Viera Voice, October 2022

Family thrives in Viera after overcoming setback from serious accident

BY WENDY SCHEURING

Chris and Candice Burns reached their 17th wedding anniversary milestone in August, which was a cause for much celebration.

That’s because years ago Chris was severely injured in a near fatal head-on collision with an 18-wheeler on Interstate 95.

The impact of the crash moved the dash of Chris’ car back more than two feet.

“My knee and my shin got pushed back and tore all the ligaments,” he said.

A nurse who stopped to render aid before first responders arrived, called Candice Burns. Chris’ phone, which was wedged between the seat and the dash, also inadvertently dialed her, allowing her to listen for the next 90 horrifying minutes as first responders worked to extricate Chris Burns from the vehicle.

For the next year, Burns underwent five surgeries, the majority of them to eliminate infection. At one point, he almost had to have his leg amputated, but Candice would not allow it. Eventually, he was given an experimental antibiotic and the infection was eradicated.

Doctors told Chris he would never walk again.

“To get through this was incredible,” Chris Burns said. “We did not repair any ligaments in the knee. I still don’t have three of the four ligaments in my left leg.”

Recently, Burns trained for six months so he could run a 50K ultramarathon in Tampa, proving the doctors wrong.

“It’s a miracle,” he said.

Candice Burns describes herself as a stay-at-home mom who “takes care

of our little village.”

The Burns have three children: Brenna, 10, Reese, 9, and Lincoln, 5½.

She recalled the day she met Chris.

“We met at the East Coast Christian Center (on Merritt Island). Chris was playing guitar on the worship team. I tried to sneak out because I did not want to meet anyone, but Chris introduced himself to me.”

One year later, Chris Burns started his business consulting with doctors who wanted to transition from paper charts to electronic medical records.

“It was the digital revolution,” Burns said. “I built my business becoming the expert on helping

Featured Family

doctors make the transition.”

The 2008 auto accident set him back, but with the help of a friendly competitor Burns was able to keep his business running and retain his customers.

“He gave it all back to me once I recovered,” he said.

Eight years later, Chris acquired a business partner and together they started growing dedicated IT (dedicatedit.com).

“We have about 100 people now,” he said. “We have a national client base and we plan to keep growing.”

Before moving to Viera three years ago, the Burns lived in Suntree. They made the move to Viera to be

closer to Viera Charter School, where their two oldest children had been attending.

This school year, all three children will attend Calvary Chapel Academy in Melbourne, but will be able to take the bus from Calvary Chapel in Viera.

The Burns enjoy driving their golf cart around the community, stopping to meet other families along the way. Duran Golf Club, Health First Healthplex and The Avenue Viera are big draws for them.

“Viera is such a gem in Brevard County,” Chris Burns said.

“This is a sacred place for us. It feels like a vacation every time I come home from work.” VV

Volume 16, Issue 5

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Writers/Reporters

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Harvest Festival, Scarecrow Stroll are back, better than ever

BY NANETTE HEBDIGE

Fall brings cooler temperatures, festivities and one of the most anticipated events in our community — the Viera Harvest Festival and Scarecrow Stroll taking place on Oct. 15.

The Viera Voice and its parent company, Bluewater Creative Group is once again partnering with The Viera Community Institute to mark autumn’s arrival.

“The event kept growing exponentially and we are thrilled to be partnering with the Viera Community Institute, who’s now orchestrating the Harvest Festival,” said Jill Blue, the CEO of Bluewater Creative.

“Viera Voice will continue to organize the Scarecrow Stroll, which has become an event everyone remembers”.

This is the second annual Harvest Festival for the Viera Community Institute.

“Viera’s Harvest Festival and Viera Voice’s Scarecrow Stroll are two wonderful events for families and friends to have a day of funfilled activities,” said Laurie Widzgowski, the marketing and event coordinator for The Viera Company and the Viera Community Institute.

“It's the perfect fall event for adults and children to enjoy the festivities. We’re anticipating a great turnout packed with tasty food, games, music, and photo opportunities to make some ideal memories,” Widzgowski said.

Many food trucks will offer delicious fare, as well as exhibitors and colorful vendors. The festival will include music presented by DJ Cowboy Bob, featuring line-dancing and other dancing as well.

There will be some exciting new children’s activities such as Pumpkin Golf and Pumpkin Bowling as well as a returning favorite, the Corn Maze.

Brevard County Fire Rescue firefighter Richard Collins of Suntree Station 80 and other firefighters there are participating in the

VIERA HARVEST FESTIVAL FACTS

DATE: Saturday, Oct. 15

LOCATION: Viera Regional Park 2300 Judge Fran Jamieson Way, Viera

TIME: 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.

PARKING: On site at Viera Regional Park

FOOD TRUCKS ONSITE: Cajun Soul Bistro, Espresso Yourself Mobile Coffee, Indian River Smokehouse, Nomads Rolled Ice Cream, 4th Street Fillin’ Station

MUSIC: DJ Cowboy Bob

“Our station will be building a golf-playing firefighter. This year, we are honored that the charity of choice is the Brevard County Firefighters Benevolent

with all proceeds of the scarecrows built going toward the seriously injured firefighters that were involved in a rollover crash earlier this year from Mim’s

station 21,” he said.

There will be 22 local businesses designing and creating their scarecrows and the attendees at the festival will get to vote for their favorite scarecrow. The winners from the Scarecrow Stroll ballot entries will be announced during the event.

To view the participating scarecrows and stroll to their locations, look for the ballot in this month’s Viera Voice. Vote for your favorite scarecrow on the stroll and enter your completed ballot for a chance to win the grand prizes.

Also, visit the Viera Community Institute

In response to COVID 19, I am now also offering the option of Tele health sessions via phone or video

VIERA VOICE Jill Blue and the Viera Community Institute The Viera Harvest Festival offers fun activities for people of all ages.

VIERA VOICE Jill Blue

Scarecrows of all shapes and sizes will be on display and up for silent auction at the Viera Harvest Festival at Viera Regional Park.

Police K9 competition returns to USSSA Space Coast Complex

BY MADISON RESNICK

Furry friends of the Cocoa Police Department will show off their skills Nov. 19 at the Space Coast Police K-9 Competition.

In collaboration with the Brevard Kennel Club, the CPD is looking forward to kicking off the 2022 holiday season with hounds and happiness for the whole family.

Head on over to the USSSA Space Coast Stadium in Viera for this free event open to the public.

At the event, working dogs for the law enforcement and military, as well as some civilian-trained dogs, will

compete for the titles of Hardest Hitting and Fastest Dog.

The Space Coast K-9 Competition will also feature presentations from Brevard law enforcement, door prizes, and food and beverages for purchase.

According to the event’s website, the competition is a “fundraiser benefiting the Space Coast Police K-9 Foundation Inc., a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting police K-9 programs and police officers throughout Brevard County and surrounding areas.”

Without the support of their sponsors, including

the Brevard Kennel Club as well as Porsche, Audi, and Mercedes Benz of Melbourne, this event could not be free to the public.

The Space Coast Police K-9 Competition took shape in 2018 when Dan Rhoades, a local K-9 officer who regularly competed at a K-9 competition in Boynton Beach, wanted to bring the fun home to the Space Coast.

Yvonne Martinez, who worked with Rhoades and other Cocoa Police officers to get his idea off the ground, serves as the event coordinator.

“Dan had a vision of bringing that here to

Brevard,” she said.

K-9 Bear and Officer Rhoades even went on to win first place in the second episode of A&E’s television program, America’s Top Dog.

After hosting the event at Cocoa High School in 2018 and 2019, it was clear that the competition was a huge hit among Brevard County residents.

Martinez recounted the great success of the event.

“The second year we

did it at Cocoa High, it was packed. A lot of people wanted to come see the competition, so we decided in 2021 to partner with USSSA Space Coast Stadium,” she said.

This year’s event will be held at the stadium, too, giving Brevard’s dog lovers and law enforcement supporters plenty of room to enjoy the show and promote the cute and clever K-9 companions. VV

VIERA VOICE photo

The Space Coast K-9 Competition is scheduled for Nov. 19 at the USSSA Space Coast Stadium.

Wrap upSPORTS

Viera boys motivated, girls fueled by new additions

BY CARL KOTALA

There’s plenty of optimism around the Viera High crosscountry program this season, in part because of an influx of new talent.

The Viera boys are coming off the best season in program history, winning the Class 4A state championship in 2021. And while the Hawks lost four seniors off that team — including a pair of top 10 finishers in Michael Toppi and Robbie Naberhaus — there’s still plenty of motivation and talent to be among the state’s best teams once again.

“It’s definitely motivated us a lot more to stay up there and see if we can at least finish in the top five at states,” senior Cameron Raney said.

The Viera girls, meanwhile, are expecting to be back at Tallahassee’s Apalachee Regional Park thanks in part to two new runners at the top of their lineup.

“Last year was kind of a rebuilding year,” Viera coach Samantha Gerrits said. “This year, we’ve got two freshmen girls that are super fast, so it leads us to have a really strong team. Right now, we’re kind of struggling on the

team aspect, but we’ll work through it.”

Freshmen Celina Coryell and Addison Elwell have certainly given the program new life as they make the push for the state meet, combining with senior veterans Brooke Gerrits and Isabella Narvaez.

Sophomore Maddie Helms turned in two strong performances at the Astronaut Invitational and the Spanish River Classic and could be ready to take over the No. 5 spot.

Other top runners for Viera include seniors Chelsea Paglia and Trinity Trett along with freshman Rachel Devoid.

After helping the Hawks to a second-place finish at the Astronaut Invitational, Coryell was asked about making the move to compete at the high school varsity level.

“It’s been really good,” Coryell said. “We have a really supportive team and a really good coach. I’m really happy with where I’m at and the people I’m running with. They’re really helpful and they push me to be better.”

The Viera boys, meanwhile, have been doing

well as they try to replace Toppi, Naberhaus, Joshua Ingalls and Riley Birrup.

Raney finished second overall at the Spanish River Classic, while senior Aedan Rendek was fourth and senior newcomer Aidan Carroll was sixth.

Sophomore Jack Girard is also back along with his younger brother, Michael Girard, who could have an impact along with transfer Morgan Vici.

Other top runners are sophomore Braxton Albright and sophomore Jansen Joss.

While Gerrits said another state title run is possible, but not probable for the Viera boys, there’s no doubt last year’s success has had an impact on this year’s group.

“It definitely amped everything up for everyone,” she said. “They knew coming in that we were so strong last year. The boys that are returning were like, ‘This is a big deal for us. We were just juniors last year and Jack Girard was just a freshman.’

“They’re coming back knowing that they’re super strong already and they can only bring the team up from there.” VV

Holy Trinity cross-country teams building for success

BY CARL KOTALA

In some ways, you could say this will be another building year for both the Holy Trinity girls and boys cross-country teams.

On the other hand, both Tiger teams could be ready to have success now.

“I think we have a ton of potential,” sophomore Skyler Jensen said. “It’s all about training. You’ve got to work hard every day, even on easy runs. You’ve got to finish strong. That’s what our coach (Marc Bailey) says. You’ve got to sprint the last 200 meters, just like in a race.”

“For the state series, I think we should be top 10 at states. If we continue to train hard and show up to practice and work, eat right — nutrition, hydration — we should be right up there.”

Jensen was Holy Trinity’s top finisher at last year’s state meet for a boys team that finished 17th overall. The Holy Trinity girls finished 10th as a team in the state, but are going through a transition with a host of new runners making up the roster.

Still, there’s plenty of belief the Tigers can get back to Tallahassee and Apalachee Regional Park for this year’s state race, which is set for Nov. 5.

“The girls are looking good this year,” junior Sophia Weiner said. “We actually only have two returning girls on our team. So, most of our team is (made up of) new girls coming out. It’s awesome to see their

progression on a week-byweek basis.

“Every week, we’ve got girls learning new things about themselves, and learning things about how to run a race. We’re constantly having PRs, no matter how the course is, because everyone is such a hard worker and really pushing.

“The girls are definitely hoping to get to state this year and we definitely think

it’s possible, especially if we keep progressing the way we have.”

If the results of the 40th annual Spanish River Invitational are any indication, a trip to Tallahassee may certainly be in the cards for the Tigers.

Holy Trinity’s girls placed fifth overall in the Class 1A field. Sophia Weiner, who was the Tigers top finisher in each of their first four races, was

second that day to seventhgrader Elizabeth Stewart.

Other top runners for Holy Trinity that day included sophomores Valentina Velarde and Olivia Durgin, eighth-grader Gabby Weiner (the only other returner); seventh-grader Sadie Velarde and eighth-graders Caia Marot, Frances Hale and Kaylyn Murray. Sophomore Aniyah Francis was the Tigers’ No. 2 finisher at the Astronaut race.

Holy Trinity’s boys finished third in the 14-team Class 1A field at Spanish River, with Jensen leading a contingent that included six sophomores among the Tigers’ top seven.

Junior Augustine Stehley was the No. 2 finisher for Holy Trinity that day, followed by sophomores Sawyer Jacobs; Donovan Boesch; Zack Gunderson; Aiden Silika and Finn Werder. Freshman Gavin Hibner and senior Cass Werder were next on the list.

“I think (we can) definitely (finish) higher up at states and obviously, well at districts and regions,” Jacobs said. VV

VIERA VOICE Carl Kotala

Viera High freshman Celina Coryell, left, and senior Cameron Raney pose after running at the 50th annual Astronaut Invitational crosscountry race. Coryell has been running in the top spot for an improved girls team while Raney and the Viera boys are the defending Class 4A state champions.

VIERA VOICE Carl Kotala

Holy Trinity's Sawyer Jacobs, left, and Sophia Weiner were the top two finishers for their teams at last month's 50th annual Astronaut Invitational cross-country race.

Painted Hawk honors military during halftime ceremony

Active-duty military personnel, veterans and first responders were honored guests and were celebrated during the halftime ceremony of a football game Sept. 16 between Bishop Moore and Viera High School.

More than 100 JROTC cadets and 50 veterans, active duty and first

responders participated in Viera High School’s Veterans and First Responders Appreciation Night halftime ceremony.

A large American flag was displayed from a Brevard County Fire Rescue truck. The JROTC Booster Club supplied pizzas, drinks and snacks for the cadets.

The Good Deeds Foundation of the Cape Canaveral Chapter of the

Military Officers Association of America (MOAACC) symbolically presented a $32,700 check during a pregame ceremony.

In the past year, donors

have been very generous and MOAACC’s Good Deed Foundation has been able to provide every JROTC program in Brevard County with $1,800 each

at a minimum and $1,000 each to the five other Cadet programs. The symbolic check was the total amount donated to the programs this year. VV

CALL

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SPECIAL TO VIERA VOICE

Photos by Klinton Landress

More than 100 JROTC cadets and 50 veterans, active duty and first responders participated in Viera High School’s Veterans and First Responders Appreciation Night.

Viera boys, girls golf teams shooting for spot in state tournament

BY CARL KOTALA

The Viera boys and girls golf teams both have new coaches this season, and

both think their teams are more than capable of qualifying for the state tournament.

“I think we can have a

fantastic team,” new girls coach Joe Huau said. “We went to states last year and I believe this team is going to be better.

“Now, I don’t know that we’re going to get to state because you’ve got to get past regional, and we went to state by one stroke last year over St. Cloud.

“But I’m already looking at the scores from last year, and our score last (month) was better than any score

Viera coach Paul Bentley’s boys team has, likewise, also

month.

“My girl is in college now, and I come here anyway. I come here a lot just to work out. I’m recharged. I’m ready to come back in and do my part.

“It’s fun watching them. I like coming to the green and watching them compete.”

“Every year I’ve played in high school, I’ve had a new coach every single year,” junior Vivian Luu said. “It’s tough, but it’s a new experience every single time.”

a chance to get to the state through some of their best days before stepping down after the 2019 season. Now, he’s back.

“It’s been open three times since I left,” Bentley said shortly before a home match at Duran Golf Club last

Bentley certainly has talent to work with, especially at the top of the lineup with sophomore Kyle Virsik and juniors Andrew Bell and Zach McGoffin. The remaining lineup includes Alcient “A.J.” Odic; Brady Griffin; Will Mielke; Sean Rinehart; Tyler Rosenberger; Peyton Roszowiak; Campbell Ryan and Alexander Tea.

“We were fifth last year at regionals and we’ve probably got a good chance again this year (to get to state) with three or four good returning players and some freshmen coming up,” Virsik said.

Huau has been coaching for 52 years, but this is his first time coaching golf and there is hope he can bring some stability to the program.

The play of freshman Hannah Hall, who shot 37 and 36 in her first two matches, is one of the big reasons why there is excitement around the team this season.

Hall is followed by the strong returning pair of senior Brittany Odic and Luu. Next up is a group including sophomore Margaux Blais; junior Chloe Guettler; freshman Olivia Robinette; sophomore Leah Clemons; junior Kapree Shephard and senior Stuti Guha.

“We have a pretty good chance to get qualified in regionals and maybe even states since three girls are shooting pretty low,” Odic said. “Our top four, she just needs to be consistent with her score around the mid40s.

“We’ve been working really hard.” VV

VIERA VOICE Carl Kotala

Viera High's Kyle Virsik leads a boys golf team that is expected to get back to the state tournament this season.

VIERA VOICE Carl Kotala

The Viera girls golf team has an excellent chance of getting back to the state tournament.

Tigers have depth, talent to compete in tough district

BY CARL KOTALA

Depth and talent won’t be a question for either the Holy Trinity boys and girls golf teams this season.

“I’ve got a couple of girls who will get in the 30s and four or five other girls who will be low-tohigh 40s,” Holy Trinity girls coach Ben Rotgers said. “We’ve got a very good team, very deep.”

The same can be said on the boys side, where the Tigers have a nice mix of four seniors and younger players who will certainly make them competitive now and for years to come.

“It’s been going pretty well,” junior Cash Luck said of the early success the boys team has had.

“We’ve beaten two of our rival teams so far. We beat Edgewood and we beat Trinity Prep, so I think I can say for all of us that we’re very excited about that to see where the season will take us.”

Likewise, the girls team started off the season with four straight wins, led by the senior trio of Emma Baumgartner, Grace Rush and Sydney Smith who also think the future is bright for the program.

“We have four sophomores,” Rush said. “I’d say they’ve really improved from the summer to now. So, I think in the coming years it’s going to be a really strong team.”

While both programs will certainly be competitive, they are playing in perhaps the toughest — at least, on the girls side — district and region in the state.

Since the FHSAA went to three classes in 2013, the Class 1A girls championship has been dominated by Lake Mary Prep, First Academy or Circle Christian.

Lake Mary Prep and Circle Christian are in Holy Trinity’s district while First Academy is in the same region along with 2021 state champ

Windermere Prep.

“Typically, one of those three schools has the lowest score in the entire state every year,” Rotgers said. “It’s a tough division to be in.”

That doesn’t mean, the Tigers aren’t confident.

“Our goal is to get to state,” Smith said.

Joining the three seniors in trying to make that happen will be sophomore Natalie Doig; junior Mia Glover; sophomore Audrey Ponton; sophomore Victoria Nelson; junior Katrina Blanco; junior Brooke Ramnath; sophomore Katie Leonard and freshman Niki Stanoch.

The boys, meanwhile, will be led by seniors Mitch McCullar; Dexter Phipps, Tim Kelly and Harrison Jacobus along with juniors Cash Luck,

Rohan Prasanna and Jake McLaren; sophomores Landon Dawson and Matt Vigean; freshman Bradley Braid and eighth-graders Marco Dawson and Nathan Combs.

Coach Ken Benfield said he has eight players competing for the five starting spots that will take the Tigers into the postseason. The players are confident they can advance in a district that includes Lake Mary Prep and Circle Christian, who finished second and third in the state last season.

“I think if we play well, we have a chance to get out of districts,” Prasanna said. “Out of the eight that can compete, I think many of them can get out of districts individually.” VV

VIERA VOICE Carl Kotala

Holy Trinity golfers Cash Luck, left, Landon Dawson and Rohan Prasanna are three of the Tigers' top eight players this season.

News

Playing with fire: Viera student performs Samoan Siva Afi/Fire Knife routine

BY CARL KOTALA

Luke “Kepa” Agcaoili is a naturalborn showman.

The 15-year-old Viera High School sophomore has been training and performing the Samoan Siva Afi/Fire Knife routine since he was 7 years old.

He’s performed at weddings, birthday parties and, just last month, he brought his routine to the football field at Hawk Stadium, where he performed in front of his classmates during halftime of Viera’s game against Satellite.

“I just like the thrill and seeing everybody’s reactions,” Agcaoili said. “It’s fun to learn new moves and see how I can improve.”

last two or three years,” Greg Agcaoili said of his son.

“He’s had two teachers before, one of them (Tuione Tovo) went to Cirque du Soleil and he travels the world. He was second in the world in a competition. He was really good for (Kepa) and coached him in two competitions.

“But since he left, (Kepa) has been having to teach himself and practice on his own. He’s actually progressing well and doing well with that.”

Agcaoili began training with the Brevard Hawaiian Dancers group along with his older sister, Emma, who does hula and Tahitian dancing.

Both siblings are also active in sports at Viera. Kepa is a wrestler who just missed going to the state tournament at 115 pounds last year and is planning on moving into the 126-pound class as a sophomore. Emma is a senior point guard on the girls basketball team.

After beginning his training, Agcaoili said it was roughly three months before he started working with fire and about a full year before he became comfortable with it.

Obviously, the flame is the biggest challenge to master.

“You can learn a move without doing it on fire, but trying it the first time with fire is different,” Agcaoili said.

Agcaoili’s halftime performance certainly seemed to go over well with the crowd, especially when he switched to two knives. There was a move he thought about trying in front of his classmates, but ultimately decided against it.

The Fire Knife Dance can be described as a traditional display of the Samoan warrior’s battle prowess and features twirling, throwing, catching and dancing. The blade is 12 inches long and the whole Fire Knife measures 3 feet.

Greg Agcaoili, Kepa’s father, said he wanted his son to stay connected with the family’s heritage after moving to Florida in 2005 after spending 12 years in Hawaii.

“He’s really grown, especially the

“There’s one move where I try to throw it up and then do a 360, turn around and catch it again,” he said. “I was thinking about doing it on the football stage, but I’ve never done it with fire yet.”

November will be a big one for Agcaoili as he takes part in The Toa Afi Competition in Orlando. It will be the fourth event Agcaoili has competed in with a second and third-place performance being his best finishes so far.

Many of the competitors he will face are from Hawaii or Samoa and his father, Greg, believes Kepa is the only high school student from Brevard County taking part.

“It’s kind of like a brotherhood,” Greg Agcaoili said. “Everyone’s really friendly with each other. They all try to support each other … from the competitors up the judges, they’re all really good people.”

Though he plans to go to college, Agcaoili would

ultimately like to follow in the footsteps of his former teacher and work with Cirque du Soleil.

In the meantime, you never know when he might perform at halftime again.

“Pretty nerve-wracking,” he said of last month’s routine. “But it was a lot of fun.” VV

VIERA VOICE Carl Kotala

Viera High School sophomore Luke "Kepa" Agcaoili has been training and performing the Samoan Siva Afi/Fire Knife routine since he was 7 years old.

VIERA VOICE Carl Kotala

Luke "Kepa" Agcaoili also competes for the Viera High School wrestling team.

Carpenter excited to be named

Scholarship semifinalists

BY CARL KOTALA

They worked hard for it. They earned it.

And now, after the formal announcement by the National Merit Scholarship Corporation last month, they get to celebrate it.

Viera High School seniors Emma Carpenter and Brianna Nguyen have both been named National Merit Scholarship Semifinalists.

The two are among a group of more than 16,000 students from across the country to receive the honor. From that, approximately 95 percent will advance to the finalist level of the 68th National Merit Scholar Program and compete for 7,250 National Merit

Scholarships worth nearly $28 million that will be awarded next spring.

“When the PSAT scores came out last year, I looked at the past cutoffs for other years and for our state,” Carpenter said of being named a semifinalist.

“I knew I was well above it, so I was kind of expecting it. But it was still a nice surprise when I got the news.”

Nguyen likewise said she had a feeling she would qualify based on her PSAT score, but added it was nice to find out she had actually made it.

“For me, the National Merit Scholarship was something I knew about beforehand, so it was

something that I wanted to aim for, like as a goal. ... It definitely feels like my hard work has paid off,” Nguyen said.

According to a press release from the National Merit Scholarship Corporation, high school juniors entered the 2023 NMS program by taking the PSAT. The nationwide pool represents less than one percent of U.S. high school seniors and includes the highest-scoring entrants in each state.

Nguyen and Carpenter had each taken the PSAT as sophomores, but dramatically improved their scores the second time around.

Carpenter went from

1,270 to 1,490 in her second try and Nguyen saw her score of 1,380 jump to 1,500.

“The second time I saw the scores, I was like, ‘Is this real?’ I was not expecting that,” Nguyen said.

To become a finalist, students and a high school official must submit a detailed scholarship application providing the semifinalist’s academic record, participation in school and community activities, demonstrated leadership abilities, employment and honors and awards.

There is also an essay to write and an endorsement from a high school official is needed.

Carpenter, who has a 4.0 GPA (4.48 weighted),

participates in Science Fair and is also involved with student government, where she recently helped organize a school blood drive.

Nguyen has a 3.98 GPA (4.5 weighted) and likes art and music. She plays clarinet and bass clarinet in the school band.

She is interested in a career in the medical field and has applied to schools in the Ivy League, as well as the University of Florida.

Carpenter is not sure what career path she will follow, but she wants to do something in physics.

“I’m applying to the Air Force Academy and then schools in Florida,” she said. “But I’m not sure (where I’m going) yet. I’m going to wait to see where I get in.” VV

Staywithconnected us!

VIERA VOICE Carl Kotala

Viera High School seniors Emma Carpenter, left, and Brianna Nguyen have been named National Merit Scholarship semifinalists.

BY SUE D eWERFF

Rockledge figure skating stand-out Serena Kemble is known as “the comeback kid” by her coach, peers, and all who know her.

She suffered a broken hip in 2021 while preparing to skate with her Theater on Ice teammates.

Kemble, who will celebrate her 12th birthday this month, has learned that attitude and perseverance are critical for overcoming adversity.

In August, she won five medals, including the overall title at the National Showcase Junior Champion 2022, and the Skate with all Your Hart Memorial Trophy the young skater seems to have not stopped smiling.

She took first in the juvenile Lyrical Pop and Comedic Impression events, and won bronze medals in the juvenile Duet and Character presentations at the Wesley Chapel Advent Ice Arena.

After enduring a surgery to repair her broken hip and spending more than a month using a wheelchair and several months on crutches on the sidelines while cheering on her teammates during their practices,

back on the ice.

Kemble now has three gold and two bronze medals from the national competition she said she will cherish for the rest of her life.

“It felt better than getting what you hope for on Christmas or a birthday and I just couldn’t quit smiling,” she said. “Knowing I made people smile and happy was even more worth the medal I got. I love skating and it was fun knowing the judges and others enjoyed my presentations.”

Kemble began skating after convincing her mom, Desserre Kemble, that she wanted to learn the sport while on a family trip in Tennessee where she watched ice skaters perform on a pond.

“She was just four years old at the time,” her mother said. “She fell in love with what she saw, and when we got back home she asked if she could try skating at the local rink here in Rockledge.”

Fast forward, the next six plus years have kept mother and daughter busy. Mom is a volunteer and Team Mom for the Theater on Ice Team, and has been involved in costume design and fundraisers for the

schooled, skates five days a week at the Rockledge Iceplex.

She is a member of the FSDIA (Figure Skating Diversity and Inclusion Alliance) which provides support and training assistance for minorities to

compete in figure skating. She represents the organization as their youngest member.

In March 2023, Kemble will skate at the Scott Hamilton Skate to Eliminate Cancer event, after earning

In 2021, Kemble was awarded three “Get up Champion” awards from the United States Figure Skating Association (USFSA). The special awards were given to skaters who have overcome

VIERA VOICE Courtesy of Desserre Kemble

Twelve-year-old Serena Kemble was the winner of three gold and two bronze medals at this summer's National Junior Figure Skating Showcase. It was held in Wesley Chapel, Florida. After recovering in 2021 from hip surgery, she has been an inspiring and rising star who trains at the Rockledge Iceplex.

First responders recognized for life-saving effort, meet Merritt Island girls struck by lightning

BY BETTY PORTER

Two young people struck by lightning met for the first time with the first responders who helped save their lives.

The meeting came at a ceremony recognizing the Brevard County law enforcement officers, Fire Rescue, EMS personnel, dispatchers, nurses, physicians and citizen responders who all had a part in saving the lives of the two girls. The special recognition at a ceremony was Sept. 8 at the Brevard County Government Center in Viera.

The event brought them all together with the two young girls whose lives they collectively helped to save in June when the two were struck by lightning on

Merritt Island.

Just after 3 p.m. June 10, a sudden bolt of lightning hit and set on fire a tree in the residential area of Via Salerno Court off San Angelo Way where the two girls were standing. McKenzie McCord, 12, suffered traumatic injuries and was stabilized and taken to Health First Cape Canaveral Hospital in Cocoa Beach. Lori Leer, 14, went into cardiac arrest and was said by witnesses to have turned blue and had visible burns to her mouth where she wore braces. Leer was transported directly to Orlando Health Arnold Palmer Hospital Pediatric Trauma Care Center in Orlando.

Leer had received immediate CPR on site from

her friend and fellow ninth grader at Merritt Island High School, Ava Wiedmann, 14, who was also outside, but seated away from the others when the lightning bolt hit.

Wiedmann, who had never performed cardiopulmonary resuscitation before, was guided over the phone by dispatchers at Brevard County Sheriff's Office.

At the “Sudden Cardiac Arrest Recognition Ceremony” held by Brevard County Fire Rescue’s Office of Emergency Medical Services, Wiedmann was presented with the “Great Kids Award” by Sheriff Wayne Ivey.

“We greatly appreciate young people like Ava, who do great things to help others,” Ivey said as he gave her a hug

after presenting her with the award. He noted that Wiedmann had performed chest compression CPR flawlessly under the direction of dispatchers until BCSO deputies arrived.

Ava, Lori and McKenzie had been together at a sleepover.

“We had just finished watching a show on TV when we heard a loud sound. It didn’t sound like thunder and it was sunny and nice outside when we went out to take a look. I had gotten really cold from the air conditioning and so I sat down on the driveway to soak up some warmth. Lori and McKenzie kept walking. When I saw the tree on fire and the both of them on the ground near it, I was shocked. It was just surreal,” Ava recalled.

Through Wiedmann’s initial intervention and all of the heroic efforts by the EMS and medical personnel, Leer and McCord, were released from the hospitals and said to be neurologically intact.

Leer said she doesn’t

recall being struck by lightning that afternoon and just remembers waking up at Arnold Palmer Hospital in Orlando. While Leer said she does not have any lingering problems and feels fine now, McCord however said she has hip, leg and back pain and her ankles hurt.

“I can’t walk a lot or it really hurts,” she said.

Both girls started the school year late.

“The most important three things are family, community and making each day count. In this case, a community came together to keep these two girls alive and their families intact.”

Brevard County Fire Rescue Chief Patrick Voltaire said during the ceremony.

Back Brevard Heroes, an organization dedicated to supporting and appreciating the area’s first responders, gave each of the honored attendees a special recognition coin and gift certificate at the ceremony which was held in the County Commission Room. VV

Happy Holidays and best wishes for a wonderful New Year!

Happy Holidays and best wishes for a wonderful New Year!

Happy Holidays and best wishes for a wonderful New Year!

We are open for lessons!

VIERA VOICE Klinton Landress

First responders, dispatchers, nurses, physicians and citizen responders were recognized for their efforts in saving the lives of lightning strike victims McKenzie McCord and Lori Leer.

BCSO program helps families, seniors find loving pets

BY WENDY SCHEURING

Owning a loving pet can be good for your health. They offer companionship, can lower stress, blood pressure and ease feelings of loneliness.

Adopting a pet is akin

to doing a good deed.

Sometimes these animals have been abused, according to Tod Goodyear, the public information officer for the Brevard County Sheriff’s Office.

“We nurse them back

to health so that they can become adoptable,” he said.

If you’re unsure about adopting a pet, fostering could be an option. That’s what Christine Martin of Viera did. After her two older cats died, the family was ready to adopt kittens. They wanted to make sure that the kittens were friendly.

The family fostered

five 5-week-old kittens, all from the same mother, who temporarily stayed at the

Saturday,

Sunday,

home until they were ready to be weaned.

“The kittens all developed their own personalities and we named them,” Martin said. “We became attached to them. We said we’d keep two, but how do you do that? So, we kept all five.”

For those who are 60 or older, try to take advantage of BCSO’s Silver Paws program. The benefits include the waiving of adoption fees on senior cats and dogs (age 6 and older). All of the cats and dogs are neutered or spayed, microchipped, vaccinated and will have up-to-date county tags.

The BCSO no-kill Animal Care Center is at 5100 West Eau Gallie Boulevard in Melbourne. It is open to the public from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday. It is open from 1 to 6 p.m. Wednesday and from noon to 4 p.m. each Sunday. VV

VIERA VOICE Courtesy of Martin family

‘Disney Princess — The Concert’ will come to King Center

SPECIAL TO VIERA VOICE

“Disney Princess — The Concert” will be performed Nov. 13 at the King Center in Melbourne.

By the end of the year, “The Concert” will put on shows in more than 90 cities throughout the United States.

Christy Altomare (Broadway’s original Anya in “Anastasia”), Theater World award-

Sudoku

winner Isabelle McCalla (Broadway’s Jasmine in “Aladdin”), BroadwayWorld award-winner Syndee Winters (Broadway’s Nala in “The Lion King” and “Hamilton”) and Disney Channel icon Anneliese van der Pol (“That’s So Raven,” “Raven’s Home” and Broadway’s final Belle in “Beauty and The Beast”) will perform in the Melbourne show.

“Disney Princess — The Concert” is based on the established touring production

Broadway Princess Party, which began as a cabaret show at Feinstein's/54 Below in New York City in 2015. It garnered critical success and a loyal fan base, including more than 20 million views on YouTube.

The new venture is co-produced by Disney Concerts with Broadway Princess Party, LLC.

Music director Benjamin Rauhala (“Fiddler on the Roof” and “The Secret Life of Bees”) and enchanting Prince Adam J. Levy (“Moulin Rouge” and “Waitress”) have joined the featured quartet for the entire fall leg.

Other shows in Florida include: Nov. 2 in Sarasota, Nov. 3 in Jacksonville, Nov. 4 in Tallahassee, Nov. 8 in Orlando, Nov. 9 in Pensacola, Nov. 11 in St. Petersburg and Nov. 12 in Miami VV

Pennsylvania

since 2000.

Oct. 1 - 13

22 CROWS TO VOTE ON!

HOW TO

GRAB A BALLOT AND VISIT SCARECROWS

Scarecrow locations can be found on the ballot in the October Viera Voice newspaper. Write the "Crow Code" (on signs near each scarecrow) in the appropriate box on your ballot.

VOTE FOR YOUR FAVORITE CROW & ENTER TO WIN

Visit all crows on the ballot to be entered for a chance to win one of the three Grand Prizes. Drop off your completed ballot at one of the highlighted drop-off box locations listed on the ballot.

ATTEND THE VIERA HARVEST FESTIVAL OCT. 15

The Scarecrows will be transported to the Viera Harvest Festival at Viera Regional Park. All the crows will be on display and up for silent auction. Get ready to BID and BUY your favorite crow from 10 a.m. to 1:15 p.m. 100 percent of proceeds go to the Brevard County Firefighters Benevolent Association.

Oct. 15 Viera Harvest Festival

Benevolent

IT'S

SCARECROW STROLL VOTING BALLOT

ALL THE CROWS ON THE BALLOT

AND VOTE FOR YOUR FAVORITE

win

1 I am Grootcrow

Viera Voice, Scarecrow Stroll Presenter 7350 Shoppes Drive, Suite 102, Viera

2 Ostif

Builder: Viera Del Mar Health & Rehab 2355 Vidina Drive, Viera

3

Patchy the Pirate

Builder: Palm Bay Elementary School

Sponsor: Sandy Michelson

Hosted by: Space Coast Opthalmology 2329 Medico Lane, Viera

4 Homer the Hawk

Builder: 8u Marucci Hawks travel baseball team

Sponsor: CoachJaya4Health Hosted by: Duran Golf Club, 7032 Stadium Parkway, Viera

5 Isla the Islander

Builder: Island IX 2348 Citadel Way, Suite 105, Viera

6 Silas

Builder: 28 North Gastropub 2250 Town Center Ave., The Avenue Viera

7 Minion Madness

Builder: Susie Parente

Hosted by: 7 Senses Kids and Shop 2261 Town Center Ave., Suite 109, Viera

8 Pedro the Panther goes to Space

Builder: Pinecrest Academy Space Coast Hosted by: USSSA Space Coast Complex 5600 Stadium Parkway, Viera Pro Shop, near the ticket booth window

9 Flexx powered by Mr. Delicious

Builder: Flexx Integrative Muscular Therapy USSSA Space Coast Stadium area 5600 Stadium Pkwy., Viera

10 Bob the Builder Crow

Builder: East Coast Christian Center 3475 Viera Blvd., Viera

LOCATION

11

prizes listed on page 21.

The Cat in the Hat

Builder: Island Animal Hospital 5380 Stadium Pkwy., Suite 111, Viera

12 Ghost and Boo

Builder: Dogtopia of Viera 5410 Murrell Rd. Suite 117, Viera

13 RockBoxer

Builder: RockBox Rockledge 3809 Murrell Road, Rockledge

14 Shellie Periwinkle

Builder: Shell Harbor Retirement Community 2855 Murrell Road, Rockledge

15

16

Miss Money Bags

Builder: Community Credit Union 7380 Murrell Road, Suite 102, Viera

Swimming with the Crows

Builder: Safety Susie Swim School Hosted by: McDonalds 8280 N. Wickham Road, Viera

17 Bubbles

Builder: Galligan Dental 7954 N. Wickham Road, Suite 109, Suntree

18 Fire80 Golfer Crow

Builder: Brevard County Fire Station #80 400 Pineda Ct, Suntree

19 Hootsie Tootsie

Builder: Dale Sorensen Real Estate 3165 Suntree Blvd., Suite 102, Suntree

20 VyCrow

Builder: VyStar Credit Union 6435 N. Wickham Road, Suntree

21 Cadet kap

Builder: Palm Shores Bistro 5060 U.S. 1, Palm Shores

22

Marshall to the Rescue

Builder: Susie Parente Built for Riley's Rescue of Brevard Hosted by: Pineda Inn, 6533 U.S. 1, Rockledge

PHONE

Bring your mini scarecrow to the Wawa table at the Viera Harvest Festival on Oct. 15

Kids Kids Kids Mini-Crow Building Contest

Two age categories: 5-8 years old & 9-14 years old

Crows can be no taller than 3 feet, must incorporate 20% straw or hay.

Enter

Crow

Build and decorate any kind of mini crow for the event.

All Mini-Crows must be on site and ready for display by 10 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 15 at the Viera Harvest Festival.

There will be two age groups — 5 to 8 years old and 9 to 14 years old. The winner in each age group will be awarded $25. A sec ond-place showing will earn $20.

“The kids are quite competitive. Their cre ativity is amazing, and the supplies they use are very resourceful and clever,” said Jill Blue, the publisher of Viera Voice.

For information, call 321-242-1235

• Pre-register with the form below or online at vieravoice.com

• The Mini-Crow Contest will be held at the Harvest Festival, Saturday, Oct. 15 at Viera Regional Park

• All Mini Crows must be on site by 10 a.m. for display. Winners, prizes announced at 1:30 p.m.

• The top Mini-Crows in each age category will be chosen as the Judge’s Choice. $25 First Place, $20 Second Place, ribbons

Build and enter a mini scarecrow and bring it to the Viera Harvest F estival Saturday, Oct. 15 for judging in your age group. See more information at vieravoice.com

Builder Registration Form

Name your Mini-Crow:

Child Builder’s Name:

Age group: Circle one: 5 - 8 years old or 9 - 14 years old

Parent name:

Parent email:

Phone:

Send pre-registration to media@bluewatercreativegroup.com or mail to 7350 Shoppes Dr., # 102, Viera, FL 32940 - October 13 deadline.

BUSINESS

Scoopß

Credit Union expanding with new branch in Viera

SPECIAL TO VIERA VOICE

Space Coast Credit Union (SCCU) is continuing to grow with a new location in Viera, adding to its footprint with 21 branches in Brevard County and 66 total along Florida’s East Coast.

“Space Coast Credit Union is dedicated to growing with and investing in the communities we serve,” President and CEO Timothy M. Antonition said. “Helping our members achieve financial wellness is in our DNA and we do this with cost-effective products and services delivered by an outstanding and dedicated team.”

The 2,500-square-foot branch in Viera will add five jobs to the area, with 628 total employees in Brevard County. This addition expands SCCU’s reach and provides members with services to fit their unique needs as Florida’s economy

continues to grow.

The Credit Union commemorated the announcement with a groundbreaking ceremony.

Construction was

scheduled to start in September with an anticipated opening in 2023.

The new branch will be located at 9225 Lake Andrew Drive at the intersection of

The branch will feature drive-thru banking services with Saturday hours, a branch lobby with self-serve safe deposit boxes and a 24-hour deposit-taking ATM. VV

Pineda Causeway, next to Costco. It will be the second branch in Viera and the third within four miles of the corporate headquarters in Melbourne.

VIERA VOICE photo

Space Coast Credit Union plans to open a new branch at 9225 Lake Andrew Drive in Viera.

VIERA MEANS BUSINESS VIERA MEANS

For an invitation to the Oct. 8 VMB meeting, call 321-242-1235.

The September Viera Means Business networking group meeting was held Sep. 8 at the Island IX in Viera.

The Viera Means Business networking group meets at 8 a.m. the second Thursday of each month at member business locations.

VIERA MEANS BUSINESS

Business Briefs

Nothing Bundt Cakes will open Oct. 8 at 2261 Town Center Ave. in The Avenue Viera.

Tommy's Express Car Wash at 2800 Veterans Way in Viera will turn into a Tunnel of Terror Oct. 28 and 29. Watch out for Dracula's crew of zombies, axe-wielding clowns, deranged nurses, low-flying bats and the Grim Reaper.

•

WO UP

Photos by Jill Blue and Sylvia Montes

Annelise Lankford, Daniel Mocerino

Anjanette Wicks, Karen Whiting and Purvette Bryant

Teri Hirsch, Dana Vinci and Cheryl Clark

Arty Pagan, Joseph Grutta

Maxine Lauer, Anjanette Wicks, Dr. Jaya Prakash

Richard Abruscato and Kristie Felice

VMB members enjoy breakfast and networking at Island IX in Viera.

Mike Acosta, Nancy Mendez and Gavin Arroyo

Nancy Mendez and Gavin Arroyo, Senior Relationship Specialists at VyStar Credit Union in Suntree, were the guest speakers at the September Viera Means Business gathering.

David Clark of Island IX chats with Viera Voice publisher Jill Blue after the September VMB meeting .

Seven Brew coffee double drive-thru coming to

BY NANETTE HEBDIGE

Coffee is an extremely personal thing.

Everyone with a love affair with their caffeine-fueled beverages believes that brand and even location are paramount.

Seven Brew coffee will introduce Florida communities to many double drive-thrus, from the Space Coast to Miami.

Construction is currently underway on the corner of Viera Boulevard and Murrell Road for a double drive-thru Seven Brew coffee, opening early to mid 2023.

The company’s concept is said to be revolutionizing the coffee industry nationwide with its double drive-thrus. Add speedy service, quality products, genuine customer connection and you have a winning combination, the company says.

“Our secret sauce is not a flavor,” said Nick Newbill of Seven Brew. “It’s a feeling, because it’s not just about quality and speed, it’s about the connections we make with our customers. We aren’t kidding when we say that what makes Seven Brew special is our customer service”.

Company representatives say that Seven Brew was born from a desire to change the drive-thru coffee experience and make it exceptional for everyone.

Their first stand was in Rogers, Arkansas in 2017, serving seven original coffees.

To date, Seven Brew has prepared more than 20,000

unique drinks but the one beverage that is worthy of mention is their Blondie and Brunette, which include delicious hints of Caramel Vanilla Breve and a Chocolate Hazelnut Mocha blend.

“Throughout our recent growth, we have remained true to our mission,” Newbill said, “staying committed to putting a smile on customers

faces while serving a variety of delicious espresso-based coffee beverages, infused energy drinks, Italian sodas, smoothies, and teas.”

Seven Brew is more than a coffee stand and what makes it distinctive is its high energy, double drive-thrus.

According to Seven Brew’s website, they’ve created a revolution that treats people

like people — that makes them feel warm, loved and important, all before they take a sip of the best drink in town.

In an era where coffee reigns supreme, whether percolated at home or purchased to go, Seven Brew is looking to gain an avid following in Brevard County.

VIERA VOICE Courtesy of Seven Brew

Seven Brew hopes to become a favorite place to get coffee in the future in Brevard County.

Viera High School will soon unveil its new rubberized track

BY R. NORMAN MOODY

Work is nearing completion on the new rubberized track surface at Viera High School and will be unveiled Nov. 4.

Not only will it be a boon for student athletes but eventually be available for public use after school hours when not in use by students.

Brevard County School Board member Matt Susin said that funding is being sought for lighting so the track can be used during the Fall and Winter when nightfall comes earlier.

The track at Viera’s Hawks Stadium is the first of 16 rubberized tracks for all Brevard County high school. Five are being completed per year. They should all be completed next year.

The track at Viera, which will be unveiled at a football game, could be used for events that would bring athletes from outside the county.

“What we want is to create an athletic center for the county,” Susin said. “This is the same as the Olympians run on.”

The school will partner with the Tourism

Development Council or other organizations to bring events to Viera.

“We’re going to utilize the track to host meets to raise money for the track and field at Viera,” Susin said.

PEOPLE ON THE MOVE

The tracks, which have a warranty of 10 years, cost and average of $1 million each. The construction cost for Viera was $561,573. Area business owners like Mike Acosta and Brittany Struefert

helped to raise some of the money to complete the work there, including track renewal and rubberization.

“Viera’s track will be the best in the county,” Susin said. VV

Ken Dockery has been named the new vice president for VyStar Credit Union’s new location at 6435 North Wickham Road in Suntree.

Dockery, 58, a native of Charlotte, North Carolina and a 1986 graduate of Coastal Carolina University, had worked at Bank of America for the past 24 years. He moved to Palm Bay a year ago.

“I’m excited about what VyStar brings to the community,’’ Dockery said. “They’re involved in nonprofits, and they’re willing to give back a lot of money and time. That’s what banks don’t do these days.’’ VV

Deborah F. Kofkin has been appointed director of education for Aspiration Academy.

Kofkin brings with her 30 years of educational experience and is looking forward to building collaborative, professional relationships with Aspiration Academy volunteers, community shareholders, and students. Her responsibilities include monitoring the launch and success of Aspiration Academy’s reading and math curricula. VV

Masters is a topproducing sales associate who has been a licensed Florida Realtor for more than 20 years.

She has seamlessly combined her teaching and real estate careers.

Masters is a seventhgrade math teacher at Cocoa Beach High School. She enjoys exercising, playing the piano and doting on her grandchildren. VV

Deborah F. Kofkin

Deborah Masters

Ken Dockery

Deborah “Debi” Masters has joined Dale Sorensen Real Estate as a sales associate.

VIERA VOICE Steven Hollinger

The track at Viera High School's Hawks Stadium is the first of 16 rubberized tracks for all Brevard County high schools. Five are being completed per year. They should all be completed by next year.

Volunteers help revive butterfly garden at Suseda Park in Viera

BY BETTY PORTER

A community project is underway to revitalize a butterfly garden at Suseda Park at 5805 Murrell Road, which is on the east side of Murrell directly across from the Bayhill Viera East community.

The goal of the garden is to attract and nurture all types of butterflies while drawing nature lovers to enjoy the tranquility that such a setting provides.

The project has been deemed a Certified Butterfly Garden by the National North American Butterfly Association. With the help of Master Gardener Lisa Auld, plants have been chosen to attract butterflies. Milkweed is the No. 1 plant for attracting Monarch butterflies, which she said are on the endangered list.

The original garden was started in 2014 by the Viera East Community Association. Following many years of neglect, the VECA board decided to revive it.

The garden is in the same location as the original one at the north side of the parking area, just south of the main concrete walking path.

Two proposals were under consideration by the VECA board and they chose the proposal submitted in July 2022 by Bill Oakley, which calls for a total revitalization costing $2,000. Oakley proposed the revitalization as a two-year project although much has been completed already through the help of volunteers.

“The existing garden has been cleaned up. All of the mulch and wood chips needed have been donated,” Oakley said. “I would like to see us get three sponsors. This would be a yearly sponsorship of $250 each to include one for the upper garden, one for the lower portion of the garden which runs down near the pond, and one for a pathway. Included in the $250, would be a small sign recognizing the sponsor for that year. Sponsorship would be open to anyone interested.”

Oakley already has arranged for Boy Scouts to construct a wood chip

walkway to the garden. It will be lined with wood landscaping timbers. Oakley said a small bench has been purchased, which will be placed at the top part of the garden close to the walkway and will be installed in October. There is already a picnic table beside the garden.

“This will be a quiet place to ponder nature,” Oakley said.

All native species of plants and all organic materials will be used for the project. Some of the many plants that are or will be included in the garden are: Milkweed, Firebush, Blue Porterweed, Sweet Broom, Indigo, Dune Sunflower. Absolutely no pesticides will be used.

“We are totally staying away from pesticides as they kill butterflies and the plants,” Ault said.

There will be a drip fountain as well as a drip bottle installed so that the butterflies always have fresh water to drink.

Volunteer residents have been working on the project. They include: Auld, Joan and Bill Oakley, Arlene and Ken Peck, Les Roner Hansen, Ana Carlsgaard and Debby Perl. The main sign to the garden is being painted by Les Roner Hansen’s granddaughter, Christina Marie Hahn. For further information, contact Eric Byrd at Fairway Management at ericbyrd@ fairwaymgmt.com. VV

VIERA VOICE Jill Blue

An official sign from the North American Butterfly Association indicates that this is a Certified Butterfly Garden.

VIERA VOICE photo

A drip fountain continuously provides fresh water for butterflies.

Crossword Puzzle

Preserving environmentally endangered lands is up for renewal on the ballot

We are fortunate to live in this special place — in fact, many people call Brevard their own piece of paradise. Our natural lands are unique and irreplaceable. They contribute to the health of our environment, our economy, our families and the aesthetic values of our county.

If you’ve visited Cruickshank Sanctuary in Rockledge to see a scrub jay, kayaked the Thousand Islands in Cocoa Beach or visited the Sea Turtle/Barrier Island Sanctuary, you’ve experienced one of Brevard’s Environmentally Endangered Lands.

These areas are pristine and natural today because the people of Brevard County decided to conserve and nurture these lands for families and future generations.

In 1990, residents voted to create and fund a program to acquire, improve and maintain wildlife habitat, wetlands,

ACROSS

Lagoon Straight Talk

woodlands and lands that protect the Indian River Lagoon and the St. Johns River.

In 2004, voters approved renewal of the program. This November, renewal of the county program will be on the ballot. If renewed by voters, this ongoing conservation effort will continue a property tax, costing the average Brevard County homeowner only $3.60 a month.

Since 1991, the program has preserved 28,000 acres of land — 2% of the total acreage of Brevard County. The program additionally protected 35 miles of Indian River Lagoon shorelines, established

Phonograph part

three nature and educational centers and created 75 miles of public use trails for hiking, bicycling, fishing, paddling and more for residents and visitors.

Why is this important? Land conservation protects natural spaces for wildlife, fish, woodlands and birds. Economic benefits include sound property values, tourism and attracting companies and employees who wish to live in our naturally thriving community. Recreational and nature educational sites and opportunities are available from Titusville to Grant, enhancing the quality of life. The treasured Indian River Lagoon also benefits from the reduction in pollution and shoreline preservation.

We are fortunate to live in this special place — a paradise worthy of preservation. For more information, visit EELBrevard.com VV

11. Batman and Robin, say

1. Electrician's measure

Airspeed ratio

Beginning to a bad rain?

Baby's first word, maybe

Birth of an invention

Protein source

Seek a seat

Anytime now

___ buco

Basic correction device

Coiffure holder

Tender

Billy on Broadway

With precision

Grate on

Plant seed

couple in Mexico?

things

material

superior

Bath item

Art shop purchase

Flares

Assured of success

Waiflike

Prune trees

Plug away

Get rid of

Athenian vowel

Kind of pool

Favored ones

Convened DOWN

Folklore figure

Chime time, with "the"

Religious retreat

Stephen King classic

Idolize

Corp. bigwig

Closet hooks

Bikini, for one

Firms (abbr.)

Uncertainties

Auctioneer's shout

Canada's ___ Island National Park

Triangle type

Lummox's exclamation

Affectedly quaint

Formicary denizens

___ moss

Attractive little thing

Windows work area

Common complaint?

Battle scene prop

Gets the vapors

Feudal vassal

Chubby Checker's dance

"___ chance!"

Tiff

Food additive

Barley beverage

"The Godfather" title

Color range

Puzzles

From the Brevard Indian River Lagoon Coalition

Active 93-year-old Melbourne resident adds skydiving to resume

BY SUE DeWERFF

When it comes to adventure, New York transplant Vinnie Germann sets no boundaries.

At 93, his recent jump from 8,000 feet skydiving was definitely one of his most memorable.

During a recent trip to visit his children on Long Island and New Jersey to celebrate his birthday, Germann had the opportunity to join his 22-year-old grandson Bailey and experience the skydiving adventure that took place above Long Island Sound.

“I began free falling after 20 seconds, and the glide was something that brought back memories of when I was a soldier in the Army when I did this in training while stationed at Fort Bragg,” Germann said.

“It was very cold, and the wind was blowing in my face, but when the parachute opened it was a wonderful

experience, one that I intend to do again,” he said.

Germann, who lives not far from the Wickham Park Senior Center in Melbourne, is known to many who attend events and participate in activities there as “the guy who is very young at heart.”

“Our very own Vinnie is bold and adventurous for sure, but little did we know he was such a daredevil,” said Maureen Reeder, a volunteer at the center. “He always dresses to the nines, smiling and ready to help and make all of us laugh. He’s full of energy.”

He is known as a funloving person.

“He is extremely active and loves to dance and can be the life of the party, encouraging others to have fun,” his best friend, companion and Friday night dance partner, 83-year-old Shelby Kruse said.

Kruse, whose husband passed away nine years ago, met Germann at the center.

“I thought he was much younger, around my age, and he is very nice looking,” she said. “I really enjoy his enthusiasm when it comes to adventure.”

They have since participated together in yoga classes, poker and bunko, and often enjoy swinging at the playground like two children at Wickham Park.

“We even dress up for Halloween, and, yes we tend to act a little bit crazy for our age,” she said.

A native of Queens, Germann grew up in Brooklyn and moved to Melbourne in 1999. A widower, he began volunteering at the senior center 10 years ago. He has been awarded volunteer of the year several times.

“I even have my own parking place,” he said.

Germann, who is one of three males who participate in the yoga classes, said he finds the classes very fulfilling.

“It has helped me stay fit and agile,” he said“I love staying active and healthy, and plan to keep it that way.”

As for skydiving, he is determined to jump again, next year, this time with Bailey’s twin, Colby. VV

Upcoming Escorted Day Trips

Men are from Mars, Women are from Venus LIVE!

Saturday, Oct. 22nd/$117 This live comedy show will keep you laughing for 90 minutes! Topics from dating to marriage to the bedroom!

Mt. Dora Craft Fair Saturday, Oct. 22nd/$62

Enjoy the day with over 400 crafters and artist.

Hamilton, an American Musical Thursday, Oct. 27th / $232

Includes orchestra terrace seating and lunch.

The Nutcracker Sunday, Dec. 11th / $175

Not to be missed holiday tradition for the entire family

St Augustine Night of Lights Wednesday, Dec.14th /$99

Enjoy a day of shopping in St Augustine then a horse and carriage ride through the Night of Lights, sign up by November 1st.

* All day trips require a minimum of 35 people

Glacier National Park & the Canadian Rockies July 15 - 23, 2023 Includes ride on most spectacular highways aboard the vintage Red Jammer.

1240 US Hwy 1, Suite 6, Rockledge, FL 32955

VIERA VOICE Courtesy of Long Island Skydiving Center

SUNDAY

Hello October

TUESDAY

National Homemede Cookies Day

Scarecrow Stroll

Oct. 1 through 13 Visit handcrafted scarecrows on display in Viera, Suntree and Rockledge. 321-242-1235

2022 ACCW Fashion Show 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. Benefits Ascension pantry. Hilton Rialto Place 200 Rialto Place Melbourne, 321-254-1595

Fourth annual Brevard Children’s Business Fair 10 a.m. - 1 p.m.

Kid vendors create and execute business plans.

The Avenue Viera Central Park 2261 Town Center Ave Viera, info@brevardcbf.org

Ever After Farms

Harvest Festival

9 a.m. - 2 p.m. Oct. 1 and 2 Two-acre farm crop maze. Hayrides, pumpkin patch, activities and games.

Ever After Farms 4400 Bouganvilla Drive Mims 321-269-9502

Scottish Country Dancing

6:30 - 9:30 p.m. Mondays

All ages welcome, no partner necessary.

The Springs of Suntree Clubhouse 8300 Holiday Springs Road Suntree 321-427-3587

National Golf Lovers Day National Do Something Nice Day

Shrimply the Best Seafood Fest 5:30 p.m. Shrimp and lobster tail dinner and live music.

Benefit for Saint Stephen's Way Front Street Civic Center 2205 Front Street Melbourne, 321-537-2329

Diabetes - Living Healthy with diabetes workshop 1:30 - 4 p.m. Registration required. One Senior Place 8085 Spyglass Hill Road Viera, 407-514-1806

BAC’s ninth annual Performing Arts Showcase

10:30 a.m. - Noon

King Center for Performing Arts Ticket Office 3865 N. Wickham Road Melbourne, 321-632-8610

Tae Kwon Do 6 p.m.

Viera Regional Community Center Viera, 321-474-8205

Downsizing Seminar 2 p.m. RSVP Shell Harbor 2855 Murrell Road Rockledge, 321-252-4882

Sip & Smoke 6:30 p.m.

First Thursday of the month. Locally handrolled cigars provided for purchase by Chaffiot Cigars. 28 North Gastropub 2250 Town Center Ave. Viera, 321-241-1159

National Inner Beauty Day

3 4 5 6 7 8

2 National Chess Day

Brevard Antiques and Collectibles

9:30 a.m.

First Friday

Collectors gathering to show and tell antiques and collectibles.

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

Casino Night 6 - 8:30 p.m. Casino games, prizes, drinks, light appetizers and a show.

The Brennity at Melbourne 2904 Lyrical Lane Viera, 321-253-7440

Movie on the Green, "Coco" 6 p.m. Arrive early and enjoy music, and food trucks.

DRS Community Center 1089 S. Patrick Drive Satellite Bch, 321-773-6458

Viva Brevard Gala 6 p.m. Celebrate Hispanic Heritage month. Dinner, entertainment, and DJ Rafi Red Ginger Restaurant 700 W. New Haven Ave., Melbourne Square Mall Melbourne, 321-327-8938

Clergy Appreciation Day

Fall Festival in Rockledge

10 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Local artisans, food, drinks, music and neighbors.

Rockledge Civic Hub 1600 Huntington Lane Rockledge, 321-221-7540

Central Florida Winds Concert

3 p.m. Contemporary Classics Suntree United Methodist Church 7400 N. Wickham Road Suntree, 321-405-2359

National Walk to a Park Day

Creative Christian Crafters

9:30 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Suntree United Methodist Church 7400 N. Wickham Road Suntree, 321-242-2585

Women’s Pickleball 10 a.m. Mondays

$2 per person

Viera Regional Community Center 2300 Judge Fran Jamieson Way Viera, 321-433-4891

Eastern Florida State College Hispanic Heritage Festival 1 - 4 p.m.

Learn about cultures of different Hispanic countries.

Eastern Florida State College - Melbourne 3865 N. Wickham Road Melbourne 321-433-7758

National Take Your Parents to Lunch Day

Tae Kwon Do 6 p.m.

Viera Regional Community Center 2300 Judge Fran Jamieson Way Viera, 321-474-8205

Gallimaufry Gig A Pleasing Potpourri of Big Band Best Sellers

7 p.m. Oct. 12 and 13 Hit parade classics. Melbourne Auditorium 625 E. Hisbiscus Blvd. Melbourne, 321-724-0555

National Train Your Brain Day

9 10 11 12 13 14 15

Sweat Like A Mother 9:30 a.m. Stroller exercises Viera Community Center 2300 Judge Fran Jamieson Way Viera 386-341-6779

Fall Wreath Making Event

1 - 3 p.m. Create a ribbon wreath. Supplies and refreshments donated by Inspiritas.

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

Irish Dance 3:30 - 4:15 p.m. New Beginners 3:45 - 4:30 p.m.

Current Beginners Melbourne Comm. Center 2815 Leisure Way Melbourne, 321-608-7490

National Cheese Curd Day

10 a.m. - 2 p.m. Viera Regional Park 321-242-1235 See page 21.

11th annual HNJ Golf Tournament 2022 Joe Lamers Memorial 8 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Indian River Colony Club 1936 Freedom Drive Viera, 321-773-2783

Black Poetry Day

National Chocolate Cupcake Day

Cocoa Beach Half Marathon and 10K 6:30 a.m.

Hangar's Beach 745 S. Atlantic Ave. Patrick AFB runsignup.com

Mims Fall/Harvest Festival

1 - 5 p.m.

Horse rides on our Gypsy Vanner horses, animal meet and greets, vendors and food trucks.

Tranquility Country 5440 Dixie Way Mims

Indoor/Outdoor

Craft Fair

Noon - 4 p.m.

Palm Bay Senior Center 1275 Culver Dr. NE

Palm Bay

Big Chill Car, Truck and Bike Show

9 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Spectator judged in eight categories.

American Legion Post 163 1795 N. Harbor City Blvd. Melbourne 321-259-7239

Spanish Class

1 - 2 p.m.

Martin Andersen Senior Center 1025 S. Florida Ave. Rockledge, 321-453-5098

Scottish Country Dancing 6:30 - 9:30 p.m.

All ages are welcome, no partner necessary.

The Springs of Suntree Clubhouse 8300 Holiday Springs Road Suntree, 321-427-3587

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

Story Time 10 a.m. Tuesdays

Stories and songs for ages birth to 6 years.

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

Sit-n-Stitch 1 p.m.

First and third Wednesday Group meets to share crochet, knitting and other projects.

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

National Chicken and Waffles Day

16 17 18 19 20 21 22

"Senior Job and Volunteer Fair." Seniors meet area employers and nonprofits 10 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.

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

Thirsty 3rd Thursday 5 - 8 p.m.

Relax with The Avenue in Central Park. Live music, snacks and free drinks. The Avenue Viera Central Park, Viera, 321-634-5390

Does Hearing Loss = Brain Stress?

11 a.m. - 1 p.m. Lunch and Learn presented by Personal Hearing Solutions. RSVP.

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

Friday Night Dancing 7 - 10 p.m.

First and third Friday Tickets $7.50.

Veterans Memorial Center Merritt Is., 321-453-1776

National Make A Difference Day

Fall into Fashion, fashion show, sale and luncheon 10:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m.

GFWC presents a fashion show, sale and luncheon.

The Brennity at Melbourne Viera, 414-840-3547

Thousand Grands Walk 9 a.m. - noon

Presented by Grandparents Raising Grandchildren of Brevard. Food trucks, music, and a walk around the track.

Viera High School Track 6103 Stadium Parkway Viera

24 25 26 27 28 29

National Jamaican Jerk National Pumpkin Day

Women’s Pickleball

10 a.m.

$2 per person

Viera Regional Community Center 2300 Judge Fran Jamieson Way

Viera, 321-433-4891

SHINE Medicare Counseling

9:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.

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

Boomer Trivia

4 - 6 p.m. Tuesdays

Tuesdays

Free to play, teams or solo.

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

Pizza with a Purpose

5 - 8:30 p.m. Tuesdays

Weekly fundraiser night.

Pizza Gallery 2250 Town Center Ave. Viera 321-633-0397

Halloween Baseball Game 5 p.m.

Viera baseball plays a game in Halloween costumes against the Space Coast Basket Brigade.

Admission is two donated items for the Space Coast Basket Brigade. Wear a costume for the costume contest. Kona Ice, face painting, games and more.

USSSA Space Coast Sports Complex 5800 Stadium Parkway Viera

Brevard Sheriff's Office Shred Event 9 - 10:30 a.m.

Veterans Memorial Center 400 S. Sykes Creek Parkway Merritt Isand 321-264-7755

Rex and Friends 7 p.m.

Space Coast Symphony presents Rex and Friends. Satellite Beach High School 300 Scorpion Court Satellite Beach 855-252-7276

National Chocolate Day National Cat Day

Bourbon & Pearls 6 - 10 p.m.

Benefit for Aging Matters in Brevard.

Sterling Stables 6450 Highway 520 Cocoa 321-639-8770

Tunnel of Terror Drive-thru Halloween event.

Tommy's Express Car Wash 2800 Veterans Way, Viera 321-335-4075

The seventh annual Oyster & Fish Fry 3 - 7 p.m.

Field Manor 750 Field Manor Drive Merritt Island 321-848-0365

Tunnel of Terror Drive-thru Halloween event. Tommy's Express Car Wash 2800 Veterans Way, Viera 321-335-4075

HALLOWEENNational Candy Corn Day

"Rising Star Concert: James Kealy"

3 p.m.

Classical works for organ.

Advent Lutheran Church 7550 N. Wickham Road Suntree, 321-259-8515

Third annual Trick or Teeing Event at Duran 5 - 8 p.m.

Duran Golf Club Stadium Parkway, Viera

31

Fourth annual Harvest Yam Festival 3 - 6 p.m. Event will feature unique vendors, bounce houses, games, huge raffles and amazing performances.

Lipscomb Park 2932 Lipscomb St. Melbourne 321-330-7916

Viera Voice Scarecrow Stroll and Viera Harvest Festival Vote for your favorite scarecrow, kids crow patch, music, inflated corn maze and fall photo areas.

Fall Expresso Martini

BY NANETTE HEBDIGE

The martini has been around since 1911, when billionaire John B. Rockefeller’s bartender invented it for him in New York city. Since then, it’s been iconic with everyone enjoying chilled martinis, and they became even more popular when Mr. Bond requested it to be shaken and

Cocktail shaker

½ cup of ice

2 oz. Vodka

½ oz. Kahlua

1 oz. of espresso or strong cold brew coffee

½ oz. simple syrup

Garnish coffee beans to float on top

Fill the shaker with ice, cold coffee, simple syrup and Kahlua. Shake the cocktail very well and immediately pour into the martini glass.

Simple syrup

Boil 1 cup of sugar and 1 cup of water until dissolves and chill before using. Keeps in the fridge for about one month.

Tips

Shaking the cocktail shaker extra hard will create the lovely foam on top.

Pour immediately onto the martini glass and top with some coffee beans to make it elegant.

Makes one cocktail

not stirred.

This martini is not just ideal for coffee lovers, it’s a perfect fall drink — strong, sweet and smooth. Wonderful when served as a predinner cocktail to start the night, or have it like a dessert drink. It’s easy to make and you really don’t need espresso, as cold brew coffee can be a substitute. VV

VIERA VOICE Shutterstock

Three coffee beans on top of an espresso martini is said to represent health, wealth and happiness. The traditional serving of Sambuca in Italy, where the beans are called con la mosca, means “with the fly.”

BY NANETTE HEBDIGE

Romancing the meatloaf to make it spectacular

In a world ruled by tastes and choices, food is so prevalent, everyone is an Instagramer and a foodie. As Anthony Bourdain said, “Food transports us on a journey and it should always be unctuous and tell a story.”

With the huge food throwback incorporating the revival of old-school classics — that dinosaur: the meatloaf is getting the spotlight. Embraced and baked in every American household, it’s become the ketchup covered wonder we relish today. It even became a staple during the Depression days to stretch food further as it was an inexpensive and nutritional way of feeding families.

Meatloaf doesn’t have to be a relic dating back to the Titanic. The days of that lackluster brick mom slapped on a plate, where even the dog rebelled eating, are long gone. It’s a chameleon dish that can be made heroic by embracing any flavor profile and the ultimate in comfort food. Be intrepid and it can yield tremendous complexity with intriguing flavor profiles.

Even for beginners, meatloaf is a no-brainer, but even a simple loaf deserves TLC to become majestic. Follow these steps to ensure a juicy and outstanding outcome.

NOT A PUNCHING BAG — The biggest enemy for meatloaf is overmixing because it makes it a dry log. Also, take the meat out of the fridge an hour before.

LEAN MEATS — Using ground chicken can be a good substitute. However, remember it has little fat so use thigh meat; add a splash of balsamic vinegar to remove gaminess from the poultry

SEASON WITH AUTHORITY — Meatloaf is a blank canvas, and it loves aggressive flavoring, otherwise seasonings get lost. Don’t be afraid to experiment to develop flavors

MOIST LOAF — Soak bread in liquid — most common is milk, although wine or stock are also excellent candidates. Or make a panade, by soaking breadcrumbs instead

NO AL DENTE VEGGIES — Sautéing veggies prior adds a caramelized flavor and a raw veggie inside a meatloaf isn’t palatable. Add raw onion/garlic, but ensure they’re grated or pureed

REFRIGERATE OVERNIGHT — Prepping a day ahead renders amazing results

FREEFORM OR PAN? — Age-old debate. Free form yields for a juicier result. Bake for about 40 to 55 minutes and ensure interior temperature with meat thermometer reads 160F

RESTING — Rest 15 to 20 minutes before cutting. It allows for juices to be redistributed and it renders better slicing

TO GLAZE OR NOT TO GLAZE — If you’re serving it with a sauce, don’t glaze. If a glaze is used, bake meatloaf and then top with glaze 15 minutes before done So, respect your meatloaf and elevate it to extraordinary splendor and it will become your new best friend, making it the new food star in the kitchen.

Best Meatloaf Recipe Variations

Everyone has eaten meatloaf — even if it’s vegetarian. Whether it’s been the very best kind or the very worst, it’s time to give this timeless classic a much-needed revamp. There’s a myriad of flavor combinations that can really elevate meatloaf to make it the best dish in your recipe collection. Start with the basic-binding ingredients to ensure its rendered moist and the rest is easy as pie.

BASIC BINDING INGREDIENTS

Mix these with any meatloaf — 2 eggs lightly beaten; 1 slice bread soaked in milk. Mix with ground meats and other ingredients. Freeform loaf on a foil lined, oiled cookie sheet. Mold loaf and bake at 375F for 45 to 50 minutes until cooked — check interior temperature — 160F — with a meat thermometer. Add glaze 15 minutes before done.

SOUTHWESTERN LOAF

In a bowl mix: ½ pound each ground pork and sirloin; 1 each red bell pepper/ onion chopped (sauteed and cooled); ½ can of jalapeños; 2 TBSP lime zest; ¼ cup of fresh chopped cilantro; 1 TBSP ground cumin, ½ TSP, 1 TSP each mild chili powder/garlic powder and onion powder. Salt/Pepper.

Chipotle glaze: Mix 1 TBSP chipotle powder, ½ cup Ketchup, ¼ cup brown sugar, 1 TBSP Worcestershire Sauce, 1 TSP dried mustard; 2 TBSP soy sauce; 2 TBSP lime juice; 1 TSP honey

Oct. 1

Inaugural Rocktober 5K 7:30 a.m.

The race course starts at the Hub and will travel around the Don Griffin Trail at Lake Betsi before returning to the Hub. Rockledge Civic Hub is at 530 Barton Blvd. Rockledge, 321-221-7540

Oct. 8

Brevard Against Bullying

1 - 7 p.m.

There will be motorcycles,

fun activities, games, speakers, food trucks, vendors, art, a bounce house, face painting, a drum line and prizes. Eau Gallie Civic Center 1551 Highland Ave. Melbourne, 321-503-1106

Serene Harbor's Casino Night 2022 5 - 9 p.m. American Muscle Car Museum 3500 Sarno Road Melbourne, 321-534-2544

Space Coast Contra Dance 7 p.m. Walter Butler Community Center 4201 U.S. 1 South Cocoa

Cat-n-K9 CuddleFest 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. Fred Poppe Regional

Park 1951 Malabar Road Palm Bay, 828-582-3341

Oct. 14

IAP Charity Golf Scramble 9:30 a.m. Proceeds benefit the United Way of Brevard. Savannah's Golf Course 3915 Savannahs Trail Merritt Island

Adult Flashlight

Pumpkin Hunt

8 - 10 p.m. Crane Creek Community Center 1440 Mosswood Drive Melbourne

Oct. 15

13th annual Landscaping with Florida Natives Tour 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. Various locations in Melbourne and Palm Bay 321-258-4642

Community Woman's Club of Cocoa 100th Anniversary Celebration 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Jacqueline Dittmore and Christophe Molitor

Inside the clubhouse will be costumed actors and free musical entertainment plus art exhibits, displays and demonstrations.

Magnolia Hall

5 Rosa Jones Drive Cocoa Village

Cocoa Village Fall Art & Craft Fair

10 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Historic Cocoa Village 1 Oleander Cocoa, 321-631-9075

Bluegrass in Brevard, "Stompin' in the Swamp"

10 a.m. - 4 p.m.

F. Burton Smith Regional Park 7575 W. King Street Cocoa, 321-632-5650

A Whole New WorldJess Parrish Medical Foundation 2022 Gala

5:30 - 10 p.m.

Elegant Aladdin inspired attire is suggested, black tie optional.

Space Coast Convention Center 103 Tucker Lane Cocoa 321-269-4066

Creepy Crawly Critter Night

5:30 - 9 p.m. Wear your costume and join us for an evening filled with critters.

Enchanted Forest Sanctuary 444 Columbia Blvd. Titusville, 321-255-4466

Legends: Kenton & Ferguson presented by the Space Coast Symphony 7 p.m.

Satellite Beach High School 300 Scorpion Ct. Satellite Beach 855-252-7276

Oct. 21

SCML Trunk or Treat 4 - 7 p.m. CW Theaters 4345 W. New Haven Ave. West Melbourne

Oct. 30

Tract-or-Treat

10 a.m. - 3 p.m.

Activities, pumpkin patch, face painting, food trucks, and mini pumpkin painting.

Romelia Farms

165 Gator Drive Merritt Island, 321-848-2486

BY MARIA SONNENBERG

Happy First Anniversary, Alura!

First anniversary gifts traditionally include paper, because the threads within paper symbolize both the strength and connectivity of a new relationship and also — as a blank slate to reference the beginning of a new chapter in life.

Both connectivity and new beginnings apply to Alura Senior Living, which is celebrating its first anniversary. The Rockledge senior community at 777 Roy Wall Blvd. offers its residents the opportunity to enjoy life free of worries in a resort.

Visitors to the luxury independent living, assisted living and memory care community are greeted by a stunning koi pond surrounded by tropical gardens and a grand lobby that sets the tone for the thoughtfully designed interiors that include a range of living options, from large studio apartments to two-bedroom residences.

In the elegant dining room, as well as the casual bistro and lounge, residents and guests enjoy chef-

curated menus. A full-time activity director schedules activities to spark lifelong learning and enhance physical and mental abilities. A resort-style wellness center, salon, massage and spa, theater room, bocce court, library and concierge, plus inviting outdoor spaces make Alura alluring indeed.

Claire Burgess gives the facility top grades for enhancing the lives of her parents.

Alura has made my parents’ lives safer, better and easier,” said Burgess, who adds that she can relax knowing that her parents enjoy excellent care and that she is kept up to date on any health issues that arise.

Alura’s All-Day Dining Plan means residents can enjoy breakfast, lunch and dinner whenever they wish. Professional chefs and nutritionists work together on menus that are healthy, tasty and make residents feel at home. Dietary restrictions such as low salt and glutenfree diets are easily accommodated.

As their needs

evolve, residents can transition from independent to assisted living or memory care all under one roof. Experienced, compassionate caregivers are always there with a helping hand and activities to keep minds and spirits strong.

Nurse Kelly Orlowski, who helps seniors explore living options, toured Alura and was impressed.

“I am blown away,” she said.

Amber Silverthorn, a healthcare consultant in senior living and care, was equally excited by the opportunities Alura provides seniors.

“I am thrilled to see a community that centers itself around the residents and their individual needs,” she said.

For Claire Burgess, her parents’ move to Alura has made a huge and positive difference in their lives.

“Best decision ever,” Burgess said.

For more information, call 321-549-3980 or go to aluraseniorliving.com. VV

VIERA VOICE Jill Blue

The Alura Senior Living team is delighted to celebrate its first anniversary.

VIERA VOICE Jill Blue

Kelly Shovlin, Alura's executive director, chats with Barbara McMinney, the first resident at Alura.

VyStar opens new branch, expanding in Brevard County

SPECIAL TO VIERA VOICE

Brian E. Wolfburg, the president and CEO of VyStar Credit Union, has announced the opening of the credit union’s 67th full-service branch at 6435 N. Wickham Road in Suntree.

VyStar officials recently held a ribbon-cutting ceremony to formally introduce the credit union to the community.

The Melbourne branch expands the VyStar footprint in Brevard County, where the credit union opened its Titusville branch earlier this year.

VyStar now has more than 15 branches across Central Florida, with plans for future growth in the region. Most recently, VyStar celebrated the milestone opening of its Thomasville branch, which is its first

location in Georgia, as well as its second branch location in The Villages. VyStar is scheduled to open additional branches in Tallahassee and Lake Mary later this year.

“This busy season of growth helps us achieve our goal of bringing high-quality products and services to more people in more places,” VyStar EVP/Chief Operations Officer Chad Meadows said.

“Melbourne is a vibrant community and a wonderful place to live, work and raise a family. We look forward to supporting local residents, small business owners and nonprofit organizations to build an even better community for everyone.”

The Melbourne branch enables VyStar to better serve members, who have access to great rates, low or no fees, early direct deposit, rewards on credit cards,

ONALLIVING AT BVE

financial wellness education, member-centric service and more. The branch features VyStar’s digital-forward design concept, which improves how employees connect with members. The concept includes interactive touchscreen kiosks that provide financial tools and allow members to quickly explore the latest products, services and rates. Members also can visit vystarcu.org for financial calculators, informative product pages and more.

Lobby hours for the Melbourne branch are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Thursday; 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Friday; and 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday. The drive-thru hours are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Thursday; 7:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. Friday; and 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday.

“Melbourne is a beautiful city with great outdoor recreation activities, arts and culture and much more,” said Lysa Barbano, the VyStar SVP/Central Florida Market President. “I’m thankful for our incredible team of employees who serve our members and make a difference in this wonderful community every day.”

During the ribbon cutting ceremony, VyStar presented a $5,000 donation to Serene Harbor in support of its efforts to aid survivors of domestic violence in Brevard County. VyStar also supports the Space Coast Pride Festival & Parade and has longstanding regional partnerships with the Orlando Solar Bears hockey team and the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts. VV

VIERA VOICE Courtesy of VyStar Credit Union

recently opened a

at 6435 N. Wickham Road in Suntree.