Viera Voice, July 2023

Childhood dream of Florida living comes true for family

BY WENDY SCHEURING

As a child, Detroit native Gina Ventimiglia visited her grandmother, a winter resident, in Cocoa Beach.

The beach. The sun. The sand. Ventimiglia got hooked.

At 20, she moved to the Space Coast for six months to study massage therapy, but moved back to Michigan because of a lack of family ties here at the time.

Little did she know that nearly 20 years later, she would be living in Florida again, this time with her two young sons, and also with an established business, FLEXX Integrated Muscular Therapy, located at USSSA headquarters in Viera.

“The original idea was for me to be there for the tournaments,” said Ventimiglia, an athlete with a degree in psychology. “Then, they shifted gears and I opened it to the public.”

She bought her house in Viera sight unseen because the most important thing for her was a good school district for her children.

“Both of my boys are in the sixth grade,” said Ventimiglia of Nino, 13, and Julian, 12, who are very close.

She said her oldest son has learning disabilities and highfunctioning autism.

“The hardest part with high-functioning autism is that it’s hard for people to understand,” she said. “I have to work at getting him to understand what is socially acceptable.”

It is a daily challenge, but one in which everyone in the household works together to accommodate.

“It’s every day from the moment he wakes up to the time he goes to bed,” Ventimiglia said.

Featured Family

“Other people don’t understand that and try to change something on the fly or wonder why we have a list. He needs these queues every single day.”

Before moving to Viera, Ventimiglia looked at the best

“ I literally had a map where I shaded off certain areas and that’s how I found Viera.”

— Gina Ventimiglia

cities to raise a family, the safest neighborhoods, and the most children-friendly cities.

“I literally had a map where I shaded off certain areas and that’s how I found Viera,” she said.

The family rides bicycles and goes to high school games, as well as games at the USSSA stadium.

“My kids play video games,

go to the pool, and meet their friends at Urban Air. My older one loves to draw and my youngest plays the keyboard.”

Family members have visited from Michigan and like what they see here.

“Everyone is impressed by Viera,” she said. “I feel proud to show it off. This is our home.” VV

VIERA VOICE K linton Landress

Gina Ventimiglia and her sons Julian and Nino like the Viera lifestyle. They moved to Florida from Michigan.

Brevard's first Mikvah delights Jewish community on Space Coast

BY BETTY PORTER

The Brevard Jewish community will get its first Mikvah — a pool used for ritual cleansing in Judaism — in Viera.

More than 500 people were on hand June 4 to celebrate the groundbreaking of Brevard County’s first Mikvah at the Boruch & Chana Baum Chabad Campus for Jewish Life at 7350 Lake Andrew Drive.

The afternoon festivities included food and music and activities for children, including a petting zoo, inflatable and bungee jumping. A planned hot air balloon ride, however, had to be scratched because of high winds.

“On behalf of Chabad of the Space and Treasure Coasts, we welcome your participation as we witness this monumental juncture in the history of our community,” Rabbi Zvi

Konikov said as people gathered under a large tent.

Already on the ground was heavy equipment that will be used in the construction of the 1,300 square-foot Mikvah, a ritual spa for spiritual rejuvenation.

“This is the piece of the puzzle that will make the Brevard Jewish community complete,” Konikov said.

Konikov’s brother, Rabbi Yoseph Konikov, traveled from Orlando with his family for the ` ceremony.

“The Mikvah is an essential part of our tradition,” he said. “It brings sanctity and holiness to the family and to the community.”

Dr. Susan Pinsky served as a moderator for the event.

“The Mikvah is an essential element of a Jewish community and it is a miracle to be standing here today. Our dream is now becoming a reality,” she said.

The construction of the

Mikvah, which could cost $1.5 million to complete, is being funded through donors.

“Every program and activity has been the result of local donations by kindhearted people,” Konikov said as he thanked all of the 856 donors.

Among those who broke ground with the

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golden-colored shovels were Konikov and his wife, Shulamit Konikov, Rabbi Mandel and Chaya Osdoba, Michael and Sophie Abergel, Boris and Roshan Karbikov, Howard Cohen and Dr. Pinsky, Doctors Forest and Lisa Rubenstein, and Maurice and Judy Kodsi.

Community and business leaders who also took part in the groundbreaking included West Melbourne Mayor Hal Rose, Brevard County Judge David Koenig, DFI Corporation Executive Vice President Adam Facciobene; Caribeno Group architect Kenneth Lebron, American Building consultant Mendy Korf, Brevard County Sheriff Wayne Ivey; State Rep. Randy Fine, Rabbi Pat Hickman, Mark (Moishe) Shapiro, and DFI general contractor and project manager Daniel Vital.

Each element in the design of the Mikvah must

VIERA VOICE Jill Blue

Groundbreaking took place June 4 for Brevard County's first Mikvah at the Boruch & Chana Baum Chabad Campus for Jewish Life in Viera.

VIERA VOICE Courtesy of Chabad of the Space and Treasure Coast This is a rendering of the building that will house the future Mikvah.

Time to start getting ready for the annual Scarecrow Stroll

BY R. NORMAN MOODY

It’s summer, but it’s not too early to start thinking about building a scarecrow for the annual Scarecrow Stroll in October. It all starts with the community building and designing the amazing scarecrows for the annual stroll.

It's time for businesses and organizations to start building scarecrows for display in their stores or offices for the two-week Stroll.

Kids can compete by building Mini-Crows — no taller than 3 feet and they must incorporate straw or hay. There will be two age groups.

The winner in each age group will be awarded a trophy.

The Stroll takes participants around Viera, Suntree and Rockledge — ballot in hand — to view scarecrows on display.

Visitors will view participating scarecrows and vote for their favorites.

The stroll culminates with the Viera Harvest Festival, where you can see all the crows in one location. The winners are announced during the Harvest Festival in mid October.

For more information, call Viera Voice at 321-242-1235 or go to Vieravoice.com VV

be precise and follow age-old tradition. The filtration and rainwater infusion system is very intricate and must be approved by the rabbi.

“This project holds special

significance to me, and our team is dedicated to nothing less than excellence on the Mikvah as it represents more than just a building,” Facciobene said.

Konikov said he estimates the project will take about a year to complete. VV

VIERA VOICE Jill Blue

The Mikvah groundbreaking ceremony was a community celebration.

VIERA VOICE Jill Blue

Last year, Pinecrest Academy Space Coast built Pedro the Panther Goes to Space.

MIKVAH continued from page 4

Growth spurs new fire station in south Viera

BY WENDY SCHEURING

With the expansion of Viera’s residential communities, businesses and the resulting population growth, especially to the south, a new fire station became a necessity.

Now, it’s becoming a reality.

An agreement was proposed and approved last year between Brevard County and The Viera Company for the building of a new 8,700-square-foot fire station, including bays and storage, in south Viera.

On July 19, 2022, the Brevard County Board of County Commissioners approved the Donation and Capital Contribution Reimbursement Agreement for Fire Station 49 with the Viera Company,” according to a County Commission report on brevardfl.legistar. com/

The Viera Company will “provide property and the cost of construction of the fire station along with the equipment and the apparatuses required, which Brevard County will reimburse with fire impact fees in the amount of $2,635,876,” the report stated.

Construction of Fire Station #49 in south Viera is anticipated to begin this summer, according to Eva Rey, the vice president of Community Management and Communications for The Viera Company.

“We are currently in the permitting process for the fire station. We anticipate the project beginning sometime this summer with approximately a 12-month build time,” Rey wrote in an email.

Fire Station #49 will be in an area that is growing fast.

“The two-acre parcel is within a commercial subdivision known as Village Center at the southwest quadrant of Pineda Boulevard and Stadium Parkway,” according to a report from Callaway & Price, Inc. Real Estate Appraisers & Consultants, of Jupiter, to Brevard County entitled, “An Appraisal of the two acres of vacant commercial land located at the southwest quadrant of Pineda Boulevard and Stadium Parkway.”

“The Village Center is

Pineda Blvd.

StadiumParkway

Bower Lane

Fire Station #49 will be similar in appearance to Fire Station #48, located at 5550 Porada Drive in West Viera.

planned to be developed with an assisted living facility, office and two retail outparcels,” the report stated.

“For this particular fire station, the timing was coordinated with the planning of Village 2, where it is located,” wrote Rey in

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an email.

The parcel is currently landlocked and there is no immediate street address for the new fire station at this time. However, a new street, Bower Lane, is being built.

“We have not constructed the internal roadway

network yet,” Rey wrote. Currently, there are three fire stations in the Suntree/ Viera area: Fire Station #47 is located at 7225 Murrell Road; Fire Station #48 is at 5550 Porada Drive; and Fire Station #80 is at 400 Pineda Court in Suntree VV

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VIERA VOICE Steven Hollinger

The new fire station will be located off Stadium Parkway at Bower Lane.

Wrap up SPORTS

Holy Trinity’s Collins owns not one, but three school volleyball records

BY CARL KOTALA

Maya Collins remembers one of the first times she ever set foot inside the Holy Trinity gymnasium. She looked up to see the names of some of the best to ever play volleyball for the Tigers immortalized for everyone to see.

“I saw the record plaques hanging in the doorway with all the names of the volleyball record holders,” she said. “I saw names like Lara Boos and Emily Noe, players who I as a young athlete looked up to.”

It took a lot of hard work and dedication, but Collins has earned the honor of having her name put on a plaque, too.

In fact, as she prepares to enter her senior season as Holy Trinity’s libero, the only records Collins has to chase … are her own.

Having already broken school records for most digs in a match with 41 on Oct. 21, 2001 against Edgewood, and for most digs in a season with 544 that same year (which led

all players in Class 3A), Collins entered a new stratosphere last season when she became the school’s all-time record holder for digs (1,271).

Talk about creating a legacy.

Collins isn’t just in the record books at Holy Trinity. When it comes to digs, she is the record book.

“Maya possesses the best trait a libero can have,” Holy Trinity coach Pete Klonowski wrote in an email. “There is no ball that she doesn’t think she can play. No matter where the ball is, Maya gives maximum effort in order to keep the ball in play.

“She leads by example. Younger players cannot help but look up to Maya. They see how driven she is and they are inspired to match her preparation and dedication.”

All those digs add up to success for the Tigers.

Collins had 36 digs in last year’s district final win against Edgewood, giving Holy Trinity nine

championships in the past 10 years. What better way to conclude a decorated career than with another title this upcoming season?

“I think we can be pretty good this year,” Collins said.

“We have a lot of returning players who are really going to help lead our team. This year, I think Isabelle Clark is going to be a big part of that, just being a leader on the team and helping guide us

through the middle.

“As a team, we’re all going to have to work very hard to get to the place we want to be.”

Working hard is nothing new for Collins. It’s what she does.

Although she has been playing libero since joining an under-10 league — “I think when you’re younger, if you’re short, you’re a libero” — the 5-foot-5 Collins has always been a multi-sport athlete.

She’s played soccer, tennis, flag football and even danced. Now, she’s also a star on the track team, running the 100, 200 and the 400-meter relay for the Tigers and getting to the state meet in all three events.

Last month, she ran the 100 at the New Balance Outdoor Nationals in Pennsylvania.

Next spring, she’ll chase the school’s 100-meter record where her best time of

VOLLEYBALL

continued on page 15

VIERA VOICE Carl Kotala

Holy Trinity libero Maya Collins owns the school record for most digs in a match, in a season and in a career.

Goldinger all set to anchor Viera’s young offensive line

BY CARL KOTALA

Finn Goldinger was two games into his freshman season at Viera High School when he found out he was going to be the Hawks’ starting center in a Week 3 football game at East River.

He was, understandably, a little nervous.

After all, the players on the East River defensive line were going to be older, bigger and stronger than anyone he played while being a standout in the Suntree Viera Youth Football League (SVYFL).

But to anyone who knows Goldinger, it didn’t take him long to start feeling like he belonged.

“I think it was one of the first plays I was in. It was a trap play and I pulled,” Goldinger said. “After I pushed the guy about 5 yards back, I felt really comfortable.

“I was like, ‘Wow, I can really do this right now.’ ”

He’s been doing it ever since.

In fact, when the Hawks take the field this fall, the rising junior will be the only returning starter on Viera’s offensive line.

“It’s definitely strange, as I’m the only returning lineman, but we’re going to have to work with what we’ve got,” Goldinger said. “… I think we can be really good. We have good footwork. We’re not slow, so we can use that to our advantage. We should be able to have a good season as a core (group).”

To hear Hawks coach Shane Staples talk, Goldinger is just the kind of player

anyone would want leading their team up front … including Viera quarterback Chase Cromartie.

“He’s the anchor for that offensive line,” Staples said of Goldinger. “You know what you’re going to get out of him. He knows what everybody’s supposed to do on the line. Quiet kid, but he gives you everything he’s got.

“It’s funny. We talked about changing centers in the offseason and maybe we’d move Finn (to guard) and Chase was like, ‘No. Don’t move him.’

“I think (Finn) just makes everybody feel comfortable. We know the snaps are going to get back there. We know he’s going to do his job.”

Cromartie, who has been playing football with Goldinger since the two were 6 years old in the SVYFL (Goldinger was a guard back then), offered up some high praise for his teammate when that subject came up.

“He was my center last year. I’ve never had a problem with him at center and I’ve always been close with him,” Cromartie said. “Best snapper I’ve ever had. “… He’s definitely been a huge help to the offense and a big part of the offensive line.”

The fact that he’s only going to be a junior is what makes Goldinger’s story that much more impressive.

“There’s not many times you’re going to have an offensive lineman play since he’s been a freshman,” Staples said. “I forget he’s only going to be a junior because it seems like he’s been there forever.”

Goldinger had an impact as a defensive lineman for the Hawks last year and will see some time on the other side of the ball for Viera again come the fall. While football has always been No. 1 for Goldinger, he also played little league baseball for seven years and once coined the phrase, “I only hit Goldingers.” No wonder his friends all say Goldinger is a funny guy … once you get to know him. He’s also not your typical high school football center.

In baseball, he played both third and first base, something he said has helped his footwork and his conditioning. Last spring, he decided to try something else.

“He’s a great athlete,” Staples said. “This spring, he did discus and shot put and he made it to regionals in the discus. It was his first year ever doing it. He’s an all-around athlete that just happens to play lineman.”

In preparation for the upcoming season, Goldinger

has spent a lot of time in the weight room. At 6-feet tall, he now weighs between 260 and 270 pounds after playing between 240 and 250 last season. He also plans to attend a football camp at Yale and another at an Elite Prospects Camp in Massachusetts.

The 4.0 student is hoping he will be able to continue playing football in college.

If Viera’s spring game is any indication, the Hawks and their core group of juniors will be drawing a lot more attention than after last year’s 0-10 season. Not only did the Hawks beat Bayside 52-21, but the offensive line had a big night, not allowing a single sack.

“After last year, we’re all really motivated because that 0-10 season just wasn’t what any of us wanted,” Goldinger said. “I think the spring game also helped light a fire in us to take on this next season. We’re hoping for a really good record and a playoff run.”

VIERA VOICE Courtesy of Cathy Cromartie

Viera High rising junior Finn Goldinger has been the starting center for the Hawks since the third game of his freshman year. He'll go into this season as the anchor and only returning starter up front for Viera.

Abbey Cheek hit a three-run homer and Ally Carda struck out six in a complete-game performance as the USSSA Pride defeated the Oklahoma City Spark 3-1 June 25 in the final game of a scheduled three-game series at the at the USSSA Space Coast Complex. The series was shortened to two games after the home opener was rained out June 23.

On June 24, after a one-hour rain delay, the Spark defeated the Pride 6-3. During the contest, Military Appreciation Night was conducted. The event honored military active duty and veterans. It included the dedication of a permanent POW/MIA seat behind home plate by the local chapter of Rolling Thunder.

Rolling Thunder is an organization dedicated to educating the public about Prisoners of War and Missing in Action.

The Pride wore camouflage jerseys to honor the military. The jerseys were put up for auction after the game.

The next Pride home game is Aug. 1

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Brevard Zoo 8225 N. Wickham Road Viera, 321-254-9453

Wickham Park’s

JULY 8

321-622-6336

Merritt Square Mall

777 Merritt Island Causeway

Merritt Island, 321-452-3272

Space Coast Cars and Coffee

5 – 8 p.m.

Thrifty Produce Parking Lot 910 Barton Blvd. Rockledge, 201-658-2004

Trains, Trains, Trains

10 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.

fecNtrak computer-driven model train layout that replicates the 351-mile railway running from Jacksonville to Miami . Cocoa Public Library

308 Forrest Ave. Cocoa, 321-633-1792

JULY 9

Bass musician Bob DiTota, featuring Matt Heister in concert

2 – 4 p.m.

Veterans Memorial Center 400 S. Sykes Creek Parkway Merritt Island 321-453-1776

Classic Car Cruise and Dance

Noon – 4 p.m.

Open to cars of all years, makes and models

Scratch Bistro

1940 Highway A1A

Indian Harbor Beach 321-725-3648

JULY 12

Craft with Waste Management

2 p.m.

Port St. John Library

6500 Carole Ave

Cocoa 321-633-1867

JULY 13

Summer Youth Band in Concert

6 – 8 p.m.

Melbourne Auditorium

625 E. Hibiscus Blvd. Melbourne, 321-724-0555

Friendly’s Car and Truck Show

5 – 8 p.m. Friendly’s 1011 E. Eau Gallie Blvd. Indian Harbor Beach 321-725-3648

JULY 14

Karaoke

6 p.m.

Hook & Eagle Tavern 2500 Clubhouse Drive Viera, 321-639-3487

JULY 15

Tic-Tac-Toe Grill Game Workshop

10 a.m.

Lowe’s Rockledge 3790 S. Fiske Blvd. Rockledge 321-631-0696

A Family Affair — an Immersive Mafia Murder Mystery Dinner Event

6 p.m.

Indian River Preserve Golf Club 3950 Clubhouse Drive Mims 352-541-0041

Courageous Freedom Fundraising Luncheon

11 a.m. – 5 p.m.

American Legion Post 117 189 Veterans Drive, SE Palm Bay 321-390-2575

Magic & Dog Show

4 p.m.

Magic Dove Magic Shop

604 Brevard Ave.

Cocoa, 321-433-1130

JULY 19

Swingtime Concert —

More Spies and Other Guys

Jul y19 and 20

6:30 p.m.

Melbourne Auditorium

625 E.Hibiscus Blvd

Melbourne, 321-724-0555

Astronomy Night Presentation & Dinner

5:30 p.m.

Italian-American Club

1471 Cypress Ave.

Melbourne, 321-242-8055

JULY 21

Friday Night Dancing at the VMC

6:30 p.m.

Veterans Memorial Center

400 S. Sykes Creek Parkway

Merritt Island

321-453-1776

Movie in the Park

“The Fox and the Hound 2”

6 to 9:30 p.m.

Cocoa Riverfront Park 401 Riveredge Blvd.

Cocoa, 321-639-3500

Personal Finance Seminar:

Mutual Funds and ETFS

11 a.m. – Noon

Cape Canaveral Public Library

201 Polk Ave.

Cape Canaveral 321-868-1101

JULY 22

Central Brevard NAACP Youth Council — Youth Summit “Be The Change”

9 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.

Cocoa High School

2000 Tiger Trail Cocoa, 321-252-8377

Arts & Paws With A Sip Noon – 3 p.m.

Proceeds to benefit Furever Home Animal Rescue. REC 225 225 King St. Cocoa, 321-305-4584

Christmas in July Craft Fair 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Road W Melbourne, 321452-4341

JULY 27

Italian Wine Tasting and Bocce

6 p.m.

Italian-American Club

1471 Cypress Ave. Melbourne, 321-242-8055

JULY 29

Brevard Libraries Summer’s Over Party

10 a.m. – Noon

Fun, prizes and activities. Eau Gallie Public Library

1521 Pineapple Ave. Melbourne, 321-255-4304

Saturday Night Dance

6:30 – 9:30 p.m.

Greater Palm Bay Senior Center

Our Lady of Grace 300 Malabar Road SE Palm Bay, 321-725-3066

JULY 23

Indoor/Outdoor Vendor and Craft Fair Christmas in July Noon – 4 p.m.

Greater Palm Bay Senior Center

1275 Culver Dr. NE Palm Bay 321-7241338

JULY 25

Ask-a-Tech One-on-one assistance with smart phones. Call for time.

Sunflower House 3125 Fell

1275 Culver Drive NE Palm Bay 321-724-1338

JULY 30

Merritt Island Food Truck Festival

1 – 6 p.m.

Shore Lanes

600 N. Courtenay Parkway Merritt Island 407-310-1852

SCHOOL

Top prize in Space Coast Digital Media Competition goes to Zulawski

BY CARL KOTALA

Alyssa Zulawski always knew she wanted to do something that would allow her to tap into her creativity.

Being part of Viera High School’s Academy for Communication, Art & Design (ACAD) only reinforced that idea.

And now, the rising senior has something to show for it.

Zulawski is the first winner of the Space Coast Digital Media Competition, which was held at the end of the 2022-23 academic school year.

The competition, which was only held for Viera High students this year, is expected to combine with the eight other schools in Brevard County that offer digital media classes for future competitions.

Kat Armstrong, the director of Academies at Viera High School, came up with the idea for the competition along with former Viera High teacher Steven Hicks — who is now the Graphics Technologies

Program manager and instructor at Eastern Florida State College.

There are two competitions for the school’s Business and Finance Academy students, including the Junior Achievement Shark Tank competitions.

“We really didn’t have a digital media competition, and I wanted our ACAD students to have exposure being able to compete,” Armstrong said. “So, Dr. Hicks and I created this competition with the goal to open this up for all Brevard County students in digital media classes.

“Viera High School was this year’s (competition) and next year, we will hopefully have more competitors.”

The competition partnered up with Groundswell Startups, which helps new Brevard County businesses get off the ground and grow with, among other things, marketing and business plans.

The company, in this case, was 1step, which has developed an exercise board, but was very early in the process of setting up its business.

“They came and talked to our students about their product and what they envisioned, and then

opportunity to ask them questions,” Armstrong said. “From there, they created a logo for them.”

The top five logo designs went to EFSC, where they were evaluated by four judges, including Hicks, and the top three were determined.

As the winner, Zulawski received a $1,000 scholarship and a $150 Visa gift card. Senior Sydnee Ashford finished

gift card. Senior Lauren McClure placed third and got a $500 scholarship and a $50 Visa gift card. All of the scholarship money was donated by Long Doggers.

“I was so surprised,” Zulawski said of winning the competition. “I thought there were a lot of good logos during the competition. I was just so shocked that they liked mine the best.”

One quick look at Zulawski’s design and it’s easy to see why it stood out.

“Alyssa's design had

a mature sense about it and was designed very professionally,” Armstrong said. “Her logo had potential to be part of a major corporation. The judges stated they felt it could compete with major logos such as Nike.”

Because the 1step product is tailored to help senior citizens, creating a logo that would appeal to an older audience was just the

VIERA VOICE Courtesy of Steven Hicks

Sydnee Ashford (recent graduate), left, Lauren McClure (recent graduate) and winner Alyssa Zulawski (rising 12th grader) and Laurie Widzgowski (judge, The Viera Company), back row, Cory Davis (judge, Long Doggers Eateries) and Dana Vinci (judge, The Viera Company) all enjoyed the inaugural Space Coast Digital Media Competition.

Robinson leaves post as Viera High School’s principal

BY LINDA WIGGINS

Sarah Robinson is leaving her position as principal at Viera High School after seven years at the school as both the principal and assistant principal.

Robinson said she is taking an undisclosed job in the private sector.

“This was an incredibly difficult decision that I am making, walking away from a school, staff, students and community that I love and have so much respect for,” wrote Robinson in an email to members of the community. “Thank you for the opportunity of a lifetime to work with such incredible students and parents in such a supportive community. I love the school and community and know

VOLLEYBALL

continued from page 8

11.83 is just off the mark of 11.80.

But first things first. Collins is set to play in two national tournaments for her club team, Oviedo Volleyball Academy, this summer while also preparing for her senior season.

She’d also like to add to her own records. Considering the previous career digs mark was 974 — and she’s nearly 300 digs clear of that number — Collins has a chance to really set the bar high before she’s done, especially if she can top her season-best digs mark in the process.

“Having all three dig records now means a lot to me, and it pays tribute to my hard work throughout my time with the Holy Trinity volleyball program,” Collins said. “Each record represents an accomplishment in my career.

that VHS will continue to thrive in the coming years.

I will forever be a fan of Viera High School and look forward to cheering on our students and school as a member of the community.

Go Hawks!”

Viera Voice publisher Jill Blue has a special reason to feel gratitude to Robinson. Her son, Carson, walked across the stage May 26 to accept his high school diploma from Robinson.

“I have nothing but praise for Robinson and for the school,” Blue said. “We at Viera Voice, Viera Means Business, and Bluewater Creative Group wish Mrs. Robinson every success as she transitions from education, having made the school even greater by her excellent leadership.” VV

“The record for digs in a match represents a gritty battle against Edgewood in an unforgettable district final. The digs in a season record represents a year of hard work paying off to a positive win record for the program and reclaiming the district title. And the digs in a career record represents my growth as a player, all of my digs from eighth grade to junior year put together as a representation of my career thus far.

“Walking into the gym now, seeing my name on the record plaque serves as a reminder to me that there’s still work to be done. I think that these records also show how far I have come as a player and been able to take control of the back row.

“I hope that my name on the plaque can also be an inspiration to younger athletes to set goals and have their eyes on records of their own.”

continued from page 14

kind of look Zulawski said she was going for.

“I wanted something more mature because obviously it’s centered around older people,” she said. “I went with more of a corporate design. I wanted to focus on the triangle going to the right to ensure you’re stepping toward a better future.

“They wanted that safetygreen color, but I wanted to do a more muted tone to make it look more mature. I thought black and white was the best to go with the green. I thought that was the best option.”

Even if she hadn’t won the competition, Zulawski knows what kind of career path she wants to take.

“I knew from a very young age that I wanted to do something more creative,” she said. “So, when I was going into high school, I applied to the academies. Being in (ACAD) actually really helped

me decide that I actually want to do this as a career.

“I’ve just always been interested in it, so I’m really glad I got to join this and have these opportunities and solidify my love for this career.”

Zulawski, who is also in TV production at Viera, would like to get into something that includes photos and videos.

“I’m kind of more into photography at the moment, but I would love to do digital design; creating logos for companies or just (work for) a certain company and being their graphic designer for social media,” she said. “I would love to do something like that.” VV

VIERA VOICE Adam Palumbo

Sarah Robinson looks forward to the next chapter in her life after leaving her post as the Viera High principal.

VIERA VOICE Alyssa Zulawski

Alyssa Zulawski designed the winning logo for OneStep Enterprises.

Summer Fun!

Weather activity

Bring the weather home!

Make a RAIN GAUGE

As the rainy season comes into full swing, keeping track of how much rain falls might be a fun thing to do this summer. Ever wonder how rainfall is measured?

It's simple. You can make your own rain gauge.

A good rain gauge gives you an accurate measurement of how much liquid has fallen during a storm.

Materials

» Plastic bottle » Scissors » Pencil

» Colored tape » Ruler

Instructions

1. Cut the top off the bottle where the curved top meets the straight sides.

2. Turn the top upside down and fit it into the base. This will stop the water inside the bottle from evaporating.

3. Cut thin strips of tape and use them to make ¼-inch divisions along the straight part of the base. Pour water up to the lowest division.

4. Place your rain gauge outside, away from any buildings and trees. Record the amount of rain each day for a week. Remember to pour out the water to the lowest division each morning.

We would love to share photos of your creation. Send a picture of your rain gauge to Viera Voice.

Send your photo, name, age, and contact information to media@bluewatercreativegroup.com or call 321-242-1235.

Source: Weather.gov/huntsville

VIERA VOICE Jill Blue

Skylar, left, and Riley Fugate enjoy a summer afternoon with their parents at Viera Regional Park.

VIERA VOICE Jill Blue

Two-year-old twins Houston and Russell Kelley enjoy swinging at North Solerno Park in Viera.

VIERA VOICE Bob Parente

A Dizzy Bat race was popular at the Pride softball game.

New children’s book focuses on mental health issues

BY WENDY SCHEURING

Viera resident Alexa Henery became inspired to write a children’s book, naming it "Billy the Bandage" after seeing her students come to class wearing decorative BandAids.

She would ask them what’s wrong and they would reply they weren’t hurt. They just wanted to wear Band-Aids with their favorite characters.

“They (the children) think a Band-Aid fixes everything,” Henery said. “I thought it would be interesting to write a children’s book about mental health in a digestible way that kids can identify with. But the meaning behind the book is deeper. You don’t know what someone’s going through.”

Billy the Bandage is a superhero who saves the day by patching up every boo-boo in sight until he meets a little girl whose boo-boo is more than just a scraped knee or a papercut. Billy becomes upset when he cannot help her, but she teaches him that you don’t always have to do something for someone.

You can just listen.

“I’m always a helper and it gets me upset when I can’t do more,” Henery said.

The 24-page paperback book, written by Henery and illustrated by Wendy Green in colorful comic book style, is available on Amazon for $14.04 with Amazon Prime (as of the writing of this article).

“She (Green) was passionate about the project

and was super excited to do it,” Henery said.

The story is geared to ages 3 to 8 but can be for older children, Henery said.

“I read children’s books to middle schoolers because they always have really good meanings. The older they are, the more they understand.”

“What a great story for the younger ages to learn (that) it’s OK to talk to someone about your feelings and emotions, even if you're struggling. Highly recommend!” wrote Debra Lloyd, a verified purchaser on Amazon.

The book, published on June 2, already has several five-star reviews.

To purchase the book, search on Amazon for Billy the Bandage or contact Henery directly at 561-2215672. VV

VIERA VOICE Wendy Scheuring

Billy the Bandage is the main character who learns that mental health is a boo-boo that is not easy to see.

VIERA VOICE Wendy Scheuring Viera resident Alexa Henery is the author of "Billy the Bandage."

“I thought it would be interesting to write a children's book about mental health in a digestible way that kids can identify with.”

— Alexa Henery

Viera High School Class of 2023 finishes in grand style

PHOTOS BY ADAM PALUMBO

Viera High School Principal Sarah Robinson handed out the last diploma for the Class of 2023 as thunder roared in the distance and rain began to fall shortly thereafter on the football field.

One Direction's “Best Song Ever,” the class song, played as the Class of 2023 Commencement came to an end.

The principal’s scholars were well represented during the ceremony for a school that does not choose a valedictorian or salutatorian.

After “Pomp and Circumstance” was played during the processional, Robinson gave the welcome address.

Joshua Huser, a principal’s scholar, gave the introduction for the presentation of colors performed by Viera High School’s JROTC.

Emma Carpenter, another principal’s scholar, gave the introduction for the National Anthem, which was sung by the Viera High School chorus.

Principal’s scholars Briegan Novak and Leo Fernandez and gave the invocation and moment of silence, respectively.

Christy Anasa and Katherine Zendehrouh, principal’s scholars, introduced the distinguished guests — Matt Susin, the school board chairman for District 4; Sue Hann, acting superintendent of Brevard Public Schools; Dr. Stephani Soliven, assistant superintendent, secondary leading and learning in Brevard Public Schools; Shannon Daly, principal Manatee Elementary School and AJ James of Eastern Florida State College.

Rebecca Devoid, a principal’s scholar, gave the recognition of retirees, and Marin Chapon, a principal’s scholar, introduced the class officers.

Luke Campbell was the president of the senior class, Kim Draves and Luke McDonough were the vice presidents, Ian Korountchev was the class secretary, PJ Befumo was the class treasurer and Trinity Baker was the class historian.

Alicia-Lorraine Cook and Alyssa Blood, both principal’s scholars, were the class speakers.

Hibiscus was the class flower, and the school’s colors were forest green and Vegas gold.

The class motto “Some people want it to happen, some wish it to happen, others make it happen.”

Other principal scholars include Arib Ahsan, Taman Bhatt, Samantha Capobianchi, Tricia Carmer, Avery Doerhoff, Neta Elran, Leonardo Fernandez, Eva Griffin, Olivia Gustke, Jaqueline Krueger, Kristen Lee, Juliet McDaniel, Katelyn Vo Nguyen, Brittany Odic, Jayden Ollis, Kevin Rhoads, Sara Stanaland, Amber Teschendorf, Bora Turkmen, Victor Valentin and William VanGenechten. VV

SPECIAL TO VIERA VOICE

VIERA VOICE Klinton Landress Suntree Elementary School

VIERA VOICE Klinton Landress

Viera Elementary School and Quest Elementary School

VIERA VOICE Klinton Landress

Manatee Elementary School

VIERA VOICE Klinton Landress

A record crowd showed up for the 17th annual Faculty Softball Challenge at the USSSA Space Coast Complex to root on teachers, administrators and custodial staff from Quest, Viera, Manatee and Suntree Elementary.

Rush Bowls set to bring healthy fare to Viera in September

BY NANETTE HEBDIGE

Sean Dennin’s road to better health has been quite extraordinary. He’s a single dad of three sons, a Viera resident and the owner of the soon to open Rush Bowls in Viera.

“Six years ago, I realized that I was quite overweight and my fast-food eating habits had to stop. That’s when my journey to better health started,” Dennin said.

“I was 320 pounds and now I go to the gym daily, I’m fit and my weight is 210.”

Instead of looking for partners to open his new business, Dennin decided to go into partnership with his sons as he realized that he also wanted his healthy eating habits to be embraced by his children.

“Our story is quite unique. My sons have been a part of this project since we decided to open a business to promote healthy eating. We looked at different franchise

opportunities and selected Rush Bowls, as we wanted to offer fresh and healthy fastfood to the community, which is something that is missing

in our area,” Dennin said. His sons who are students and active athletes in Viera schools — Mathew, 16, Christian, 15, and Chase, 9, —

have been active participants attending meetings. They have even met Rush Bowls founder, Andrew Pudalov.

“My sons are my business

partners and they will play a big part in the operations. I wanted to introduce them to business opportunities and the benefits of healthy eating,” he said. “Obesity is a major concern in America and I wanted to target our youth and seniors by offering healthy options, as these bowls will be packed with nutrients and are fully customizable.”

Rush Bowls offer bowls and smoothies with the superfood acai, fresh organic vegetables, flash frozen fruits and grains. They even have a pup-cup for dogs.

A franchise out of Boulder, Colorado, Rush Bowls has come a long way in 18 years. It focuses solely on fresh ingredients and their healthy and trendy bowls have grown in popularity with more than 40 units now in 21 states.

Rush Bowls is scheduled to open in September in the Stadium Parkway Plaza, which is at Viera Boulevard and Stadium Parkway. VV

VIERA VOICE Klinton Landress

Sean Dennin and his sons Mathew, Chase and Christian are excited about opening Rush Bowls in Viera.

A new CVS Pharmacy is coming to Viera

SPECIAL TO VIERA VOICE

A 14,700-square-foot CVS Pharmacy is planned for Borrows West at the intersection of Viera Boulevard and Lake Andrew Drive.

Construction is expected to start this summer and be completed and ready to open during the summer of 2024.

The new store will become one of the more than 9,000 CVS locations, which puts one of the pharmacies

within 10 miles of most Americans.

“It’s a prototypical store,” said Brett Gelbert, the senior director of land development for Boos Development. “It’s an updated prototype with updated and newer and more durable exterior finishes.”

Gelbert said the company has been working on securing a site for a new CVS store at this intersection for several years.

It is now in the permitting process with Brevard County. VV

VIERA VOICE Jill Blue

Addison Square prepares to add The Soup Shop to its lineup

BY NANETTE HEBDIGE

The Soup Shop found its new location at Addison Square on the southwest corner of Lake Andrew Drive and Ivanhoe Drive in west Viera.

The Soup Shop was supposed to open in another shopping center in Viera, but it was told that it could not proceed with its lease since it would have competed with the center’s anchor store.

“I was walking into Christie Lynes networking function Melbourne Women Rock and that’s when I got the call that we weren’t going to be able to move forward with our lease at The Crossings,” said Julie Shipley, The Soup Shop owner.

The Shipleys started to actively look for a location in Viera when they were contacted by Erik Costin from W+J Construction.

“We got a call from Erik at W+J and he suggested we look at space at Addison

Square, as he had heard we were looking for a new location in Viera,” Shipley said. “My husband and I were away celebrating our 32nd wedding anniversary and, when we got back, we drove by to look at the storefront. We’re firm believers that things happen for a reason and we’re thrilled about our new space.”

Shipley will be consistent in offering the same menu that has proven to be so successful at the current Soup Shop. She could introduce a few new items that she has been working on — one could be a lobster bisque pot pie.

“We now have two locations opening a month apart from each other, and we’re hoping that all will be finalized by September of 2023,” Shipley said. “We’re waiting on permits to start in Addison. The location of our other restaurant will be at the Publix Shopping Plaza next to Hammock Landing in West Melbourne.” VV

VOICE Jill Blue

Shipley and her husband Phillip are excited to open the newest version of The Soup Shop at Addison Square.

Are You Hard Of Hearing?

A major name brand hearing aid provider wishes to field test a remarkable new digital hearing instrument in the area. This offer is free of charge and you are under no obligation.

These revolutionary 100% Digital instruments use the latest technology to comfortably and almost invisibly help you hear more clearly. This technology solves the “stopped-up ears” and “head in a barrel” sensation some people experience.

If you wish to participate, you will be required to have your hearing evaluated in our office FREE OF CHARGE to determine candidacy and review your results with the hearing instruments with our hearing care specialist.

At the end of this evaluation, you may keep your instruments, if you so desire, at a tremendous savings for participating in this field test. Special testing will be done to determine the increased benefits of this technology. Benefits of hearing aids vary by type and degree of hearing loss, noise environment, accuracy of hearing evaluation, and proper fit.

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Easy Open/Close Accordion Shutters

Foxtail Coffee Co. brings its unique blend to Viera

BY NANETTE HEBDIGE

Foxtail Coffee Company, a brand that originated about seven years ago in Winter Park, is arriving in Viera. It will be opening its new location during the fourth quarter of this year at Addison Square on Lake Andrew Drive.

Owned by Hardik Shah, the Viera shop will be his first Foxtail Coffee franchise venture in Brevard County. It adds to his St Petersburg, St. Augustine, The Villages and Las Vegas locations.

With new coffee shops opening locally and brands competing, every caffeine lover boasts of their favorite go-to spot. Whether it’s a brand name drawing popularity with judicious coffee addicts or the convenience of a trusted neighborhood spot, black gold has now become a total cult.

Foxtail Coffee Co. started with two children who met in kindergarten in South Florida — Alex Tchekmeian and Iain Yeakle — and became fast friends.

Their lifelong friendship and their passion for coffee has brought about unique brews and quickly established a large local following in Florida. They now offer 54 locations throughout the state and one in Georgia.

“The beans are locally roasted at their flagship location in Winter Park,” said Beth Cocchiarella, the president of EMC Public Relations.

“Foxtail Coffee doesn’t want to provide just a fast drive-through experience, as its goal is to create a lasting impression where customers will enjoy their coffee with friends and family within

their indoor and outdoor seating.”

With rustic décor and cozy seating areas, Foxtail Coffee believes coffee should be purposeful, celebrated and enjoyed. The company upholds that philosophy.

Additionally, Viera Foxtail, complete with drive-through, will also include another Central Florida favorite, a Kelly’s Homemade Ice Cream counter, offering its unique creamery signature flavors and a rotating selection of monthly featured flavors.

When Kelly Seidl and her husband Scott moved to

Central Florida, they realized that hand-dipped ice cream was hard to find, so they decided to make their own.

Their ice cream cart at local farmers markets became so popular, they decided to get a small pink truck to sell their handcrafted ice cream to the public.

“Brevard County has welcomed Foxtail Coffee and we are delighted to be adding to our locations along the Space Coast,” Shah said.

Foxtail has three other locations operating in Brevard — one in Cocoa Beach and two in Melbourne.

VIERA VOICE Courtesy of Beth Cochiarella Foxtail Coffee will have a rustic and elegant interior that includes a Kelly's Homemade Ice Cream counter. The Viera location, under construction, will have a drive thru.

“Brevard County has welcomed Foxtail Coffee and we are delighted to be adding to our locations along the Space Coast.”

— Hardik Shah

For an invitation to the July 13 VMB meeting, call 321-242-1235.

In June, the Viera Means Business networking group met at Achieve Beautiful Skin in Viera.

The Viera Means Business networking group meets at 8 a.m. the second Thursday of each month at member business locations. Join business colleagues in Viera and the surrounding area to network.

Diane Hawthorne, Jeanne Whitman, Issac Bills, Cintia Hultz and Kara Jacob Bills of Achieve Beautiful Skin, the event sponsor.

Richard Abbruscato and his daughter Kristie Felice of Venezia Wine Veranda.

Cheryl Clark, Jason Vaughn, Dr. Jaya Prakash Shari Tabat, Carmen Vastola Mandee Combs of RISE Viera

Andrea Gomes, Efrain Gonzalez and Diane Hawthorne

Kaori Suzuki Fischer, Andrea Wheeler Sol Castellon, Cartama Ramos Crafton, Efrain Gonzalez, Tessy Cabrera and Randa Israwi

BY NANETTE HEBDIGE

In the U.S., one dish is supreme

It’s hard to believe that the United States has no official national dish. We’re a melting pot of cultures and heritages, with too many regional favorites. So, the award doesn’t go to anyone in particular.

Louisiana celebrates its Jambalaya. North Carolina, Memphis, Texas and Kansas City champion their barbecue. The South offers collard greens, fried green tomatoes, Mac-n’-Cheese and fried chicken; New England reveres its seafood.

Yet one dish reigns supreme. America is burger-obsessed, so it’s no wonder the Big Mac became a global icon.

Chefs go to great lengths to moniker unique renditions for this goliath. Current glam-burgers come with impressive calling-cards ready to feed starving, judicious audiences.

A burger is like a movie, where every actor has a vital role. Achieving the wow factor for a juicy, moan-inducing, mind-blowing burger is an ambitious undertaking. It has to deliver acid, balance and texture. The bun needs solidity to not fall apart, the meat has to have fat for juiciness — the big patty cooks longer and dries out; the thin patty stays moist and doesn’t. The supporting players — veggies bring moisture and acidity. Pickle (acid, brine, crunch), onion (acid), tomato, (acid, moisture), lettuce (crunch) and condiments (sauces) wrap it all up. VV

Liberty Burger

A standout burger can come without fancy trappings, and the Liberty Burger with its simplicity is as American as the Fourth of July.

Ensure the meat is of superior quality, use thick-cut Applewood bacon, the vegetables are extra fresh and use a noteworthy bun, preferably brioche or potato. And yes — go the extra mile and make your own ketchup.

FIFTEEN YEARS. ONE MISSION.

Sonata Senior Living

Since opening its first community in 2008, Sonata has been committed to raising the bar in senior living. As it celebrates 15 years of service excellence, it continues its endless pursuit to offer more to seniors and their families.

• More meaningful connections to improve lives

• More passionate and caring staff

• More personal freedom

• More safety and security features

• More wellbeing and socializing

Sonata’s innovative services and award-winning amenities and programming are here for you and those you love!

Expect more joy at Sonata East at Viera!

Veteran specials available. Call today to schedule a personalized tour and learn more about Sonata Senior Living.

Sonata Viera

Assisted Living

CALL 321-392-6811

3325 Breslay Dr. Melbourne, FL 32940

SONATAVIERA.COM

Assisted Living Lic #12361

Sonata East At Viera

Independent Living & Memory Care

CALL 321-326-9995

4206 Breslay Dr. Melbourne, FL 32940

SONATAEAST.COM

Assisted Living Lic #13655

1 pound of ground chuck or sirloin — 80/20 seasoned aggressively

8 slices of Applewood bacon

Romaine or iceberg lettuce

Ripe tomatoes — sliced thin

Vidalia onion rounds

4 buns — buttered and toasted

Place bacon on a cookie sheet and bake in a 350-degree oven until almost crisp. Set on paper towels.

Form half-inch patties. Heat oil in a cast-iron skillet. Sear on one side for three minutes (without flipping) to achieve a crust. Cook for two minutes on the other side for medium-rare. Butter and toast the buns.

Remove from the heat and rest for 3 to 5 minutes. Assemble burger — and secure down with a steak knife.

HOMEMADE KETCHUP

1 cup water, 3 TBSP tomato paste, 1 can of tomato sauce, ¼ cup brown sugar, 1 cinnamon stick, 2 TBSP Worcestershire sauce, 2 TBSP Apple Cider Vinegar, 1 TBSP molasses, ¼ TSP allspice, ½ TSP garlic powder, one bay leaf, salt/pepper

Add to a pot, simmer for about 40 minutes stirring often — cool and chill. Keeps for one week refrigerated.

Mango Taste + Talk Seminar 1 p.m. Learn about mango history. Rockledge Gardens 2153 U.S. Highway 1 Rockledge 321-636-7662

Scottish Country Dancing

6:30 - 9:30 p.m. Springs of Suntree Clubhouse 8300 Holiday Springs Road Suntree, 321-427-3587

Duran Golf Club's annual 4th of July Golf Tournament 8 a.m.

Duran Golf Club 7032 Stadium Parkway Viera, 321-504-7776

Chalk the Block with Kindness

3:30 p.m. We will provide the chalk and plenty of space for your work.

Sip & Smoke

Stars & Stripes Picnic and Concert

5 p.m. Melbourne Municipal Band and the Suntree UMC Chancel Choir. Suntree United Methodist Church 7400 N. Wickham Road Suntree, 321-242-2585

Dixie Cruisers Car and Coffee

8 - 10 a.m.

Great cars and food.

Bone Builders 9 - 10 a.m. Martin Andersen Senior Center 1025 S. Florida Ave. Rockledge 321-631-2749

Brevard Investment Educaton Group

11 a.m. - 1 p.m.

This group meets to discuss stock market investments.

Great American Celebration Fireworks in Viera 9 p.m. Look for the fireworks display just east of the USSSA Space Coast Complex. Viera, 321-255-4500

Suntree/Viera Library 902 Jordan Blass Drive Suntree, 321-255-4404

Make-n-Take: Cocktail Herb Container Garden

6:30 p.m. Locally hand-rolled cigars provided for purchase by Chaffiot Cigars and a spotlight spirit selected by the mixologists. 28 North Gastropub 2250 Town Center Ave. Viera, 321-241-1159

Viera Park Market & Food Trucks

4 - 8 p.m. 2300 Judge Fran Jamieson Way Viera, 321-759-3713

Flick-N-Float: Gremlins

Viera East Farmers Market

10 a.m. - 2 p.m. Woodside Park 1705 Crane Creek Blvd. Viera, Facebook.com/ VEFarmersmarket

C’s Waffles 5600 SR 524

Cocoa 321-615-0000

Suntree/Viera Library

902 Jordan Blass Drive Suntree, 321-255-4044

Trivia Night

8 p.m.

Island Root Kava 7954 N. Wickham Road, #115 Suntree, 321-622-6857

Brevard Zoo at Suntree/ Viera Library

2 p.m.

Fur, Feathers, Shells, and Scales program. Investigate the amazing world of animal coverings, coats and skins Ages 5 to 17.

5:30 p.m. Create a container garden filled with herbs. Rockledge Gardens 2153 U.S. Highway 1 Rockledge 321-636-7662

Trivia

5:30 p.m.

July trivia theme is: The 90s. Rockledge Gardens 2153 U.S. Highway 1 Rockledge 321-636-7662

Brevard County Farmers Market

3 - 6 p.m. Wickham Park Pavilion 2500 Parkway Drive Melbourne 321-633-1702

Karaoke

11 a.m. - 3 p.m.

Martin Andersen Senior Center 1025 S. Florida Ave. Rockledge 321-268-2013

7 - 10 p.m. The cost to swim is $4; the movie is free to watch.

McLarty Park 790 Barton Blvd. Rockledge 321-633-1874

Summer Evenings Concert Series 7 p.m. Presented by the Brevard Symphony Orchestra. Suntree United Methodist Church 7400 N. Wickham Road Suntree, 321-345-5052 9 10 11 12 13 14 15

Big Idea Magic Show

2 p.m. Keith Tusing brings you a live, interactive magic show full of laughter and learning. His show highlights the magic and wonder of reading.

Brevard Home & Garden Expo

July 15 and July 16

10 a.m. - 3 p.m.

Experience Psychic Fair

July 15 and July 16 11 a.m. - 6 p.m.

Readings by some of the area's most respected spiritual mediums and psychics. Metaphysical vendors sell crystals, gemstones, essential oils, jewelry, Tarot cards.

Coffee & Conversation with Eva Rey

10 a.m.

The Viera Company’s Eva Rey will lead a discussion on a reflection on the past, a view of the present and a glimpse into the future of Viera. RSVP required.

Suntree/Viera Library

902 Jordan Blass Drive Suntree 321-255-4404

TOPS 9:30 - 11 a.m.

Martin Andersen Senior Center 1025 S. Florida Ave. Rockledge 321-368-9265

Storytime 10 - 10:30 a.m.

Ages up to 7. Suntree/Viera Library 902 Jordan Blass Drive Suntree 321-55-4404

Ages up to 17. Suntree/Viera Library 902 Jordan Blass Drive Suntree, 321-255-4404

The area’s leading contractors, suppliers and home products to assist with home projects, as well as special sales, deals and giveaways. Melbourne Auditorium 625 E. Hibiscus Blvd. Melbourne, 321-733-8816 16 17 18 19 20 21 22

Alzheimer’s Dementia Support Group

10 a.m. - Noon Martin Andersen Senior Center 1025 S. Florida Ave. Rockledge 321-631-7549

Sit-n-Stitch

1 - 3 p.m. Bring your current project and share ideas. Suntree/Viera Library 902 Jordan Blass Drive Suntree, 321-255-4044

Donut Art 3:30 p.m. Use canvas and other materials to make your work of donut art. Ages 7 to 17.

Space Coast Convention Center 301 Tucker Lane Cocoa, 386-478-9198

One Senior Place 8085 Spyglass Hill Road Viera, 321-751-6771

Trivia Nation Live Music Bingo

6 p.m. Pineda Inn Bar & Grill 6533 U.S. 1 Rockledge 321-751-5311

Space Coast Poets

5:30 p.m.

Suntree/Viera Library

902 Jordan Blass Drive Suntree 321-255-4404

American Numismatic Association Coin Talk

6 - 7:45 p.m.

Suntree/Viera Library 902 Jordan Blass Drive Suntree, 321-255-4044

Boomer Trivia 4 - 6 p.m.

Pizza Gallery

2250 Town Center Ave. Viera, 321-633-0397

Sit and Get Fit

Suntree/Viera Library 902 Jordan Blass Drive Suntree, 321-255-4404

The Rite of Spring in Summer Concert

7 - 9 p.m. Scott Center Auditorium 5625 Holy Trinity Drive Suntree, 855-252-7276

1 - 2 p.m.

Martin Andersen Senior Center 1025 S. Florida Ave. Rockledge 321-631-7549

Library Field Day all day

Relay races, obstacle courses and other games that encourage play, imagination and coordination.

Ages 7 to 17

Suntree/Viera Library 902 Jordan Blass Drive Suntree, 321-255-4044

3rd Thursday 5 - 8 p.m. The Avenue Viera 2261 Town Center Ave. Viera, 321-634-5390

Tinnitus [and Hearing Loss] Do You Suffer From Ringing of The Ears? 11 a.m. - 1 p.m. A Personal Hearing Solutions lunch and learn presentation. RSVP One Senior Place 8085 Spyglass Hill Road Viera 321-751-6771

Third annual Christmas in July Vendor Event 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. Space Coast Convention Center 103 Tucker Lane Cocoa, 321-635-9975 23 24 25 26 27 28 29

Estate Planning Seminar

10 - 11 a.m.

Presented by William A. Johnson, board certified elder law attorney. One Senior Place 8085 Spyglass Hill Road Viera 321-751-6771

Boat Show/Demo Day

Shrimp, Suds & Karaoke Fest National Sylvia Day National Kitten Day Eat Your Jello Day

10 a.m. - 4 p.m.

4:30 - 8:30 p.m.

event for the Sharing Center. Melbourne Auditorium 625 E. Hibiscus Blvd. Melbourne, 321-727-8581

Viera’s annual fireworks, other events celebrate Independence Day

BY FLORA REIGADA

Viera will commemorate Independence Day with its annual Great American Celebration fireworks at 9 p.m. July 4.

It promises to be a vibrant fireworks display that will be seen just east of the USSSA Space Coast Complex. The fireworks display will also be available on the Viera Community Institute’s Facebook live or later on its website, vieracommunityinstitute.com.

Motorists should be sure to find legal parking spaces.

Other Brevard County Communities plan celebrations.

Port St. John

Saturday, July 1, Thunder Over the Indian River, the celebration starts at 4 p.m. with fireworks at 9:15 p.m. at the Orlando Utilities Commission (OUC) Indian River Plant at 7800 U.S. 1. The gate is on Kings Highway, across from Capron Road. Call 321-863-7499 or visit portstjohncommunityfoundation.com.

Palm Bay

Sunday, July 2, Palm Bay will hold its Independence Day Celebration from 5 to 9 p.m. at the Palm Bay campus of Eastern Florida State College at 250 Community College Parkway. Fireworks start at 9 p.m. Visit PBFL.org/ IndependenceDay

Cocoa Beach

Monday, July 3, the Fireworks

start at 9 p.m. at Fisher Park Beach at 2200 N. Atlantic Ave. Call 321868- 3252 or visit cityofcocoabeach. com

Rockledge

Tuesday, July 4, the city’s annual Independence Day Picnic starts at 10 a.m. at McLarty Park at 790 Barton Boulevard. Call 321-221-7540

or visit cityofrockledge.org

Merritt Island

Tuesday, July 4, the Fourth of July Parade and Celebration kicks off at 10 a.m. at Merritt Island High School, turning south to N. Courtenay Parkway to East Merritt Avenue, then east, ending at Edgewood Junior/Senior High School.

For information, call 321-5058752 or email lindsey@bcsocharity. org

Port St. John

Tuesday, July 4, a Celebration of America 4 service and barbecue begins at 6 p.m. at St. Patrick’s Anglican Church 4797 Curtis Boulevard. Call 321-802-1311 or visit stpartickpsj.com

Cocoa Village

Tuesday, July 4, the Red Hot & Boomin’ BBQ and Symphony under the Stars, by the Brevard Symphony Orchestra. Barbecue starts at 6 p.m. at the Cocoa Civic Center. Concert at Cocoa Riverfront Park starts at 8 p.m. with fireworks at 9:15 p.m. Symphony Under the Stars VIP BBQ is $75 in advance. Proceeds benefit the Brevard Symphony Orchestra. Call 321-2422024 or email BrevardSymphony.com

Melbourne

Tuesday, July 4, MelBOOM, a Fourth of July celebration begins at 7 p.m. with fireworks at 9 p.m. at Front Street Civic Center at 2205 Front St. Call 321-417-1342 or visit melbourneflorida.org/departments/ parks-recreation/fireworks

Titusville

Tuesday, July 4, Red, White and Boom starts at 7 p.m. and fireworks will start at 9:15 p.m. at Chain of Lakes Park. For more information, call 321-567-3775 or visit cityoftitusville.com VV

VIERA VOICE file photo

The Great American Celebration in Viera will have fireworks at 9 p.m.

Lagoon Watermen Alliance helps to guide important restoration

Who spends most of their waking hours on the Indian River Lagoon?

Who sees all the changes taking place day to day?

Brevard’s fishing guides, that’s who! Good news! They have now formed the Lagoon Watermen Alliance (LagoonWatermenAlliance.org), a nonprofit dedicated to “protecting the entire Indian River Lagoon (IRL) system by advocating for sciencebased solutions that will lead to improved water quality, protection of imperiled habitats and safeguarding of

Lagoon Straight Talk From the Brevard Indian River Lagoon Coalition

gamefish populations.”

Bluewater Creative Group - Issue 10

VIERA VOICE Courtesy of BIRLC Capt. Benny Blanco and Capt. Billy Rotne, two founders of the new Lagoon Watermen Alliance, are advocates for the Indian River Lagoon.

Their focus is on stopping nutrient loading, runoff and pollution from entering the IRL. This means directing funding toward controlling sources, including inadequate sewage and stormwater treatment, excess fertilizer runoff and impaired circulation, as well as poor water management practices.

The founding leadership includes: Capt. Billy Rotne and Capt. Benny Blanco, as well as angler and artist Ashley Weber and scientist Dr Hannah Herrero. It is a passionate all-volunteer group that already has secured help from founding partners Captains for Clean Water, Hell’s Bay Boatworks and Costa eyewear.

With its members’ daily presence on the water, they have a critical perspective on important facts about and the constant changes taking place on the IRL. Having coordinated input from the front lines will help everyone concerned. But their activities will not end with observations alone. During their two-year organizing process,

Herrero, an assistant professor at the University of Tennessee, has been working on a variety of analytical efforts to give a better understanding of what the watermen and others are actually observing.

The Alliance is planning its first public meeting for this July. They will invite everyone who “would like to get involved in this fight!” They plan to register new members and collect data from other watermen at the meeting. Register at Lagoonwatermen.org; @ lagoonwatermenalliance; and Facebook: Lagoon Watermen Alliance. Check out helpthelagoon.org/.

For more about our piece of paradise — the Indian River Lagoon, go to HelpTheLagoon.org, facebook. com/BIRLC/ and twitter.com/ HelpTheLagoon VV

Solution, page 34

Crossword solution on page 34

Edited by Margie E. Burke

Red Baron finds new life, purpose as wing walker

Soon, a Red Baron aircraft will be flying with a wing walker above the Space Coast.

One of the last remaining airplanes that formed part of the Red Baron Squadron Aerobatic Team is still flying. It is being converted into a wing-walking plane and it is expected to begin training here.

“It’s almost done,” said Chuck Julian, an aerobatic pilot who owns the aircraft. “The crew will be in training in a couple of weeks. It will be something different in the area.”

The Boeing World War II-era Super Stearman aircraft was part of a squadron that promoted the Red Baron brand of pizza. It will be ready for wing-walking exhibitions in about 30 to 90 days with an all-female team.

“We’ll have the youngest wing walker in the nation, (11-yearold) Desi “Danger” Julian,” said Chuck Julian, who is part of the Santa Skydivers. “It will be fun once we get the final piece.”

His aircraft is housed at the Valiant Air Command Warbird Museum in Titusville. VV

SENIOR

Bluewater Creative Group - Issue 9

IRCC celebrates U.S. Army’s 248th anniversary with elegant ball

BY NANETTE HEBDIGE

The Indian River Colony Club commemorated the 248th anniversary of the U.S. Army on June 14 with a ball hosted at the Indian River Colony Club.

The sold-out Army Birthday Ball had almost 200 veterans of the Army and other branches and civilians in attendance. Most of the veterans were attired in full dress uniform, including the medals awarded for their service.

The United States Army colors of black and gold were prevalent throughout the event, creating perfect decorations for the Army Birthday Ball at IRCC's Colony Hall, which was decked out in elegant patriotic decorations.

Chuck Cox, a retired army lieutenant colonel and a master aviator, and his wife, Susanne, are residents of IRCC. They attended the celebration.

“I served two tours in Vietnam and received five Distinguished Flying Crosses. My wife Susanne speaks several languages and has also spent 37 years in the State Department Foreign Service,” Cox said. “Together, we have given seven decades of service to our country.”

The Viera High School Army JROTC Color Guard presented the colors and the IRCC choir, directed by Kathy Westrip, sang the national anthem as well as many patriotic songs prior to the dinner.

“I have been directing the IRCC choir for about 10 years now and we are very proud to bring such talent into our community,” Westrip said.

Col. Lanny Weeks was host and master of ceremonies for the evening and was a major contributor in planning the event.

“We also had great collaboration from the women in our committee

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The United States Army colors of black and gold were prevalent throughout the event, creating perfect decorations for the Army Birthday Ball at IRCC's Colony Hall, which was decked out in elegant patriotic decorations.

8 3 5 7 1 5 9 7 2 5 3 4 8 7 6

at IRCC who decorated the clubhouse and helped plan the event,” said Luanne Faulkender, the president of Army Women at IRCC.

Bill Greenawald, a retired colonel and also a resident of IRCC who served 30 years and did three tours of duty in Korea, explained the importance of the Fallen Comrade table. VV

Solution, Puzzle page 32

Solution to Sudoku:

each set of 3 by 3 boxes must contain the numbers 1 to 9.

(Answer appears elsewhere in this issue)

Solution, Puzzle page 32

VIERA VOICE Klinton Landress

The Viera High School Army JROTC Color Guard presented the colors at the 2023 Army Birthday Ball at Indian River Colony Club in Viera.

VIERA VOICE Klinton Landress

The IRCC choir, directed by Kathy Westrip, sang the national anthem and other patriotic songs prior to the dinner.

VIERA VOICE Klinton Landress

The Army Ball drew veterans from all branches and civilians.

VIERA VOICE Klinton Landress The Fallen Comrade table.

Veterans issues writer, advocate Norm Moody honored

BY LINDA WIGGINS

The assignment editor for Viera Voice and editor of Senior Life newspaper and its veterans section, Stripes, became the story rather than reporting on it June 19.

The heads of major veterans groups came together representing veterans in Brevard County to present a surprise Patriotic Citizen Award to R. Norman Moody for his career spanning 30 years reporting on veterans.

“I met Norm 10 years ago when he did a feature on us as Gold Star parents,” said Donn Weaver, who is a chairman or member of many veterans groups. Gold Star represents parents who have lost a child during military service. Weaver’s son, Todd, was killed in Afghanistan Sept. 9, 2010.

Weaver said Moody puts a human face on the sacrifices veterans and their families make, especially when they make the ultimate sacrifice.”

“You tell our stories, you tell them frequently and you create an interest in the community about veterans issues,” Weaver said. “Without that interest among the community, we wouldn’t get the same support.”

A visibly moved Moody looked down at the beautifully crafted American bald eagle adorning the hefty award. He gave thanks for the acknowledgement, but quickly turned the focus back around to his gratitude for all that the veterans have done and all that future veterans continue to do to protect U.S. citizens by maintaining

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our freedom.

“All I do is tell about the things you’ve done,” Moody said. “It is my pleasure to do that. I’ve always had great respect for you as veterans.

That’s why I do it, that’s why I enjoy doing it.”

Weaver also detailed all the veterans events and activities that Moody takes part in as a volunteer.

“What a lot of people don’t realize is that Norm is always there as a supporter, as a volunteer,” Weaver added, “at every Stand Down (to support homeless veterans), every major event to support veterans in any kind of need. He’s there as a community member, as well as someone to capture the moment and inform the community.”

Moody’s coverage has helped reverse a trend of dwindling membership in veterans fellowship such as VFWs, according to Jerry

“I’m sure a lot of our members would not have joined our post if you didn’t let them know about all the work that’s being done.”

“There is no other publication that does this much for veterans,” said Joe Tichich, a senior vice commander of VFW Post 10131, who thanked Jill Blue, the publisher of Viera Voice and Senior Life, as well as Moody. “The veterans themselves get help because they are inspired to reach out and connect, both with each other and resources (and solutions to veterans issues).

The Viera Voice/Senior Life office was tapped to host the presentation. VV

Mierle, the commander of VFW Post 10131 in Cape Canaveral.

SENIOR LIFE Jorjann Blake

R. Norman Moody, second from left, receives the Patriotic Citizen Award from veterans Joe Tichich, left, Donn Weaver and Jerry Mierle.

“You tell our stories, you tell them frequently and you create an interest in the community about veterans issues. Without that interest among the community, we wouldn’t get the same support.”

Donn Weaver