Merritt Island Now
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— Contents — February 2016
10
Volume 1 • Issue 10 Community
10 12 14 15
Presidents at KSC HF Honors Edgewood Grad MI Celebrates History Key to Long Marriages
School & Sports
16 Class Speaks Volumes 18 Striving to Serve Others 20 Swimmers Make a Splash 21 Rising Stars Feature
22 Love Binds the Heart Health & Wellness
24 Therapy ‘Mane’ Attraction 25 Meds Affect Eye Health 26 Vaccine Twice as Nice Lifestyle
18
28 Create Wildlife Habitat 30 Winter Sight Fishing 31 Got Puppy Love? 32 Barbershoppers in Harmony 33 Track Your Teen
36
Contributing Writers
In Every Issue
Rev. Dr. Russell Frahm..15
Lynn Perry.......................... 28
Letter from Publisher..................4
Business & Real Estate
Wanda Luthman.............16
Capt. Alex Gorichky........ 30
Celebrations.................................6
36 Branch Out: Edible Landscaping 37 New Condos at River Fly-In 38 MIRA Joins FRA 39 Nix Emotional Investments
Ingrid Hall.........................18
Dr. Elizabeth Chosa.......... 31
Dr. Kenneth Winn.......... 20
Bob New............................. 32
Rising Stars................................. 21
Patricia Bryan.................24
Debby Silva....................... 33
Adopt a Pet................................. 31
Dr. Sushma Vance..........25
Lisa Frazier......................... 38
Dining Guide........................ 34-35
Jessica Beal...................26
Joe DelBene (submitter) .39
ON THE COVER
Publisher: ILMIdeals, Inc. Magazine President: Lou Colombo Editor: Diana Fasanella editor@merrittislandnow.com Art Director: Charlie Amrich charlieamrich@gmail.com Staff Photographer: Paul Cooper Advertising Sales: Lou Colombo lou@merrittislandnow.com • 321.453.4121 Community Relations: Julie Colombo
Calendar of Events.....................8 Islander of the Month............... 12
Recent Home Sales................. 40 Reference Directory.......... 43-44
Merritt Island Now Merritt Island Now magazine is being published 11 issues per year and direct mailed free to approximately 16,000 Merritt Island homes.
All rights reserved © Copyright 2016 www.MerrittIslandNow.com
Members of the Confederate Sons Association of Florida Indian River CLARIFICATION: Florida’s first inhabitants arrived about 12,000 years ago. Camp 47 volunteer on MI Pioneer The January article Best of Merritt Island Holds True for Residents Then and Day in period costume. Photo Now should have read “By 2,000 BC, the first inhabitants’ descendants lived of EEL Program. •off FEB www.MerrittIslandNow.com 2016 the land’s...” 2 |courtesy
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Letter from the Publisher
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i Fellow Islanders, I guess it’s fair to say we are now in the heart of winter. For us Islanders, what does that really mean? Let’s see, pants, yes pants; only for those who fear facing the frosty high 50s in the early mornings and late evenings. But most will maintain the Island tradition and match their pants with flip-flops. Lou and Julie I personally go for the flip-flops, shorts Colombo founded the I Love My Island and winter sweatshirt- or jacket-look Merritt Island, FL myself, especially when running to Publix. Facebook page I convince myself that I won’t run into along with the anyone, but, of course, end up seeing MerrittIslandNow.com everyone I know. And, the funny thing is website. we’re all dressed the same, but pretend it’s normal and looks just fine. I’m by no means a fashion expert, just a guy on an island working through a brief temperature challenge. Speaking of temperature challenge, at home when faced with the deep 50s, we call the family meeting to discuss the ultimate drastic measure, turning on the heat. It can be years since doing this, so we have to say a quick prayer that it even works. Now that the kids are of age, we sometimes have them go out to start the car and warm it up. Really. Don’t judge. Winter here on the Island also means city-like traffic. You frequently will hear the grumblings of how it took 12 minutes to get from the barge canal down to 520. What the heck is the problem, people? To keep the blood pressure down, a stealthy reroute on Tropical Trail cuts off about 4 minutes. Don’t tell anyone. We don’t need to have a backup of four cars at a stop sign. That might push some people completely over the edge. You know who you are. Overall winters on Merritt Island can be challenging, but these are the sacrifices we make to have the other 358 wonderful days of the year. So, until the traffic thins out and the temperature breaks 75, I guess we’ll have to grind out the rest of winter here on Merritt Island. Give a wave when I see you on Tropical Trail.
Lou Colombo DISCLAIMER *All content provided by contributing writers to Merritt Island Now is for informational use only. Merritt Island Now makes no representations as to the accuracy or completeness of any information submitted. Merritt Island Now will not be liable for any errors or omissions in this information nor for the availability of this information. Merritt Island Now will not be liable for any losses, injuries, or damages from the display or use of any published information by contributing writers. *The material in this magazine has been prepared and is copyrighted by ILMIdeals, Inc. The material is for information purposes only. The material is not guaranteed to be correct, complete, or up-to-date. Information provided by or cited by third parties does not necessarily reflect the opinions of endorsements of Merritt Island Now (ILMIdeals, Inc.).
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Celebrations
Jacqueline Miracle February 4
Robert Freche February 9
Bill Tinker February 9
Brandon Harder February 10
HAPPY 80TH Lawrence Moore February 10
Mystie Swendsen February 13
Sean Tinker February 21
Sophia Corces February 21
DL Hall February 16
Maya Corces February 21
Sofia Mingo February 18
Shandrea Mazany February 24
Debi Burton February 21
Sandy Hotary February 24
Happy Anniversary
Jodi Tinker February 26
Michele Hayes February 27
Raelyn McGrath February 27
Celebration Announcements are FREE! Please submit all celebrations on our website: www.MerrittIslandNow.com 6 |
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Joe & Kristi McGrath February 26
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February —CALENDAR
OF EVENTS—
February 4th: The 31st Annual Chowder Cook-Off (5:00p.m. – 9:00p.m.) in Port Canaveral Cruise Terminal 1, 9241 Charles M. Rowland Drive. The Cocoa Beach Regional Chamber of Commerce will feature the area’s Best Chefs and Restaurants competing for “Best Chowder” and “Best Twist”. $50 at door general admission. February 4th: Gregory’s Comedy Club Show (7:30p.m. – 10:30p.m.) at Gregory’s Upstairs, 900 N Atlantic Avenue, Cocoa Beach. Their weekly Adult Comedy Show has National Touring Comedians. They service full menu at 7:30 and a lighter menu from 8:00 on. $12 cover charge not inclusive food and drinks. 21 and Up show. 321-799-2557. February 6th: Mustang BINGO Night to Benefit MIHS Marching Mustangs (6:00p.m.- 9:00p.m.) at the Merritt Island Moose Lodge, 3150 N Courtenay Pkwy, Merritt Island. Looking for some adult time? Want to have fun? Maybe even win some money! Get ready for a FUN night out playing BINGO. No cost to get in, $1 per card. 50/50 raffle, Silent Auction and Dessert Table. Food and beverages available for purchase, cash bar. MUST BE OVER 18. February 9th: Super Senior Lunch (10:30a.m. – 12:30p.m.) at The First Baptist Church of Merritt Island. Join other area super seniors from around the community for lunch, fun and community moment and devotional speaker. Super Seniors meet every 2nd Tuesday (Sept. – April). Make your FREE reservation by the Sunday before by calling 321-453-2146. February 13th: Silver Ring Thing (for Teenagers & Parents) (7:00p.m. – 9:00p.m.) at Club Zion Church, 830 S Atlantic Avenue, Cocoa Beach, Fl. This 2 hour stage performance with high energy music, videos, skits, special effects, and comedy delivered in a concert-style approach with which teenagers can respond and relate. The program also proclaims the grace-filled message of the Gospel, going way beyond a call to abstinence to full life in Jesus Christ! Sponsored by Brevard Youth Network. $6/online or $8/door, $5/online for groups of 25+ SRT ring available for just $20 at event. For more info www.silverringthing.com/events/cocoabeachfl. February 13th: Pioneer Day (10:00a.m. – 4:00p.m.) St. Luke’s Episcopal Church will be celebrating the history of Merritt Island with this annual event that has an exciting appeal for history, art, music, and nature lovers, and children of all ages from 1 to 100. The event will be located on a sleepy little stretch of North Tropical Trail on North Merritt Island. There will be a wide variety of activities, most of which are free.
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February 13th: Champagne & Chocolate Sweethearts Sip & Stroll (5:00p.m. – 9:00p.m.) at Myrt Tharpe Gazebo with 25 participating merchants serving wine and tasty tidbits. For the ticket price of $20 in advance ($25 the night of event) you will receive a Sip & Stroll commemorative wine glass, a handy Historic Cocoa Village shopping bag and a map of the participating merchants. February 13th: Artistic Animals at Brevard Zoo (5:00p.m.) Sign up your 5-12 year olds for a night of creativity and animal experiences. Price: $24 members $28 nonmember/$35 member $45 nonmember. February 19th: Ladies Night Out (6:00p.m. – 9:00p.m) in the Atrium at MICS. Activities include dinner, tour of tables, live & silent auctions and entertainment. For more information and tickets call MICS at 453-2710. February 20th: Free Microchip Day (10:00a.m. – 1:00p.m.) at Courtenay Animal Hospital, 2265 N Courtenay Pkwy, Merritt Island. For a quick and painless implantation of a microchip, it can save your animals life when lost. Thanks to a generous donation from an anonymous client, the first 100 implantations are free, including chip registration. You do not have to be a patient of Courtenay Animal Hospital. For more information, call 321-452-3647. February 25th, 27th & 28th: Community “Old-Fashion Tent Revival” (Thurs 25th, 7:00p.m., Sat. 27th 7:00p.m. & Sun. 28th, 10:00a.m.) in the parking lot of Redemption Bible Fellowship, 890 N Banana River Drive, MI (www.rbfmi.com) 321-208-7959. Great music, fellowship and Holy Spirit filled preaching by Pastors Randy Heddings & Bill Schoneman. February 26th: Seafood and Music Fest (All Day Event) will be held at 670 Dave Nisbet Drive, Cape Canaveral. Price: $10. 3 Days of scrumptious seafood and concerts. All fresh seafood from Port Canaveral and around the USA. All ages welcome! February 27th: Calling All Pirates! Pirate Parade & Party (2:00p.m.) at the Port Canaveral Seafood & Music Fest! All pirate crews, rogue pirates, pirate families of all ages, and scalawags who are new to pirating are invited to dress in full pirate garb and participate. For more details, visit www.facebook.com/notes/brethren-of-the-space-coast/ join-the-pirate-parade-party-february-27-2016-at-the-portcanaveral-seafood-musi/1692119674406799
Please submit all events on our website: www.MerrittIslandNow.com
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Community
Recalling KSC Presidential Visits in Honor of Presidents Day
BY DIANA FASANELLA
O
n Nov. 16, 1963, President John F. Kennedy stood on the deck of the USS Observation Island off Cape Canaveral to view the firing of a Polaris missile from a nuclear-powered, ballistic-missile submarine. Later that day, he was given a helicopter tour of the budding Launch Operations Center (LOC) on Merritt Island. Little did he know this unfinished complex – the launch pad of his vision to make America first in the race for space – soon would bear his name. Six days later, Kennedy was dead, felled by an assassin’s bullet in Dallas, Texas.
Observances on Merritt Island most likely will be no different. The difference, though, is that this quiet community, home to Kennedy Space Center (KSC), has the honor of having hosted 29 presidential and vice presidential visits here, making Presidents Day a little more special for many Islanders who helped to craft the space program.
Image Credit: NASA
On Presidents Day, Feb. 15, Americans will celebrate this federal holiday to honor all U.S. presidents, past and present. A three-day weekend will ensue. Non-essential government offices and schools will be closed. Mail delivery will be held.
During his Nov. 16, 1963 visit to the spaceport, President John F. Kennedy speaks with George Low, NASA’s chief of manned spaceflight; Mercury astronauts Gordon Cooper and Gus Grissom; and G. Merritt Preston, chief of the Manned Spacecraft Center.
Image Credit: NASA
According to Michael Curie, NASA Kennedy Space Center news chief, eight out of 10 presidents and four vice presidents, who held office since this national space ideology was conceived in 1955, have visited KSC. Most, more than once. President Dwight D. Eisenhower was the first in February 1960 after he approved a scientific satellite to be launched as part of the 1957-58 International Geophysical Year. That key decision led to the creation of NASA in 1958, records show.
Dr. Werner Von Braun explains the Saturn system to President John F. Kennedy at Complex 37 while President Kennedy is on tour at the Cape Canaveral Missile Test Annex on Nov. 16, 1963.
Since then, the White House commanders-in-chief have closely identified their offices with NASA, according to John M. Logsdon, author of “Ten Presidents and NASA,” published in the administration’s 50th anniversary magazine. “John F. Kennedy and his brother, Robert, became friends with astronaut John Glenn, and Richard Nixon thought it
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www.MerrittIslandNow.com • FEB 2016
was important for American society to have heroes such as astronauts,” Logsdon wrote, surmising that each president who held office during those 50 years had made his own contribution to space history. “From Kennedy’s challenge to Congress and the nation to fund the first human moon landing, to George W. Bush’s proposal that America lead the way in setting up an outpost on the moon … space has been an element in the modern presidency.” And so, the presidential and vice presidential visits to this Island, the country’s space hub, began. “I remember the Observation Island had a restricted crew when the president (JFK) came aboard during his last visit,” said Merritt Island resident James Mitton, who worked as a launcher inspector with Missiles and Systems Testing for Lockheed. “Only essential personnel were allow to be there while he (the president) was aboard.”
The world had watched and waited as American presidents left their footprints on the future of the country’s space program. It still watches and waits. Mitton, 86, said Kennedy also made two other visits prior to his last, one of which was to tour Blockhouse 34 at the Missile Test Annex at the Cape. “He pushed really hard to get the space program going here on the Island,” Mitton said about Kennedy. “Everything he did was tied to getting to the moon before the Russians.”
Merritt Island resident Michael Key worked at KSC from 1982 until 2006. During his tenure there, he said he remembers numerous visits from presidents and vice presidents. “Most of the time during the shuttle launches they would be at the VIP viewing area across from the Launch Control Center at the Banana River Turn Basin,” said Key who was an assistant tank booster test conductor working in the firing room when the Challenger exploded Jan. 28, 1986. “It was so very sad,” he said about the loss of the Challenger and its crew. “I remember turning around to watch the launch and then seeing it blow up. The room went totally silent. You could have heard a pin drop. No, you could have heard a hair drop.” While records show that Vice President George H.W. Bush was at KSC that day, Key said he couldn’t remember if the vice president had been there for the launch or not. He had not. Bush arrived at KSC later that day to be briefed by NASA officials and, on President Ronald Regan’s behalf, to comfort the families of the astronauts who perished in the explosion. President Richard Nixon’s Nov. 1969 visit made him the first sitting president to view a NASA launch. His vice president, Spiro T. Agnew, only months before had witnessed the July 16, 1969, Apollo 11 launch that landed the first man on the moon, fulfilling Kennedy’s ambitious dream. Poignantly, on that historic day, a small bouquet was left at Kennedy’s grave with a note attached that read “Mr. President, the Eagle has landed.” The world had watched and waited as American presidents left
their footprints on the future of the country’s space program. It still watches and waits. And so, the reasons for past presidential visits were many. Some were exciting; some were sad. In honor of Presidents Day for Merritt Island and the country, all were historic. Diana Fasanella is a native Merritt Islander, Huffington Post blogger; and editor and columnist, formerly with Gannett/USA Today newspapers.
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Community
Islander of the Month Edgewood Grad Honored, Discovers Aspiration Through Volunteer Work BY DIANA FASANELLA
V
ictoria “Tori” James is anything but your typical teenager.
This 19-year-old not only is an identical twin, but she also spent part of her childhood growing up on a Disney cruise ship where her father worked as a maritime first safety officer. While making the Disney Magic home may have defined her childhood, it did not mold James into the youngest recipient to be awarded Space Coast Medicine’s Volunteer of the Year at Health First Cape Canaveral Hospital. That, according to her supervisor and manager of volunteer services at the hospital, Leonne Sherr, took a lot of dedication and hard work. “The impact this young lady has made on our programs, our lives and the lives of patients and families she touched in her service cannot be measured,” Sherr said about James in Space Coast Medicine and Active Living magazine that recently featured area “humanitarians extraordinaire.” Volunteering was a natural progression for James whose family also spent many hours “earning their Disney Ears, so to speak,” by dedicating their time to one cause or another during her formative years. “As a family, we were involved with beach cleanups, and other events like making Christmas meals for soldiers at Patrick Air Force Base before they headed to Iraq,” she said about learning through example to give back. James, a Merritt Island resident, said she volunteered many hours at the hospital before being selected for the humanitarian award. “I started out in the gift shop, and then I moved up to be part of the recovery floor working for the RN manager, helping to call out patients for follow-ups,” said James, who graduated in 2015 from Edgewood Jr./Sr. High School with a 4.2 GPA. She now is a health science major at University of Central Florida. Edgewood Principal Dr. Kenneth Winn said James was an
er Islantd of he th Monm es a J i r To outstanding student leader while she attended the school. “Tori always went above and beyond to serve the community in which she lived,” Winn said. “I expect her to do great things in the future.” James’ friendly manner and strengths at performing various tasks, from shadowing mentors to organizing paperwork, soon earned her the opportunity to be one of the first volunteers in the Project Boost initiative, a national implementation program where hospitals receive expert mentoring and peer support to aid in improving patient care. Upon completion there, James said she was “trained to volunteer in the ER. “That was a great experience, and I am looking forward to volunteering there again,” she said. “There’s always something to do, and you get to interact more with the patients.” While volunteering at the hospital was exciting and brought her happiness to “comfort” hospital patients, James said she does not want to become a doctor or a nurse, but prefers to work “behind the scenes” in the health industry as a pathologist or lab technician. “I really appreciate what the nurses and doctors do and totally respect their dedication,” she said, “but I would rather not have all that stress.” James said she was very honored to have received the award for her volunteer work and grateful for the recognition. She added that it motivates her to contribute more to the community. “I want to try and make a difference, even if it’s only in one person’s life,” she said.
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Community
r
Fifth Annual Pioneer Day Celebrates Merritt Island History BY STAFF REPORTS
I
slanders and visitors alike will be celebrating the early settlers of Merritt Island on “Pioneer Day,” Feb. 13. The day of activities, held on two of the Island’s historic sites, is a special treat for history, art, music, and nature lovers. The event is a partnership between Sams House at Pine Island and St. Luke’s Episcopal Church located on a narrow winding stretch of North Tropical Trail just north of the Barge Canal on North Merritt Island. From 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., the Sams House and St. Luke’s will host a wide variety of activities, most of which are free. Kevin Gidusko of the Pine Island Preservation Society, and Joyce Young from St. Luke’s are co-coordinators. They have organized activities from past years and woven in many new surprises for this family friendly day.
at 6195 N. Tropical Trail, one-half mile west of SR 3 and 5 miles north of SR 528. The historic chapel onsite at St. Luke’s was built in 1888 with the help of Sams, LaRoche, and Porcher families. Many early pioneers, including John Sams, are buried in the church’s cemetery. The church is located at 5555 N. Tropical Trail, just 1.1 miles south of Sams House at Pine Island. Parking at both locations for a suggested donation of $1. Free shuttle service every 20 minutes between the two locations. Complete information can be found by visiting, www.mipioneerday.com and www.facebook.com/pioneerdaymerrittisland.
The Sams House at Pine Island is an historical complex owned and operated by the Brevard County Environmentally Endangered Lands Program. The 1875 Sams Cabin onsite is the oldest standing home in Brevard County. A larger 1888 twostory home is also onsite. John Sams, a citrus-grower and the first Superintendent of Brevard County Schools, built both houses. The center is located
EVENTS AT ST. LUKE’S (10 A.M. TO 4 P.M.) Experience more of Old Florida at St. Luke’s. Go back in time and hear about First Peoples; Windover, a local archaeological dig dating almost 7,000 years ago to more recent times with interactive presentations on Native Americans of Florida. ■ On-going self-guided Historic Chapel ■ Use your smartphone for a self-guided tour thru the historic cemetery, reading about early pioneers, and others who lived in Brevard and helped shape our community.
EVENTS AT SAMS HOUSE (10 A.M. TO 4 P.M.) ■ Living history demonstrations and educational exhibits (including Florida History Display, Florida Public Archaeology Network (FPAN), and the Florida Historical Society Archaeology Institute, Florida Master Naturalists) ■ Local products and arts and crafts (including Better by Candlelight, Cape Canaveral Lighthouse Foundation, Coiled Vessels by Teresa Camarata, Mrs. Mango & Company, Spade & Trowel Garden Club, and We Be Jammin’ and many others) ■ Historic House and Cabin tours by guides in period clothing ■ Display of Sams family artifacts and historic clothing ■ Florida folk music by Chris Kahl, the Celery City String Band ■ Children’s pioneer and nature crafts and games ■ Foods for purchase including barbeque, hot dogs, corn on the cob, kettle korn and more.
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www.MerrittIslandNow.com • FEB 2016
■ At 10:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. – Ais, Timucuan and Seminoles - Their Lives and Culture with Jim Sawgrass ■ 12:00 p.m. – Homemade soups ($5) ■ 12:00 p.m. – Lessons from Windover: A Glimpse into Ancient Florida with Dr. Rachael Wentz, writer/archaeologist. ■ Display of artifacts from the Brevard Museum of History and Natural Science, home of the FHS Archaeological Institute. ■ 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. – Cemetery tours with Molly Thomas, Historic Preservation of Cemeteries ■ 3:00 p.m. – Windover: Past, Present and Future with Patrisha Meyers, director, Brevard Museum of History and Natural Science and The Florida Historical Society Archaeological Institute ■ Fish fry dinner – 4:30 p.m. and 5:30 p.m. seatings (advance ticket sales call 321-452-5260)
Community
Keeping the Love Alive: Passion One Key to Lasting Marriage BY REV. DR. RUSSELL FRAHM
L
ast Valentine’s Day I stopped by Wal-Mart at 5 a.m. on my way to do a workout. My goal was to purchase a card for my wife and some flowers. Last minute, I know, but I wanted the flowers to be fresh! I was surprised to see a number of other men doing the same thing. This year, I will be prepared long before V-Day. As we approach Valentine’s Day, it is a good time to do a marital checkup. How is it going, are you passionate for one another and for your marriage? Dr. Gary Smalley tells about a man who came home from work to see his wife looking out the front window at the neighbor across the street who also is just arriving home. They see his wife greet him and throw her arms around him as they both passionately kiss one another. The wife says, “Why don’t you do that when you come home?” Her husband says, “I can’t do that, I barely know that woman.” Now that I, hopefully, have your attention, I would like to give you some ways to crank up the passion in your marriage. 1. Think positively about your partner, don’t focus on the negative. Ruth Graham once said, “It is my job to love Billy and God’s job to change him.” Good advice. You cannot love someone you don’t respect, and you can’t respect them if your focus too much on their faults. We all have faults. Surely they have some good qualities, after all, you married them! 2. Act your way into the feelings. Don’t wait until you feel passionate to be passionate. Feelings often follow actions and decisions.
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3. Budget time to connect with one another. Emotional intimacy means into me you see! You want to be best friends, and that means you focus on one another, listening to one another and sharing your feelings. Schedule a sexual encounter. Yes, I did write that! Pursue one another. Capture their heart, over and over. 4. Don’t take yourself too seriously. Develop a sense of humor. When was the last time you laughed together? Be fun to be with. Someone said you can catch more flies with honey than you can with vinegar. 5. Take care of any unresolved hurts through forgiveness. If you find it hard to forgive, turn to God. See how much God has forgiven you. If God would put His own Son on a cross to purchase forgiveness for people who didn’t deserve it, can we do no less? You cannot be passionate about your partner if there is a big wall of hurt in the way. Tear down that wall! Good marriages take a lot of work. It’s worth every ounce of effort. A card and some flowers on Valentine’s Day are a good idea, but there has to be more going on than that to keep the fires of passion alive. Any fire needs to be tended if it is going to keep going. The same is true for passion in marriage. The Rev. Dr. Russell Frahm has been married for 35 years and has been a pastor at Faith Lutheran Church on Merritt Avenue for 27 years. He has a PhD in Christian counseling.
John & Toby
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Community
MIHS Teacher Helps English Language Learners Bond BY WANDA LUTHMAN
T
he Chinese New Year will be celebrated February 8 at Merritt Island High School.
One student, Ayisha, is going to celebrate this Chinese New Year with her new friends at MIHS Carol Quintal’s ELL (English Language Learners) class, the teacher said. “Ayisha moved to Merritt Island in October with no knowledge of the English language,” Quintal said adding that the young girl is like her peers in the class, knowing little to no English before coming to the school. Most have left someone in their native countries behind from family members, to friends, to girlfriends. The ELL class has eight students. They range in their ability to speak English and all are from different parts of the world. “The other countries represented in my class this year are Venezuela, Korea Philippines, Marshall Islands, Honduras, El Salvador, Thailand, and Puerto Rico,” she said. But, she added, they all have one thing in common — being new to the United States and struggling to study in a language they do not speak. Most have parents who do not speak English either. The only practice speaking English the students get is while they are at school. “All the teachers are very supportive of the ELL students,” said Quintal. “They do not feel disadvantaged. They are eager to learn and are very appreciative of the education they are receiving. They have varied goals from being in the military, to going to college, to being an athlete, and being an actor.” The students sit quietly at their desks working on their class set of laptop computers. Carol Quintal They are orderly and supportive of each other. Quintal said she helps them with work from other classes on some days. Other days, they read novels and write papers as in any typical English class. A kind and patient teacher of 24 years, Quintal said she loves
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www.MerrittIslandNow.com • FEB 2016
these kids and feels it’s a great opportunity to be the one who helps them make the transition from barely speaking English to speaking and laughing and joking with their peers in English. When the kids are asked what they love most about Quintal’s class, they say they love celebrating their birthdays. One student explained that Quintal makes each of them feel special. The students’ teacher has them create a Project Board on which they depict different aspects of their home country. When it is their day to present their board, that student will bring in a favorite ethnic dish. Quintal said that they enjoy telling their classmates about their country. Quintal also allows them to do presentations that are required for other classes in her class. This way they have less anxiety about presenting them in front of native English speakers. In the ELL class, students feel more comfortable in front of their peers. They feel it is a home away from home, Quintal said. One student said that the students in the class are a family. This year’s Chinese New Year will be celebrated with lanterns and traditional decorations and, of course, Chinese food. “In China we eat dumplings and the elderly give children red envelopes with money in it,” Ayisha said. “It is a fairytale that if the elderly give the children the envelope then the color red will scare monsters away.” Wanda Luthman is MIHS Guidance Department chair and guidance counselor. She also is the author of The Lilac Princess.
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FEB 2016 • www.MerrittIslandNow.com
| 17
School & Sports
MICS Community Knows the Power of Serving Others BY INGRID HALL
F
rom collecting cans of food, sending items to U.S. troops, packing shoeboxes full of goodies for a child in another country, or performing for a group in our local community, Merritt Island Christian School teachers, students, and parents know the power of serving others. Throughout the school year, MICS strives to give back not only to the local community but also to others around the world. MICS added a new service project this past January with the Soles4Souls organization through which new and gently used shoes were collected in all sizes. Once collected, every pair of shoes was packed with an attached scripture or prayer. The shoes are then used for people who may have been part of a natural disaster. Soles4Souls originated after the tsunami in Thailand in 2004. MICS Dual Enrollment Professor Dr. Paula McCabe headed up the effort for this project. “Soles4Souls is such an example of charity. You really don’t think about how important shoes are to people who have just been through a natural disaster,” McCabe said. “Families not only lose everything in these situations, but think about the debris and unsanitary conditions individuals are forced to walk through in their bare feet. It is an opportunity to provide something that seems so small, but is so needed.”
honored to work alongside the many other schools, churches, and organizations which have the common goal of serving others in love. Assistant to the Superintendent Ingrid Hall is presently in her 20th year at Merritt Island Christian School.
Also in January, MICS students participated in Cougar Service Day in which students and teachers work together picking up trash, cleaning tables and chairs, and beautifying the landscape of our school campus. The Elementary Department sponsored the collection of items to be sent to OASIS, an organization that uses the items to make up packages to send to U.S. military troops serving our country. The Junior National Honor Society spent many hours making lap blankets to deliver to residents at a local nursing home, and high school students held a Teddy Bear Drive to collect used and new teddy bears for the Brevard County Sheriff’s Department, to be used by police officers to soothe a child that may be present during a domestic call. MICS high school students who choose to serve in another country have the opportunity every spring to join First Baptist Church Merritt Island in an annual mission trip to Guatemala where they assist with children in an orphanage and minister to the people in remote areas of the country. There are ongoing service projects throughout the school year, which include weekly collections of pop tabs for The Ronald McDonald House, food item collection for the First Baptist Church Merritt Island House of Hope, and the sponsorship of a young girl who lives in Haiti. The holiday season at the end of the year also provides students with many opportunities to serve others. MICS administration, faculty, staff, and families realize we are only a small part of a community dedicated to service and are
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www.MerrittIslandNow.com • FEB 2016
Educating the mind… nurturing the soul New Student Applications for the 2016-2017 School Year Being Accepted Online Now!
Merritt Island Christian School For more information contact the Admissions Office at 321-453-2710 ext. 401
140 Magnolia Avenue • Merritt Island, FL
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School & Sports
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Merritt Island Now is excited to announce the launch of our new and improved community website coming MARCH 1st. Same web address but all new site! This will replace our current MerrittIslandNow.com website and have awesome new features like: • Online versions of Merritt Island Now magazines (current and past issues) • Complete Merritt Island Area Business Directory • Featured Merritt Island Properties (for sale and rent) • Local Events • Local Articles • Local Business Coupons • Local Job Postings • Local Classifieds • MOBILE DEVICE FRIENDLY!
Find everything you need for our Island in one place. If you have a business on Merritt Island and want to be featured on our website, please call 321-453-4121 or email lou@merrittislandnow.com. FEB 2016 • www.MerrittIslandNow.com
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School & Sports
Edgewood Swimmers Place High as Season Ends BY DR. KENNETH WINN
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he swimming season ended on a positive note for the Edgewood Jr./Sr. High boys and girls swim teams. Under the leadership of coach, Karen Allred, the boys’ team compiled a 10–1 record and the girls followed suit with an 8–3 record. Both teams went into the district competition at the Indian River State College in Ft. Pierce with high expectations. At the district meet, the top performers were: • Radyn Hall – first place finish in the 200 free • Courtney Copeland – first place finish in the 100 breast • Lucas Kravchenko – two first place finishes in 200 free and 100 back • Matthew Mizell – first place finish in the 100 free and second in the 100 back • James Phipps – first place finish in the 50 free and second in the 100 free The swimmers returned to the Indian River State College pool the following week to compete at the regional meet. The teams once again fared well with the boys finishing fifth and the girls finishing eighth out of a field of 27 teams. Top individual performers were: • Lucas Kravchenko – first in the 200 free and first in backstroke (Regional champion in each event) • Courtney Copeland, Matthew Mizell, James Phipps, Gavin Dunton – all qualified for state completion
The swimmers followed the regional meet by going to the state finals at the Sail Fish Aquatic Park in Stewart. The Edgewood swim team were well-represented. For the first time in the school history, Edgewood had an athlete medal at the state level. Competing against 41 other Florida high schools, sophomore, Lucas Kravchenko was a double medalist in both the 200 free and 200 backstroke. “I’m very proud of the teams’ spirit and effort,” Coach Allred said. “I’m looking forward to an even better performance by next year’s team.” Dr. Kenneth Winn is principal of Edgewood Jr./Sr. High School on Merritt Island.
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School & Sports
MERRITT ISLAND
Rising Stars
GLORIA GIANFORTUNE
SAHARA SMETHURST
1st Grade
8th Grade
Divine Mercy Gloria has a strong work ethic. She displays great character skills and lives the gospel message with her classmates.
MICHAEL LESTORIC 1st Grade
Merritt Island Christian School Sahara spends the first half of every school year in Africa with her family who are missionaries through Overland Ministries. She works with her family as they travel to provide wells for people who have no water. Sahara keeps up with her schoolwork while on the mission field and always continues to be an honor roll student when she returns.
MACIE SINCLAIR
MILA Elementary School Michael is very courteous when he speaks, and he always says please and thank you. He is kind to his friends and is a true example of what being a great school citizen means.
EMILY BOOTZ 8th Grade
Edgewood Jr./Sr. High School
★ Achievement ★ Leadership ★ Excellence
6th Grade
Audubon Elementary Macie is a positive, energetic role model who never fails to put her best foot forward. She participates in the Audubon Running Club and plays competitive volleyball as well as serving as a member of the National Elementary Honor Society and school community through Appleseeds.
Emily is an outstanding honor student, a cheerleader, and member of the track team. She also is a “Flyer” for the competition cheer team with Coastal Elite.
MEGAN NGUYEN – 5th Grade Lewis Carroll Elementary School Megan shows hard work and dedication both inside and outside the classroom. She is an honor student who participates in the gifted program, Future Problem Solvers, Science Fair, and Beginning Strings. Megan’s most shining achievement is her kindness towards others and willingness to help in any situation.
PAUL GRAVES 2nd Grade
Ambassador Christian Academy Paul is a well-rounded student who is friendly and caring and well-liked by his classmates. Paul exhibits Christ-like behavior by always giving his personal best both socially and academically. Paul’s loves animals and his favorite activity is playing tug-a-war with his five dogs.
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FEB 2016 • www.MerrittIslandNow.com
| 21
Feature
Be Still My Beating Heart; BY DIANA FASANELLA
L
ove is in the air.
What is it that drives 62 percent of Americans to observe Valentine’s Day, the Feb. 14 holiday that celebrates romantic love and admiration? What is it that pulls heartstrings and convinces would-be soulmates that they should acknowledge the “chemistry” they share? How about norepinephrine, dopamine and phenylethylamine, the three neurochemicals that are released in the brain when we are attracted to someone. This chemistry of love, associated with the pleasure system of the brain, is what makes our hearts race and our palms sweat, scientists say. And while it all seems magical in the beginning of a relationship, all that hubbub really is just nature’s way of keeping our species alive. But, once the chemistry dissipates from that initial honeymoon stage, what is it that keeps some couples together? “Very basic deep love,” Merritt Island native Robert Buck said about what has kept him and his wife, Janet, together for more than 60 years.
“It’s the love that binds people together. I wish the world would get it.” – Janet Buck
It was “meant to be” during that age of innocence in the early ‘50s when the two met after Robert’s grandmother, Mary Palmer Stark (a Rockledge resident since the 1920s), fell and broke her hip. Janet’s mother, a registered nurse, was assigned to take
care of Martha. Robert, who was born on the family’s Merritt Island Indianola homestead, remembers first meeting Janet on the Cocoa High school grounds. At ages 15 and 11, they became fast friends. They would go to church together or sit on the rocks along the Indian River and watch the waves, Robert said, recalling that their friendship soon blossomed into a romance. “I really liked her. She was sweet and caring, not like other girls,” Robert said. By the time he was a junior in high school, the couple already was talking about marriage. “We dated for seven years before we got married because we waited until she graduated from high school, and I graduated from college.” While Robert offered Janet her freedom to date other boys when he went away to the University of Florida to become an engineer, she made sure he knew that she “didn’t want it that way,” he said. “I’m not interested in anyone else,” Janet told Robert at the time. Robert, 79, and Janet,74, have lived on Merritt Island for all but two years of their long and successful, 59-year marriage. With four children, 13 grandchildren and two great-grandchildren, the couple believes their true love for each other and their faith has carried them through the difficult times.
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www.MerrittIslandNow.com • FEB 2016
Island Romances Steadfast Over Time “We are constantly growing together,” said Janet about Robert’s steadfastness through the years and now while helping her overcome a recent neurological illness that has left her unable to carry on her ministry as an ordained minister. “He has been my rock and my strength.” Janet added that a good marriage always is a “work in progress” and that it’s important to communicate. But mostly, she said, “it’s the love that binds people together. “I wish the world would get it,” she added. For Rob and Debbie Wartell, being best friends and never trying to change each other is part of the formula that has kept them together for more than 42 years.
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“We make each other laugh, there’s a lot of cuddling, we kiss each other in the morning and at night, and never go to bed mad,” said Rob who also works with his wife doing house inspections. “Someone asked me why I would want to work with my wife all day, and I answered, ‘Because I love her.’”
Buck
It all began for the Wartells on a Saturday night in 1973 at Shore Lanes Bowling Alley. “I was coming back from the beach with a few of my Merritt Island High School buddies when someone said let’s go red-pin bowling,” Rob said. “We were assigned to lane 21, and next to us on lane 20 was Debbie, her sister, Cindi, and some other friends of her sister’s.” Wartell said initially he was trying to get a date with Cindi who wasn’t interested because she already had a boyfriend, so he starting talking to Debbie instead. He soon discovered she was the right woman for him. “What first impressed me about Deb was her down-to-earth attitude. It was not all about her,” he said. “She was a great listener and fun to be with, that’s why I knew after two days that we would be married and together for a long time.” Debbie Wartell, who was a young widow at the time with two small children, said she definitely was attracted to her soon-to-be husband right away. “He had a big Fu Manchu mustache,” she said. “He was so handsome and very charming.” The couple married a year and a half later in 1974 and had another child. All of their children went on to graduate from Merritt Island High, and now, more than 42 years later, the Wartells have 11 grandchildren.
& Rob
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“It was no coincidence that we were supposed to meet that night,” Rob said. “It’s like our souls have known each other forever and ever.” Islander and Contracts Engineer Dave Bemis met his wife, Linda, when he was her family’s paperboy. “She was in the third grade, and I guess I was about 12 then,” he said. “Her family gave me a shirt every year for Christmas. They were the only ones who gave me a present.” While the two were just neighborhood friends in the Hampton Homes development in the late ‘60s, they began to date when Bemis came home on leave from the military in the early ‘70s. Nature took it course; they got married, and 41 years and three children later, their marriage still is going strong. “We had been friends for a long time,” Linda Bemis said. “After we got married, we agreed that divorce was never an option, so whatever came our way, we had to work it out.”
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Both Dave and Linda say the secret to a lasting marriage is to “forgive and forgive,” and to “remember why you fell in love in the first place.” Just maybe, the reason for Valentine’s Day is to remember why.
FEB 2016 • www.MerrittIslandNow.com | 23
Health & Wellness
Equine Assisted Therapy Builds Brevard’s First Indoor Arena BY PATRICIA BRYAN
R
yan was 4 when he joined Walk on Water to have his first horseback riding experience. A Down syndrome child with a beautiful smile, Ryan had not taken his first steps
yet.
He tentatively reached out to pet CJ, a 15-hand quarter horse, much taller than his little frame. A few minutes later he climbed onto the saddle, and CJ became Ryan’s legs. Holding the reins and assisted by volunteers, Ryan led CJ around the arena. Smiles were everywhere, from mom and dad to leaders, but that wasn’t the best part. Ryan dismounted, gave the horse a kiss and then went home. A few hours later his mom called me and said “You’re not going to believe this but Ryan took his first steps just now and not only two steps but seven!” Horses on our ranch become not only the legs, but comforter, friend and teammate, working together with each person to achieve his or her goals. Walk on Water is an Equine Assisted Therapy program for veterans, special needs, at-risk teens, and typical individuals. Located on beautiful North Merritt Island, Walk on Water is a 6½ acre sanctuary, complete with lakes, trees, trails, horses, minis and chickens. Our mission is to provide a place where individuals and their families gain the benefits of interacting with horses and each other. We provide the community with volunteer opportunities serving 4,000 people each year and have PATH Certified trainers for our horse program. Our riding programs reach veterans, who ride free, Brevard County schoolchildren, and organizations like Turn Youth, Crosswinds, Haven House, the Juvenile Justice System Pay Program and Frances Walker Halfway House. Walk on Water has been serving our community for the past 10 years, providing equine, physical, behavioral, occupational and speech therapies, as well as camps, art, music, and dance. Team building and events like concerts and weddings are also available. We are supported by StayWell Insurance, VPK-SIS funds (where 4-years-olds receive their therapy free when registered with Brevard County schools), Families Exploring Down Syndrome and various scholarships. We are currently seeking our VPK license. With our pavilion completed, we received delivery of our indoor arena in November. The arena is the first of its kind in Brevard County and will provide shelter for our riders and their families and continuity of care during inclement weather. Our building will be completed by March of 2016 with the help of grants from Jess Parrish Medical Foundation, CVS Pharmacies, Spade and Trowel, Georgianna United Methodist Church, Shema Ministries, ULA, Fortress Buildings, The Home Depot and various private donors. It also will be available for community use. For more information, go to walkonwaterhorses.com. Patricia Bryan is the executive director of Walk on Water Equine Assisted Therapy and Horseback Riding.
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www.MerrittIslandNow.com • FEB 2016
Divine Mercy Catholic Academy Inspiring students to achieve, lead, and succeed.
Now accepting registrations for the 2016-2017 • Pre-K3, and VPK through 8th grade • Challenging curriculum • State-of-the-art technology • Computer, math, and science labs Call us TODAY to schedule a tour of the campus, meet teachers and staff, and pick-up curriculum and admissions information.
Divine Mercy Catholic Church Weekend Masses: Confession, Saturday, 3:30p.m. Saturday Vigil Mass, 4:30p.m. Sunday, 8a.m., 9:30a.m., and 11:30a.m.
Weekday Masses: Monday – Friday, 8:30a.m. Saturday, Communion Service, 8:30a.m.
Serving as God’s stewards in Merritt Island and Brevard County. Divine Mercy Catholic Church and Academy 1940 N. Courtenay Pkwy. • Merritt Island, FL 32953 321.452.5955 • www.DivineMercyChurch.org
Health & Wellness
Eyes at Risk for Medication Side Effects BY DR. SUSHMA VANCE
Most prescription and over-the-counter medications come with a long list of potential side effects in the body. The eyes are particularly at risk due to their relatively small size and high blood flow. The following are some commonly encountered symptoms or diagnoses and the medications that may lead to them. Dryness of the eyes is a very widespread problem that can range from mild to severe. There are several medications that may trigger or aggravate this condition. Examples include but are not limited to heart medications, diuretics, anti-depression/anti-anxiety drugs, acne medications, birth control pills, estrogen, antihistamines, and treatments for Parkinson’s disease. In most patients, the use of artificial tears helps relieve symptoms. Blurry vision can occur when a medication interferes with a person’s ability to focus. This may occur with antipsychotics, antidepressants, antihistamines, and drugs such as scopolamine. In rare cases, antibiotics, oral contraceptives, or excess doses of vitamin A can lead to increased pressure in the brain that results in headache and very blurred vision. Cataracts are usually age-related but may be accelerated or worsened by long-term use of steroid medications (particularly steroid eye drops), thioridazine, and the cancer drug busulfan. There are two main types of glaucoma, but certain oral medications may increase the risk of developing a sudden and painful type called acute angle closure glaucoma. In predisposed patients sulfa
Barney Moss Flickr Creative Commons
I
s your medication affecting your vision?
antibiotics, seizure or migraine drugs, asthma/ pulmonary disease drugs, Parkinson’s drugs, and older antidepressant drugs may increase the risk of developing this condition.
Retinal toxicity leading to decreased vision may result from drugs for arthritis, acne, erectile dysfunction, and breast cancer. Patients generally need a baseline dilated eye exam before beginning hydroxychloroquine since it may cause irreversible damage to the retina in rare cases. Hydroxychloroquine, sildenafil, and the heart drugs amiodarone and digoxin may also cause disturbances in color vision to various degrees. Inflammation of the eye (uveitis) causing redness, swelling, and discomfort also has been reported from the use of bisphosphanate osteoporosis drugs such as alendronate. Finally, keep in mind that many herbal or nutritional supplements can affect the eyes as well. Examples of these are ginkgo, canthaxanthine, niacin, licorice, and echinacea. If you notice an onset of symptoms shortly after beginning a new medication let your doctor know as soon as possible. In most cases simply discontinuing the drug in question can improve symptoms and prevent potential long-term damage. Sushma Vance, M.D. is a board certified retina specialist with Central Florida Retina in Rockledge and has more than 10 years of experience.
FEB 2016 • www.MerrittIslandNow.com | 25
Health & Wellness
CDC: Over 65? Get Vaccinated for Pneumonia Twice JESSICA BEAL, PHARMD
I
f you or a loved one are age 65 or older, getting vaccinated against pneumonia is a good idea — so good that the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) now recommends that everyone in this age group get vaccinated against pneumonia twice. Streptococcus pneumoniae, sometimes called pneumococcus, is a common bacteria that can cause serious lung infections. It also can cause infections of the bloodstream, the tissues covering the brain and spinal cord (meningitis), and other organs and tissues. Older individuals are especially prone to being infected by Pneumococcus, and these infections are often deadly or can leave patients with serious complications including; heart problems, hearing loss, seizures, blindness and paralysis. There are currently two vaccines available and recommended for protection against streptococcus pneumoniae: Prevnar 13® (PCV13) and Pneumovax 23® (PPSV23). As their names imply, Prevnar 13®protects against 13 types of pneumococcal bacteria, and the Pneumovax 23® protects against 23 types of pneumococcal bacteria. Why not just get the vaccine that covers more strains? Because the two vaccines work in different ways and cover different serotypes which appears to offer broader protection. Additional protection is especially important for older adults because they’re much more vulnerable to serious infections. For the past 30 years or so, the CDC has recommended that everyone ages 65 and older get a single-dose pneumonia vaccine called Pneumovax® (PPSV23). This vaccine is also recommended for those between the ages of 2 and 64 who are at high risk of getting pneumonia or other S. pneumoniae infections. The “new” vaccine on the market is Prevnar 13® (PCV13), which is a pneumococcal conjugate vaccine that provides protection against community-acquired pneumococcal pneumonia and other invasive S. pneumoniae infections.
Individuals who have never gotten a pneumonia vaccine should get a dose of Prevnar 13® (PCV13) first, and then get a dose of Pneumovax 23® (PPSV23) six to 12 months later. Only a single dose of each vaccine is needed. Those who have already been vaccinated with Pneumovax 23® (PPSV23) can get Prevnar 13® (PCV13) later, as long as it’s been at least a year since the Pneumovax 23® (PPSV23) vaccination. Most people who get either vaccines have no side effects other than possible soreness at the injection site or a mild fever. Serious allergic reactions have occurred, but this is rare. One thing to remember is that while both vaccines are proven to be effective in preventing pneumonia caused by S. pneumoniae, they do not prevent pneumonia caused by viruses or other bacteria. When it comes to preventing bacterial pneumonia, the bottom line for older individuals is clear: Get vaccinated twice!
The CDC now recommends that instead of just a single dose of Pneumovax 23® (PPSV23), older individuals should also get a shot of Prevnar 13® (PCV13).
Jessica Beal is a pharmacist at Hobbs Pharmacy located at 133 North Banana River Drive, Merritt Island.
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Dr. Frank X. Venzara III, M.D. Board Certified Ophthalmologist
We specialize in treating: ◆ Retinal Tears & Detachments ◆ Macular Degeneration ◆ Floaters and Flashes ◆ Diabetic Retinopathy ◆ Macular Holes Read what patients have to say about Dr. Venzara at
FloridaRetinaSpecialists.com
CALL FOR FREE QUOTE 321-459-9799
38 Rose Street, Merritt Island, FL 32953
www.unitedsolar.net
Main office in Merritt Island
321-735-8800
280 N Sykes Creek Pkwy, Suite B • Merritt Island, FL 32953 Also seeing patients in: Titusville, Sebastian, Viera (coming soon)
You Own a Gun… Now What? How about getting properly trained on how to use it...by the BEST. BAT Defense is owned & operated by former US Special Operations professionals. Our instructors have planned & conducted several hundred counter terrorist missions & specialize in the training of Special Operations Forces & Law Enforcement.
HERE ARE JUST A FEW OF THE TRAINING CLASSES WE OFFER: Concealed Carry License (CWL)
Beyond Concealed Carry
This is not your typical CWL “sit in a classroom & fire one round into a bullet trap” class. In this course students will earn their certificate of training by demonstrating COMPETENCY with a firearm at a range.
The Beyond Concealed Carry course is for those who have their Concealed Carry License and or someone slightly more advanced than a beginner but had never had any formal training outside of the CCW course.
Home Defense (Handgun/Carbine or Shotgun)
Home Defense training was designed to create a shooter who attains the confidence of defending their family & home with the knowledge of multiple methods of home defense tactics, techniques and procedures (TTPs).
Call for Special Merritt Island Now Discount For more information or to register for an upcoming training class visit www.BatDefense.com or call 321-693-7458 FEB 2016 • www.MerrittIslandNow.com | 27
Lifestyle
The Back 10 Feet Create a Wildlife Sanctuary in Your Yard
BY LYNN PERRY
T
wo women, Jackie Gomez and Sue Scott, of Lee County started a movement called The Back Ten Feet. The focus of this movement is to restore the back 10 feet of your property to nature. By eliminating the grass (turf) and choosing native plants and mulching, you can create a natural environment where butterflies and bees thrive, and ground nesting birds choose to raise young. The Back Ten Feet is a nature friendly, low-impact native landscape which eliminates the need for pesticides, fertilizers, additives and mowing. It encourages wildlife visitors by offering natural food, water, and protection in a chemical-free environment. By joining this movement, you designate the back 10 feet of your yard to nature by planting flowers, shrubs and grasses that are not only native to Florida, but thrive in Central Florida. Visiting web sites, the library, and local nurseries will help ensure a successful wildlife garden. Once established, your back 10 feet should require no more than bi-monthly maintenance. Maintenance is minimal and consists of watering during the dry months, occasionally dispatching weeds, spring fertilizing, and trimming to encourage new growth. When leaves fall and litter the ground, flowers wither and drop their seeds, berries fall and rot, you need not intercede, this is nature renewing herself. Mother Nature is not neat or tidy, she rambles, thrives or dies back with the season. She is diverse in color, pattern, size, aroma, and structure. She releases her seeds at different times, offering year-round food. Her flowers bloom and pollinate on their own schedule, nourishing visiting birds and insects. She decorates with plants of different heights and structure offering shelter to wildlife, while they feed and raise young. Mother Nature did not design “lawn”, people did. Lynn Perry has been a Merritt Island resident for more than 40 years. She is a retired aerospace engineering technical writer, avid wildlife gardener, dog lover, and bird watcher.
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www.MerrittIslandNow.com • FEB 2016
NATIVE PLANT SUGGESTIONS FOR MERRITT ISLAND • Muhly grass – 2 to 3 feet high and wide, turns lavender in the fall, moist, well-drained soil, full sun (many birds eat the seeds) • Scarlet Hibiscus – 5 to 7 feet high, brilliant red flowers summer and fall, dies back in winter, re-appears in spring, moist soil, full sun (attracts butterflies and hummingbirds) • Milkweed – to 4 feet high, yellow, orange and red flowers, host for Monarch and Queen butterflies and their larvae, full sun, moderately drought tolerant, seeds can be captured and planted or left to naturally reseed. • Florida Lantana – 3 to 5 feet high and 5 to 6 feet wide, long-lived, woody shrub, yellow and orange flowers attract many different species of butterflies and bees, the berries are eaten by birds and squirrels. NOTE: Lantana berries are toxic to horses and dogs.
Financial Planning is for Everyone at ANY Income Level “I’ve Been Serving Merritt Island Families since 1990”
Terry R. Coapstick Registered Principal CCF Investments, Inc. 100 Parnell St., Ste. G Merritt Island, FL 32953
(321) 453-7322
Get a Financial Wellness Checkup with a
✓ Free Personalized Written Plan ✓ No Fee Consultations Let us help you in:
• Planning your financial future • Educating your young adult in saving • Reviewing your Existing Plan
Your LOCAL Transmission Expert and Full Service Aut www.CoapstickFinancial.com
Business H Monday - F 8:00am - 5
Call for your appointment today!
(321) 452-8906 MEMBER
Securities are offered through CCF Investments, Inc., a registered broker dealer, member of FINRA and SIPC and a wholly owned subsidiary of Capital Choice Financial Services, Inc., 1041 Founders Row, Greensboro, GA 30642 (706) 453-1995. The Dave Ramsey ELP Designation is an endorsement paid by and applicable to Terry Coapstick only, and does not apply to CCF Investments, Inc, or Capital Choice Financial Services, Inc. Furthermore the endorsement does not guarantee future performance or success, and does not represent or guarantee the experience of customers. Neither CCF Investments, Inc., Capital Choice Financial Services, Inc., nor Terry Coapstick are affiliates of, or affiliated with Dave Ramsey. Capital Choice Financial Services, Inc. is a member of the Cocoa Beach Regional Chamber of Commerce, neither Terry Coapstick nor CCF Investments, Inc. are members.
3530 N. Courtenay Pkwy., Suite 101 • Merritt Island,
1(u0p % Off to $
if you me 100) n saw this tion you MI Now mad in the agazine
Your LOCAL Transmission Expert and Full Service Auto Center!! Call for your appointment today!
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Business Hours: Monday - Friday 8:00am - 5:30pm
3530 N. Courtenay Pkwy., Suite 101 • Merritt Island, FL 32953 FEB 2016 • www.MerrittIslandNow.com | 29
Lifestyle
Redfish and Black Drum Targets for Winter Sight Fishing BY CAPT. ALEX GORICHKY
Sight fishing Black Drum is tops this month.
F
ebruary can be a tough month for Space Coast anglers, but those with kayaks gain the advantage.
With lagoon water levels low, and the ability to “launch quickly” when the conditions look just right, the kayak crowd will get plenty of chances to score fish that the boat crowd cannot. The winter sight fishing season is here. Your two main targets will be the Redfish (Reds) and Black Drum (Drum) that invade the Indian River, Banana River, and Mosquito Lagoon flats, also included is the No Motor Zone. All of these bodies of water are different, but the Redfish and Black Drum inhabiting the flats share the same needs and comforts.
individuals will have black to brassy coloring that fades to light on the bottom. They can be seen slowly cruising, “laid-up” stationary, or tailing as the root the bottom for a snack. Drum are typically found on the lagoon flats (1 to 3 feet) in the cooler winter months then move deeper around bridges in the summer months. Typical river tackle will manage most Space Coast Drum, but heavier tackle may be needed for bruisers that can top 50 pounds. Due to the Drum’s poor vision, 3-foot leaders of 30-40 pound test will work well. Natural baits, like the quartered blue crab, fresh shrimp, or fresh clams can be used with a 3/0-5/0 circle hook and a few splitshot weights to get the line down. “Dead stick” (sit motionless) these baits in a likely area or where you see tails. Actively sight fish Black Drum with a live shrimp and a 1/8 ounce jighead threaded in the tail, be sure to pull the flapper fins! For artificial, an 1/8 ounce jighead with a Slayer Inc. SSB(molting) or Gulp shrimp in natural, glow, and molting can be slowly worked across the bottom.
Be prepared to cast at fish that are less than a rod length from you.
Due to the cooler water, metabolisms have slowed. Couple that with the lack of “bait” fish, and you have Reds and Drum keying in on shrimp, crabs, marine worms, clams, and snails as their main food source. The days that see sunny skies and calm winds will give you the best chance at some hot fishing action, but be sure to have a good pair of polarized sunglasses, and hit the waters from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. For the best sight fishing move excruciatingly slow, and be prepared to cast at fish that are less than a rod length from you. Back Drum are very interesting fish with poor eyesight, and a mouth designed for foraging the bottom. Its primary foods are shrimp, crab, marine worms, and snails that Drum feed by scent and small movements detected by sensitive chin barbells (soft whiskers). Black Drum of 10 pounds or less will have vertical black and white stripes resembling those of a Sheepshead. However, larger
30 |
www.MerrittIslandNow.com • FEB 2016
Larger Black Drum tend to be found on the bars and edges of flats with a relatively quick drop from 1 to 3 feet that the Indian River, Banana River, Mosquito Lagoon, and both the east and west sides of the No Motor Zone all have. Smaller Drum prefer flats 1 foot or less, and are commonly found with Redfish. Fish all Black Drum slowly as they are not used to their food moving fast or far. Capt. Alex Gorichky is a lifelong Merritt Island resident and owner/operator of LocalLinesCharters.com
Lifestyle
Got Puppy Love? Do Your Island Adopt a Pet Homework Before Getting a Pet BY DR. ELIZABETH CHOSA
I
t is easy to fall in love with a puppy! Even people who are not proclaimed animal lovers can become smitten with a fluffy ball of playful sweetness. It is no surprise that love at first sight sometimes leads to an unexpected new family member. But to be sure the relationship remains strong for a lifetime, I recommend asking yourself some of the same questions you would consider before searching for a human companion.
King (ID# 30421114) Watney and his owner, Avery Griffin
1. Do you have what it takes? 2. What is your type? 3. Where will you find “the one”???
1. Do you have the time, energy and financial resources to care for a puppy? Puppies require an enormous amount of time and dedication! They need considerable training, exercise, medical care and frequent attention. Without adequate resources to provide this care, many families end up surrendering their beloved new puppies to shelters within a few months. 2. Have you researched the best breeds to fit your family, home and lifestyle? There is no way to predict an individual puppy’s long term needs but we do recommend researching breed tendencies for factors such as temperament, energy level and need for stimulation. Giant breed dogs may actually be well suited for a small home, while some small breeds need frequent exercise and room to run. Dogs bred for work will become anxious and destructive without enough activity, while companion breeds will be content to sit in your lap on the couch all day! For the best outcome, decide as a family what expectations you have in advance.
Terrier, Pit Bull/Mix 1 year old - neutered Male Adoption fee: $100.00 For more information on King, contact the Brevard Humane Society’s Merritt Island Adoption Center at
(321) 636-3343 ext. 214 or visit www.brevardhumanesociety.com
Pet Priorities Would Like to Thank all of our Furry, Feathered and Human Clients for 10 years of Loyalty, Referrals and Support.
3. Where will you find your puppy? We always encourage you to search in shelters and with rescue groups first. There are so many unwanted pets in the world waiting for a family to love them. If you do elect to go through a breeder, please get as much information as possible and visit the site where the puppies are raised. I discourage buying a puppy via the Internet or from a pet store. These puppies usually come from commercial breeding facilities (a.k.a. “puppy mills”), where they breed puppies for profit. The living conditions range from satisfactory to deplorable, and it is not uncommon for expensive purebred puppies to become critically ill within a few days of purchase. If you have answered these questions, you just may be ready for a new (canine) relationship! Dr. Elizabeth Chosa is the owner of Courtenay Animal Hospital. She has been a practicing veterinarian since 2005, first on active duty in the U.S. Army and here on Merritt Island since 2010.
Sally Peters PET PRI O RITIES In-home Pet Sitting
321-289-1738 FEB 2016 • www.MerrittIslandNow.com
| 31
Lifestyle
Barbershoppers Set to Celebrate ‘Unique Holidaze’ BY BOB NEW
I
f the holiday season left you stressed out and wringing your hands in frustration, perhaps some ringing Barbershop Harmony is in order. Saturday, February 27 at 3 p.m. at the Merritt Island High School auditorium, the Space Coast Chorus of the local chapter of the Barbershop Harmony Society presents its annual show. This year’s theme is Unique Holidaze, a tribute in song to those wacky, offbeat national (whatever) days we all laugh about. Weatherman’s Day, Un-Friend Day and Cook Something Bold Day are just a few of the ‘holidaze’ the group will sing about. The possibilities are endless because literally every day of the year has been designated a national something-or-other day. In addition to our local performers, the show will feature two of the Barbershop Harmony Society’s most entertaining and sought-after quartets. Boardwalk, whose tag line is “Fun Things Happen Here,” is comprised of second generation barbershoppers who revere their heritage, but add a fresh twist. Their musical style and stage persona are a blend of folk music, barbershop harmony, and classic slapstick. Hailing from Atlanta, Georgia and Columbus, Ohio, they are four regular guys who love a cappella harmony and string instrumentation presented in a style reminiscent of the roots of vaudeville.
Unique Holidaze A Celebration of Daily, Special and Wacky Holidays February 27, 2016, 3 PM MIHS Auditorium - Tickets $15 Tim Hanrahan – 321-537-2875 32 |
www.MerrittIslandNow.com • FEB 2016
Main Street, the featured quartet, claims Main Street, USA, as their home address since all four have been, or currently are, performers with Disney’s Dapper Dans and/or the Voices of Liberty. The members of Main Street have more than 100 years of combined barbershop experience, which includes 13 International competition medals (four gold, six silver, three bronze).They began singing as a quartet in 2011 and are the reigning Bronze Medal International Quartet. Their hilarious medley about today’s pop tunes that will become “The Good Old Songs” 20 years from now, will have you rolling on the floor laughing. This is all happening right here in river city, but getting tickets should be no trouble at all. Advance tickets are $15 and are available from any member of the Greater Canaveral Chapter of the Barbershop Harmony Society or by calling Tim Hanrahan at (321) 537-2875. Residents of local senior centers can get discounted tickets from their activities office. Tickets also will be available at the door at 3 p.m. on Saturday, February 27 which just happens to be National No-Brainer Day. It’s a nobrainer, don’t miss it! Bob New is an Islander and the 2016 show chairman for the Greater Canaveral Chapter of the Barbershop Harmony Society.
♥♥ ♥
Singing Valentines Love Songs and Flowers delivered by a Quartet
♥ ♥
February 12, 13 & 14 by appointment Packages start @ $45 Bill Ross - 321-544-7805
Lifestyle
GPS Vehicle Tracking Keeps it Real in Real Time BY DEBBY SILVA
R
eal-time (live) GPS vehicle tracking systems offer the ability to monitor teens or an elderly person at any time.
with debilitating diseases such as Alzheimer’s and dementia can now be monitored during driving activity.
The two categories of drivers that are most often times viewed as “high-risk” are teen drivers due to inexperience, and senior drivers due to their potentially diminished physical abilities.
For Businesses: Companies with vehicle fleets of all size for cost control and accountability that guarantee increased productivity, efficiency, and profits. Business owners can install GPS Tracking Systems in their service, sales, delivery, long haul trucking, and personal vehicles to make their business more efficient. Know where your employees are, lower vehicle fuel, mileage and maintenance cost.
For teens: Parents receive the peace of knowing their teen is safe. When a teen knows that a GPS tracker is monitoring their every move, they begin to drive more safely. Vehicle GPS tracking allows you to be with your teens wherever they go by providing web-based maps that show vehicle location. Reports show where vehicle went, how fast it drove and how long it stopped. Alerts let you know when a vehicle arrives at or leaves a location such as school or friend’s house, exceeds a preset speed limit, or is being used when it shouldn’t be. For elderly: Seniors present some of the more unique and challenging problems because they will often continue driving well beyond the time they should hang up the keys permanently. They can become disoriented, lost or confused swerving off the road, running through traffic signals or hitting pedestrians or other motorists. Now families have the tools to discover that their elderly family member could be a dangerous driver. Seniors
GPS tracking devices feature rich real-time tracking that can be viewed on your smart phone, tablet or computer. Including stolen car recovery, all satellite based monitoring and communication systems for any time-anywhere vehicle tracking. These devices provide accurate text reports of travel and stop times, locations, speed, and map displays showing routes traveled. Easy-to-read reports and maps provide parents, families and businesses the opportunity to monitor drivers 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, using real-time or historical data. Debby Silva is the marketing director for Alarm Specialists. (321) 784-0046
Promote Your Business Here! Merritt Island N ow YOUR #1
COMMUNITY
SOURCE
FOR EVERY
THING MERRI
TT ISLAND
VOL. 1 • ISSUE
Merritt Island Now magazine is direct-mailed FREE to over 16,000 homes on Merritt Island Keep ‘Em 11 times each year. Wild We have something for every business. Either online or print or both! We love promoting our Merritt Island Area Businesses. www.M
6 • OCT •
2015
Home of
errittIslan
dNow.co
m
For information call 321-453-4121 or email lou@merrittislandnow.com
FEB 2016 • www.MerrittIslandNow.com | 33
MERRITT ISLAND
Dining Guide RESTAURANT
Casual & Upscale Dine-In Restaurants
CUISINE BREAKFAST LUNCH DINNER SUNDAY SPIRITS A Live and Healthy Cafe 321-338-2926 Vegan no yes Thr/ Fri clsd Sun. none 85 E. Merritt Avenue (Next to Home Depot) and Mon. See Our Alfredo’s Paradiso 321-453-6119 Italian no yes yes no beer, wine AD on Page 35 217 Crockett Blvd. Applebee’s 321-455-9898 American no yes yes yes full bar 100 N. Sykes Creek Pkwy. Bagel World Victoria Square 321-452-0737 Bagel/Sandwich Shop yes yes no yes none 1450 N. Courtenay Pkwy. Bagel World & Deli 321-452-3007 Bagel/Sandwich Shop yes yes no yes none 137 N. Banana River Drive See Our Basil Pizza & Pasta 321-338-4333 Italian no yes yes no beer, wine AD on 727 N. Courtenay Pkwy. Page 42 Beef ‘O’Brady’s 321-455-6665 Gamee American no yes yes yes full bar Tim 1450 N. Courtenay Pkwy. Favorite See Our Bizzarro’s 321-453-2610 Italian no yes yes yes beer, wine AD on Pa ge 7 325 E. Merritt Island Causeway Bonefish Grill 321-453-3011 Seafood no Sat only yes yes full bar 795 E. Merritt Island Causeway Bruno’s Pizzeria 321-453-7200 Italian no yes yes yes none 117 W. Merritt Ave. Carrabba’s Italian Grill 321-453-7045 Italian no yes yes yes full bar 60 Palmetto Ave. Causeway Diner 321-454-9898 Family Diner yes yes Thr/ Fri yes none 3712 N. Courtenay Pkwy. Chilli’s Grill & Bar 321-454-4738 American no yes yes yes full bar 530 E. Merritt Island Causeway Cozy Corner Café 321-452-0305 Family Diner yes yes no yes none 2425 N. Courtenay Pkwy. Debbie’s Diner 321-459-3209 Family Diner yes yes no no none 118 E. Merritt Island Cswy. See Our El Tucan 321-453-7501 Mexican no yes yes no full bar AD on Page 35 225 N. Sykes Creek Pkwy. See Our Firehouse Subs 321-449-8818 Sandwiches no yes yes yes none AD on Page 13 125 Merritt Island Cswy. Gina’s Café & Deli 321-452-8828 Café & Deli yes yes no no none 135 S. Courtenay Pkwy. Hayes Meats & Gourmet Foods 321-453-3550 Café & Deli no yes yes until 6pm no beer, wine 285 Fortenberry Road e Our Hokkaido Japanese Steakhouse 321-452-8288 Japanese Se no yes yes yes beer, wine AD on Pa ge 7 125 E. Merritt Island Causeway Hooter’s 321-449-0752 American no yes yes yes full bar 125 N. Sykes Creek Pkwy. Ichiban Buffet 321-453-1117 Asian American Buffet no yes yes yes none 735 N. Courtenay Pkwy. See Our AD on Island Gecko Grill 321-301-4479 American yes yes no yes none Page 9 773 N. Courtenay Pkwy. e Our Island Waterfront Bar & Grill 321-806-3661 Se Seafood no yes yes yes full bar AD on Page 5 1891 E. Merritt Island Cswy Kelsey’s Pizzeria 321-735-4810 Italian no yes yes yes beer, wine 1850 N. Courtenay Pkwy. LongHorn’s Steakhouse 321-456-5559 American no yes yes yes full bar 770 E. Merritt Island Causeway e Our Mi Island Restaurant 321-301-44208 Se Fusion yes yes Thr/Fri/Sat no pending AD on Page 17 2137 N. Courtenay Pkwy. Molly’s Seafood 321-453-1288 Seafood no yes yes yes full bar 1580 East Merritt Island Causeway Mrs. Apples Crab Shack 321-459-3759 Seafood no yes yes clsd Sun none 580 West Merritt Island Causeway & Mon Nauticals Spirits 321-452-5090 Seafood no yes yes yes full bar 2700 Harbortown Drive
34 |
www.MerrittIslandNow.com • FEB 2016
RESTAURANT Olive Garden 321-459-0306 205 East Merritt Island Causeway Outback 321-454-4450 777 Merritt Island Causeway Pacific Rim 321-305-4902 300 North Courtenay Parkway Pizza Company 321-455-6515 868 North Banana River Drive e Our Popz Redbones 321-877-2130 Se AD on Page 42 2137 North Courtenay Pkwy. Red Lobster 321-453-3520 215 East Merritt Island Causeway Ruby Tuesdays 321-453-6340 777 East Merritt Causeway Shuttles 321-305-4143 6100 North Courtenay Parkway Sonny’s 321-449-9102 310 North Courtenay Parkway Sumo Monkey 321-453-3123 925 North Courtenay Parkway TGI Friday’s 321-452-8071 785 Merritt Island Causeway The Donut Shop 321-459-1074 480 North Courtenay Pkwy Tijuana Flats 321-453-1881 76 East Merritt Island Csway Umpa’s Diner 321-454-3422 1115 North Courtenay Pkway Victoria’s Family Restaurant 321-459-1656 370 North Courtenay Pkwy Wabi Sabi 321-452-0507 455 North Courtenay Pkwy
CUISINE
BREAKFAST LUNCH DINNER SUNDAY SPIRITS
Italian
no
yes
yes
yes
full bar
American
no
yes
yes
yes
full bar
Sushi
no
yes
yes
yes
beer, wine
Italian
no
yes
yes
yes
none
Barbecue/American
no
yes
yes
Seafood
no
yes
yes
yes
full bar
American
no
yes
yes
yes
full bar
American
no
yes
yes
no
beer, wine
BBQ
no
yes
yes
yes
beer, wine
Thai
no
yes
yes
no
wine
American
no
yes
yes
yes
full bar
Breakfast
yes
yes
no
yes
none
Mexican
no
yes
yes
yes
beer, wine
Family Diner
yes
yes
no
yes
none
Greek/American Thr, Fri only Sushi
yes
yes
yes
yes
beer, wine
no
yes
yes
yes
beer, wine
until 4pm beer/wine
R NEW TRY OU RITAS!
SANGA
Autentico Ristorante Pizzeria & Panineria
321-453-6119
Family Owned & Operated since 1988 Voted Best in Brevard 2005, 2006, 2013 & 2014
Open Menu & Lunch Buffet.....11am-3pm, Mon-Fri Serving Dinner.....5pm-10pm, Mon-Fri 4pm-10pm, Saturday Closed Sunday
Voted Best Mexican Restaurant on Merritt Island 2012 - 2013 - 2014 - 2015 225 N. Sykes Creek Pkwy - 321-453-7501 www.eltucanrestaurant.com
ON VALENTINE’S DAY ♥ ♥OPEN Birds in Love Dinner for Two (available all through the month of February) Please Call for Reservation.
Visit us at www.alfredoparadiso.com
Located at 217 Crockett Blvd., Merritt Island FEB 2016 • www.MerrittIslandNow.com | 35
Business & Real Estate
Healthy Growing: Local Island Nursery Offers More BY DIANA FASANELLA
Y
ou can’t find it in the “big box” stores. You can’t find it at the chain discount stores. But you can find it at Tropical Island Nursery.
“It’s landscaping that’s edible,” said arborist John Realino, about the retail side of his nursery that’s a natural living ecosystem. “I’ve created an environment of organic trees and bushes that have healthy, nutritional fruits and berries that anyone can grow … if they’re placed and planted properly.” Realino, an Islander since 1956, has more than 1,000 fruit trees and bushes that yield such edible fruits as lychee, figs, mangos, mulberries and kumquats, in addition to the more common Florida citrus fruits. He also has a huge selection of palms and native plants. Much of the 3½ acres of the nursery is dedicated to trees and plants that have high nutritional value, the 1972 Merritt Island High School graduate said, as he pulled a kumquat off the tree and ate it without removing the skin. “I only grow organically,” Realino said pointing out that a cherry from a Barbados cherry tree has as much vitamin C as 25 oranges. “I don’t want toxins in my food. I’m careful not to introduce them with pesticides or other stuff, so you know you’re getting healthy fruit.” Realino said he got started in the business approximately 38 years ago as an irrigation contractor, designing and installing the Merritt Square Mall irrigation system. But his interest leaned toward landscaping, he said, and soon he bought, cleared and filled the land on South Plumosa Street with premium quality stock.
“I got lucky when Florida got hit in 1989 with a cold front that wiped out a lot of people’s plants and bushes,” said Realino about what kickstarted his business. By working closely with customers, though, he was able to help redesign and restock their landscaping.
“It’s not easy to correct issues from poor choices made on what to place where.” – John Realino
“There are a 1,000 ways to landscape. To do it right, it takes input from the customer about what they like, and knowledge from the landscaper about the best place to grow what they like,” he said. Realino also suggests that clients put in different types of plants and will show them the proper way to keep the shrubs and trees healthy while providing a low-maintenance environment. “At first, a lot was done by trial and error,” he said about the invaluable knowledge he’s gained from working in landscaping. “It’s better to do it right the first time. It’s not easy to correct
36 |
www.MerrittIslandNow.com • FEB 2016
issues from poor choices made on what to place where.” Customers can bring photos of their yards and beds they’d like landscaped to the nursery and Realino will suggest plants that would do well in those areas, he said. And, if learning about the most nutritionally valued tree in the world, the Moringa tree, is of interest, he also can help with that. Realino stressed the importance of supporting the Island’s local vendors because “that money goes right back into the Merritt Island economy, and not sent out of state like huge businesses do.” “Buy from the small guy,” he said.
It’s now time to start thinking about taxes. I can help! DIANA CRAIG, EA
Accounting & Tax Services ✔ Bookkeeping ✔ Tax Return Prep ✔ Consulting ✔ Certified QuickBooks Pro Advisor ✔ IRS Representation
Call 321.633.0080 230 Forrest Ave. • Cocoa, FL 32922 www.DianaCraigLLC.com
Business & Real Estate
New Fly-In Condo Development Ultimate Haven for Pilots BY STAFF REPORTS
I
t’s a pilot’s dream, according to the developer of the Island’s newest condominium project, River Fly-In, the exclusive development set to break ground adjacent to the Merritt Island Airport this month. The 10-floor, 112 luxury condominium development off Cone Road will have everything any active or wannabe pilot would want and more, says board certified neurologist Dr. Wasim Niazi, the project’s developer.
“This progressive facility offers pilots a wide range of aeronautical services, including full aircraft maintenance, an avionics shop, FBO, flight school Entry View and fuel,” Niazi said. “One of the EAA’s most active chapters is located here.” Free flight training is available for unlicensed persons wishing to live at River Fly-In, and for experienced pilots looking for advancement, according to the project’s brochure. There are four different models. Two are 2 bedroom, 2 bath; and two are 3 bedroom, 3.5 bath. The models are named after engines; Lycoming, Rotax, Continental, and Rolls Royce, according to Niazi who has worked for the past 10 years to develop this project procuring approvals from the county, state, and FAA. Niazi says the location of the condo project is ideal for pilots, boaters, fishers, and sun lovers, adding that the area offers a satisfying mix of simple pleasures and stimulating diversions.
Niazi, a Merritt Island resident and avid fixed and rotary wing pilot, envisioned the promise of combining his love of flying with the enjoyment of a pilot-shared residential community with the River Fly-In idea. “It will be an ideal place for those who treasure the freedom of flight because, among other reasons, it will provide resident pilots unprecedented access to excellent facilities without having to bear the burden of construction and maintenance of the airport itself,” Niazi said. Not only will the project encompass 13 acres of pristine natural surroundings with an elevated boardwalk and observation decks, it will include a clubhouse with a flight planning room, pool and fitness center. The outside grounds also will feature a sand volleyball court, tennis courts, and soccer field for those who want to engage in more vigorous activities. “When it’s time to go flying, the flight planning station will be a one-stop location for weather information, chart copies, Federal Aviation Regulations and vital reading material,” said Niazi who added that the clubhouse is the focal point of the River Fly-In neighborhood. “Here is where we can gather to share our love of aviation through social activities and professional associations. We can lift a toast to a new rating or swap flying tales.” What makes this condo living unique, though, is its close proximity to the airport’s non-controlled field that has a county owned 3,601-foot lighted runway. The airport’s north apron recently underwent $1 million in renovations, and in addition to its 148 current T-hangers, another 67 are scheduled to be built in the near future.
“You can greet the morning sun from your balcony overlooking the Indian and Banana rivers,” he said. “Rise above the ordinary to experience life by the river and the runway.”
— RIVER FLY-IN — CONDOMINIUMS
www.riverflyin.com $1,000 Deposit to reserve a unit at pre-construction prices (limited to phase one only) • Prices starting in the high $200’s • See rocket launches from your balcony • Minutes from Cocoa Beach, Port Canaveral and the Cruise Terminals Clubhouse Call for pricing and other detailed information
Sheri Frizzell, Realtor Cell: (321) 288-2123 Century 21 Baytree Realty E-mail: sherifrizzell@gmail.com
FEB 2016 • www.MerrittIslandNow.com | 37
Business & Real Estate
MIRA Rejoins the Florida Redevelopment Association
A
The Florida Redevelopment Association is the umbrella organization dedicated to the revitalization and preservation of Florida’s communities. By becoming a member of FRA, MIRA recieves benefits including: • Improved network with other Community Redevelopment Agency’s (CRAs) throughout the State of Florida • Access to examples of what other communities are doing to preserve and redevelop their communities • Notification of funding opportunities • Discounts on professional development • Access to marketing and public relations tools • Technical support The FRA is a resource of tools for successful economic development. Founded in 1974, FRA is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to assisting Florida professionals and volunteers in community revitalization efforts. With its mission of “transforming spaces, revitalizing places,” FRA is committed to providing a forum for its more than 300 members to share knowledge and common experiences regarding revitalization opportunities and issues throughout Florida.
FRA encourages adoption of legal and financial tools and programs favorable to community growth, and serves as a statewide clearinghouse for redevelopment information. FRA operates under a contract with the Florida League of Cities in Tallahassee. Along with other redevelopment partners, I attended the FRA annual conference in Tampa featuring educational, practical presentations, and opportunities to network with other redevelopment professionals. Through the Awards Presentation, other communities shared their projects and accomplishments providing ideas and direction to the other communities in attendance. Whereas, Merritt Island is unique to its area and situations, be it economic; environmental; or demographic; it has distinctive opportunities for local commercial business owners, tenants, local citizenry and local government leaders to come together to discover new ways of redeveloping Brevard County.
Lisa Leger Frazier, executive director, MIRA
We Understand We Understand We Understand
Commitment Commitment Commitment
Are you looking for a fiAre rm that is committed Arefor you looking a firm that to is committed you looking a fito rmproviding thatfor is committed providing to providing financial solutions and fipersonalized fi service? nancial solutions and personalized service? nancial solutions and personalized service?
Then take a look at Edward You Then can relyaon look us at for: Edward You Then Jones. take a look at take Edward Jones. You canJones. rely on us can for: rely on us fo
• Convenience • Convenience• Convenience Locations in the community and in face-to-face Locations meetings in the community andmeetings face-to-face meetings Locations the community and face-to-face at your convenience at your convenience at your convenience • A Quality-focused Investment Philosophy • A Quality-focused Investment Philosophy • A Quality-focused Investment Philosophy long-term focuses on quality A long-term approach A that focusesapproach on A long-term qualitythatapproach that focuses on quality investments and diversification investments and diversifi cation investments and diversification • Highly Personal Service • Highly Personal Service • Highly Personal Service Investment guidance tailored to your individual needs Investment guidance tailored to your Investment individual needs guidance tailored to your individual needs
today. Call or visit today. Call or visitCall or visit today. Joe DelBene
Joe DelBene
.
.
Financial Advisor Financial Advisor
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eek Parkway
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fter many years, the Merritt Island Redevelopment Agency (MIRA) re-joined the Florida Redevelopment Association (FRA) in 2015.
BY LISA FRAZIER
270 N Sykes Creek Parkway 270 N Sykes Creek Parkway Ste 102 Ste 102 Merritt Island, FL 32953 Merritt Island, FL 32953 321-452-2532 321-452-2532 MKT1952D-A
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MKT1952D-A
www.MerrittIslandNow.com • FEB 2016
www.edwardjones.com Member SIPC www.edwardjones.com Member SIPC www.edwardjones.com
Member SIPC
$ $ $ $ $ $ Avoid Emotional Investment Decisions Business & Real Estate
W
hat’s the biggest obstacle to your ability to invest successfully? Is it the ups and downs of the financial markets? Political events? The fact that you weren’t born rich? Actually, the chief hurdle you face is something over which you have control: your own emotions. Your emotions can lead to a variety of ill-advised investment behaviors, such as these: • Cutting losses – Declines in the financial markets can lead some investors to try to “cut their losses” by selling investments whose price has declined. Yet, when prices have dropped, it may actually be a good time to buy investments, not sell them, especially when the investments are still fundamentally sound. • Chasing performance – In the investment world, the flip side of “fear” is “greed.” Just as some investors are propelled by fear of loss, others are motivated by quick, big gains. They may pursue “hot” investments, only to be disappointed when the sizzle quickly fizzles. Instead of trying to “score” that one big winner, you may be better off spreading your investment dollars among a range of vehicles – stocks, bonds, government securities, certificates of deposit (CDs) and so on. While diversification can’t guarantee a profit or protect against loss, it may help reduce the impact of market volatility on your portfolio.
$206,000 – a difference of about $220,000, according to Ned Davis Research, a leading investment research organization. The bottom line? Staying invested over the long term can pay off. (Keep in mind, though, that the S&P 500 is an unmanaged index and isn’t meant to depict an actual investment. Also, as you’ve no doubt heard, past performance is not a guarantee of future results.) Our emotions are useful in guiding us through many aspects of our lives, but when you invest, you’re better off using your head – and not your heart. This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor. Joe DelBene is a financial advisor with Edward Jones in Merritt Island and is dedicated to serving the needs of long-term individual investors in our community.
• Focusing on the short term – When the market is down, you might get somewhat upset when you view your monthly investment statements. But any individual statement is just a snapshot in time; if you were to chart your investment results over a period of 10, 15 or 20 years, you’d see the true picture of how your portfolio is doing – and, in all likelihood, that picture would look better than a statement or two you received during a down market. In any case, don’t overreact to short-term downturns by making hasty “buy” or “sell” decisions. Instead, stick with a long-term strategy that’s appropriate for your goals, risk tolerance and time horizon. • Heading to the investment “sidelines” – Some people get so frustrated over market volatility that they throw up their hands and head to the investment “sidelines” until “things calm down.” And it’s certainly true that, when owning stocks, there are no guarantees; you do risk losing some, or all, of your investment. But if you jump in and out of the market to “escape“ volatility, you may take on an even bigger risk – the risk of losing some of the growth you’ll need to reach your goals. Consider this: If you had invested $10,000 in a package of stocks mimicking the S&P 500 in December 1979, your investment would have grown to more than $426,000 by December 2013. But if you had missed just the 10 best days of the market during that time, your $10,000 would only have grown to less than
FEB 2016 • www.MerrittIslandNow.com | 39
Business & Real Estate
Merritt Island Homes Sold In December ADDRESS
240 Eyre Avenue 245 Carib Drive 245 Hunt Drive 1300 Belford Court 260 Spruce Avenue 470 Carrioca Court 200 Richland Avenue 820 Richland Avenue 4590 Annette Court 1822 Abbeyridge Drive 1833 Abbeyridge Drive 2080 Hedgerow Drive 1970 Worchester Way 75 Artemis Boulevard 1585 Mercury Street 1540 Saturn Street 1585 Sykes Creek Drive 1440 Taurus Court 1575 Mars Street 1395 Plum Avenue 110 Waring Way 1555 Glen Haven Drive 400 Island Drive 32 Moore Avenue 619 5th Street 630 Needle Boulevard 595 Paula Avenue 635 Paula Avenue 1026 Harbor Pines Drive 1820 Randall Avenue 1505 Hilltop Lane 1310 Holt Drive 4811 Honeyridge Lane 765 Venetian Way 340 Island Beach Boulevard 1461 Grand Cayman Drive 1234 Potomac Drive 340 Island Oaks Place 1248 Guy Island Drive 301 Merritt Avenue 430 Deb Lane 502 Palm Avenue 1642 Oceana Drive 1090 Old Parsonage Drive 1085 Pine Island Road 515 Albatross Street 7590 Patti Drive 173 Pinta Circle 1301 Lenora Drive 3210 Biscayne Drive 1415 Trout Street 1760 Manatee Court 1435 Trout Street 90 S Tropical Way 124 Via De La Reina
SUBDIVISION
Barony Estates Belaire Buttonwood Manor Caribbean Isles Carlton Groves Catalina Isle Estates Catalina Isle Estates Catalina Isle Estates Citrus River Groves Copperfield Copperfield Copperfield Copperfield Diana Shores Diana Shores Diana Shores Diana Shores Diana Shores Diana Shores Floral Park Georgiana Groves Glen Haven Glen Isles Grandview Park Hampton Homes Hampton Homes Hampton Homes Hampton Homes Harbor Pines Harborview Cove Hilltop Manor Holiday Cove Honeymoon Hill Indian River Estates Island Beach Island Crossings Island Crossings Island Oaks Island South Merritt Lakes Merritt Ridge Merritt Ridge Morningside Heights New Georgiana Settlement None Pine Island Estates Pine Island Estates Sea Gate West Sunny Acres Sunset Groves Surfside Estates Surfside Estates Surfside Estates Tropical Gardens Villa De Palmas
BDRMS BATHS LVG SQ FT
4 4 3 3 3 3 4 3 4 4 4 3 4 3 3 4 4 3 3 3 3 3 4 2 4 3 3 3 3 3 5 4 6 3 3 4 3 3 3 4 3 3 2 4 3 4 3 3 2 5 2 3 2 3 3
2 2 1 2 1 2 2 2 3.5 2.5 2 2 2 2.5 2 2 2.5 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 1 2 2 2.5 2.5 2 4 2 7 2 2 3 2 2 2 3 2 2.5 1 2.5 3 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2
1396 2129 1000 1470 1322 1606 1600 1223 2665 2494 2139 2044 2176 1674 2111 1616 2296 1665 2042 1262 1766 1144 1744 910 1834 1824 1554 1470 2376 1215 3412 1753 5955 1672 1573 2337 1804 1607 2203 2377 1573 1180 960 2544 2170 1692 1098 1909 1236 1972 1164 1687 1185 1095 1826
POOL
WTRFRNT
YR BUILT
SOLD PRICE
yes yes no no yes yes no no yes yes no no no yes yes no yes yes yes no yes no no no no yes yes yes yes yes no no yes no no yes no no no no no yes no yes no no no no no no no no no no yes
no no no no no canal no no canal no no no no canal canal no canal canal canal no no no banana rvr no no no no no no no no no banana rvr no no no no no no lake/pond no no no no lake/pond no no no no no no canal no no canal
1965 1963 1961 1966 1960 1967 1963 1964 1982 1998 1997 1997 1999 1973 1966 1966 1987 1973 1966 1965 1981 1961 1967 1963 1959 1963 1963 1963 1990 1978 1992 1966 2004 1985 1962 1997 1999 1996 2001 2015 1963 1959 1969 1989 1980 1968 1979 2002 2007 1996 1979 1980 1979 1963 1967
$175,000 $164,000 $95,000 $125,000 $90,100 $200,000 $110,000 $107,300 $280,000 $250,000 $242,000 $253,500 $245,000 $287,000 $357,000 $125,000 $455,000 $372,000 $378,000 $230,000 $238,500 $159,900 $315,000 $95,000 $75,101 $170,000 $162,115 $145,000 $265,000 $155,500 $415,000 $185,600 $1,475,000 $180,000 $185,500 $315,500 $192,000 $205,000 $285,000 $344,500 $88,079 $117,000 $79,900 $330,000 $92,400 $186,000 $95,000 $250,000 $160,000 $227,260 $120,000 $311,000 $146,000 $152,500 $395,000
*Public records sales data provided by Cheryl D’Cruz of Matlock-D’Cruz (see ad on next page)
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www.MerrittIslandNow.com • FEB 2016
Business & Real Estate
We
finding homes for people.
We
selling homes for people.
y p p a H ntine’s e y! l a V Da
WE
Cheryl D’Cruz
REAL ESTATE!
Stacy Matlock
As a realtor team, we offer unparalleled service and attention for your real estate needs. Call us for a FREE home evaluation today!
Cheryl D’Cruz 321.338.7841 • Stacy Matlock 321.544.5235 www.HappyHouseHunting.com
FEB 2016 • www.MerrittIslandNow.com
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MERRITT ISLAND AREA CONTACTS — STATE GOVERNMENT — Governor Rick Scott..............................................................(850) 488-7146 Senator Thad Altman............................................................ (321) 868-2132 Representative Steve Crisafulli..............................................(321) 449-5111
BREVARD COUNTY GOV’T ELECTED & APPOINTED OFFICIALS Commissioner Robin Fisher - District 1..................................(321) 264-6750 Commissioner Jim Barfield - District 2 (MI)........................... (321) 454-6601 Commissioner Trudie Infanini - District 3............................. (321) 952-6300 Commissioner Curt Smith - District 4....................................(321) 633-2040 Commissioner Andy Anerson - District 5................................(321) 253-6611
— SUPERINTENDENT OF SCHOOLS — Dr. Desmond Blackburn........................................... (321) 633-1000 ext 402 School Board Ms. Misty Belford - District 1..................................................(321) 591-9387 Mr. John Craig (MI) - District 2...............................................(321) 271-9705 Ms. Amy Kneessy - District 3................................................ (321) 779-5034 Ms. Karen Henderson - District 4.......................................... (321) 631-5905 Mr. Andy Ziegler - District 5...................................................(321) 821-0510
— BREVARD COUNTY GOVERNMENT RESOURCES — Animal Control......................................................................(321) 633-2024 Building, Permits, Business Licenses....................................(321) 633-2072 Engineering Office (Traffic Signals)...................................... (321) 637-5437 Environmental Health........................................................... (321) 633-2100 Jury Phone............................................................................(321) 637-6559 Justice Center.......................................................................(321) 637-2000 Planning & Zoning................................................................(321) 633-2070 Housing & Human Services...................................................(321) 633-2007 Sheriffs Office (non emergency)............................................(321) 633-7162 Voter Registration................................................................. (321) 633-2124 Code Enforcement................................................................(321) 633-2086 Occupational Licensing........................................................(321) 264-6935 Tax Collector - www.brevardtaxcollector.com.....................(321) 264-6930 Merritt Island Post Office.......................................................(321) 453-1479 Public Library on Merritt Island............................................ (321) 455-1369 Department of Health.............................................................(321) 454-7111
— CHILDREN AND FAMILY RESOURCES — FL Department of Children and Family Central Region........(321) 634-3600 Brevard CARES (prevent child abuse)................................... (321) 632-2737 Brevard CARES Crisis Hotline.............................................. (888) 227-3709 Brevard County Boys and Girls............................................. (321) 301-4484 Florida Domestic Violence Hotline........................................(800) 500-1119 Family Counseling Center....................................................(321) 632-5792 Circles of Care......................................................................(321) 722-5200 Women’s Center....................................................................(321) 242-3110 Alcoholic’s Anonymous........................................................ (321) 724-2247 Help Line 24 hour.................................................................(321) 632-6688 Rape Hotline......................................................................... (321) 784-4357 Sharing Center...................................................................... (321) 631-0306 Alternative Pregnancy Center..............................................(321) 454-9853 Serene Harbor Domestic Violence Center............................(321) 726-8282 Crisis Hotline....................................................................... (800) 962-2873 Sundance Ranch Christian Counseling.................................(321) 305-5946 Poison Control..................................................................... (800) 222-1222 Emergency Veterinary Clinic................................................(321) 725-5365
— SUPPORT GROUPS — The Sunflower House.............................................................(321) 452-4341 Senior and Caregiver Resource Center inside the Merritt Square Mall Bipolar and Al-anon and Al-ateen Support Groups...............(321) 452-4080 280 E Merritt Avenue (Faith Lutheran Church)
Reference
— HOSPITALS — Cape Canaveral Hospital........................................................ (321) 799-7111 701 West Cocoa Beach Causeway • Cocoa Beach, FL Wuesthoff Medical Center.....................................................(321) 636-2211 110 Longwood Avenue • Rockledge, FL
— KID ACTIVITIES — Parks and Recreation............................................................(321) 633-1874 www.brevardcounty.us/ParksRecreation/Home Hockey - The Space Coast Iceplex........................................(321) 504-7500 YMCA.................................................................................... (321) 433-7770 Lacrosse - www.merrittislandlax.com..................................(321) 454-4943 Football - Pop Warner........................................................... (321) 591-6282 www.eteamz.com/merrittislandpopwarner Football - MIYFCA - www.merrittislandmustangs.net............ (321)446-1170 Soccer - Central Brevard Soccer...........................................(321) 394-5083 www.centralbrevardsoccer.org Volleyball - Cape Coast Volleyball......................................(321) 639-3800 www.capecoastvolleyball.com Cheerleading - MIYFCA.........................................................(321) 960-3443 Cheerleading - Competition Coastal Elite............................. (321) 505-1002 Softball - Merritt Island Lassie League.................................(321) 626-8040 www.milassieleague.com Baseball - North Merritt Island Little League........................ (321) 543-6215 www.misllbaseball@yahoo.com Flag Football - Brevard......................................................... (321) 452-3105 www.brevardflagfootball.com Calema Windsurfing and Watersports..................................(321) 453-3223 www.calema.com Merritt Island Swim School ISR Master Instructor Infant and Up......................................(321) 698-5840 Upward Basketball............................................................... (321) 453-2146 US Naval Sea Cadets - The Courageous Division................. (321) 951-0432 ......................................................................................... or (321) 631-0440 Y-Indian Guides...................................................www.canaveralnation.net Girl Scouts of Citrus Council................................................ (407) 896-4475 Boy Scouts........................................................................... (407) 889-4403 Paintball, Skate, DMX - Brevard Extreme Sports ..................(321) 454-7777 Unlimited Kickboxing............................................................(321) 368-9307 Marta’s Legacy Dance Studio............................................... (321) 453-6277 Dussich Dance Studio...........................................................(321) 452-2046 Brevard Shotokan Karate.....................................................(321) 323-9480 Ross Karate.......................................................................... (321) 698-7957 M.Y. Martial Arts Studio.........................................................(321) 452-7229 Shorin-Ryu Karate............................................................... (321) 459-3000 Lauts Music...........................................................................(321) 453-6424 Classes in keyboard, home organ, acoustic piano, acoustic and electric guitar, and voice.
— UTILITIES — Florida Power and Light......................... (800) 226-3545 or (321) 723-7795 Brighthouse..............................................................(866) 309-EASY (3279) Waste Management..............................................................(321) 636-6894 AT&T.................................................................................... (888) 757-6500 Florida City Gas Company................................................... (888) 352 5325 City Of Cocoa Water Dept.....................................................(321) 433-8400 Call Before You Dig ................................................................................ 811
— PUBLIC SCHOOLS — Brevard County Public Schools Main Office............ (321) 633-1000 ext 500 2700 Judge Fran Jamieson Way • Viera, Florida 32940 Ethics Hotline .......................................................... (321) 633-1000 ext 170 Audubon Elementary............................................................(321) 452-2085 1201 North Banana River Drive
FEB 2016 • www.MerrittIslandNow.com | 43
Reference Tropical Elementary............................................................. (321) 454-1080 885 South Courtenay Parkway Stevenson Elementary School..............................................(321) 454-3550 1450 Martin Blvd Mila Elementary School........................................................ (321) 454-1070 288 W Merritt Avenue Lewis Carroll Elementary School.......................................... (321) 452-1234 1 Skyline Blvd Jefferson Middle School....................................................... (321) 453-5154 1275 South Courtenay Parkway Edgewood Junior Senior High School................................... (321) 454-1030 180 East Merritt Avenue Merritt Island High School.................................................... (321) 454-1000 100 East Mustang Way Florida Virtual School ......................................................... (407) 513-3587 Brevard Virtual ....................................................................(321) 633-3660
— PRIVATE SCHOOLS — Merritt Island Christian School .............................................(321) 453-2710 140 Magnolia Avenue Divine Mercy Catholic Academy...........................................(321) 452-0263 1940 North Courtenay Parkway Ambassador Christian Academy........................................... (321) 305-6931 175 Cone Road Brevard Private Academy.....................................................(321) 459-3466 508 South Plumosa Alpha Learning..................................................................... (321) 453-7077 3700 North Courtenay Parkway Suite 102 Faith Lutheran Pre-School and Day Care ..............................(321) 452-4143 280 East Merritt Avenue
— BUSINESS ORGANIZATIONS — Cocoa Beach Regional Chamber of Commerce................... (321) 459-2200 Merritt Island Rotary Club....................................................(321) 223-4362 BNI Beeliners........................................................................(321) 690-2328 BNI Profiteers.......................................................................(321) 536-5973
— MI CHARITABLE ORGANIZATIONS & FOOD BANKS — My Island Thrift Store............................................... (321) 473-3355 (I Love My Island, Inc. non-profit) (Proceeds support the MI Community, Free Donation pick up available) 245 Crockett Blvd Molly Mutt—Thrift Store........................................................ (321) 459-1525 (supports Central Brevard Humane Society Adoption Center located at 155 Pioneer Road (321) 636-3343 ext 214) 2525 North Courtenay Parkway Walk on Water Horses.......................................................... (321) 412-8057 Equine Therapy • www.walkonwaterhorses.com SPCA-Thrift Store..................................................................(321) 704-8480 (supports the adoption center(321) 453-5323 at the Merritt Square Mall) A+ Thrift Shop (supports Merritt Island Schools)......................(321) 453-4338 95 South Plumosa Street Pet Priorities Exotic Bird Rescue............................................(321) 289-1738 House of Hope Ministry........................................................ (321) 453-0318 (Food Bank, Clothing, Bicycles, Showers) Every Monday including Holidays beginning at 6:30am-10:30am 330 Magnolia Avenue Grace United Methodist Church Food Pantry.......................(321) 452-2420 Merritt Island Residents only Thursdays 9-noon and 1-3:30pm 65 Needle Boulevard Quarterly Country Store and Children’s Clothes Closet East Coast Christian Center Food Pantry.............................. (321) 452-1060 670 North Courtenay Parkway Open Mon., Tue., Thurs., Fri. 10am-1pm • Open Thurs. Evenings 6pm-8pm Brevard Veterans Center and Museum....................................321-453-1776 400 S. Sykes Creek Blvd
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www.MerrittIslandNow.com • FEB 2016
— LOCAL CLUBS — The Moose Lodge.................................................................(321) 452-8383 3150 North Courtenay Parkway The Elks Lodge.....................................................................(321) 452-2650 1520 Sykes Creek Parkway Fraternal Order of Eagles.....................................................(321) 452-4258 1050 North Courtenay Parkway ABATE of Florida Brevard County Chapter...........................(321) 636-9720 241 Peachtree Street Cocoa Space Coast Mothers of Multiples......................................... (321) 795-1381 115 N. Indian River Drive Kiwanis Club of Merritt Island...............................................(321) 430-6630 P.O. Box 540142 Space Coast Square Dance Club.......................................... (321) 427-7950 155 Cone Road Merritt Island Masonic Lodge No.353....................................(321) 338-7391 247 S. Tropical Trail
— COMMUNITY OF FAITH — East Coast Christian Center.................................................. (321) 452-1060 680 North Courtenay Parkway First Baptist Church of Merritt Island.....................................(321) 453-2144 140 Magnolia Avenue Calvary Chapel Merritt Island............................................... (321) 453-6779 3500 North Courtenay Parkway Grace United Methodist Church............................................(321) 452-2420 65 Needle Boulevard Georgiana United Methodist Church....................................(321) 452-7523 3925 South Tropical Trail Lighthouse Christian Church..................................................(321) 452-1012 1250 North Banana River Drive Island Community Church....................................................(321) 453-4656 1000 North Banana River Drive Merritt Assembly of God.......................................................(321) 454-4263 165 N. Grove Street Mi Church............................................................................. (321) 747-0658 170 North Courtenay Parkway North Courtenay Church of Christ.........................................(321) 452-8822 2455 North Courtenay Parkway Divine Mercy Catholic Church...............................................(321) 452-5955 1940 North Courtenay Parkway River of Life Assembly of God...............................................(321) 452-6990 1890 North Courtenay Parkway St Luke Episcopal Church.....................................................(321) 452-5260 5555 North Tropical Trail North Merritt Island United Methodist Church...................... (321) 452-7180 6355 North Courtenay Parkway Merritt Island Presbyterian Church.......................................(321) 452-5689 600 South Tropical Trail Grace Lutheran Church.........................................................(321) 986-9689 5455 North Courtenay Parkway Unity of Merritt Island...........................................................(321) 452-2625 4725 North Courtenay Parkway Orsino Baptist Church...........................................................(321) 452-0373 4505 North Courtenay Pkwy Faith Lutheran Church..........................................................(321) 452-4080 280 East Merritt Avenue Redeemer Lutheran Church (WELS)...................................... (321) 453-1000 560 South Tropical Trail Redemption Bible Fellowship...............................................(321) 208-7959 890 N. Banana River Drive Faith Presbyterian Church, ARP............................................. (321) 452-1715 1900 South Tropical Trail Islander Alliance Church...................................................... (321) 453-0770 2450 N. Courtenay Parkway
*Please e-mail lou@merrittislandnow.com if any information needs to be updated or to add a resource. Information believed to be accurate but not warranted.
February Featured Listings
255 Richland Ave, Merritt Island
2082 Sykes Creek, Merritt Island
$319,900
$679,000
Boaters Dream! Well cared for and updated 4 bedroom, 2 bath home, on a CANAL in Merritt Island! No bridges for easy access to Sykes Creek! Call Heather for showing appointment (321) 266-1110
Fabulous waterfront pool home with 4 bedrooms, 3 bath, and a private boat lift!! Call Heather for showing appointment (321) 266-1110
Are you thinking of selling your home? As a full-time real estate professional and Merritt Island resident, I’ll give your home the Maximum Exposure to potential buyers and other agents by: ✓ Listing in the Multiple Listing Service for easy access to all other real estate agents with buyers ✓ Maximum online presence attracting in-town and out-of-town potential buyers ✓ Hold open houses for prospective buyers ✓ Featured listings in Merritt Island Now magazine which is direct mailed to over 16,000 homes on Merritt Island ✓ Professional photography and literature
I will guide you through the sale of your home from listing to closing. It all starts with a phone call. I look forward to speaking with you.
(321) 266-1110
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• AUTO ACCIDENT INJURIES • IDENTICAL HORMONE REPLACEMENT STUDY • IV THERAPY • GLAUCOMA SCREENING • AUDIOMETRY • FLU SHOTS • WELLNESS PROGRAMS • SKIN CANCER EVALUATIONS
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