bartender Day

1 2 3 4

"Why So Serious? A Musical Romp" 7 p.m., April 1 & 2 Presented by the Melbourne Municipal Concert Band. Melbourne Auditorium 625 E. Hibiscus Blvd. Melbourne 321-724-0555

Fire and Home Safety Presentation 1 - 3 p.m. Why every home needs a fire escape plan. Wickham Park Senior Center 2785 Leisure Way 321-255-4494

One Senior Place 20th Anniversary Celebration 4 - 6 p.m. Live music and refreshments. RSVP required. One Senior Place 8085 Spyglass Hill Road Viera, 321-751-6771

Shop Local Bakery Bonanza Market 4 - 8 p.m.

Food trucks, artisans, crafters, specialty foods, plants and more. Viera Regional Community Center 2300 Judge Fran Jamieson Way Viera, 321-759-3713

Plant Swap 2 - 3 p.m. Bring any pest-free, non -invasive plant to swap. Cape Canaveral Library 201 Polk Ave. Cape Canaveral 321-868-1101

Monthly Pack Walk 8 a.m. Walk around the park allowing all dogs to mingle and explore. Sand Point Park 101 N. Washington Ave. Titusville, 321-291-4363

Field Manor's 11th annual Founders' Day 11 a.m. - 4 p.m. Music, food trucks, museum tours, vendors and silent auction. Field Manor 750 Field Manor Drive Merritt Island 321-848-0365 5 6 7 8 9 10 11

14th annual East Coast Dog Surfing Festival

9 a.m. Presented by the Brevard Humane Society. Lori Wilson Park 1500 N. Atlantic Ave. Cocoa Beach 321-636-3343

Space History with Randal Coppola Presentation on early rocket history. Cape Canaveral Library 201 Polk Ave Cape Canaveral 321-868-1101

Overeaters Anonymous 11 a.m. - noon Each Monday Cocoa Beach Library 550 N. Brevard Ave. Cocoa Beach 321-868-1104

Purly Girls Knitting and Crochet Club 10 a.m. - 1 p.m.

Tuesdays Knitting and crochet group to trade patterns and ideas. Cape Canaveral Library 201 Polk Ave Cape Canaveral 321-868-1101

Parkinson's Care at Home: Are You Prepared?

11:30 a.m.

Lunch and learn by Shell Harbor. One Senior Place 8085 Spyglass Hill Road Viera, 321-751-6771

Crystal Gayle

8 p.m.

King Center for the Performing Arts

Egg-Cellent Spring Craft Social 2 - 4 p.m. Decoupage egg class. By Rhodes Law, P.A. One Senior Place 8085 Spyglass Hill Road Viera, 321-751-6771

Bone Builders Noon - 1 p.m. Senior strength training and health education. Merritt Island Library 1195 N. Courtenay Pkwy., 321-455-1369

Port Canaveral Community Shrimpfeast 6 - 10 p.m. Presenter: Propeller Club of Port Canaveral. Shrimp dinner, cocktails and appetizers, door prizes, dancing and a silent and live auction.

Gator’s Portside 683 Dave Nisbet Drive Port Canaveral 321-698-529

Downtown Melbourne Botanical Fest

8 a.m. - 4 p.m. Flowers, trees, sculptures, art, gifts and food. 1900 Building, 1900 S. Harbor City Blvd. Melbourne, 321-724-1741 Bingo Spring Fundraiser 11:30 a.m. 38 different games Greater Palm Bay Senior Center Palm Bay, 321-724-1338

12 13 14 15 16 17 18

Jazz Concert

2 - 4 p.m. Showcase of the 2026 scholarship winners, featuring the Ron Teixeira Trio.

Brevard Veterans Memorial Center 400 S. Sykes Creek Parkway Merritt Island 321-960-4897

April Pickleball Mixer

6:30 p.m. Friendly competition and to develop skills. Ted Whitlock Community Center 1951 Malabar Road NW Palm Bay, 321-952-3443

Senior Fitness with Polly 1 - 2 p.m. Bring weights and water. Cocoa Beach Library 550 N. Brevard Ave.

Florida’s East Coast Sea Glass Club 1:30 - 3 p.m. Melbourne Beach Library 324 Ocean Ave. 321-956-5642

Become an Artist Class 1 - 3 p.m. Learn art skills to create beautiful artwork. Galleria of Art and Photography 7720 N. Wickham Road Suntree, 321-338-9787

Senior Bingo 2:15 - 3 p.m. Cocoa Beach Library 550 N. Brevard Ave. 321-868-1104

Adopt a Pet Day 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. Pets will be available for adoption; provided by the Sheriff’s Animal Services Department. Cocoa Beach Library 550 N. Brevard Ave. 321-868-1104

A Taste of Senior Living 11 a.m. Presented by One Senior Place. Appetizer and dessert samples and vote for the Best Chef in senior living. Center for Collaboration 1100 Rockledge Blvd. Rockledge 321-751-6771

Cocoa Village Book Fest 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. A literary celebration promoting local authors and their writing. Hello Again Books 12 Stone St. Cocoa, 321-877-0351

Earth Day Festival 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. Enchanted Forest Sanctuary 444 Columbia Blvd. Titusville, 321-264-5185

19 20 21 22 23 24 25

Spring Concert: Peace, Like a River 3 p.m. Presented by the Brevard Youth Chorus. Advent Lutheran Church 7550 North Wickham Road Suntree, 321-610-8731

Flower Heads 5 - 8 p.m. Self portrait art class. Wine and snacks provided. Galleria of Art and Photography 7720 N. Wickham Road Suntree, 321-338-9787

Faith Tuesday 4 p.m.

Urban Prime Marketplace 2435 Metfield Dr. Viera 321-499-1188

Brevard Antiques and Collectibles Club

1:30 p.m.

Subject: European. Eau Gallie Library 1521 Pineapple Ave. Melbourne, 321-795-7363

Women's Power Pickleball presents Health First: Pickleball Pulse

9:30 a.m.- 2 p.m. An end-of-season fundraiser featuring a health and fitness breakfast, raffle and social play. Rockledge Country Club Contact allyn@ pwrpickleball.com

60th Anniversary Celebration 3 - 5 p.m. Join the Satellite Beach Library for its 60th anniversary celebration. Satellite Beach Library 751 Jamaica Blvd. Satellite Beach 321-779-4004

Senior Life's Space Coast BoomerFest! 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. Exhibitors, seminars, coffee bar, sample eats from BBQ restaurants. Viera Community Center 2300 Judge Fran Jamieson Way, Viera Call Senior Life 321-242-1235

Melbourne Art Festival April 25 and 26 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. More than 200 artist booths, music and exhibits. Wickham Park Melbourne, 321-722-1964 Fruit Tree Sale 8 a.m. - 4 p.m. Hosted by the Brevard Tropical Fruit Club. Melbourne Auditorium Brevardtropicalfruitclub.com

26 27 28 29 30 May 1 2

TIME TO TRAVEL Icon Park

Orlando experience awaits away from the major theme parks

BY PAM WILLIAMS

Looking for an exciting day in Orlando, but don’t feel like going to the amusement parks?

Head over to ICON Park for a variety of attractions and dining experiences.

ICON Park is a 20-acre, openair entertainment complex which is easily reached from either Universal Boulevard or International Drive.

Admission and garage parking are free. In the main building, you will find an arcade, fast-food options, Sea Life Aquarium, Madame Tussauds Wax Museum and The Wheel, a 400foot tall observation wheel.

Outside are more than 50 shops, restaurants and attractions, including a carousel and a huge swing called the Sky Rider. Those attraction costs vary. Throughout the park, you can also find people creating caricatures or offering you a chance to pose with a parrot.

SENIOR LIFE Pam Williams

Small clear globes protrude into the water allowing viewers a closeup look into the aquarium.

Lynn and Robert Faulkeoner were visiting from Scotland and leaving from Port Canaveral the following day for a Caribbean cruise, so they chose to purchase a multi-package deal.

“With only one day in town to explore, we decided to come to ICON Park and enjoy the Wheel, Aquarium and Wax Museum for considerably less money than spending the day at one of the amusement parks,” Robert Faulkeoner said. “Plus, last evening we had our choice of many restaurants to try for dinner.”

Throughout the Aquarium, various employees are stationed with booths to answer questions or explain the sea

for six months.

“Being able to educate everyone and taking one step to save the smallest to the biggest sea creatures is my enjoyment,” she said.

Sea Life Aquarium offers an underwater experience to view sharks, stingrays, sea turtles and more, including eels. There are small clear globes that protrude into the water where children (or adults if you can bend that far down) can enter for closeup viewing and photo opportunities. There is also an interactive touch pool.

“I love spending time with my

Adventure Ladies and venturing out for our annual birthday celebrations,” said Tamara Ward of Vero Beach. “We are Orlando’s answer to the Golden Girls. Soaring above the crowd in the Sky Rider brings out the childlike wonder in us all.”

Prices vary but buying a combo ticket online at orlandoeye.com to include the Wheel, Museum and Aquarium is $49 to 59 for an adult, depending on the day. Buying online can save about $10. Florida residents save an additional $5 by buying online 24 hours in advance.

Brevard Zoo members receive 50% off an admission ticket, but it can only be purchased upon arrival. SL

Art in the Park offers fun day at nature center, creative experience

BY BETTY PORTER

The Central Brevard Art Association and Brevard County Parks and Recreation have teamed up to offer residents an Art in the Park experience at Riverwalk.

The free Art in the Park will be held from noon to 4 p.m. April 26 at Riverwalk, A Family Park and Nature Center at 5355 U.S.1 in Rockledge.

Art demonstrations and hands-on art projects for all ages will offer a creative experience. Interactive art stations conducted by local artists will present a variety of media — from printmaking to chalk art and sketching.

The Central Brevard Art Association (CBAA) is a nonprofit organization of local artists that has served Brevard County for more than 65 years. It was created to promote community appreciation of visual arts and to provide educational opportunities in visual arts.

CBAA also provides an annual scholarship award to a local graduating high school senior who wishes to pursue a college education in art and sponsors a scholarship at Eastern Florida State College for students pursuing the arts.

“Our mission is to help the community appreciate art and learn,”

said Anne Sands, an artist and the president of CBAA for the past three years.

“We hope everyone will come and experience the spring art and family fun event of Art in the Park at one of Brevard County’s most family friendly and picturesque parks,” Sands said.

One of the participating artists, Teresa Camarata, will help children make simple leather bracelets that close with a snap. The children will be able to stamp their name or initials on the bracelets using stamps depicting bugs and nature.

“We will add contrast to the stamping by applying shoe polish and wiping it back, which the kids really like doing,’’ Camarata said.

Artist Lauralee Salter will bring clay beads and elastic for the children to make simple bracelets.

There will be at least seven tables showcasing pottery, purses,

cards, photography, shell art, prints and original artwork by the artists who will have their art available for purchase.

For more information about the Art in the Park event or Riverwalk: A Family Park, call 321-433-4490.

The six-acre park features a 900-foot boardwalk that leads to the Indian River. Pets are not allowed. For information about the Central Brevard Art Association, call 321-806-8065 or check out cbaaartists.com SL

16. Asymmetry

Dynamite creator

BBQ treat

Slangy assent

Post-blizzard equip-

Followed

Choice in fencing

___ compos mentis

Emulates an eagle

College major

Marine division

Argues noisily

Calyx part

Double

Casino area

Smoke signals

Not fixed

Family

Circuit component

A Carrey persona

Bonnet occupant?

59. Midterm, e.g.

60. Some pitches

61. Tool with teeth

DOWN

1. Reach across

2. “Cogito, ___ sum”

3. Currying implement

4. Turnkeys

5. After-hours dispenser

6. Take the wrong way?

7. Boom or mast

8. Practical, as a plan

9. “Canterbury Tales” locale

10. List ender

11. Tribulation

17. Mouth piece

19. Spud bud

22. Declare openly

23. Spirit

25. Australian export

26. Lived

27. Hardens

28. Albatross, symbolically

29. Exemplar of dryness

30. Barbershop sound

31. Attraction

35. SWAT team members

38. Projection from camshaft

40. Serengeti grazer

42. On, as a lamp

45. Farfetched

47. Bits of fiction

48. Boxer’s bane

49. Distort, as numbers

50. Back at sea?

51. Bill stamp

52. Stubborn one

53. High school class, for short

54. CSI facility

Solution on page 26

THE NINETH FEATURE IN A SERIES ON 19TH AND EARLY 20TH CENTURY CHURCHES

Cocoa Village’s century-old chapel still serves community

BY LINDA JUMP

The century-old Derby Street Chapel in Cocoa Village was nearly razed 30 years ago to provide parking for the First Baptist Church next door, but instead was restored and now used for weddings and events.

“I saw it being refurbished when I first moved here and saw how beautiful it was,” said JoAnn Blankenship, who now is a volunteer overseeing bookings.

The chapel operates independently of its owner — First Baptist Church, located next door — by Cocoa Main Street.

“It’s beautiful with original wood floors, stained glass and that big wooden front door. It has local historical charm.”

— Christina Romaine

That nonprofit, formed from First Baptist congregants, has a 25-year lease that expires next year. They preserved the original wooden floors, stained-glass windows, altar rail and tin roof and also added a similar small building behind the relocated chapel with restrooms, changingsitting rooms and an office area.

Construction of the craftsman-

style building now at 121 Derby Street began in 1916 with volunteer workers from the then Cocoa Seventh Day Adventist Church. It was made of heart of pine and stucco over wire lathing, and expanded in 1923 with a religious school and worship sanctuary. Dedication was on July 13, 1924. In 1955, the building was sold to the First Church of Christ, Scientists who sold it in 1964 to the First Baptist Church. That church held services there for years and also used it for youth group meetings and as a food and clothing distribution center. Eventually, Derby Chapel was

turned into a storage facility and considered for demolition for parking. First Baptist church has also been worshiping in the area for more than 100 at two different sites. But some members wanted to preserve the

history of the chapel and formed Cocoa Main Street, an all-volunteer group.

“We want to continue their legacy,” Blankenship said.

When Christina Romaine and Chad Dabit of Melbourne married last month, they chose the chapel.

“It’s beautiful with original wood floors, stained glass and that big wooden front door. It has local historical charm. It’s so quaint and just what you would imagine for a small, intimate wedding,” Romaine said.

The air-conditioned chapel seats 75 guests. One-day use is $500 or two-day, $800.

For information or a tour, e-mail derbystreetchapel14@gmail.com or call 321-305-5924. SL

History — Then and Now

History – Then and Now features Space Coast landmarks or sites in pictures and what those same areas look like today in photographs.

Then 1960s

Now 2026

BCOA NEWS

Brevard Commission on Aging

BCOA meetings are open to the public and are held the second Thursday of each month at the government center in Viera. For information, contact Cindy Short at 321-633-2076, FAX 321-633-2170 or email cindy. short@brevardfl.gov. BCOA is located at 2725 Judge Fran Jamieson Way, B-106, Viera, FL 32940.

April is Parkinson’s Awareness Month

Every April, communities around the world observe Parkinson’s Awareness Month, a time dedicated to education, support and research for those living with Parkinson’s disease.

April was chosen because it marks the birthday of James Parkinson, the English doctor who in 1817 published an essay describing a condition he called the Shaky Palsy. His observations later led to the disease being named in his honor.

Parkinson’s disease is a chronic, progressive neurological disorder caused by the loss of dopamine producing cells in the brain. This loss can lead to symptoms such as tremor, stiffness, slowed movement and difficulty with balance.

Many individuals also experience non-motor symptoms including depression, sleep disturbances, cognitive changes and speech difficulties. Because symptoms and progression vary from person to person, a common saying in the Parkinson’s community is: “When you meet one person with Parkinson’s, you meet one person with Parkinson’s.”

In Brevard County, we estimate more than 6,500 people are living

with Parkinson’s disease. Across the United States, about 90,000 people are diagnosed each year. Experts estimate that by 2040, the number of people living with Parkinson’s worldwide could reach at least 12.9 million. While the likelihood increases with age, about 4% of people are diagnosed before age 50. Men are also about 1.5 times more likely than women to develop the disease.

Managing Parkinson’s can be complex and often involves addressing challenges related to diagnosis, medication management, nutrition and maintaining physical activity. While there is currently no cure, research continues to provide hope. Genetic research programs supported by organizations such as the Parkinson’s Foundation offer voluntary genetic testing and counseling at no cost to people with Parkinson’s. Participation helps scientists better understand the disease and develop future therapies.

Exercise has also proven to be a powerful tool for managing symptoms. Studies have shown that consistent, high-effort exercise focusing on large movements, balance, rhythm and strength can improve mobility, posture

and overall quality of life. Programs such as boxing-based fitness classes and movement therapies are now widely recommended as part of a Parkinson’s care plan.

Locally, the Brevard Parkinson’s Alliance, a nonprofit organization, works to connect individuals and families with resources, education and support. The organization coordinates services across the county and offers six support groups that provide a welcoming environment for people living with Parkinson’s and their caregivers to share experiences and encouragement. The Alliance also helps fund scholarships for programs such as Rock Steady Boxing, as well as respite care and transportation assistance.

As part of Parkinson’s Awareness

Month, the Alliance is helping promote an educational Lunch & Learn titled You’ve Been Diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease … Now What? The event will take place from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m, Friday, April 24 at The Fountains of Melbourne. Neurologist Dr. Gabriel Neves of Knight Neurology will discuss what individuals and their care partners can expect after a diagnosis and share practical guidance for navigating the next steps. RSVP by April 20 to 321-655-6934.

Support comes in many forms, and finding the right combination of care, exercise and community can make a meaningful difference. To learn more about local resources and events, visit Brevardparkinsons.org SL

Barbara Fradkin

Give thanks, pray, forgive and find joy in a connection with your creator

Life is a journey and then what?

As time on earth slips away, seniors spend more time thinking about the hereafter — heaven, hell and other places.

Look at any church congregation, house of worship or temple. The silver hairs dominate.

Each spring, our attention is focused on Passover, Easter, Ramadan and other religious observances. The messages are similar — love God, love your neighbor, serve others, love your enemy and help the poor and conserve our natural resources.

Numerous studies have shown the value of a God-centered life. People who pray, meditate, perform works of charity, read the Bible, Koran and many other spiritual books appear more able to cope with life challenges.

Recently elected Roman Catholic Pope Leo XIV has shared his spirituality and beliefs through social media. He appears almost daily on Facebook and weekly on Relevant radio. This first American to be elected Pope in 2,000 years has attracted seniors.

As our years slip by, seniors consider affiliation, non-affiliation, being churched or unchurched.

Connectivity with a regular Sabbath service, Sunday worship, Bible study groups and service organizations helps and comforts the soul. The community of a praying and singing group stimulates the body and heart. Participants experience lower heart and blood pressure rates.

Socializing with faith group members after services may include luncheons in the church hall, at a

SAINT STEPHEN’S

Continued from page 4

will conduct a seminar on career development.

“It’s a great opportunity to get a really well set up understanding of who we are,” Strawhand said.

Challenges of Living to Age 100

Ed Baranowski

local restaurant, potluck meals and fish fries during Lent. The Passover and Seder meals accompanied by the historical and spiritual significance open hearts and minds.

Tours to major churches, houses of worship and spiritually relevant sites enhance beliefs. Tours of the Holy Land have resumed with record registrations. Tours of the restored Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris are drawing millions. What are the visitors searching for?

U.S. President Donald Trump in his recent State of the Union speech stated we are “One nation under God” (from Our Pledge to the Flag).

Our Founding Fathers drafting the Declaration of Independence 250 years ago, and later The Constitution, included a belief in God and prayed for spiritual guidance.

As you continue to live, find joy in a connection with your creator. Give thanks every day, pray, forgive, read spiritual books and give with a warm hand rather than a cold hand. Observe the beautiful examples of those who have crossed the finish line. SL

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

Individual tickets are $95. Bring a Friend tickets (two tickets) are available at $175.

To learn more about Saint Stephen’s Way or to purchase tickets for the fifth annual Homes for Hope Breakfast Fundraiser on April 30, visit ssway.org or call 321-306-8873. SL

Market Square Market Square Market Square

Classifieds

BEDS AND

Buy 1 Get 10% OFF or Buy 2 Get 20% OFF Plus FREE Installation Get 10% off any order of $1,000 or more. 20% off two or more Closets or Garage Centers of $3,000 or more. Not valid with any other offer. Expires April 30, 2026