Charlie Corbeil Student Art Contest
BY LINDA WIGGINS
Viera Voice started from a request 17 years ago.
Since then, the newspaper’s coverage has created a strong sense of community in the areas of Viera, Suntree and south Rockledge. Viera Voice's signature events such as the Scarecrow Stroll and Harvest Festival bring opportunities for the community to come together to have fun and catch up with neighbors and families of children’s classmates.
“People stop and tell me these things when they see me out restocking papers,” said publisher Jill Blue. “Just earlier today, a reader said that once
the paper comes into the house via the mail, it stays out in a prominent place all month until the next month’s issue arrives. The comments and the appreciation for what we do warms my heart. It’s very rewarding. Often, I will get a question that turns into a great story for the benefit of all readers.”
Blue was already was operating the countywide Senior Life newspaper from a rented space in the LPL Financial building off Murrell Road in Viera when the idea for Viera Voice came to the forefront. It was a
VIERA VOICE Klinton Landress
Ralph Williams Elementary School has been offering a well-rounded education for 25 years.
the first elementary school in Viera. Story page 20
Living low key in Viera — Collins family enjoys everlasting vacation
BY NICHOLE YUAN
Life has a funny way of bringing people together. And that couldn’t be more true for Katrina and Jamie Collins.
A tattoo session eventually turned into something much more meaningful when renowned tattoo artist Katrina “Kat Tat” Jackson and retired professional football standout Jamie Collins began dating.
Their love for one another kept growing, and soon enough their family grew as well when they welcomed Jackson, 3, and then Jakobi, 2. And soon the Collins family will grow by two more as they prepare to welcome twins.
Although neither Jamie nor Katrina are Florida natives, a vacation trip to the area had both of them captivated by the serene surroundings. The family has since adjusted seamlessly to Florida life with Katrina finding a hobby in cooking, and Jamie Collins trading football for golf.
“I always knew I would leave California once I started a family,” Katrina Collins said. “So once I got pregnant with my firstborn, that’s when, you know, it was a no-brainer. It was just a dream to me.”
Even though she’s switched her primary focus to motherhood, Katrina still makes time to maintain involvement in the tattoo
industry. Just this past August, the skilled artist hosted an entrepreneurship symposium for other tattooists.
“Even if I can’t tattoo every single day, I still find ways to give back to my industry,” she said.
Jamie, too, is fully engrossed in fatherhood. However, like most parents, there are times when a short getaway is needed.
“If we’re gonna go somewhere, we’re gonna
Featured Family
(only) be there for a day or two. 'Cause we’re gonna be ready to get back to the kids,” said the former New England Patriots player.
Though he played primarily with the Patriots, Collins, a linebacker, also played for the Cleveland Browns and the Detroit Lions. Collins earned Pro Bowl honors in 2015 by leading the league in forced fumbles. He was part of the winning team in Super Bowl XLIX.
And as demonstrated by their demeanors, the shift in priorities from careercentered to parenthood is clearly one that the Collins family has embraced with open arms.
“I know for me, in playing ball, (I’d) never see the kids,” Jamie said, remembering the busy schedule he had while playing in the NFL. “(I’d have to) wake up before they wake up, and then come back home when they were asleep. So it’s kind of like, now I get
to really see them, wake up with them, get 'em dressed, feed 'em. It’s a lot that goes into it. But you know, just being here in Florida, I mean especially this area, I’m waking up early with them. I’m excited to wake up. Not even just to go to work. But just to wake up with them.” With years full of love and laughter ahead of them, the upcoming arrival of the Collins twins will surely make their lives even fuller. VV
VIERA VOICE Jill Blue
The Jamie and Katrina Collins family was captivated by the serene surroundings of the Viera area after vacationing in Florida.
Volume 17, Issue 1
©2025 Bluewater
Creative Group, Inc.
All rights reserved
Bluewater Creative Group
321-242-1235
7350 Shoppes Dr. Suite 102
Viera, FL 32940
media@bluewatercreativegroup.com
Publisher
Bluewater Creative Group, Inc.
ManagingEditor Jill Blue
AssignmentEditor
R. Norman Moody
OfficeManager
Sylvia Montes
CopyEditor Jeff Navin
SportsWriter/SportsBlog
Carl Kotala
ArtDepartment
Jorjann Blake
Klinton Landress
Writers/Reporters
Chris Bonanno
Marcia Booth
Ernie Dorling
Mike Gaffey
Linda Jump
Betty Porter
Maria Sonnenberg
Adrianna Vavra
Nichole Yuan
prompt from Rob Dale of LPL Financial.
“He saw what we did and asked, ‘Where’s our paper? We need a paper in Viera,’ ” said Blue, the publisher of the annual Boomer Guide magazine in addition to Viera Voice and Senior Life “It was just good timing.”
Others also had similar requests, and a naming contest produced the perfect name for the ultra-local paper.
“It just took off from there,” Blue said.
The paper’s first logo contained the stately big oak tree in the roundabout. Years later, it was replaced with an updated look.
In the first edition in February 2008, there were stories about Manatee Elementary students making Valentines for seniors, about the Space Coast Tennis League and the Viera Wetlands. Today, readers will find stories on Viera, Suntree and surrounding areas, events, schools, sports, businesses and it highlights features on people throughout the community.
Most recently, the newspaper recruited families happy to show off
their homes ornately decorated with Christmas lights. The following month, readers were able to go on a tour and vote on their favorites. “I don’t know who enjoys it the most each year, the participants, readers, or me,” Blue added.
Today, 17 years from the paper’s start, Viera Voice is mailed directly to 18,000 homes in Viera, Rockledge and Suntree. It can be found at more than 200 different businesses throughout the area. Residents have seen Viera grow exponentially the past 17 years.
“We have documented the growth in each monthly issue,” Blue said. “Remember when the
only way to get to the west side was on Wickham Road, and on the northern side, Stadium Drive and the Viera Boulevard flyover finally connected both sides of the community? The Pineda Causeway extension came much later. Along the way, Viera High School and later Viera Middle School just this year made it so that our children didn’t have to leave the community to complete a traditional K-12 education. It just gets better with the great stores and restaurants.”
See how many Viera trivia questions you can answer correctly
1. When was concept for the new Town of Viera envisioned?
2. When did Manatee Elementary school open?
3. How many tunnels are in West Viera?
4. When did the Brevard Zoo open?
5. How many roundabouts are in Viera?
6. Is there a hockey rink in Viera?
7. Where are the little libraries in Viera?
8. When was Viera Hospital built?
9. What is the Quest Elementary Mascot?
10. How long is the Brevard Zoo Linear Park Trail?
11. When was the Pineda overpass built?
12. What is the name of the late local resident credited for putting the Viera Wetlands on the map for birding and other wildlife photographers both locally and from all over the world?
Answers at vieravoice.com
VIERA VOICE Jill Blue
Viera Voice's inaugural edition came out on Feb. 1, 2008.
VIERA VOICE Jill Blue Viera Voice Sept.
Four local candidates vie for Florida House, others seek moves
BY CHRIS BONANNO
Four Republican candidates are among those vying for the District 32 state representative seat now held by Debbie Mayfield.
Brevard County School Board member Matt Susin is one of the four Republican candidates seeking the position — Terrence A. Cronin Jr., Brian Hodgers and Robert William White are the others. Susin must resign from the school board to run in the election, according to Chris Muro, an associate professor in political science at Eastern Florida State College.
Mayfield, who was still listed as the District 32 incumbent, has announced her intention to run for Florida Senate District 19, which is held by Randy Fine, who is resigning to run for Congress. A special election must be held for the seat Fine is vacating.
Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis has set a special election to fill the District 19 seat, which Mayfield will seek. The special primary election for the State Senate District 19 and the State House District 32 is set for April 1, with the special election on June 10.
“Florida is one of only five states that has adopted a ‘resign-to-run’ law, requiring current officeholders to resign from their elected positions before they can qualify for another seat,” Muro said in an email to Viera Voice. “Florida Statute 99.012 requires this for elected as well as appointed positions. Since only five states have adopted this provision, it is safe to say that the idea has not been seen as a necessary reform. There has been some recent attention given to the statute, due to Gov. DeSantis’ bid for the Republican nomination for president. The Florida Legislature passed a
clarification in 2023 stating that the governor did not have to resign to seek the nomination.”
Muro said the process to fill a school board seat in the event a member resigns is left to the governor.
“There is no standard amount of time in which the seat must be filled. Florida law simply states that all school board vacancies shall be filled by the governor,” Muro said. “Florida’s governor has broad powers of appointment and removal for numerous elected officials, except for members of the judicial branch.”
Fine, who was elected to be state senator in District 19 in November, is seeking a U.S. House of Representatives seat in a district that encompasses an area north and west of Brevard County. VV
Literacy, technology and fun set for Library Con
BY ADRIANNA VAVRA
From cosplay to literacy to technology, many things that contribute to pop culture will be celebrated at Brevard Library Con.
A variety of events will be presented, including a cosplay contest, panel discussions, crafts, gaming and more.
The event will be held from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Feb. 23
at the Melbourne Auditorium at 625 E Hibiscus Blvd. All local public libraries will participate in the event. It
is an event for all ages that everyone is welcome to join.
“We want this to be as inclusive as possible,” said Heather Palmer, the director of the Suntree/Viera Library and area director.
This year will be the fifth annual Library Con. Last year, there were about 1,500 people present and the venue had to be moved as the event continues to expand.
Michael Boonstra, the training coordinator, said that the events “keep growing every year” and “keep offering new and exciting things.”
The panel discussion will host many participants, including comic book artists, who will talk about the process of becoming professional comic book artists. Furthermore, there will be a cosplay contest that attendees can participate in as well as a cosplay costuming panel.
Cosplay is the practice of dressing as a fictional character, such as from a comic book, television show
or video game.
In addition, there will be gaming and crafts rooms. In the gaming room, participants have the freedom to play a new game they have never tried before or show off their skills at one of their favorites. In the crafts room, everyone is able to put their creativity to use.
There will also be vendors present doing demonstrations. Boonstra added that his favorite part of the event in previous years was the “variety of
vendors and variety of experiences.”
At Library Con, there is never a dull moment as in addition to the previously mentioned events, there will be a mobile library and food trucks present.
Library Con is a great opportunity to meet people with similar interests or learn something completely new. Everyone is welcomed and celebrated as many communities and fandoms come together and enjoy the day. VV
VIERA VOICE Courtesy of the Brevard County Public Library Brevard Library Con returns with lots of games, crafts, comic books artists and other panel discussions
VIERA VOICE Courtesy of the Brevard County Public Library
At Brevard Library Con, artists get the opportunity to show off colorful works. It will be held Feb. 23 at the Melbourne Auditorium.
Are you tired of living with back pain that won’t let you do the things you once enjoyed?
Have you tried everything and found no relief?
It is time to consider an alternative that has worked for thousands of other Brevard county residents. Dr. Andrea Izquierdo, AP, of Bodhi TCM Acupuncture, offers an innovative approach to healing.
Imagine waking up free from pain. You are able to enjoy your life, have more energy, sleep better, and do the things you love. These are the types of results and success stories patients at Bodhi TCM experience each week.
Success stories like Sher K. from Melbourne:
"After three days of severe back pain, I was ready to go to the ER. I couldn't sit, stand, or lie down without pain. Luckily, I got a last-minute appointment with Dr. Andrea. With her course of treatment, I felt significant relief. My back is stronger than ever, and even my shoulder pain and foot tingling have improved. I highly recommend anyone in pain to see her."
Their treatments are effective for many chronic pain conditions such as: neck, shoulder, knee pain, foot pain, failed surgeries and more, as seen by their many 5 start reviews and testimonials
Billy F. of Satellite beach shares:
Meet the Practitioner
These amazing results are due to their personalized treatment protocols, which address the root cause of chronic pain by blending Traditional Chinese Medicine with their own Cellular BioModulation Therapy.
“Everyone is different, even if two patients have the same chronic pain diagnosis, the approach needs to be unique to truly address the root cause.”Dr. Andrea explains
“Thats why all of our protocols are personalized. During our comprehensive consultation we go over medical history, lifestyle and health goals. If I can help, I will tell the patient exactly what it takes to help them achieve their health goals.”
Dr. Andrea continues:
“Once we get started, the best part is that our treatments are very relaxing. Most patients fall asleep and do not want to leave the office.”
Continuing to struggle with chronic pain does not have to be part of your life. Even after years of finding no hope, going through surgeries, steroid shots, prescriptions and even procedures like kyphoplasty, patients are still able to obtain great results. Like Rachael G. of Viera who shares:
"She has given me results after just a few sessions, whereas other doctors have literally just shrugged at me and said they didn't know what else they could do for me beyond a prescription. She is thorough and truly listens.”
“As a veteran I have had many issues, knees replaced, neck surgery, back pain, you name it. Since starting treatment, this is the first time I have been able to walk without pain. They want to do a fourth knee replacement, but I will be avoiding that now thanks to my treatments here.”
Another one of their happy patients, Christophe of West Melbourne shares:
“I had been suffering from shoulder pain and received cortisone injections, but the relief was short-lived. Then I found Andrea and her team who specialize in acupuncture. The results were remarkable. Within a month, my pain and inflammation had vanished. It didn't just alleviate the pain; it seemed to heal me. I wonder why I hadn't tried it sooner.”
It is proven that chronic pain becomes worse over time, making it harder to treat.Delaying treatment means extending suffering unnecessarily.
Don’t waste another day of your life in pain. Take the first step and call today to setup a consultation and find out how you can too be pain free!
Dr. Andrea Izquierdo, AP.
Started Bodhi TCM Acupuncture in 2017 with the purpose of bringing a different type of
healing to the Space Coast. She completed her Premedicine studies at the University of Florida, and her Acupuncture Physician degree at FCIM in Orlando. She is nationally Board Certified and has studied overseas at the 301 hospital in Beijing China as well as Tibet.
Having performed over 15,000 treatments at her practice, she has helped thousands of Brevard County residents with seemingly hopeless Chronic and complex conditions.
Blending Ancient Chinese Medicine with Modern Science, Dr. Andrea and her team develop personalized treatment protocols to address the root cause of pain even when everything else has failed.
SPORTS
WrapUp
Viera’s Kelly, Hoppe have chance to reach state finals for record third time
BY CARL KOTALA
Viera High’s Catalina Kelly and Emma Hoppe each have a chance to make history this wrestling season.
But it’s a pretty safe bet they both want more.
As two-time state qualifiers, Kelly and Hoppe have the chance to become the first in the history of the Viera girls wrestling program to qualify for three state meets. This year’s finals are set for March 6 to 8 at the Silver Spurs Arena in Kissimmee.
Last season, Kelly finished sixth in the state at 110 pounds after also winning the district title and finishing third in the region. This season, the junior is campaigning at 115 pounds and was off to a 25-0 start as of Jan. 21. No doubt, she’s
looking to place higher at this year’s state tournament.
The same goes for senior Emma Hoppe, only she has one more spot to go.
Hoppe won a district and regional championship last season, making it all the way to the final at 135 pounds, where she finished as the state runner-up.
This season, Hoppe was off to a 22-3 start and, no doubt, eager to get another crack at winning a state title.
While Hoppe and Kelly are clearly two of the biggest standouts on this year’s Viera team, they aren’t the only ones to have strong seasons.
Senior Isabel Alvarez was a district runner-up last year and was off to a 19-4 start at 120 pounds with a definite chance of placing at this year’s state meet.
Other key wrestlers
for the Hawks this season include sophomore Zahar Zouaki at 100 pounds. Zouaki was fourth in the district last season, but at 12-9, was looking for an even better finish this time around.
Freshman Elizabeth Pinto was off to an impressive start at 105 pounds. She was 21-4 as of Jan. 21.
The Hawks have two
wrestlers at 125 pounds — sophomore Olivia Gapud (15-10) and freshman Maddie Pepitone.
Another freshman, Michelle Amyot, wrestles at 130 pounds.
The most populous weight for the Hawks this season is at 140 pounds, where there are three wrestlers — junior Lillian Straessley (14-8),
sophomore Malia Santos and junior Seah Rai — all getting time on the mat.
Freshman Keliana Valezquez was off to a 13-11 start at 155 pounds, while sophomore Savanah Nazario was 16-6 at 190.
The road to the state meet for the Hawks begins Feb. 15, when Viera is scheduled to host the District 6 Tournament. VV
Viera wrestling working hard to stay on top
BY CARL KOTALA
The Viera High boys wrestling team has established itself as one of the best programs in Brevard County during the past few years.
Now, the focus is on keeping that domination going.
“Long-term goal is to create sustainability in terms of a winning culture now that we will have turned over an entire class at the end of the season,” Hawks coach Jason Custer, now in his fourth season, wrote in
an email.
“I believe we have done that given what we have accomplished the last couple of years. A good kid’s program … we have one through the Viera Hammers Wrestling Club (K-8) … is crucial to helping kids develop at a younger age, learn the fundamentals and fall in love with the sport.”
Of course, this year’s group isn’t done yet.
Far from it.
The Hawks already won the Class 3A, District 10 wrestling dual championship for the second year in a row. They’ll try to repeat as district Individual Bracket Tournament (IBT) champions later this month.
Among those expected to do well at the state meet are junior Gustavo Ferreira at 138 pounds. A two-time state qualifier, Ferreira placed seventh last season. He’s also a defending district champion and was off to a 32-2 start as of Jan. 21.
Edwin Torres (150) had a 34-5 record. The senior finished eighth at the state meet last season after also winning a district title. He’s a team captain.
Another senior, Kepa Agcaoili, has a good chance to place at state this year. Agcaoili (132) is a twotime state qualifier, a team captain, a defending district champ and a regional runner up. He was off to an impressive 41-4 start.
Junior Makana Tieri is another defending district champ. He was 32-9 at 120 pounds. Senior Alvee Ahsan (157) was 33-8 and has a good chance of making it to state along with senior Landon Keck at 190 pounds. He was at 33-9. Senior Trenton Honara (29-11) was a district runner up last year and could make it to state at 215 pounds.
Senior Camren Baker (20-6) is a defending district champ at 144 and is also a team captain.
Other key wrestlers for Viera this season include: junior Caiden Adams at 108 pounds; freshman Anthony Rodriguez at 113 pounds; freshman Tristan Roman at 126; senior David Liao at 165; sophomore Ryker Tomas at 175 and senior Lenny Ortiz at 275. VV
VIERA VOICE Courtesy of Viera High School Wrestling
The Viera High School boys and girls wrestling teams both have a chance to accomplish some big things this postseason.
Viera teams doing well in FHSAA’s Academic Team Champion program
BY CARL KOTALA
This competition has nothing to do with a school’s performance on the field.
This one is all about the classroom.
The Florida High School Athletic Association (FHSAA) recently released the fall results for its yearlong Academic Team Champion competition.
The program honors programs in each of the association’s sanctioned and recognized sports with an Academic Team Champion named in each classification based on the student-athlete’s collective GPA scores.
Ten points are awarded for a first-place finish in each sport’s classification. Nine points go to the second-place finisher and there on down. Each classification’s individual sport winner receives a commemorative plaque and the school with the highest cumulative point title for the entire school year will get a special award.
Viera High finished ninth in Class 6A last year with 40 points and is already off to a strong start with the 2024 fall results.
The Viera High volleyball team finished second in Class 6A with a cumulative GPA of 3.755. Viera’s girls swimming team was third in its group with a 3.786 GPA. The boys crosscountry team was sixth (3.692) while the girls cross-country team placed ninth (3.816).
Viera was eighth in football (3.134).
The cumulative GPAs for other Viera sports include boys bowling
(3.132);
Not every Brevard School was listed in the fall results. Only Viera, Melbourne, Rockledge, Cocoa Beach, Holy Trinity, Melbourne Central Catholic and Edgewood appeared.
That doesn’t mean other schools wouldn’t qualify. It’s up to each school’s athletic director to submit their results.
Viera AD Cheryl Draves clearly takes academics seriously.
“As you know, I’m pretty fresh out of the classroom which means I’m still in the teacher mode,” the second-year athletic director wrote in an email.
“I keep up with those who are teetering on the edge of being ineligible and I have those talks to help build them up. “Being a studentathlete is having balanced passion of your sport(s) while maintaining a good academic reputation. Academics are the foundation when sports run dry. Education prepares students for life’s challenges as well as presents those opportunities.
“Since day one, I've always said academics come first. I remember saying to (football player) Jamari Lyons when we were getting him ready to go off to UF, you have to make sure you get your education. You will always have that as a backup and nothing, or anyone, can take that away.
“As a student-athlete, you have to be just that, a student first and foremost. I’m not much of a movie watcher, so when I heard Coach Carter say, ‘These are student-athletes, student comes first,’ it just felt right and I hope my student-athletes always kept that in mind.” VV-
boys golf (3.591); girls golf (3.584) and boys swimming (3.51).
VIERA VOICE Courtesy of Desiree Angelle Photography LLC
The Viera High School girls volleyball team had a cumulative GPA of 3.755, which was the second among all Class 6A schools taking part in the FHSAA Academic Team Championship program.
Viera Middle girls soccer wins first championship; boys team stands out
BY CHRIS BONANNO
The girls soccer team at Viera Middle School made history when the Owls claimed the Brevard County Middle School Championship with a 3-0 victory against Jefferson Middle School.
“It’s really exciting,” said Chuck Marchetti, the school’s athletic and activities director. “This is not just the first year of Viera Middle School, but it’s also the first year that we have soccer as an interscholastic sport in Brevard County.”
The win in the championship game on Dec. 12 was the culmination of a season that saw the team go undefeated with an overall record, including the regular season and postseason, of 11-0-1, according to Marchetti. Incredibly, the team did not allow a goal during its season.
Supervisor of Elections announces scholarship opportunity
SPECIAL TO VIERA VOICE
Applications for the 2025 Florida Supervisors of Elections (FSE) Scholarship are now being accepted, Brevard County Supervisor of Elections Tim Bobanic announced. Applications are being accepted at all four administrative election office locations in Viera, Titusville, Melbourne and Palm Bay. The deadline to apply is March 7.
“Each year, our association provides scholarships to help support the next generation of leaders in Florida and I’d love to see a Brevard County student win this year,” Bobanic said.
Applicants must be either a Political Science, Public Administration, Business Administration, or Journalism/ Mass Communication major and be at least a junior in college.
To be eligible for the FSE Scholarship, applicants must be registered Florida voters and have lived in the state for at least the preceding two years.
Students must attend a Florida university or college and have a C average or above for the previous year.
Interested students should visit VoteBrevard.gov to obtain a copy of the FSE Scholarship application and guidelines. Completed applications may be returned by mail to P. O. Box 410819, Melbourne, FL 32941, or delivered in person to any of the four Administrative Offices before 5 p.m. March 7. VV
“They were just phenomenal up and down from day one,” Marchetti said. “You could tell these girls wanted it. Every single one on the team competed very well, practiced very hard. Coaches did a phenomenal
job. The parents’ support and the community has been incredible.”
The team was led by head coach Jen Ermey and assistant coach Dan Gauthier. Players on the team’s roster included: Zoe
Boritzki, Katherine Brown, Alexa Clinger, Samantha Gongora, Ella Hicks, Brooklyn Jannazzo, Myka Lee, MaryGrace McCalley, Brighton Perry, Ella Robinson, Kara Senkarik, Alaina Strater, Alexis Thomas, Liz Thomas,
Teagan Torello, Sayler Vance, Kendall Vest, Kylie Weigel and Bianca Zanoni.
“We knew going in that Viera’s a soccer town,” Marchetti said. “We knew we’d be competitive so we kind of had high hopes. That being said, they still far exceeded our expectations. I couldn’t fathom being undefeated regardless, never mind not conceding a goal the entire season. They were just phenomenal. They blew us away.”
The boys soccer team at the school also had an outstanding season as the club advanced to the championship game in its inaugural season.
“I’m absolutely thrilled that we have an incredible amount of interest in athletics at our school,” Marchetti added, noting that he has more than 300 athletic packets on file. VV-
VIERA VOICE Courtesy of Jerry Green Photography
The Viera Middle School girls soccer team was undefeated in its first season of play.
Indiafest delivers burst of color, culture, celebrations of India
BY R. NORMAN MOODY
Indiafest once again will celebrate the culture, music and traditional cuisine of India. The 28th annual Indiafest brings the colorful Indian heritage, customs and traditions to Wickham Park in Melbourne.
The festival, on March 8 and 9, usually draws about
8,000 to 10,000 people during the two-day event.
“I never dreamt it would grow this big,” said Nina Gadodia, the festival’s founder and chair. “Our community has been good. They have received us with open arms.”
The theme this year is Festivals of India, a celebration of several
festivals held each year in different regions of India.
Gadodia said Indiafest will highlight five or six — Festival of Lights, Holi, which is the Festival of Colors, and Durga Puga festival, among others.
A different theme each year makes it fresh for repeat festival participants. Visitors to the festival are
encouraged to go to the discovery booth to learn about the different festivals and about India.
Gadodia said there is so much to see, experience and enjoy at the festival each year.
Indiafest was started 30 years ago, but was not held during two years—once because of hurricanes and another because of the Covid pandemic.
The festival hours are from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday, March 8 and from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday, March 9.
Indiafest has donated more than $1.4 million to charities and to assist with disaster relief efforts.
Indiafest will bring cultural shows, traditional Indian cuisine, a fashion show, music, Henna, arts and crafts, yoga demonstrations and a raffle.
The festival celebrates India and is for the entire community of Brevard County to enjoy.
“It’s a community affair,” Gadodia said. “It is wonderful. Everybody loves the celebration.” VV
Admission is $8 for adults; $4 for children younger than 12. Children who are five years old or younger are admitted free of charge. Proceeds from the festival are donated to various charities.
VIERA VOICE Courtesy of Indiafest
The Indiafest organizers offer a different theme each year to educate people about the diverse culture of India.
VIERA VOICE Courtesy of Indiafest Colorful outfits are always prevalent at the Indiafest held at Wickham Park in Melbourne.
VIERA VOICE Courtesy of Indiafest Vendors will offer a wide array of beautiful products at the 28th annual Indiafest at Wickham Park in Melbourne.
Feb. 7
Love Our Lagoon Celebration 1 p.m. Garden
Hilton Melbourne Oceanfront 3003 Highway A1A Melbourne Beach 321-725-7775
Dining Out & Events
Viera Park Market 4 - 8 p.m.
Family market featuring fresh local specialty foods, food trucks, artisans and crafters.
Viera Regional Community Center 2300 Judge Fran Jamieson Way Viera, 321-759-3713
Movie in the Park 6 - 7:45 p.m.
"Soul" A musician named Joe, whose true passion is jazz, helps someone to find their passion and ends up finding the meaning of soul.
McLarty Park 790 Barton Blvd. Rockledge, 321-633-1874
FEB. 8
Sea Turtle Preservation Society
Volunteer Fair
Noon - 3 p.m.
Speak to volunteers and sign up to help sea turtles survive.
Satellite Beach Library 751 Jamaica Blvd. Satellite Beach, 321-676-1701
13th annual Pioneer Day 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.
Celebrating the early settlers of Merritt Island at two historic sites. Experience Florida living through demonstrations and historic tours.
Sams House and St. Luke’s Church 6195 N. Tropical Trail Merritt Island, 321-449-4720
Feb. 13
Valentine Snack Table for Veterans 8 a.m.
VFW Auxiliary Post 4206 and
Post 4536 will pass out snacks and Valentines gifts.
VA Viera 2900 Veterans Way Viera, 321-724-4121
Alzheimer’s/Dementia Caregiver Support Group 11 a.m. - noon
Suntree Viera Library 902 Jordan Blass Drive Suntree, 321-255-4404
Samsons Island Open House 9:30 a.m. - 2 p.m.
Experience this 52-acre island nature preserve. Free boat transportation. Reservations required. Park at city hall, walk to the Satellite Beach Fire Department to load boats. Park at Satellite Beach City Hall 565 Cassia Blvd. Satellite Beach, 321-773-6458
FEB. 21
Pucks with Pros 6 to 9 p.m.
Feb. 22 - Noon to 4 p.m.
Featuring four teams with 12 NHL alumni and special guests. Proceeds benefit homelessness and breast cancer.
Space Coast IcePlex 720 Roy Wall Blvd. Rockledge, puckswithpros.com
FEB. 22
Flutie 5K Run/Walk for Autism Awareness
8 a.m.
DRS Center 1089 S. Patrick Drive
Satellite Beach runsignup.com
FEB. 23
Pollinator Fair
11 a.m. - 4 p.m.
Experience the world of pollinators and interact with birds, beads, bats, butterflies and plants that support the local ecosystem. Food trucks and master gardeners will be on site. Nance Park 201 N. Miramar Ave. Indialantic, sbgca.org
Upcoming Trips
Travel Presentation at Martin Andersen
Senior Center — Feb. 20, 11 a.m.
Collete Escorted Tours will present and take reservations for trips to to Northern Italy and Thailand. RSVP by Feb. 17th.
Flamingo Gardens — Mar. 31, $125
Includes round trip motor coach, lunch and guided tour. Tour one of the region’s oldest botanical gardens featuring specialized gardens. It also houses the Everglades Wildlife Sanctuary, providing care for injured or non-releasable Florida native wildlife. A min. of 35 needed, sign-up by Mar. 15.
Voyager of the Seas — Transatlantic Sailing May 3 - 16 Port Canaveral to Barcelona. Limited space.
Spotlight on Northern Italy — Sept. 12 - 20
Join Jean in Treviso and enjoy day trips to Venice, Verona and the Dolomites! Ask about the Slovenia pre-extension.
Sky Princess Total Solar Eclipse Voyage
Aug. 8 - 22, 2026
Rates starting at $2,889 per person for interior and $4,296 per person for balconies. Call for more details.
Card Readings By Melinda
Western-themed Buckaroo Ball raises funds for equine therapy
BY LINDA JUMP
When Jeanine Allen was a high school student, she volunteered at Cocoa’s Harmony Farms. She had no idea of the impact its equine therapy would have decades later on both her and her daughter’s life.
“I’d always been around horses and started riding when I was 7,’’ Allen said. “So, I needed volunteer hours for the Beta Club and National Honor Society. I cleaned stalls and groomed horses there.”
When she was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis in 2012, she was accepted into the Harmony Farms therapy program.
“I regained my strength and balance. I had lost friends and everyone at Harmony wanted me to succeed. They became family,” she said.
Shortly after, her daughter Julianne, 11, was born with a rare chromosomal abnormality and not expected
to survive. Three years ago, she began weekly therapy sessions.
“At first, she cried when put on a horse, and the next week, sat happily for just five seconds. We kept increasing sitting and riding time, and now she looks forward to Saturday morning rides,” Allen said.
Julianne’s strides have multiplied.
“She was non-verbal and, a year ago while riding, she pointed at something orange and said her first word, ‘orange.’ Now, she tries to speak during all her rides, and makes eye contact.”
A few weeks ago, Julianne followed instructions for the warm-up exercises for the first time.
“When asked to touch her head, she did. Hold your arms out, and she did. You can truly see how she’s grown.”
Allen joined Harmony Farm’s board of directors last May and has volunteered
For a Good Cause
Buckaroo Ball
A fundraiser to help Harmony Farms’ equine therapy program
6 p.m. Feb. 8
Space Coast Convention Center
301 Tucker Lane Cocoa
Cost:
$75 per person
$65 each, table of eight
there for years.
The nonprofit opened 34 years ago to help disabled riders of all ages.
“Riding therapy enhances the quality of life, builds confidence, independence and self esteem,” said founder and executive director Pamela Rogan. She said the waiting list is long, with 50 students
The annual Buckaroo Ball, scheduled for
filled night for all attendees.
coming privately, in school groups and adult facilities.
She hopes to top the $30,000 raised last year at the annual Buckaroo Ball on Feb. 8 that includes a buffet dinner, silent and live auctions and a derby featuring locals dressed as horses who compete for trophies. The event at the Space Coast Convention Center at 301 Tucker Lane in Cocoa will feature cocktails and a cash bar at 6 p.m., a buffet dinner, silent and live auctions, dancing and a “derby” with local “jockeys” dressed in horse costumes. Sheriff Wayne Ivey will moderate. The cost is $75 per person; $65 each for a table of eight. “This is our biggest fundraiser,” Rogan said.
A member of the Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship International, Harmony Farms relies on volunteers and always needs more, according to Rogan.
“We need not only help with the horses and the walks, but also the work crews. There are always fences to
mend, and we need folks to sling hammers.”
Harmony operates yearround with summer camps. Private horse boarding supplements its income.
For tickets to the Buckaroo Ball, to become a sponsor or to help, call 321-631-9433 or 321-709-3853, e-mail at info@ harmonyfarmsinc.com or go to harmonyfarmsinc.com VV-
VIERA VOICE Jorjann Blake
Feb. 8, promises to be a fun-
VIERA VOICE Jill Blue Harmony Farms helps disabled children through its equine therapy.
Saturday, Feb. 22 10 am to 1pm
Photo Booth • Animal Balloons
Snacks • Live Music
Food Trucks • Kid’s Face Painting Crafts and More!
Take a ride as a passenger in a Classic Car!
Viera couple survive WWII to celebrate 65 years of marriage
BY ERNIE DORLING
Initially worlds apart, overcoming the hardships of World War II they met each other. Now, this Viera couple is marking 65 years of marriage.
Rita Singler was just eight when WWII came to Hinterweidenthal, her German village near Strasbourg, France.
“I lived in a cave that had housed beer from WWI, along with most of the 1,600 villagers, along with about 400 German soldiers, for about a year,” Rita Singler said. “Everyone was trying to avoid the bombing by the Americans and the British. We were under constant assault by the French, German and U.S. forces. Many nights, I was left alone while my parents snuck out to our small farm and did what they could to collect milk from our two cows and whatever food they could find. We all dealt with trauma, hunger and clothing shortages.”
John Singler grew up during the war in Yugoslavia, now known as Serbia and Montenegro. Singler and his brother, along with his parents, were all placed in a prison camp at the end of the war by Josip Tito, the president of Yugoslavia.
“After the war, Tito rounded up everyone that spoke German,” Singler said. “The camps were nothing but death camps. Tito was trying to starve everyone to death.”
“It took us years to recover
from the war,” Rita Singler said. “Supplies and food were scarce for years.”
While Rita’s family was foraging for food after the war, John’s family had a connection in the United States, who moved to Yugoslavia and occupied their home during Tito’s reign.
“One night, my parents told my brother and me to be ready to move quickly, that we were escaping.” John Singler said.
“Our family member from the U.S. had bribed a couple of guards. The next thing I knew, we were all making our way to Hungary,”
John and his family walked through the woods into Austria. They would spend the next three years in a camp, awaiting an opportunity to immigrate to the U.S. It came in 1950 when the family moved to New York City to live with an uncle.
A year later, the family moved to Leeds, Massachusetts. At 18, Singler joined the U.S. Army, eventually becoming an electrician after attending the Nuclear Weapons School in Albuquerque, New Mexico. He was then sent on a tour of duty to Germany, where he met Rita.
“We met at a dance,” Rita Singler said. “The villagers all frowned upon anyone dating an American at that time.”
It became challenging to see Rita after a few incidents in the village,” John Singler said. “At one point, we were restricted
to the base. But I found a way to see her.”
In 1959, John’s duty in the Army ended, and he returned to the U.S. while Rita remained in Germany.
“This was long before cell phones, the internet and email,” John Singler said. “But we kept in close contact through the mail.”
That same year, 1959, Rita arrived in the U.S. and lived with a family member in Buffalo, New York for a year. John and Rita reconnected, and in May 1960 they got married.
“I have never seen so much of everything, including food, when I arrived in New York,” Rita Singler said. “I was 24 years old and I had never had an aspirin.”
John spent his career as an electrician in the plastics industry, while Rita worked
in the theater department at Smith College in Northampton, Massachusetts for 25 years. After retiring more than 15 years ago, the Singlers settled in Viera East.
The years have taken their toll on both of them. John no longer plays golf because of health issues. Making clothes had been a passion for Rita, but she can no longer sew. Still, they go on walks, read and enjoy dinners out.
“There is no secret to a long marriage,” John Singler said. “It’s all about give and take. But we both had the same goal — take care of our family.”
“We started with absolutely nothing,” Rita Singler said. “It wasn’t always easy, but our faith kept us going. And we still love each other.”
The Singlers have two daughters and a son, six grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. Both John and Rita Singler will soon be 90 years old. The couple will celebrate 65 years of marriage this year.
On Valentine’s Day, they will renew their vows, along with more than 24 other couples, at the Senior Expo & Valentine’s Party at the Nyami Nyami River Lodge at the Brevard Zoo. VV
Love will be in the air at the Senior Expo & Valentine’s Party
BY JEFF NAVIN
Singles and couples of all ages are welcome for a Valentine’s Day to remember as Senior Life and HealthFirst will sponsor the second annual All You Need Is Love Senior Expo & Valentine’s Party.
The event is from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Friday, Feb. 14 at the Nyami Nyami River Lodge at the Brevard Zoo at 8225 North Wickham Road in Viera.
The Expo is free, but entrance to the Brevard Zoo is not included. The lodge is near the entrance to the zoo.
“I’m going to get
everyone’s heads bobbing and feet tapping,’’ said Zak Donley of WinterHawk Entertainment, who will be providing “I’ll have Dean Martin’s ‘Volare,’ Dusty Springfield’s ‘Son of a Preacher Man,’ ‘Easy’ by the Commodores and ‘Fever’ by Peggy Lee. I’ll have a lot of upbeat, happy love songs. And, we can’t forget ‘Oh What A Night’ (‘December, 1963’) by The Four Seasons and ‘Signed, Sealed, Delivered I’m Yours’ by Stevie Wonder.’’ Roses and carnations, sponsored by CarePlus, will be given to all the women in attendance. The Expo will feature wedding vow renewals for 24 couples in a beautiful venue and group setting. The vow, champagne toast and wedding cake will be sponsored by The Brennity. United HealthCare will sponsor the music. Rhodes Law will sponsor wedding portraits given to all the vow renewal couples.
John Lennon and Paul McCartney’s Beatles’ hit “All You Need Is Love” is the theme song for the Expo.
Everyone is encouraged to wear red.
“It’s such a beautiful setting with giraffes making a guest appearance,’’ Donley said. “That was so funny. And, we can’t forget the meerkats. It’s so much fun.’’
Donley was delighted to be asked to work the second annual event once again.
“I just want to make people smile and feel welcome,’’ Donley said. “It’s such a fun, lovey-dovey event. I love telling people there, ‘Don’t you just look fabulous.’ ’’
Informative exhibits will include elder law, volunteering, health and wellness, travel, retirement options, caregiver resources, insurance, 55-and-older living assistance, veterans resources, real estate, home health, transportation and medical research.
One of the exhibitors will be awarded a trophy for the best decorated booth.
“We had so much fun last year,’’ said Jill Blue, the publisher of Senior Life “We wanted to book the zoo venue right away since we liked it so much. It’s the sweetest event that pulls at your heart strings. People can bring their families. The
vow renewal is like a cherry on top of everything Valentine. It’s fun to spend the day with all of our new friends.’’
Edward and Suzanne McCarthy, who have lived in Indian River Colony Club for the past 30 months, will renew their vows at the Expo. They will celebrate 58 years of marriage on Nov. 23.
“We’ve never renewed our vows before,’’ said Suzanne McCarthy, who lived on
Long Island before moving to Florida. “It’s about time. We’re excited about meeting other couples who have been married for 50-plus years.’’ Edward McCarthy, a corporal in the Marine Corps, was wounded during the Vietnam War.
“The key to a good marriage is giving 110 percent,’’ Suzanne McCarthy said. “It’s not a 50-50 deal.’’ VV-
VIERA VOICE Ernie Dorling
The Singlers retired more than 15 years ago, settling in Viera East.
VIERA VOICE
Courtesy of the Singlers
John and Rita Singler met in Germany, where he was serving in the U.S. Army.
VIERA VOICE Jill Blue Flowers will be given to all ladies attending Senior Life’s Senior Expo & Valentine’s Party.
VIERA VOICE Klinton Landress The Senior Life Senior Expo & Valentine’s Party will have many informative exhibits.
SENIOR EXPO
SCHOOLNews
Ralph Williams Elementary — 25 years educating young minds
BY NICHOLE YUAN
Nothing says success quite like continued progress. And that couldn’t be more true for the students and faculty at Ralph M. Williams Elementary School, where everyone is gearing up to showcase their passion for growth and education during the school’s 25th anniversary celebration.
Naturally, the students will play a big role in the festivities. Attendees will get to see a slideshow presentation compiled of the youngest students sharing their dreams and aspirations for their future careers. There will be songs highlighting the beauty of the past, present and future. And the older children have been given speaking opportunities.
The school is named after Ralph Medicus Williams Jr., a passionate educator who, during his lifetime, held positions such as high school teacher, chairman,
principal and superintendent. Having first opened its doors for the 1999-2000 school year, students have proceeded to thrive in the rich environment that the school has created. Both faculty and students work to maintain Williams’ vision of recognizing that education and quality of life go hand in hand.
Susan Schroeder, the principal of the school, is in her second year at the school. “It’s been a really positive transition,” she said of her
role at Ralph Williams Elementary. “We have an incredible staff.”
In fact, several members of the staff, such as Jennifer Shytle, Mandy Hitchcock and Rosemary Corwin, have been working there since the school was first opened. This is surely a testament to the
school’s values and the hard work everyone puts in to uphold the legacy left behind by Williams. Always moving forward, Schroeder noted that she often turns to fellow faculty member Kelley Caudill, the school’s bookkeeper, who she boasts as “energetic
and a master of all things.” After all, growth is not the responsibility of any single person; A cohesive team can accomplish anything. And the endless pursuit of the team at Ralph Williams Elementary shows that its namesake indeed holds great meaning.
Viera High School team takes third place in Stock Market Challenge
BY MIKE GAFFEY
Four Viera High School students walked away with medals in a recent competition that provided real-world experience that could pay off handsomely for them in the future.
Sophomores Aimee Bernard, Meiline Currie, Preston Hinckley and Luke Tuttle finished third among 50 teams from 10 Brevard County schools competing
in the second Junior Achievement of the Space Coast Stock Market Challenge in November at the Hilton Rialto Melbourne. Their team was the only one from Viera High School to reach the podium.
“It was just a really fun experience, getting to learn everything about investments and skills that I can basically use when I'm older,” said Hinckley, a student in Viera
High’s Academy of Business and Finance. The four-year academic program provides students with skills to compete in the business world.
The two-hour competition tested the students’ abilities as day traders. Each team started with $500,000 in fake money to invest in 30 mock companies. During the fast-paced event in which trading days lasted 60 to 90 seconds, students followed performances on screens, monitored world events, identified trends and made training adjustments. Teams with the largest portfolios at the end of trading won prizes and scholarships.
The Viera team finished with about a 58 percent return on investment, rebounding late from a poor selection, Hinckley said.
“For part of the competition we were first, but we made a bad investment by accidentally putting a ton of money into one company, so we dropped down to seventh,” Hinckley said.
With minutes to go in the competition, Hinckley’s teammate Tuttle suggested that the group invest big in one company.
“We watched the headlines passing on the stock market simulator, and on one of them we noticed that a heat
wave was coming,” Hinckley said. “So we had the great idea of investing in an airconditioning company and that jumped us from about seventh or eighth to third.”
Teams from Heritage High School and Florida Preparatory Academy finished first and second.
VHS Business and Finance Education teacher David Formanek praised his students’ performance as well as Junior Achievement for presenting the event.
"Junior Achievement of the Space Coast provides an incredibly immersive experience when it comes to the annual Stock Market Challenge,” Formanek
stated in an email. “The simulation is high-energy, fast-paced, and my students love how competitive it is. I am extremely proud of my students for achieving third place in this year's competition. They had fun learning all about investing while developing their skills as stock traders. They did an amazing job!"
Despite his team’s success, Hinckley isn’t sure whether he’ll become a stockbroker or what field he’ll pursue in college.
“I'm a little bit up in the air,” he said. “I'm thinking maybe STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics. Maybe law.” VV
VIERA VOICE Courtesy of Ralph Williams Elementary School Students perform during the dedication of Ralph Williams Elementary School in 1999.
VIERA VOICE Courtesy of Ralph Williams Elementary School
Ralph Williams Elementary School was named after Ralph Medicus Williams Jr., who was a passionate educator and held many positions.
VIERA VOICE Courtesy of Viera High School
The Viera High School team of sophomores Luke Tuttle, left, Aimee Bernard, Preston Hinckley and Meilene Currie finished third among 50 teams from 10 Brevard County schools competing in the second Junior Achievement of the Space Coast Stock Market Challenge.
Keke's Breakfast Café comes to Viera
VIERA VOICE REPORT
Keke’s Breakfast Café is coming to Viera later this year.
Keke’s will open at 7171 Lake Andrew Drive, the former location of the Melbourne Seafood Station, which closed last year.
Keke’s location at 1523 W. New Haven Ave. in Melbourne is open from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m.
The company officials said they did not have a firm opening date yet for the opening of the Viera location. VV
Banking on Brevard
Juggling club gets surprising interest at Viera High School
BY CHRIS BONANNO
A group of students formed a juggling club and is practicing its artistry and dexterity at Viera High School.
This new and exciting juggling club for students to enjoy began holding oncampus meetings after school every Tuesday earlier this school year, according to club founder Oliver Connor, a junior at the school.
“It relieves stress and everyone just has so much fun learning and growing.”
— Oliver Connor
“Since middle school, I’ve really been enjoying juggling and I wanted to make a space in Viera High School where anyone can join and learn a new activity that’s good for your brain and hand-eye coordination,” Connor said.
“It relieves stress and everyone just has so much fun learning and growing.”
Connor indicated he was nervous at first to see the response from the campus
community as he was initially putting up advertisements for the club.
“I kind of thought that
everyone was going to think it was stupid and not take it very seriously,” he said. “But I got a surprising amount of students
who weren’t just my friends who showed up. And then as it went on, people were like ‘whoa this is actually really
fun’ and they started bringing in more people. Now the club is kind of close to 14, 15 members which will help me to expand a little bit.”
While juggling is uncommon in Brevard County, there are several juggling clubs listed in Florida.
Connor said those in the club juggle with beanbags, clubs and what he referred to as “Russian juggling balls” along with “scarves” for beginners, which hang in the air for a second.
“Everyone who showed up didn’t know how to juggle, so it’s really interesting being able to teach them how to juggle because everyone approaches it in a different way,” he said.
“Everyone thinks about it with their own mindset, so you kind of have to discover how these people think about these unique problems and think about their skills and then incorporate juggling into that.
“Everyone learns at their own pace and everyone learns in their own way. It's really been a very enjoyable process for me.”
The club is sponsored by Joshua Olson, a teacher at the school. VV
VIERA VOICE Jill Blue
A juggling club, which is new to Viera High School, already has about 15 members.
Fourth Publix in Viera-Suntree area slated for 2026 opening
BY MIKE GAFFEY
Publix Super Markets plans to add its fourth grocery store in the Viera-Suntree area on Murrell Road, just south of Viera Boulevard.
Construction is set to begin in March on a Publix at Viera Promenade at Murrell and Berglund Lane, according to Orlando-based real estate agency Crossman & Co.’s website. The 50,325-square-foot grocery store will anchor the retail plaza, which also will feature a 2,100-square-foot Publix Liquors, two 1,200-square-foot retail units and an
Edited by Margie E. Burke
Each row must contain the numbers 1 to 9; each column must contain the numbers
to
and each set of 3 by 3 boxes must contain the numbers 1 to 9.
(Answer appears elsewhere in this issue)
Solution on page 34
people and is the largest employee-owned company in the U.S.
Charlie Corbeil Youth Art Contest carries on legacy
BY JEFF NAVIN
The legacy of Charlie Corbeil lives on through the Charlie Corbeil Youth Art Contest and Youth Conservation Awards.
Charlotte Corbeil, his widow, started the contest in 2014 to honor her late husband, a nature photographer and Florida Master Naturalist. It encourages children’s art endeavors and promotes and hopes to protect the Ritch Grissom Memorial Wetlands. The event, which is sponsored by Viera Voice, hopes to raise awareness on how to protect Florida wildlife and its natural habitat.
“Charlie would love this,’’ Charlotte Corbeil said. “That was his thing. He wanted to include children and get them involved in conservation at a young age. He was an Eagle Scout and always a conservationist.’’
The Wetlands thrive just west of the end of Wickham Road. Corbeil was one of the original volunteer park rangers at the Wetlands.
“Wherever we lived,
whether it be Connecticut, Ohio, South Carolina or Florida, he was always involved in conservation or preserving land. He really loved the Wetlands. He was out there almost every day to take photos.’’
The contest entry deadline is April 9 and the winners will be announced at a later date. The contest has three categories — Art, Photography and Poetry. The age range is from kindergarten to 12th grade. Art can consist of painting, drawing or taking photographs of wildlife.
Photography is taking photos of Florida wildlife. Poetry emphasizes creative writing about wildlife or conservation.
Corbeil collaborated on a nature column with his wife for Viera Voice before he died in November 2013.
Approximately $750 in prizes will be given out to the young student artists. First-, second- and third-place awards will be allocated in each category and age group.
For contest rules and additional information, go to vieravoice.com VV
VIERA VOICE Jill Blue
The winners of the 2024 Charlie Corbeil Youth Art Contest show off their artwork.
Heritage, special training, experience — creates authentic pizza
BY BETTY PORTER
Enrico Botta learned the art of pizza making from Neapolitan craftsmen, the specialty of Italian bakery from his late father, Rocco Botta, and business from his own experience.
He put his experience, his passion and his knowledge to work in starting Botta Neapolitan Pizzeria along with three partners.
Botta Neapolitan Pizzeria, located in Addison Square at 7600 Lake Andrew Drive in Viera, opened its doors to the public on Jan. 11. The opening date was planned to coincide with his late father Rocco Botta’s birthday. His father, who died a year ago, was born in Naples, Italy and immigrated to the U.S. and in 1970 opened a bakery in Boston.
Enrico Botta, now 43, grew up working in the bakery that made Italian specialty dessert items which were distributed by Whole Foods and Trader Joes. After 10 years of working for his father, Botta bought the business and operated it for six years before selling it.
More than a year ago, Botta’s cousin, Erik Costin, who is a builder in Viera, told him about an opportunity to open a pizzeria in a new plaza he was building. Botta took the idea and enrolled in a school in Naples, Italy called Associazione Verace Pizza Napoletana. He spent two months there and said he gained an appreciation for the art and a respect for
the authenticity of all the ingredients, which is why he imports them from Italy.
The pizza flour is imported as are the whole tomatoes which his prep staff hand crushes to make the pizza sauce. The pizzas are cooked at up to 900 degrees Fahrenheit (480 Celsius) in an Italforni pizza oven.
The pizzeria’s ninefoot by 9-foot dough room keeps the various types of fermented dough at a temperature between 68 and 70 degrees.
Botta’s menu offers two styles of pizza crust, soft and airy, called Pizza Napoletana and light and crispy, called Pinsa Romana.
“We pride ourselves on making our pizza truly authentic and all of our menu items fresh,” Botta said, as he explained that the farm fresh ingredients for the salad offerings come from 32 local farmers' produce. Salad dressings include homemade Caesar and lemon vinaigrette, which is the house dressing.
Wine and imported artisan bottled beers are available, as well as Italian coffees and non-alcoholic beverages.
On the Bakery Bar are classic Italian pastries — cannoli, chocolate eclair, Tiramisu and Italian cookies — made fresh daily with house-made creams and 40-year-old family recipes.
“Our decadent, soft and chewy chocolate chunk cookies are a big hit,” Botta said. “So is Affogato, our house vanilla or pistachio
gelato and Italian Espresso.”
Botta Neapolitan Pizza has 1,757 square feet inside and seats 40 people in addition to an 833-square-foot outside patio that seats 30. While Botta was in Naples learning to make the pizza, he toured pizzerias there for structural ideas. On hand for the ribbon cutting were Costin and part owner Lori DiSciullo of Satellite Beach. Also present were Botta’s mother, Denise Botta, and his two sisters, Marissa Botta and Gina Oliver,
and their families, who all flew in from Boston. Botta’s wife Mariana and their three children — daughters Taylor and Riley and son Rocco — and the restaurant's 13 employees also celebrated the opening.
The restaurant hours are 4 to 9 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday; 4 to 10 p.m. Friday and Saturday; and 4 to 9 p.m. Sunday. It is closed on Monday.
To contact Botta, visit bottapizzeria.com or call 321-421-7722. VV
VIERA VOICE Jill Blue
Enrico Botta, family members, some from out of town, and business partners, prepare to cut the ribbon to open Botta Neapolitan Pizzeria. Botta was immediately busy after the ribbon cutting making pizzas.
VIERA VOICE
Courtesy of Enrico Botta
Enrico Botta planned the restaurant's opening to coincide with the birthday of his late father Rocco Botta, left, in this family photo taken two years ago.
HOA: Spectrum deal will raise nearly $3M for Suntree
BY MIKE GAFFEY
An agreement with cable and internet provider Spectrum is expected to produce nearly $3 million in revenue for the Suntree area spanning 10 years, the Suntree Master Homeowners Association Board of Directors explained in a January online notice to residents.
The association already has received about $1.5 million of about $2.9 million expected from Spectrum as part of a non-bulk services agreement worked out between the SMHA and Spectrum in May 2024, the board stated in a Jan. 7 email to homeowners.
Prior to the Spectrum deal, SMHA had been contracted in a similar agreement with AT&T.
“Thanks to the diligence of
the volunteers and staff, SMHA was able to enter into a more favorable deal with Spectrum for the next 10 years (2024 to 2034),” the board stated.
During the next decade, “we will be on the receiving end of a revenue sharing agreement for all Spectrum customers in the Suntree community that should be an additional, approximately $45,000 paid quarterly (approximately $1.4 million total),” board members stated.
The online notice was meant to clear up any confusion that homeowners might have about the deal, the board explained.
“Many of our homeowners have asked, ‘Why is Spectrum giving us money?’ ” board members stated, noting the board worked with a national consulting group to develop the contract.
VIERA VOICE Mike Gaffey
A combination tennis-pickleball court at Jack Mahon Park, north of the park’s pavilion, has been closed permanently since December due to non-compliance with Brevard County Code Enforcement
Board members stated that Nick Rommer, the board’s
consultant from Telecom National Consulting Group, explained that “Spectrum paid the Association this money for two reasons. They don’t want you to engage in a bulk contract with any other provider (because that would cause a severe blow to the millions of dollars they (make) off of the community). They also don’t want the community marketing any other competitors, like allowing AT&T to put up signs throughout the community, or putting brochures in the clubhouse.”
“In your case, you all weren’t planning on engaging in a bulk contract with any competitors nor were you doing any marketing activities, so this doesn’t impact you in any way,” board members stated. “It just so happens that it is worth a lot to Spectrum to know they can continue to offer retail service to all the residents here and they are not at risk of losing 4,300 units to a bulk contract in the next nine years. They have lost some large communities to other providers via exclusive bulk deals, so they want to do whatever it takes to preserve market share.”
Board members noted that “Access Rights are valuable
and you all took full advantage of that. As a result, everyone in the community will benefit. The fact that people are having too good to be true sentiments is a compliment, a testament that the board got … full value on this negotiation. “
Currently, the board’s Finance Committee is evaluating the current reserve requirements to determine available budgets, board members stated. The SMHA’s Community Relations Committee also is working to implement a Community Survey to gain residents’ priorities for future budget planning of additional amenities.
Residents with additional questions can e-mail questions to frontdesk@suntreeflorida. com. The Finance Committee will review the questions and provide answers on the residents’ website at suntreeflorida.com
“We hope that this additional clarity around our community’s agreement with Spectrum has provided the information our residents have requested and the transparency that is deserved,” the board stated.
Meanwhile, a combination tennis-pickleball court at Jack Mahon Park, north of the park’s pavilion, has been closed permanently since December due to noncompliance with Brevard County Code Enforcement.
Richard Denza, the former SMHA vice president, said in late 2024 that the court was closed because of noise violations and its proximity to nearby houses.
Denza said Brevard County officials will decide what to do with the court, which was built in 2017. Its closing has divided residents, he added.
“You got a lot of people who like pickleball and they're upset because it's closed,” Denza said, “And, you have neighbors who have lived there and they're upset because of all the noise.” VV
Proposal ponders replacing sand with mulch at Interlachen Park
BY MIKE GAFFEY
So long, sand.
Suntree Interlachen Park will have its sand replaced by mulch as part of several improvements planned by the Suntree Master Homeowners Association.
Known as Sand Park for years, the five-acre, lakeside park at 490 Interlachen Road is a favorite spot for children and families for its playground area with a sandcovered surface that turns the play area into a giant sandbox.
However, the sand had become “problematic as of late” due to cleanliness issues and vandalism in the park’s bathrooms, the association stated in a Jan. 23 post at its website.
“Sand is being poured down the various drains and causing the bathrooms to be permanently closed due to the massive clogs,” according to the announcement.
The Suntree Master Homeowners Association board of directors proposed replacing the sand with Engineered Wood Fibers, more commonly referred to as mulch.
“This will be consistent with the playground area at Jack Mahon Park” on Spyglass Hill Road, according to the post. “EWF is the most recommended and most economical of the ground coverage
A final discussion and deciding vote will take place Feb. 3 to decide whether Interlachen Park will replace its
choices we have reviewed.”
In addition to switching to mulch, the association plans to replace the park pavilion’s old roof, gutters and security cameras and repair the bathrooms.
“Overall, we consider this project to be a major upgrade for Interlachen Park,” the association stated.
A final discussion and deciding vote will occur at a SMHA board meeting at 7 p.m. Monday, Feb. 3 at the association’s office at 7550 Spyglass Hill Road. The meeting is open to the public. Homeowners can voice their opinions ahead of the vote. Those who can’t attend or are unable to follow the association’s Zoom link, can email their comments to frontdesk@ suntreeflorida.com VV
VIERA VOICE Mike Gaffey
sand with mulch.
Gastropalooza’s culinary challenge set to deliver delicious tastes
BY MARIA SONNENBERG
The contenders are pumped for a fight. They’re ready for action, with chef’s coats and toque on. This is Gastropalooza, Viera’s annual rite of cuisine.
Come 5:30 p.m. Friday, Feb. 21, chef Mike Price of 28 North Gastropub will pit his culinary acumen against the skills of chef Adam Walkover of Gordon Food Service.
It’s not the first time for the chefs to face each other while creating appetizers, main entrées and desserts. But, for Price this year, it provides a chance to regain his title as Gastropalooza champion.
“I’m super excited to represent 28 North Gastropub and our Local Latitude,” Price said.
With a Southern theme for 2025, attendees should expect unexpected variations of traditional Dixie cuisine. The chefs will be judged on innovation, creative presentation and taste.
“Chef Adam better bring his Southern Heat!” Price added.
In this iteration of the face off, The Avenue Viera’s Central Park serves as the arena. Eighteen judges, two chefs and three rounds will determine the one winner of this heated competition. But, the winners also are the foodies who snag the 500 available tickets.
Attendees of Gastropaloozas of yore will see a different format for 2025. Last year, more than 1,000 attended the event, making for long food lines.
This February, on the other hand, Gastropalooza V tickets are capped at 500, which should make for ample opportunities to graze abundantly.
In addition to viewing the culinary challenge, guests will have unlimited opportunities to sample sweet and savory gourmet bites from food service
distributors Gordon Foods, Cheney Brothers, Sysco and U.S. Foods, as well as drinks provided by more than a dozen regional and national breweries and wineries.
Local musical group favorite Hot Pink will perform so guests can groove to the tunes while relishing the flavors. The party runs until 9:30 p.m.
“We’re definitely focusing on quality,” 28 North Gastropub owner Chris Conneen said. Tickets are $100. Proceeds will benefit three nonprofits: The Children’s Hunger Project, which provides weekend food for children at risk of hunger; Hospitality
Life, an organization that facilitates vital resources to employees in the hospitality industry; and Giving Kitchen, which offers emergency assistance to foodservice workers. For Gastropalooza V tickets or for information, go to 28northgastropub.com VV
VIERA VOICE Jill Blue Reigning champion Chef Adam Walkover hopes to repeat.
VIERA VOICE Courtesy of 28 North Gastropub Chef Mike Price will represent 28 North Gastopub.
Viera Cookbook
Pink Delight
BY ELAINE MOODY
The month of February is known for being all about love and Valentine’s Day. So, I’ll share a recipe with you that my father passed down to me. He always enjoyed taking it to potluck dinners. It’s made with lots of fruit and other delicious ingredients and is an easy, yet festive, dish to make. If you happen to be attending a Valentine’s tea or other event this month, you might want to consider sharing this Pink Delight.
I try to cut calories whenever I can, so with this recipe I use low fat ingredients and canned fruits packed in natural juice rather than heavy syrup.
20 oz. canned crushed pineapple/drained
15 oz. canned fruit cocktail/drained
1 large package strawberry Jello
8 oz. sour cream
24 oz. container low fat small curd cottage cheese
8 oz. container whipped topping (cool whip or store brand)
2/3 cup shredded coconut
12 large fresh strawberries (10 diced and two sliced)
Begin by draining the juice from the canned pineapple and fruit cocktail (the juice can be saved for other uses). Place fruit in a large mixing bowl, then add 10 fresh diced strawberries and 2/3 cup shredded coconut and mix together.
Next, add the cottage cheese, sour cream, whipped topping and ¾ package of dry Jello mix into the bowl with fruit and gently fold together. Make sure it’s well blended. Once everything is mixed together, pour into your favorite serving bowl or individual dishes and sprinkle with the remaining dry Jello mix and garnish with sliced strawberries.
Chill for at least two hours before serving.
Enjoy!
Experienced team brings stone-fired pizza, Italian fare to Viera
BY MIKE GAFFEY
Joel and Rebecca Mills opened a popular pizza-bythe-slice restaurant in 2000 in Gainesville to feed hungry University of Florida students and faculty.
Now it’s the Space Coast’s turn to enjoy Joel Mills’ tasty pizza and Italian dishes with the Jan. 13 grand opening of the 14th Piesanos Stone Fired Pizza restaurant in Florida.
“We take pride in making all our sauces in house. Our dough is rolled every single day. Our rolls are made every single day. It’s authentic Italian food ... ”
—
J.J.
Kruesel, Piesanos
general manager
“We got an opportunity to come look at this location and we decided that it looked like a great area,” co-owner Mills said of the decision to open the 5,600-square-foot restaurant at 7655 Stadium Parkway, a few doors south of Publix in Addison Center
at Viera. “It’s growing fast and we really liked the opportunity, so we wanted to come here and be part of the community.”
A Staten Island native, Mills moved to Florida in 1994 to hone his cooking skills. The Mills later relocated to Gainesville and opened Italian Gator Pizza By the Slice. Working with full-service restaurateurs
Mike and Melissa Akey and Laure Young, the team unveiled the first Piesanos in 2009 in Gainesville. Mills and Jerry Roberts are coowners of the pizzeria chain.
Guests at the 110employee Viera venue can enjoy a variety of gourmet specialty pizzas and stuffed calzones, prepared in a unique granite stone-fired oven. Piesanos also offers pasta dishes, sides, subs, soups, salads, stone-based breads, desserts, a kids menu, appetizers, a full bar, beer and wine. Dine-in meals come with baked Paisanos rolls.
“A lot of people say there’s nothing like Piesanos in this area,” said Viera resident J.J. Kruesel, the restaurant’s general manager. “We take pride in making all our sauces in house. Our dough is rolled every single day. Our rolls are made every single day. It’s
authentic Italian food and we have a vast variety of dishes for peoples’ taste buds.”
The 170-seat restaurant has indoor and outdoor seating, express take-out, online ordering and catering packages.
Hours are 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and 11 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday.
During opening day festivities that included a ceremonial ribbon cutting, Piesanos also presented a check for $2,150 to Space Coast Habitat for Humanity.
“We’re excited and happy to be in Viera,” Mills said.
For more information, call 321-429-0229 or visit piesanostogo.com VV
VIERA VOICE Jill Blue
Everyone was smiling as Piesanos cut the ribbon to open its new store.
VIERA VOICE Jill Blue
Fresh hot pizza and other Italian staples are featured at Piesanos.
VIERA VOICE Jill Blues
During its opening day, Piesanos presented a check for $2,150 to the Space Coast Habitat for Humanity.
VIERA MEANS BUSINESS
For an invitation to the February VMB meeting, call 321-242-1235.
In January, the Viera Means Business networking group met at RISE 55+ Active Living Community for a gourmet breakfast and coffee.
The Viera Means Business networking group meets at 8 a.m. the second Thursday of each month at various locations. Join business colleagues in Viera and the surrounding area to network.
VIERA MEANS BUSINESS
Erikka Williams, Jordan O’Daniel, Jamie Lynn Wannamaker, Rese Garson
Taylor Gushue, Riki Montgomery, Sara McCoy, Josh McCoy
Mary Keen, Kim Weatherby, Michelle Wiley
Angie Higgins, Amanda Walker Curtis Stolaas, Liz Taylor, Stacie Martin, Denise Bergman
Jeff Law, James Moore, Char Good, Tina McCain, Brian Dillon
Amanda Walker, Deidra Shubert, Jurry Om, Samantha Blake
Dina Jackson, Angela Mira Christian Vargas, Miguel Salgado Anjanette Wicks, Cartama Ramos Crafton, Suzanne Witenhafer
Happy February
Indiafest Color Run 3K
8 a.m. The Color Run is designed to promote health and fitness in the community while showcasing the colorful Holi festival of India.
Holy Trinity 5625 Holy Trinity Drive Suntree indiafestbrevard.org
Eating for a Healthy Heart 1 p.m. Learn which foods are bad and which protect your heart.
One Senior Place 8085 Spyglass Hill Road Viera, 321-751-6771
Neighbors “Coffee and Conversation” 9:30 a.m. - noon
Suntree/Viera Library 902 Jordan Blass Drive Suntree, 321-255-4404
Toddler Tuesday 9:30 - 10:30 a.m. Nature-based story time paired with a themed craft activity for toddlers, ages 2 to 5 years old.
Rockledge Gardens 2153 US Highway 1 Rockledge 321-636-7662
How to Right-Size 4 p.m. Join local experts and discover tips for organizing and downsizing. Shell Harbor 2855 Murrell Road Rockledge 321-252-1221
Helpful Pharmacy Tips for Seniors 1 - 2 p.m. An insightful workshop with pharmacist Jason Zealy. RSVP. The Brennity 7300 Watersong Lane Viera, 321-253-7440
World Showcase Festival 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. Presented by the Holy Trinity National French Honor Society. Live music and artistic performance, cultural learning booths with traditions and history. Holy Trinity Episcopal Academy 5625 Holy Trinity Drive Suntree, 321-723-8323
Brevard’s Children and Families in Need Designer Purse Bingo 5:30 p.m. Play bingo with a twist for a chance to win a designer purse. Space Coast Association of Realtors 2950 Pineda Plaza Way Palm Shores 321-242-2211
Viera, Facebook.com/ VEFarmersmarket
Okapi Klip Kloppy 3K Run/Walk 7:30 a.m.
Brevard Zoo 8225 N. Wickham Road Viera, runsignup.com
9101112131415
Sunset in the Hollows
3:30 - 5:30 p.m.
Enjoy 2 miles of interpretative trails about the Gopher tortoises and all the wildlife and native plants of Florida. Hundred Acres Hollows 1170 Rock Springs Drive Suntree, hundredacrehollows.org
Scottish Country Dancing
6:30 - 9:30 p.m. Springs of Suntree 8300 Holiday Springs Road Suntree 321-427-3587
Early Bird Trivia
4 - 6 p.m. Free to play.
Pizza Gallery 2250 Town Center Ave. Viera, 321-633-0397
Tuesday Morning Pickleball
8 - 10 a.m. - level 2.5 and up 10 a.m. - noon - beginner McLarty Park 790 Barton Blvd. Rockledge, 321-633-1870
AARP Free Tax Prep
9 a.m. - 1 p.m.
All counselors are IRS certified. All returns are verified for accuracy by a second certified counselor. RSVP required. One Senior Place 8085 Spyglass Hill Road Viera, 321-751-6771
Becoming Us Live 6:30 - 9:30 p.m. The Enneagram, the Gospel and your Marriage. A workshop for couples, dating or married. Church at Viera 9005 N. Wickham Road Viera, 321-259-3454
Senior Life's Senior Expo & Valentine's Party
9 a.m. - 1 p.m.
Exhibitors, music, vow renewals and flowers for the ladies. Nyami Nyami River Lodge 8225 N. Wickham Road Viera, 321-242-1235
Splash 2025 Feb 15 and Feb. 16
Brevard’s largest display and sale of original watercolor paintings. AZAN Shriners Center 1591 W. Eau Gallie Blvd. Melbourne 321-259-5302
16171819202122
Chess Club
1 - 4 p.m.
Chess lessons and competition in a very casual, friendly, informal atmosphere.
Cocoa Library
308 Forrest Ave. Cocoa, 321-633-1792
The Haven Golf Challenge Tournament
7 a.m. Benefit for The Haven for Children. Tournament and reception featuring awards, prizes and lunch. Duran Golf Club 7032 Stadium Parkway Viera, 321-537-4279
Estate Planning Seminar 10 - 11 a.m. Presented by William A.
Johnson, board certified elder law attorney. RSVP required. One Senior Place 8085 Spyglass Hill Road Viera, 321-571-6771
Our Diamond Anniversary Concert Feb. 19 and Feb. 20
7 p.m.
Melbourne Municipal Band is celebrating 60 years of music.
Melbourne Auditorium 625 E. Hibiscus Blvd. Melbourne 321-724-0555
Travel Presentation 11 a.m. Collette Escorted Tours will present and take reservations for trips to Northern Italy and Thailand. RSVP by Feb. 17. Martin Andersen Senior Center 1025 Florida Ave. S. Rockledge, 32-631-8080
Gastropalooza V 5:30 - 9:30 p.m.
Food, music and a chef showdown. 28 North Gastropub 2250 Town Center Ave. Viera, 321-241-1159
232425262728
Car Show
8 - 10:30 a.m.
Ford’s Garage 5480 Lake Andrew Drive Viera, 201-658-2004
BSO Free Family Concert
2 - 3 p.m. Lights, Camera, Symphony! King Center 3865 N. Wickham Road
Alura Classic Car Show 10 a.m.
Classic car show and live music and food trucks. Alura Senior Living 777 Roy Wall Blvd. Rockledge, 321-549-3980
Art exhibition honors legacy of Mari Conneen
BY MARIA SONNENBERG
Mari Conneen
delighted in depicting the natural world from her unique perspective.
In a career that spanned half a century, Conneen celebrated the plant world through delicately wrought and masterfully composed watercolors.
“Nature inspired my mom,” said her son, Chris Conneen. Conneen, who lost her life to dementia Jan. 10, enjoyed significant acclaim in her long career. She also bestowed her sons with instinctual appreciation for art.
“My own creativity was influenced by her,” said Chris Conneen.
Conneen explains that his Pizza Gallery & Grill is a fully functional art gallery that happens to have a pizzeria embedded within. Since he opened his restaurant more than 35 years ago, Conneen has kept his mother’s works, along with the works of the Great Masters, adorning at least one of the tabletops. And, at least one of her paintings was always on display.
Beginning Jan. 23, the walls of the restaurant belong to Mari Conneen as Chris celebrates his mom’s legacy through a one-woman show that includes pieces in private collections.
“We own several of her pieces that will be in the show, two vibrant tropical plant sketches, one more subtle but detailed sea oat and the fourth is a very personal custom piece she did on commission for my mom to gift to my dad many years ago,” Alex Rudloff said.
“We were grateful when my parents gifted them to us to hang in our new home 10 years ago. She was a beautiful artist and these pieces have become family heirlooms that we cherish, but we are excited to share them with the community.”
The show will run through most of February. Conneen exhibited widely throughout the nation. A member of the National Watercolor Society, she was no stranger to awards at arts shows and competitions. Locally, she exhibited at the Fifth Avenue Art Gallery, at the J. Lawrence Gallery and at Art Expressions.
In lieu of flowers, Conneen’s family said she would have appreciated a donation to the new Brevard Aquarium. Emma Reynolds, the director of philanthropy at the Brevard Zoo, posted encouragement to “help us honor the memory of Mari Conneen by supporting Brevard Zoo’s future Bowen Aquarium and the Dr. Duane De Freese Coastal Conservation Hub.
“This transformational project will inspire a love for marine life, advance coastal conservation, and leave a lasting impact on our planet — values Mari deeply cherished. Your donation
will celebrate her legacy and contribute to protecting our waterways for generations to come.’’
Check out bit.ly/ InLovingMemoryof MariConneen to make a meaningful gift in her memory.”
A Celebration of Life is
planned from 3 to 5 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 2 at Pizza Gallery & Grill at 2250 Town Center Ave, Suite 113 at The Avenue Viera.
The show also honors family caretakers who, like Chris Conneen’s father, Joe Conneen, lovingly help their loved ones enjoy the last
chapter of their lives despite the heartache of dementia.
“This tribute honors her talents and gifts, and also recognizes the caretakers,” Chris Conneen said.
For more information on the Mari Conneen exhibition at Pizza Gallery & Grill, call 321-633-0397. VV
VIERA VOICE Jill Blue
A month-long art exhibition at Pizza Gallery pays tribute to the talents of the late Mari Conneen.
Mari Conneen
SENIORNews
Edited by Margie E. Burke
Veteran serves community, performs at presidential inauguration
BY ERNIE DORLING
In 1977, the Steve Miller Band released its hit single “Fly Like an Eagle.” That same year, Bridgewater resident Charles Betz (Chuck to his friends) joined the Marine Corps under the Marine’s delayed enlistment program.
“I was 17 and between my junior and senior year in high school,” Betz said. “I knew from when I was 5 years old that I would join the military. As I grew older, I became more interested in the Marine Corps. They had a reputation for being the best and I wanted that challenge.”
Betz grew up on a small farm in Alliance, Ohio. After completing boot camp, Betz was assigned as a combat correspondent.
“My most challenging and rewarding assignment in the Marine Corps was from 1987 to 1989 when I was a drill instructor at Parris Island, South Carolina,” he said. “It was during that assignment when I was able to help mold young men into being Marines.”
Betz left active duty in 1991, returned to Ohio and became a police officer, rising to the rank of detective. He also joined the Marine Corps Reserve, serving with an infantry and weapons unit. He eventually retired as a Gunnery Sergeant in 2003.
South Carolina,” he said. “She was shot in the line of duty and medically retired. That’s when we decided it was time to really retire.”
Since moving to Viera, Betz has become the Senior Vice Commandant of the Brevard Marine Corps League.
“The Marine Corps League engages in activities that aid the community, such as the Marine Corps Toys for Tots drive,” Betz said.
(Answer appears elsewhere in this issue) 2 7 9 4 8 1 7 3 4 9 3 6 4 5 8 2
Betz met his wife while both were police officers in Ohio and eventually decided they wanted to move south to a warmer climate. After a short stop in South Carolina, they decided they wanted
even warmer weather, eventually settling in Viera.
“My wife had landed a job as a deputy sheriff in
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Each row must contain the numbers 1 to 9; each column must contain the numbers 1 to 9; and each set of 3 by 3 boxes must contain the numbers 1 to 9.
“This year, we raised over 500 toys for needy families. Our Military Order of the Devil Dogs Pound 273 raises money for Children’s Hospitals and provides supplies and food to the Brevard County Animal Shelter. I am also
the Color Guard/Honor Guard Commander for the League. We provide services throughout Brevard County and at the Cape Canaveral National Cemetery.”
Betz is also a member of the Brevard Police and Fire Pipes and Drums, where he plays the bass drum.
“We were invited to play at the inauguration of President Trump,” Betz said. “It was an honor for us to be a part of this.”
In the song “Fly Like an Eagle,” a verse goes, “Feed the babies who don’t have enough to eat; shoe the children with no shoes on their feet; house to people livin’ in the street; Oh, there’s a solution.” Charles Betz has made sure he’s part of the solution. This Marine is Flying like an Eagle. VV
VIERA VOICE Courtesy of Charles Betz
Charles “Chuck” Betz is the Senior Vice Commandant of the Brevard Marine Corps League and makes sure he is part of the solution helping those in need.
Unique recycling programs help everyone worldwide
Soap and breastfeeding pumps: What could they have in common?
Waste is everywhere. Whatever we do, despite lean manufacturing principles and all, no matter how tight the operation we run, there will be some waste generated. The difference lies in how that waste is handled.
Unlike nature, where the leftover created by a process is naturally fed into another process as raw material, human processes do produce waste — oftentimes very difficult to handle and discard.
An example of that is the innocuous bar of soap in the hospitality industry. For every hotel room booked, a number of bars of soap will be handed out to guests. Considering that annually more than 1.2
million rooms are booked in the U.S. alone and that there are about 17.5 million guest rooms in the world, the amount of soap discarded at the end of a stay can quickly add up.
Clean the World (cleantheworld.org) identified the problem and saw an opportunity to help people without access to hygiene products for proper self care. That is when a recycling program for used soap was created. Since 2009, they have partnered with hotels to
recycle 18.6 million pounds of soap and donated 87 million bars of recycled soap to communities in need across the globe.
What an inspiring way to transform waste into a resource and have a problem become a solution!
In the same spirit, Brevardian Laene Keith, an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant affiliated with The 321 Nest and Mother’s Milk Bank of Florida (milkbankofflorida.org), saw an opportunity within her group to help curb some of the waste generated by the breastfeeding process.
According to La Leche League, an estimated three million breast pumps are obtained each year, which corresponds to about 16.5
million pounds of potential electronic waste going to the landfill when not recycled.
Laene is organizing a Pump Recycling and Donor Milk Drive event on Merritt Island from 9 to 11 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 8 at The 321 Nest on Merritt Island (360 Tangerine Avenue). She will collect previously used pump equipment for recycling. Recycle Brevard will help to recycle the pumps through its electronics recycling program.
At the event, Laene will also accept the donation of breast milk from Milk Bank of Florida qualified donors that will go to help medically fragile babies.
It is reassuring to learn that there are organizations able to help to reduce the impact of that waste through
their unique recycling programs and make a positive out of a negative. We just need to become aware that they exist — and Recycle Brevard is one of them.
While relaxing in a hotel or nursing a baby, the last thing probably on someone’s mind is the waste that each activity generates. But, oddly enough, they can both be dealt with in a responsible and sustainable way. Soap and pumps, after all, have more in common than one might think. VV
Email Marcia Booth at Marcia@RecycleBrevard.org Recycle Brevard is an independent nonprofit organization 100% run by volunteers focused on reducing waste and promoting sustainable living. VV
Liberty Bell Museum honors local philanthropists with Patriot Awards
Several local philanthropists will be honored when the Liberty Bell Museum conducts its Patriot Awards Dinner at 6 p.m. Feb. 27 at the Grand Manor on 1450 Sarno Road in Melbourne.
Joel Freeland and Alex Gregoire will be honored as Young Patriot Award winners.
Tickets are available by email at honoramericafl@ gmailcom or by calling 321-373-2311.
The Liberty Bell Museum
John Casey, Brian Jensen, Mark Pieloch, Dean Schaaf and Rose Yeary will receive Patriot Awards for their service to the community.
is located at 1601 Oak Street in Melbourne. It has a full-size replica of the Liberty Bell cast in 1976 by the same foundry that made the original bell in 1752. VV
VIERA VOICE
The Liberty Bell's Patriot Awards Dinner will be held Feb. 27.
When veterinary care is unavailable or unaffordable, ask for Happy Jack ToneKote supplement for dogs' and cats' dull, dry coats. Amber Acres Feed ~ 321-632-3333
No
If
rewarding, lowstress opportunity you’ve been looking for. Viera, FL 32940 ~ Call 321-253-6336
Buy 1 Get 10% OFF or Buy 2 Get 20% OFF Plus FREE Installation Get 10% off any order of $1,000 or more. 20% off two or more Closets or Garage Centers of $3,000 or more. Not valid with any other offer. Expires Feb. 28, 2025