Viera Voice, Feb. 2022 by Viera Voice • Senior Life • Boomer Guide

Fate brings couple together

Celebrating 15 wonderful years, Page 4

Gearing up for Gastropalooza Page 31

Page 2

Couples share their love stories for Valentine's Day page 4

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February 2022

Vol. 16 Issue 1

Suntree resident Chris Horn plays paintball for the Tampa Bay Damage, who will begin their season March 11 in Kissimmee. Story, page 8.

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Formed in love overseas, family settles in Suntree BY WENDY SCHEURING Barry and Stefania Walton’s love story was as improbable as it gets. “We have a romantic story,” Barry Walton explained about how he met his wife, Stefania, an Italian national, on a beach in Costa Rica. “I’m going to come visit you in Italy,” he told her. She laughed in disbelief. One month later, Barry Walton was on a plane heading to Italy. “We spent the week in Tuscany,” he said. “We were looking at a field of sunflowers, drinking wine and eating cheese, watching the railway go by.” The two fell madly in love. “What if I move to Italy,” he asked her? At the time, Barry Walton had been spending much of his time surfing and working in the film industry in California, producing well-known shows for networks such as Animal Planet and National Geographic. When he moved to Italy, he started working on a film and also a documentary. To make ends meet, he also taught English. The couple married in a historic, 1,500-year-old church near the Coliseum in Rome. Barry Walton still longed to do more than teach English, so the couple moved to New York 11 years ago. Barry found work and Stefania, a personal trainer,

Featured Family1

Stefania and Barry Walton love the lifestyle of Suntree. Their son, David, attends Wade Christian Academy.

worked in that capacity. “It was a culture shock (moving to the U.S.) because everything in Italy is different. It’s a different system. Different food,” she said. “Family values are completely different here. In Italy, we are all together and there are very few

divorces. You are with your husband forever. “One hundred percent, I miss the food,” Stefania Walton added. “I like to make good food. Especially lasagna.” It also was tough leaving her family behind. “I have a very good relationship with

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my mom. I call her once or twice a day. After 10 years, we are still as close as we were before.” After living in New York, the couple then moved to Rochester Hills, in the metro Detroit area, to be near Barry’s family. There, he started his own business,

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Cold winter after cold winter, the couple decided it was time to move south. Stefania had friends in the Italian community here and Barry also had a client here. So, the Waltons made the move to Suntree 1½ years ago and have not looked back since. “It is a warm community. People are friendly here,” Barry Walton said. “We instantly fell in love with this area. The ease and access to The Avenue Viera. It is awesome hanging out by the water fountain. It’s very European and my wife loves that.” Stefania Walton works as an instructional assistant at Rockledge High School. The couple have an 8-yearold son, David, who attends Wade Christian Academy, and a dog named Luna. “He has made a lot of friends here,” said Barry Walton of his son, who loves basketball. Barry Walton enjoys surfing and sailing, which makes Brevard County attractive. “The surfers here are so much more friendly and more welcoming and much more polite,” he said. “It’s the endless summer theme here in Florida.” The family enjoys going to the beach together and likes to walk Brevard Zoo’s Linear Trail. “It’s a feeling of rugged Florida,” Barry Walton said. “You can also see the star formations here at night; the skies are so clear.” “There are so many reasons to be grateful for living in this area. I feel like I’m a winner here.” Said Stefania Walton: “I’m so impressed with how clean Suntree is. The streets are clean. Everything is well-maintained. Lovely palm trees. I just love this area. Every time I go running, all the people wave at me and say good morning.” V V

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Publisher Bluewater Creative Group, Inc. Managing Editor Jill Blue Assignment Editor R. Norman Moody Office Manager Sylvia Montes Art Director Adam Palumbo Copy Editor Jeff Navin Sports Writer/SportsBlog Carl Kotala Writers/Reporters Ernest Arico Brenda Eggert Brader Mike Gaffey Nanette Hebdige Linda Jump Betty Porter Wendy Scheuring Maria Sonnenberg VIERA MEANS George White

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Also in 2007, Jill Blue, publisher for Bluewater Fifteen years ago, Apple Creative Group launched Viera Voice, a free newspaper co-founder Steve Jobs unveiled the first iPhone, N the for Viera and Suntree, A S BU E S U.S. housing bubble burst distributed monthly through M and NASA launched the direct mail and in racks at Phoenix Mars Lander. local businesses, restaurants VIERA MEANS BUSINESS NETWORKING GROUP

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Viera Voice celebrates 15 years and schools. “We’ve seen a lot of growth,” Blue said. “It’s an ever-changing, beautiful community where our readers have become our friends.” The idea for a Viera and

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Suntree paper came 10 years after Blue started Senior Life, a monthly niche newspaper for 55-and-older readers. It operated out of a one-room office condo in Viera. “As soon as I moved in, the business owner of the office condo, Rob Dale, stepped into the office and said, ‘Where’s our Viera paper?’ ” Blue recalled. “Three months later, Viera Voice was being delivered to homes in the Viera and Suntree area.” “I knew I had to be hyperlocal and go direct mail to be different and be the community paper, even though it was quite the investment,” she said. “I wanted every resident to get the news. So, we started at 10,000 (copies) and now we print 24,000.” It was fun from the start.

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ANNIVERSARY

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“Our first front cover featured a photo of students at Manatee Elementary making Valentine’s (Day) cards for seniors,’’ Blue said. “We were emotionally connected to the community beginning with that first issue.’’ Lolly Walton, a Viera artist who paints with wine, was featured in that first issue. “Lolly and I are still friends to this day,’’ Blue said. “She’s a wonderful person, artist and even a better friend. She’s always a blast of energy and she makes everybody laugh. Lolly has an infectious personality. Making friends like this is why we do what we do.’’ Today, Viera Voice operates out of an office at 7350 Shoppes Drive, No. 102 in Viera and has a staff of more than 25. Blue attributes the newspaper’s longevity to “being a very hyperlocal, community niche paper where a lot of us live and work.” Some of Blue’s fondest memories through 15 years of publishing Viera Voice include “seeing the community grow,

meeting people who remember what Viera was like when we had cows and fields of farmland, and seeing young students who worked for us grow up and be successful in their fields of study.” Well-wishers congratulated Viera Voice for the milestone. “The Viera Company is honored to recognize Viera Voice for its 15th birthday,” Eva M. Rey, Vice President, Community Management & Communications with The Viera Company, said in a statement. “Community newspapers like the Viera Voice are vitally important to active and thriving communities such as Viera. As Viera has grown and developed over the years, Viera Voice has been with us, side-byside, celebrating our successes, reporting the news, engaging with residents and businesses, and playing a vital communication role for our area. Congratulations to Jill Blue and Viera Voice on their incredible journey to 15! We wish you the very best for the next 15!” V V

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p u p a SPORTSWr

As winter sports begin playoffs, spring sports kick into high gear BY CARL KOTALA

It’s a good time to be a local high school sports fan. As fall sports are entering their postseason, spring sports are just getting started. In other words, there will be plenty of action this month in a variety of different sports. District soccer tournaments were set to begin in the final week of January, while district basketball for both Viera High School and Holy Trinity are set to open as early as Feb. 8. In the case of both sports, early-round matchups and locations will depend on seeding. The individual bracket district wrestling tournament is set for Feb. 17. Viera boys soccer went to the state final four last season, and the Viera girls went to the final four

VIERA VOICE Carl Kotala

The Viera High School baseball team had its best season ever in 2021, winning the regional championship and advancing to the state semifinals. Spring practice began on Jan. 24 and the Hawks are still loaded with talent and making plans to get another shot at reaching the state title game.

the year before that. And while Holy Trinity’s boys soccer team will be looking to three-peat, the girls basketball team is hoping to make it two district titles in a row. The Viera and Holy Trinity boys basketball teams both claimed district titles last year as well.

Spring sports, meanwhile, began practicing on Jan. 24 and there is a lot of excitement to go around at both local schools. Baseball, softball, tennis, lacrosse and track and field all start competing this month, with a number of teams hoping to repeat last

going to build this program better than what it was even when it was good back in the early 2010s. “It’s going to be because the focus is on creating an environment where these guys and girls can achieve. That’s through … I call them the four C’s. It’s how I coach — commitment, consistency, communication (and that is a two-way street) and competition. Everything we do in that

room is based on one of those.” Viera already is off to a solid start. Whereas last year’s team didn’t win a dual meet and finished the season with less than 10 wrestlers, a grass roots on-campus recruiting effort has brought out 31 studentathletes for this year’s team. Of the 31, 25 have never wrestled before. The Hawks have one senior (Malik Murray) and three juniors. The rest are all freshmen and sophomores. Viera was 4-5 in dual meets through mid-January and while the program certainly won’t be rebuilt overnight, there is plenty of room for optimism. “In this sport, you’re measured based on wins and losses,” Custer said. “We understand that. And we know we’re going to take our lumps. But I do know the team that we have right now … there’s state place winners in there, there’s district champs in there. “My job is to do whatever I can do to pull that out of them and help them realize the potential that they have. That’s what drives me in coaching these guys.” Murray, who recently dropped from 126 to 120 pounds, is a big fan of Custer and the workouts he has put him through to help

year’s success or even take it a step further. “We are really excited for the spring sports season at Holy Trinity,” Tigers athletic director James Phillips wrote in an email. “We welcome Coach (Jeff) Angermeier as the new girls lacrosse coach this year, who is a great fit for our program. Our softball and boys' lacrosse teams are both strong again after last year's district wins. We are looking forward to another fantastic season for tennis. Last year, the girls won regionals and are looking to get there again this year. “Our track program will have a strong season with having an elite coaching staff and athletes. With our new facilities, our athletes have taken on a better, faster, stronger approach to their programs and it shows. Holy Trinity is very proud of our student athletes and all of their

successes and future goals.” There is plenty of excitement at Viera, too, where both the baseball and softball programs are coming off regional championships and appearances in the state semifinals. Both Viera track teams appear poised for success after last year’s strong finish that saw the girls win the district championship while the boys took the regional title. The Viera girls tennis team won district and regional titles last year, reaching the state semifinals. While success in one season doesn’t automatically guarantee success the following year, there is certainly no shortage of local talent that should make for a very entertaining spring season. VV

Viera wrestling program has plenty of optimism under new coach BY CARL KOTALA

Jason Custer doesn’t just want to bring the glory days back to the Viera High School wrestling program. He wants the Hawks to be better than they’ve ever been. “We are rebuilding the program,” said Custer, Viera’s third coach in as many years. “This isn’t a stopgap. I’m not going anywhere. We’re

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VIERA VOICE Carl Kotala

Viera High's Malik Murray has dropped from 126 to 120 pounds and is enjoying a solid senior season. He had a record of 11-2 under new head coach Jason Custer, who is rebuilding Viera's wrestling program. "It's been going pretty good," Murray said. "I'm not going to lie, I've had some tough practices. But I'm glad I had them. They made me get better."

him improve. “He’s a good coach,” Murray said of Custer. “He works us pretty hard. Almost every day, we’re all pretty drenched, sweated out.” Murray began wrestling as a sophomore because he said his cousin was a wrestler. He fell in love

with the sport but, when his cousin died in 2020, he didn’t wrestle his junior year. Now, he’s back. “When I first started wrestling, my first goal was that I want my name on the school wall,” Murray said. “After all that (happened), I said I want to wrestle to make him proud. I want to go to states. I kind of want to make my family proud, too.” Murray, who tattooed his cousin’s name on his right arm, often looks at pictures on his phone before a match. “Sometimes, I look at my tattoo just to remember he’s still watching me,” he said. “It just helps me get ready.” Murray (11-2), a tricaptain on this year’s team, hopes the move to 120 pounds will help him reach this year’s state tournament. Other key Hawks this year are junior captains Nate Olson (132 pounds), a returning state qualifier, and Rich Magiday (170). Sophomore Brian Mitchell (138), a first-year wrestler, was leading the team with 12 wins. What would a trip to the state tournament mean for Murray? “That would mean everything,” he said. “I’m here. I did it.” V V

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Columbia Classic, Moon Golf Invitational coming to Brevard BY CARL KOTALA Brevard County residents now will have two chances to see some of the best women’s collegiate golf players in the country up close this month. The fifth annual Moon Golf Invitational, hosted by the University of Louisville, features 11 teams ranked in the top 25 and five in the top 10 and is set to take place Feb. 20 to 22 at the Suntree Country Club. Prior to that, Moon Golf will conduct the Columbia Classic at Duran Golf Club. That 36-hole event, scheduled for Feb. 13 and 14, has a 15-team field that includes four Ivy League schools and 2021 NCAAA runner-up Oklahoma State. Both events are open to the public. If that weren’t enough, Moon Golf owners Anne and Dan Moon have come up with a way to help benefit local high school golf programs through a college-am event set for Feb. 19. “It’s an opportunity for our community to play with some of the best women in college golf, but it’s also an opportunity for us to raise

VIERA VOICE Carl Kotala

Dan (far left) and Anne (far right) Moon pose with members of the South Carolina women's golf team after the Gamecocks won the fourth annual Moon Golf Invitational last year. South Carolina is back to defend its title this month in a stacked, 15-team field.

some funds,” Anne Moon said. “We’re partnering with Brevard Random Acts of Kindness. “Our random act of kindness, hopefully for this fall, is to be able to give back to every high school golf program in Brevard County. What we want to do is provide golf bags for boys and girls teams with their school’s name, their school colors, with their logo and all that fun stuff. “You see a lot of high schools that have that and then you see a lot that don’t. Having played high school golf and collegiate golf, there’s a sense of pride

when you walk out for a tournament or a match and you’re carrying your school colors and your school bag. “We want to continue to invest in the future of this game, and that’s junior golf.” Slots for this year’s college-am already have been filled. In addition to host Columbia and Oklahoma State, the Columbia Classic field includes Princeton, Dartmouth, Yale, Georgia, Virginia Tech, Northwestern, Purdue, Texas Tech, Albany, Tulsa, Illinois, Iowa State and Boston University.

Making up the field for the 54-hole Moon Golf Invitational are host Louisville, defending tournament champion South Carolina, Auburn, Alabama, Arkansas, Augusta State, Baylor, Duke, Florida, Florida State, Miami, LSU, North Carolina, UCF and Virginia.

Anne Moon, who played at Auburn, said she was approached by friend and former teammate Courtney Trimble (then the head coach at Louisville) about hosting the tournament. Since then, the tournament has continued to grow in popularity and competitiveness. V V

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Viera Voice | February 2022

Sports

Passion for paintball propels local player to professional division BY BETTY PORTER Suntree residents Leslie and Brad Horn can’t wait for their 25-year-old son, Chris, to paint the town. Chris is a professional paintballer on the Tampa Bay Damage team, which begins its 2022 season March 11 in Kissimmee. A 2015 graduate of Satellite Beach High School, Chris is currently a student at UCF majoring in Emergency Management. He began playing competitive paintball at age 15 and soon found his passion for it. He turned pro in 2021. “I got into the sport shortly after my cousin talked about how fun it was. Soon after that, my dad and I went to a local field in Palm Bay. I was 9 when I first played. After that, I played recreationally for sometime before being introduced to the competitive side of paintball. I started playing tournaments when I was 15. I fell in love with the fast-paced, technical and teamwork-oriented sport,” he said.

VIERA VOICE Courtesy of Horn family

Chris Horn (16) gathers with his Tampa Bay Damage teammates during last year's NXL Paintball World Cup in Kissimmee.

Chris’ mother, Leslie Horn, is a huge paintball enthusiast and Chris’ No. 1 fan. “He worked super hard to get to the pro level and we are so proud of him,” she said. He gradually worked his

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way up through the divisions to the semi-pro and finally the professional division. “My team, the Tampa Bay Damage, has been around since the late 2000s,” he said. “Many of the players have played with the team since the early years of the team’s establishment. Each team has a roster of between seven to 11 players.” Horn said a pro paintball field is 150 feet by 120 feet. There are two different sides of the field, most commonly known as the dorito side and the snake side. The Dorito side is called this due to the triangular shape of the bunkers. The snake side is called that because the player is usually crawling and on his stomach part of the time. The markers or guns used shoot at a fast pace of more than 10 balls per second. The sport is extremely technical and like any other sport, communication, teamwork and strategy are imperative to be successful. “I am thrilled to be a part of the Tampa Bay Damage professional team,” he said. “The sport has helped develop

VIERA VOICE Courtesy of Horn family

Brad and Leslie Horn are proud of their son Brad's ability in paintball.

my life skills in numerous ways like communication, how to work with a team, working with all different types of people and personalities as well as many more positive things.” There are five events this season: two in Kissimmee, one in Philadelphia, one in Chicago and the choice of another either in Dallas or

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Viera’s new football coach stresses discipline on, off field BY CARL KOTALA Now that we know Chad Raymond is Viera High School’s new football coach, there is one obvious question: What’s a Chad Raymondcoached team going to look like? “We’re going to be disciplined on and off the field,” Raymond said after he was introduced to the team on Jan. 20. “We’re going to know what to do, when to do it. We’re going to do the little things. I have the acronym ATD (attention to detail). They’re going to hear that from me a billion times. “I want this program to have that attention to detail. We’re going to practice things to where all those little moments in the game that might not come up all the time ... we’re going to do it so many times where they can’t do it wrong.” Raymond, 43, is no stranger to the Viera High football program. Not only was he Florida Tech’s offensive line coach and run game coordinator from 2013 to 2019, he also was the Panthers' recruiting coordinator. Viera was one of the schools he was assigned to recruit. Former Florida Tech head coach Steve Englehart, who was recently hired at Presbyterian College in South Carolina, believes Raymond will be a good fit at Viera. “Chad has a great amount of experience at both the high school and college level,” Englehart said in a text message. “He is professional, organized and demands excellence

VIERA VOICE Carl Kotala

Chad Raymond won over the Viera High School search committee with his personality and his coaching experience. The Hawks' new head football coach says he will stress discipline and physicality.

from staff and players. “He will do a great job of communicating and building a rapport with the families of Viera High School and the community.” Raymond is also a Viera resident with two young children who he said will attend the school one day. It was his experience at both levels — he was the offensive line coach at Melbourne in 2020 — along with his recruiting background that helped separate him from the seven other candidates who interviewed to replace departed coach Derek Smith. Viera principal Sarah Robinson said she liked Raymond’s vision for what has become one of the county’s top programs. “The focus, determination and passion he has, the passion for developing players and developing kids and giving kids opportunities really

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penalties are the killers. “Holding is going to happen. PI’s (pass interference) are going to happen. But when it comes to false starts, when it comes to snap infractions, when it comes to encroachment or personal fouls after the whistle, those are the things I don’t want. “I’m going to make it a point in my time here that Viera isn’t guilty of those sins. We want to play as hard as we can within the rules of the game, be physical and be tough. After you get done playing Viera, those coaches are going to say they’re wellcoached, they’re disciplined and they’re physical as (hell). That’s what I want us to be.” V V

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boosters and our football team multiple times and talked to them about what they were looking for in a candidate. Many of the things that Coach Raymond spoke about really hit the nail on the head of the things that our program was looking for and that our students and our community were looking for.” While Raymond hasn’t decided exactly what kind of offensive and defensive schemes he will use next season, he does know one thing he definitely wants to establish. “Generally speaking, I just want us to be physical,” he said. “And I want us to be sound both offensively and defensively. I can’t say it enough. The biggest thing I want to focus on is pre-snap and post-whistle (situations). Dead-ball

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Viera’s computer science program gives students a head start BY CARL KOTALA

The more the world relies on technology, the more important it will be to give children a head start. That’s why Viera High School junior Lavanya Natarajan is happy she’s been able to take computer science classes since her freshman year. “Definitely, for me, it’s how practical it is,” Natarajan said when asked what she likes about Viera’s computer science program. “I also do science research at this school and I definitely go into the robotics, the intelligent machines way and I really like how I can use the

knowledge I learn from this class for other classes. “It also gives me confidence that I know so many different programming languages.” Natarajan learned Java when she took Foundations to Programming as a freshman and AP Computer Science A as a sophomore. Now she’s learning Python in her AP Computer Science Principles class. Viera teacher Jeff Dohmen, who started the computer science class at Viera five years ago, said the number of students he teaches daily has risen from around 80 to 120 in his classroom, which has 32 computers.

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Viera High School junior Lavanya Natarajan has been taking computer science courses for three years. She said she likes the classes because of the practical applications she can use to help her in science research.

In addition to teaching Foundations of Programming (which now uses Python instead of Java) and the two AP classes, he also teaches classes in JavaScript and web programming. “The students learn how to build these web pages dynamically. It’s not just making static web pages. It’s making interactive web pages,” Dohmen said. “… Initially, when I first started, I asked my foundations students — and I had like four classes of them — how many of them wanted to do web programming. Maybe one or two of them raised their hands.

“But it’s part of the program, so I had to teach it and offer it. Having offered it and taught it, I realized this is a really cool thing to teach.” Because the world is growing so rapidly into technology and automation, Natarajan said she can envision a world in which even the simplest of jobs will require some kind of background in computers, technology and programming. That makes having that knowledge before she even gets to college a good thing to have. “Another thing that’s really helpful is that in the foundations class, we have an

opportunity to be certified in that programming language,” she said. “When I was a freshman, it was Java. Now, it’s Python. Whatever it is, you get to be certified and that’s a really good thing to add onto your resume.” The Viera junior also is happy to see how many girls are involved in the class, a far bigger number than when she was a freshman. She is clearly enjoying her class. “Right now, I really like what Mr. Dohmen is doing,” Natarajan said. “We’re doing kind of a self-study project, so basically anything you want to do that’s related to programming, you can do it. He’s giving us the whole month of January. “I’m doing something related to data science. I’m trying to connect it to what I’m doing in science research. I’m also going into designing printed circuit boards on Autodesk. I really like how, in certain times of the year, he really lets us branch out. “He makes us enjoy the class more. It almost makes us like the boss of our work, so we start to enjoy programming more than not liking it.” V V

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Pinecrest Academy to outline expansion at open house this fall BY MIKE GAFFEY

Pinecrest Academy Space Coast, a tuition-free charter school in Viera for students from kindergarten through eighth grade, will share its growth plans during an open house this fall at the campus at 7550 Stadium Parkway. Parents interested in enrolling their children can learn about Pinecrest’s academics and plans to add a second building in 2023 and a possible high school in the next three to four years, Principal Sylvia Mijuskovic said. Pinecrest, which opened in August 2020, has grown quickly from 350 students to 625. The school had the misfortune of opening at the start of the pandemic, Mijuskovic said. “Obviously, people were afraid to make a change,” she said. “A lot of parents kept their kids home, so we took a big hit with that. I’m very proud to say that in our second year we’ve almost doubled in size.” A public charter school sponsored by Brevard Public Schools, Pinecrest is a dual-language school that offers Spanish instruction starting in kindergarten, Mijuskovic said. The lessons fulfill a requirement that the school must offer an academic component unique to the county, she said. “Our students are not only taught Spanish, but part of the day they are taught in Spanish,” said Mijuskovic, a former principal at Space Coast Junior/Senior High School and assistant principal at Viera High School. “We also have a very robust STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) program from K through 8. We focus very much on critical thinking and project-based writing.” Pinecrest also stresses technology in the classroom. All classrooms have interactive smart boards and each student is assigned either an iPad or a laptop, Mijuskovic said.

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“I’m very proud to say that we’re one of the few schools in the state that got an ‘A’ in the midst of a pandemic,” Mijuskovic said. The new building will house middle school students, while the existing building will remain a center for students in grades kindergarten to fifth, Mijuskovic said. Construction, which was delayed due to the pandemic, is scheduled to begin in fall 2022, she said. The second building should enable Pinecrest to increase enrollment to about 1,300 students. Plans for a high school are in the early stages, Mijuskovic said. “The goal is that if you go to Pinecrest you can actually have a K-12 experience that will take you the entire way,” she said. The school’s fledgling sports program is basically an intramural program that offers track, soccer, football, basketball and volleyball, Mijuskovic said. Accepting the position at Pinecrest allowed Mijuskovic to fulfill “every principal’s dream” to open up their own school. “I was getting ready to retire and I thought, ‘What a neat way to go out — you open up your own school,'” she said. “So, I was hired to basically oversee construction of the school. I basically was able to create my institution, so to speak, with the dual language program, pick the colors of the building, pick all the furniture of the school, handpick my own staff. It’s like my little baby.” Pinecrest offers tours every Friday, said Mijuskovic, who attributes the school’s growth to word of mouth. “The majority of the kids come here because they heard about it from another parent,” she said. “That’s something that we’re very, very proud of.” To learn more about the school, go to pinecrestspacecoast.com or call 321-307-7230. V V

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Viera Voice | February 2022

School News

VFW recognizes outstanding teacher and students SPECIAL TO VIERA VOICE VFW Rocket Post 4534 and its auxiliary recently announced the recipients of its Teacher of the Year award and the winners of the Voices of Democracy and Patriot Pen contests. Chad Hinson of Rockledge High School is the post’s Teacher of The Year. Each year, exceptional teachers are recognized by the Veterans of Foreign Wars for outstanding commitment to teach Americanism and patriotism. Hinson, a former Marine, will be entered in the national competition. Patriot’s Pen youth essay competition is a way to encourage young minds to examine America’s history, along with their own experiences in modern American society while improving their writing skills. • First place — Lyla Fagan, a sixth grader at Apollo Elementary School • Second place — Marina Reyes of Kennedy

Middle School • Third place — Liam Welton of Kennedy Middle School • Fourth place — Megan Deadwyler of Cocoa Beach Junior/Senior High School Their essays were based on How Can I be a Good American. The Voice of Democracy is an audio essay competition that requires entrants to write and record a 3-to-5minute essay on a patrioticbased theme. “America Where Do We Go from Here” was the theme this year. Voice of Democracy — audio essay. • First place — Mark Deadwyler, a 10th grader at Cocoa Beach Junior/Senior High School Students start with participating at VFW Post level. If they win, they continue to district level, state level and then onto national level, where they have an opportunity to win $30,000 in college scholarship. V V

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Patriot’s Pen youth essay competition Lyla Fagan’s winning essay on the theme of How Can I Be a Good American: Someone once asked me, “What is patriotism?” and I said, “Patriotism is when you show love to your country.” Then a thought came to my mind. How can I be a good American? And that’s when I answered my own question. I can say the pledge of allegiance in class every day, thank a veteran for their service, and show my independence. First, I can be a good American by saying the pledge of allegiance in class everyday. Yes, you can say the words, but if you don’t know what it means, then it almost means nothing when you say them. The pledge of allegiance was made so that when you say it, you show love and devotion to your country. Francis Bellamy wrote and published it in a magazine for kids in 1892, and in 1942, it was recognized by the United States Congress as the official pledge to the American flag we always see today. As you can see, I can be a good American by saying the pledge of allegiance every day. Secondly, I can be a good American by thanking veterans for their service. When I’m out with people, every now and then I see someone that’s probably in their 70s, 80s, or 90s, wearing a cap with pin-back buttons or dog-tags, and my mom always thanks them for their service. When you thank them, you’re thanking them for all the nights they could’ve been with friends or family, but weren’t. After all, it’s the least you can do. Finally, I can be a good American by showing my independence. Since the start of America, independence has been one of our finest qualities. John Adams and Thomas Jefferson wrote a whole persuasive document about independence! It’s an important quality to have here in America, because it’s freedom to choose what you want to believe, not just in religion, but in other things as well. It’s freedom to make a choice. Like whether to play a sport, or sit in your room and play video games. All in all, I can be a good American by showing independence. So, how can I be a good American again? Obviously, I can be a good American in many ways. I can say the pledge of allegiance, thank veterans for their service, and show my independence.

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JROTC competition boosts camaraderie, marksmanship, focus BY GEORGE WHITE Imagine yourself concentrating to shoot an air rifle at a target 10 meters or about 33 feet away from a standing position. Now imagine having to do it after running a timed quarter mile. That’s the challenge of the Brevard County JROTC Sprint Target Relay Air Rifle Competition from 7 a.m. to noon Feb. 12 at Veterans Memorial Park, at 400 S. Sykes Creek Parkway on Merritt Island. Coordinated by Lt. Col. Brian Whalen, an Army JROTC instructor at Rockledge High School, the event will be hosted by the Merritt Island High School JROTC Mustang Battalion. The competition will be a relay event where four-member teams will individually run about 450 meters and then shoot five targets. Competitors will get 10 shots to hit the five targets. Any targets missed will count as a 15-second penalty. At the end of the

VIERA VOICE photo

Cadet Toryan Grey, left, Cadet Alexandra Rowe, Cadet Christopher Hoffman and Cadet Cameron Heaps compete for the Viera High School JROTC marksmanship team.

second run, participants must shoot another five targets before the final running stage. The winner is the person who completes the three running stages and two shooting stages first. This is the third year the event has been at the 82-acre Veterans Memorial Park, with nine high school teams signed up, said Donn Weaver, chairman of the Brevard Veterans Council.

“It was an experimental thing when we did it three years ago, but it was very popular with the students and this is a great venue for it,’’ Weaver said. Whalen said the competition helps participants compete as members of a team and builds esprit de corps and camaraderie amongst the individuals. “It also helps at the

most difficult position of marksmanship off hand or standing and it focuses on controlling your breathing after a sprint because it is more difficult to achieve muzzle control,” Whalen said.

Viera High School has been specifically training for the event. “We thoroughly enjoyed it last year. It’s pretty cool. It’s not just a marksmanship contest, it’s also some cardio,’’ said retired Army Lt. Col. Tim Thomas, the senior instructor for the school’s Army JROTC. Viera High senior Christopher Hoffman, 18, has participated in marksmanship with the JROTC since he was a freshman team member. “I actually really liked it, the camaraderie of all the teams there, the competitiveness and the physical aspect of shooting rather than just standing there and shooting at a target,” he said. “With training, you figure out how to get your breathing and heart rate down once you’ve stopped running.’’ V V

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CHOCOLATE — THE UNIVERSAL LOVE LANGUAGE Here we are in February already. We steam rolled into 2022, leaving behind the vicissitudes and tribulations of 2021 — a year for the books that should be erased altogether. It’s beginning to look like another Omicron lockdown might compromise V-Day, where a red rose and scrambled eggs with some bagel chips might be the ticket. But, you can make it festive by adding a chilled bottle of Veuve. Some smoked salmon or caviar is always popular, and it yells fancy. Even in the midst of a pandemic, we are bombarded with ads: jewelry, perfume, flowers and of course, the ultimate in seductive and decadent — the heart-shaped box of chocolates. No doubt, chocolate is brilliant any time of the year. It cures everything, even a bad day. I always tread lightly when I hear someone say they don’t like chocolate. Wait, what? When did chocolate become the ultimate aphrodisiac? The hazy answer is that there’s been

an enduring symbiotic swanky grilled tomato and relationship between brie cheese sammy. Even chocolate and amour lasting a bowl of lip-smackin’ chili through the ages. Cacao (the can be made sumptuous base ingredient for chocolate) when presented with enough has been used to flavor pomp and ceremony. A great drinks and food since 2000 dish doesn’t have to break B.C. Even the Mayans and the bank — it’s all in the Aztecs traded with it and, presentation and sumptuous historically, cultures around taste to send you into a the globe have used it as an gastronomical coma. Enjoy erotic stimulant. Chocolate celebrating it with your always creates a party in sweetie. your mouth with that melty, If you have time, why not sweet velvety feel that can’t bake a sumptuous, chocolate be replicated or duplicated lava cake? It’s beyond with anything. It throws extravagant, rather easy to people into a stupor, along make and will undoubtedly with almost sexy palpitations make you the rock star of and, before you know it, the day. you’ve consumed the Ditch the red roses for a whole box. heart-shaped box from some Valentine’s Day is one extravagant chocolatier, of those dates you either full of colorful chocolates, embrace or you detest. lovingly placed inside. Or Everything is twice as try something like Godiva expensive; service is slower and unexceptional. Try truffles: no need to reinvent securing reservations the wheel and they never somewhere of distinction — disappoint. Chocolateit’s easier getting a phone call covered strawberries also into the Vatican if you want will win you major kudos. to speak to the Pope. VV Try making oysters, steak au poivre or elevated comfort RECIPE food like tomato soup with a page 15

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Teaching music still brings satisfaction after 22 years in Suntree BY JEFF NAVIN AND JILL BLUE

After 22 years of teaching music and running Creative Music Art & Learning, Loretta Fox knows that not everyone will become an accomplished musician. But, there’s more to music than performing a piece from Beethoven on a concert stage. “Music teaches leadership, responsibility and feeling the joy of playing a nice piece,’’ said Fox, whose business is located at 1299 Bedford Drive in Suntree. “We teach everything classical, rock, jazz, piano, harp, banjo, ukulele, guitar and voice.’’ Her musical teaching career began at Suntree United Methodist with 15 kindergarten students. They all took piano lessons. Later that year in 1999, she found her spot on Bedford Drive. Nowadays, her students

range in age from 3½ to the mid 70s. Her youngest practices the music box program with rhythms and nursery rhyme songs. “I’m rewarded by

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watching the children learn and become excited about the songs,’’ Fox said. “We have a recital coming up on Feb 26 in person. The most exciting part is to see them perform and do a really nice job and be proud.’’ Some of Fox’s students have gone on to major in music. Others started at the age of 4 and continued at the facility through high school.

The banjo and the harp have proven to be popular instruments. “We have a new teacher who plays the banjo,’’ Fox said. “The harp is quite popular and it’s a beautiful instrument. It is very expensive to get into. All the kids want to touch the harp, and we usually teach them ‘Hot Cross Buns’ as their first song.’’ Christmas songs also are popular to practice

throughout the year. “We try to keep prices reasonable,’’ Fox said. “We want them to be able to afford lessons and offer discounts for a second and third child. … People who wanted to play when they were young, but never did, are now taking lessons.’’ For information, call 321-255-0116 or go to creativemusicart.com. V V

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NOW SPECIALIZING IN REMODELS, WINDOWS, DOORS, AND PAINTING Harry Carroll Harry Carroll, who has served for more than a decade in Brevard County as a firefighter, paramedic and as a nurse practitioner, is in the process of opening Suntree Psychiatry. The tentative day for the opening of the new office is March 1. It will be collocated with other mental health/counseling practices at 7105 Turner Road in the Suntree area just off Suntree Boulevard. Carroll said the new psychiatry practice will offer both in-person and remote visits. Carroll said he wants to alleviate the shortage of mental health care in the county and reduce the disparities in care for people in the Viera/Suntree area and the rest of Brevard County. For the past few years, Carroll has worked for MedFast Urgent Care Center as a nurse practitioner.

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Arty Pagan Arty Pagan is the new chair of the Viera Regional Business Alliance, a council of the Melbourne Regional Chamber. Pagan, who is a longtime State Farm Insurance agent, said there are plans for several networking meetings. The alliance also plans to conduct a Chamber breakfast, where members will receive an update about Viera. Pagan said the organization will hold a job fair for businesses and people living in the Viera/Suntree/Rockledge area. There also are plans for social events, such as a Comedy night in September and the Mix, Mingle and Jingle event, which is held in November. Pagan said he is thrilled to serve as the new chair. He has enjoyed seeing the area develop for the past 18 years. The Viera Regional Business Alliance was created to focus on the unparalleled growing region.

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Florida’s 511 system allows for easy trip planning, navigation BY ERNEST ARICO Have you ever been stuck in slow-moving or stalled traffic on Interstate 95 or State Road 528 and wanted to know why? How long will it take before traffic starts to move again? Well there’s a way you can find out while sitting in your vehicle. Thanks to the Florida Department of Transportation, a website has been created that will allow drivers to monitor traffic alerts in the state. The website — fl511. com — provides directions to a destination with travel times and alternate routes on all interstates and most U.S. and state routes in Florida. Users also can get information on crashes, congestion, construction, closures and detour routes on Florida’s interstates, toll roads and other major roadways. The system includes a website, mobile app, text alerts, social media pages and more. All you have to do is dial 511 on your cell phone

The Florida 511 app is a useful tool to avoid traffic jams on major roads in Florida.

and download the 511 app. To navigate the Florida 511 mobile app do the following: • Open the app. • Click “Destinations” (bottom left of screen) to open Drive and Map Mode. • Click “Talk” to receive traffic information on any state road or specific area of interest. • Click “Incidents” to receive the list of traffic activity, ranging from construction to

congestion and more in the designated areas. The app allows you to get up-to-the-minute, realtime traffic conditions and incident information for the entire state. It also enables you to check local traffic conditions. FL511 is the abbreviated name for the Florida 511 (FL511) Advanced Traveler Information System (ATIS), which is the state’s official source for realtime traffic and travel

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information. It is a service of the Florida Department of Transportation. FL511 also has Drive Mode, a feature that allows the user to type in a destination, get up to three routes and drive times, and choose which route to take. Once selected, the user can see turn-by-turn directions. “I use it all the time when I’m driving to Orlando,” said Sam Damon of East Viera, a Disney employee who works

in Lake Buena Vista. “It’s great because I can monitor the traffic on State Road 528, Interstate 4, the 408 and 417. There’s always an accident or some sort of delay on one of these roads every day.” Lt. Kim Montes, the public affairs officer for the Florida Highway Patrol at Troop D in Orlando, said 511 is a great benefit for law enforcement agencies and the public “It’s the quickest and most accurate system out there,” said Montes, whose Troop D is responsible for covering six counties in Central Florida, including Brevard. “The live cameras enable drivers to get instant information.” Law enforcement officials strongly recommend not to use the 511 app while driving. “We recommend drivers use the system as a preplanning device for trips around the state,” Montes said. For more information about 511, visit fl511.com. VV

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Suntree Country Club opens impressive new clubhouse BY JILL BLUE AND R. NORMAN MOODY Amid the festive atmosphere of the opening of the Suntree Country Club’s new $7.5 million clubhouse, guests marveled at the impressive new structure. The Suntree County Club held its ribbon cutting and grand opening Feb. 23. Jim Williams, the principal at A W Architects said he was pleased to work with the board of directors and the management of the club. “Decision was made quickly,” he said. “The project moved forward when other projects were being stopped. It’s a wonderful building for the membership of the club.” Williams said Hedrick

VIERA VOICE Jill Blue

Wilber Muro, left, and Jim Williams of A W Architects are pleased with the clubhouse at Suntree Country Club.

Brothers Construction did a great job with the building, which took about 16 months to complete, from design to completion of the construction. “It’s a great club,” said Wilber Muro, an architect with A W Architects. “It’s a design in response to the needs of the current members of the club. I think

The new clubhouse at Suntree Country Club was part of the $7.5 million project.

it came out great.” The new 14,000-squarefoot building with a Florida tropical flair, has a bright interior and a modern look. It has outdoor patio seating and a beautiful landscape. It has an outdoor veranda that will overlook new putting

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greens and the 18th hole. The new modern clubhouse replaces the old one that opened in 1975. The old building will undergo remodeling for use for youth activities. There are two banquet rooms for functions and private dinners hosted by members, a bar, men’s and women’s locker rooms and a new pro shop. Changes to the green, along with the new furnishings and fixtures for the new clubhouse, are

VIERA VOICE Jill Blue

included in the $7.5 million price tag. Members and guests at the grand opening were pleased to see the new clubhouse. Suntree Country Club members do not have to be Suntree residents to become members. However, the club has a cap of 545 golf memberships. With an additional 350 social members and 105 tennis members, the club is near 1,000 overall memberships. VV

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It takes a community of volunteers to Recycle Brevard

Since the beginning, Recycle Brevard has been a work of passion — passion for the environment and for our community. Recycle Brevard was started out of a need identified in our community. There were a lot of questions about what to do with unwanted items, and confusion about what could go in the recycle bin at home. We wanted to help answer those questions and also find ways that less would be sent to the landfill. That is why Recycle Brevard was created. I had many friends lend a hand getting it to where it is. Some of the most special friends joined in one capacity or another. Christine Kane was one of the first to take on the job and help with whatever was needed. As an avid environmentalist, she got to volunteer for one of our community events and never left. She contributed above and beyond. From great articles for our website to coordinating discussion courses and challenges, and everything in between, we could count on her for it all. She believed in our mission; she donated toward projects and tirelessly promoted our work. She did research like no other and her witty sense of humor was a delight. Through Recycle Brevard we became the best of friends and I am forever grateful for her and all that she has done. Lucia Watson donated the first puzzles and games we put in our facility. She was always cleaning out some more and made sure I would look through everything to take to our Reuse Room whatever was fitting. We used to meet in her condo for a chat and a slice of her delicious banana bread. Last time we met, she sent me home with a whole loaf! Always kind and oh so very helpful, volunteering brought us together and a friendship flourished. I had the privilege to have known and worked with them. They are part of Recycle Brevard’s story and my story, too.

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BEYOND the CURB Marcia Booth

President & Founder, Recycle Brevard

Since 2011, many of us have committed considerable time and resources to start and grow Recycle Brevard for our community. Recycle Brevard became a local gem missed by many when we are not open. Thanks to Sue and Jack, who, since September 2021, have been opening the facility to serve our community in my absence. As an organization 100

percent funded through donations and 100 percent run by volunteers, the various events of the past two years have hit us hard and now we will need to review our plan. As I found out through the years, it does take a village to build the community we want to live in. We are lucky to have had so many wonderful friends help along the way, but having a facility has its costs. With our lease up for renewal again, we will need to find a way to balance service and financial commitment. I can tell that 2022 will be a year of change. VV Email Marcia Booth at Marcia@RecycleBrevard.org

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Oscar, the Congo African Grey, strikes the right tone for Suntree couple BY BETTY PORTER The Alessandros of Misty Creek in Suntree have quite the love bird, love triangle going on, literally. When Joe and Abigail married in 2017, their agreement was that Joe would take Abigail’s cat as well as Abigail to have and to hold and Abigail would take Joe’s Congo African Grey bird as well as Joe to have and to hold. “It was a package deal,” Joe Alessandro said, “she had a cat and I had a bird as our love story unfolded.” And four years later, the deal continues. Congo African Grey birds are the largest of the African Grey parrots and are said to be very intelligent. Oscar, the Congo African Grey bird, is 25 years old and Joe Alessandro has had him for 22 of those years. “I wasn’t letting go of him,” he said, as Oscar perched on his forearm as he hand fed him unsalted peanuts in the shell and

VIERA VOICE photo

Joe and Abigail Allesandro's love story unfolded with a Congo African Grey bird as part of the union.

a carrot. Meanwhile, Abigail Alessandro’s cat, named Luna, chooses which of the three high top counter chairs she wants to claim before Joe comes back to the kitchen countertop to work at his laptop. Joe Alessandro is an accountant for aircraft manufacturing company Embraer at the Melbourne Orlando International

Airport. He is also a tax specialist and works both jobs mainly from home. Abigail Alessandro is a data manager at Kennedy Space Center, whose career there has spanned 30 years. Although she has an office in the Vehicle Assembly Building, she has been teleworking from home for the past two years since the pandemic began. Abigail lived on Merritt Island before moving to

Suntree. As a single parent of a son, she bought the house in the Misty Creek subdivision in October 2008. “I love it here,” she said. “I feel it is tucked away and yet so close to everything.” In April 2021, the couple added a screened-in pool and spa to their backyard which overlooks a lake. It was then that the neighbors of Misty Creek and across the pond residents of Devon’s Glen formally met, or rather heard, Oscar, who during the daytime is in a cage on the back patio. It seems his very unique vocal skills carry more easily now across the two expanses of water, the pool and the pond. “Our neighbors love him,” Abigail Alessandro said, “We have heard only good things from the folks here and, in fact, some neighbors have come by just to meet Oscar out of curiosity, and once they do, they have come to love him as much as we do.” Sometimes, Oscar makes

a variety of sounds including what seems to be a sound as if from the “Star Wars” movies. “He can sound just like the R2-D2 robot at times,” Joe Alessandro said. Oscar is tagged and can fly but chooses not to. He seems quite content on the screened patio pool enclosure during the day and inside the house in his cage at night. One of his personality traits is to dance on the bars in his cage. He picks up his feet and dances to the beat of the theme song from the 1970s television series: “The Odd Couple,” which co-starred Jack Klugman who played the character, Oscar Madison, for whom the bird was named. “Oscar has become quite a celebrity in his own right,” Joe said, as he held his cell phone to Oscar’s cage playing the catchy theme song. “Watching him perform and listening to him vocalize, we think he deserves, well, an Oscar,” Joe Alessandro said. VV

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In honor of Valentine’s Day on Feb. 14, we asked our readers to share a photo of their Valentine and tell us why their loved one is so special. Here are their responses:

When I look back to nine years ago, I remember how lucky I felt to find someone like you. When I think of the many years that you’ve been by my side, I know we’ve shared more laughter, more smiles and more love than I could have ever imagined. Thanks for your sweetness every single day, thank you for always encouraging me, thank you for being the best workout partner, and thank you for still making me feel like the luckiest person in the world! My wonderful husband, Sean, you are my heart, my love, and my best friend. The kids and I hope your Valentine’s Day is as amazing as you are! — Aileen Varela, Viera

Although Disney is in our backyard, fairy-tale love stories are just that, stories. Or, so I thought. I’d been in an abusive relationship for six years before I walked out of the door to never return. I went on a two-year eat, pray, love journey around the world, working where I lived to earn enough money to move on to the next place. It was an adventure. I learned who I was and what I wanted in life. When I got back stateside, I was living in my mom’s basement and still figuring out life. Then, I met him — Alejandro Rodriguez. We’d marry three years later in Puerto Rico. He’s always treated me like a queen and now I believe in fairy tales. I’m living it. We moved from Dallas to Viera at the end of November, and our love story continues here, where we are so excited to raise our son. Te amo mucho, mi amor. — Steffie Rodriguez, Viera

Feb. 14, 2014 is a very special day for us. Yes, it is Valentine's Day, but it is also our Wedding Day! My husband, Jeff, is such an amazing gift from God and I am so blessed that he chose me to be his wife. We love spending all our time together, whether it is watching online church services, trying new food recipes, working on puzzles, grocery shopping, yard work and gardening, walking in the area, reading books or just sitting quietly snuggling and enjoying each and every moment we can with our sweet dog, Samson. Jeff is the kind of man who gives with his whole heart to make someone happy. He will sacrifice whatever it takes to ensure that he can help to change someone's circumstances. When I think of Jeff, the Bible verse 1 Corinthians 13:4 comes to mind: “Love is patient. Love is kind.” Our love for each other is forever, for always and no matter what! Happy Valentine's Day and happy eighth wedding anniversary, my sweet Jeff. Love, hugs and kisses. — Elaine Piotrowski, Viera

This year, Anthony and I will be celebrating our seventh Valentine's Day together! Let’s go to the very beginning. Anthony and I met through Match.com and, when we finally had our first date in person, it was nothing but spectacular. From that day forward, I have been smitten with him ever since. Words can't begin to describe what an amazing husband and father Anthony is. Both myself and children (Maximiliano and Ella) are so blessed to have him in our lives. I love you and I thank God to have met my soulmate and best friend. — Dayana Garcia, Viera

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Viera Voice | February 2022

Get your ruby running shoes ready for Emerald City 5K BY MIKE GAFFEY In the classic film “The Wizard of Oz,” young Dorothy Gale famously said, “There’s no place like home.” In Viera, there is no race like the Emerald City 5K Run/Walk. Participants can run or walk for awards and help local families battling homelessness. The event starts at 6 p.m. Friday, Feb. 25 at Church at Viera at 9005 N. Wickham Road. The third in a fiverace series, this year’s “Journey Home” race theme is “Together We Can.” Proceeds will help Family Promise of Brevard pay for services that provide families who are homeless or in danger of losing their homes with support and resources needed to put themselves on a path toward long-term housing stability. “The Emerald City 5K helps connect Family Promise of Brevard to the community,” said Akili Phillips, the development coordinator for Family Promise. “The funds raised at this family-focused fun run will directly support our mission of ending family homelessness in

VIERA VOICE photo

Runners could win this pendant.

Brevard through our prevention, shelter and stabilization programs.” All entrants receive race T-shirts if registered by Feb. 11 and a commemorative medal featuring “Wizard of Oz” characters the Tin Man, Scarecrow and Cowardly Lion. Entrants also are automatically entered to win a 14K lab-grown diamond star pendant donated by Wesche Jewelers. Participants can pick up packets and register at the race manager Running Zone, Inc. at 3696 N. Wickham Road in Melbourne from 10 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 24 and 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Friday, Feb. 25. Late registration and packet pickup opens at

VIERA VOICE Jill Blue

Runners like Dorothy could wear these shoes during the Emerald City 5K.

VIERA VOICE Jill Blue

The Emerald City 5K honors the characters of "The Wizard of Oz."

Church at Viera at 4:45 p.m. Feb. 25 and closes at 5:45 p.m. Awards will be presented to the top three

teams with a minimum of four runners, the top three overall male and female participants and male and female top masters, and

the top three male and female entrants in 17 age categories ranging from 8 and younger to 80 and older. Supporters who can’t make the race or don’t want to walk or run the course along North Wickham Road can make a $25 donation, which includes a shirt and key. Shirts will be available during the packet pickup. Entrants also can participate in a virtual 5K race anywhere to support Family Promise. Runners or walkers can choose a safe course and socially distance as current regulations dictate. Virtual participants can submit their results from Feb. 25 through 11:59 p.m. March 6. The cost is $25 plus a $3 signup fee for adults, $15 plus a $3 signup fee for children 10 and younger and $35 plus $3.50 for virtual 5K race entrants. Some runners even dress up like “Wizard of Oz” characters for the event, Phillips said. “They really get into the race theme,” she said. For more information, visit runsignup.com/Race/ FL/Melbourne/TheresNoPlaceLikeHome5KRunWalk VV

Nonprofit moving to old Cocoa Fire Station BY MIKE GAFFEY

Family Promise of Brevard, Inc. is aiming for a late-summer opening date for its new, larger location, a former fire station in Cocoa. The nonprofit organization that aims to keep struggling families in their homes

will more than double its space when it relocates from a Grace Life Churchowned building on Murrell Road in Rockledge to the former Cocoa Fire Station No. 1. The 7,000-square-foot station at Dixon Boulevard and Clearlake Road has been empty since 2017.

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Viera Voice | February 2022

“It’s just a great opportunity to rehab this building and breathe new life into it for a new kind of crisis,” said Tara Pagliarini, the executive director of Family Promise. “Firehouses are for emergencies and we’re in the middle of a housing crisis.” In August 2021, the city of Cocoa approved a 20year lease at $1 a year to provide a new headquarters for Family Promise, which became operational in Brevard in 2013 and has managed to keep 8,000 families in their homes. But when the nonprofit saw referrals for services skyrocket by more than 450 percent in 2021 due to the COVID pandemic, its leaders decided to relocate to zip code area 32922 in Cocoa. It’s an area of great need, where nearly 75 percent of families are a paycheck away from potentially losing housing, according to Pagliarini. The new location will be closer to those who need assistance and is on a major bus route for easier access. Other agencies that offer health, income and educa-

VIERA VOICE Steve Hollinger

Family Promise of Brevard is excited about moving from Rockledge to a bigger location in Cocoa.

tion services also operate at the facility, and its larger size could provide room for a community classroom for educational and industrial certification that could lead to higher-paying jobs. “It will be a true hub of services,” Pagliarini said. About 80 percent of renovation costs already are covered through federal grants, private donations and builders offering to donate their services, Pagliarini said. Family Promise is launching a capital cam-

paign to raise the remaining amount, she said. The nonprofit hopes to finish renovations by August and move in by Sept. 1, she said. “We’re hopeful, we’ve been very forward-thinking in pushing things as much as we can to be done,” Pagliarini said. “But, we’ve had really great partners who want to see this happen.” To learn more, visit familypromiseofbrevard.org. VV

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VIERA VOICE Courtesy of Switch

Switch, a 1980s tribute band from Orlando, will perform during the inaugural Viera Rock Fest.

Viera Rock Fest, a weekend of music, fun, comes to USSSA Space Coast Complex BY WENDY SCHEURING The inaugural Viera Rock Fest will take place Saturday, Feb. 5. From 5 to 6 p.m., multi-instrumentalist and Melbourne native Jonathan Honeycutt will perform on the central concourse, Florida-based rock band Skyclub will play on the skybox or left concourse, and a third, yet to be announced, musical group will play on the right.

“They’ve been around and are one of those bands that sound great in person.” —Mike McCarty

At 6 p.m., the main attraction, Switch, a 1980s tribute band from Orlando, will play on the main stage. “They’ve been around and are one of those bands that sound great in person,” said Mike McCarty,

the event coordinator for MTI Concert Sales, which is organizing the event. General admission is $20. Seating in one of the skyboxes, which seats six to 10 people, is $50. “Being our first year, we’re thinking the crowd will be 500 to 600 people,” McCarty said. “There will also be a full concession, including beer, wine and liquor.” The Cosmos Ice Cream Truck, billed as the World’s largest ice cream truck, also will be parked at the stadium. Last spring, the complex hosted a large musical event, the Church At Viera’s Easter service. The facilities are big enough and spacious enough as part of our piece of being a community partner,” said Bob Grey, the Strategic Partner Manager at USSSA Space Coast Sports Complex. “We have an 8,000 seating (capacity) and the ability to handle all of the traffic, Grey said. “We will continue to add events to our calendar that are

community related,” he said. That said, flanking the Viera Rock Fest performances on Feb. 5, there will be a fundraiser concert and a car show. On Friday, Feb. 4, a Beatles tribute band, Liverpool Live, will perform at the Rockin’ the Sunset — Concert for a Cause sponsored by the nonprofit St. Francis Reflections Lifestage Care Foundation in Titusville. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. Early bird tickets are $20. On Sunday, Feb. 6, Space Coast Cars and Coffee with Joe Rodriguez, a free car show for spectators, will take place from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. “It’s a great facility and we’re glad to be there,” McCarty said. “We’re hoping to do the Viera Rock Fest every year and regular concerts during the year as well.” The USSSA Space Coast Complex is located at 5800 Stadium Parkway in Viera. For more information, go to vierarockfest.com. VV

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Viera Voice | February 2022

The River Kidz are coming Who has the biggest stake in the Indian River Lagoon? Who can motivate adults to protect the future? Kids, of course! And, the River Kidz are coming to Brevard to help the IRL. Yes, some 40 kids and their parents kicked off the formation of the Brevard Chapter of the River Kidz on Dec. 10 by writing letters to Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, urging him to protect the manatees. St. Mark’s Episcopal Academy made its campus, including its 80foot Shepard’s Landing educational pier, available for the event. Tiare Fridrich, a biologist with Save the Manatee Organization, explained to the kids why manatees are dying and what can be done. Cleaning up pollution in the lagoon is the first step.

Lagoon Straight Talk From the Brevard Indian River Lagoon Coalition

The event was a great beginning for this new River Kidz chapter with inspiring art, fun education and enthusiasm, teaching the kids to use their voices to help secure their future. The inspiration came from the Martin County Rivers Coalition, which has had a very successful Kidz program for 10 years. Their mission: speak out, get involved and raise awareness because we believe kids should have a voice in the future of our rivers. They have organized Kidz trips to Tallahassee and many legislators have visited them

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to hear about water problems and what must be done. They also publish an entertaining and informative workbook that explains the water ecosystem, its fauna and flora, as well as its problems and solutions (now in its fifth edition). See riverscoalition. org/riverkidz and facebook. com/riverkidzmc This great work inspired the Brevard Indian River Lagoon Coalition, the Brevard Zoo and the Marine Resources Council to help form one here in Brevard County. The next Brevard event is currently being planned. Stay tuned. The group welcomes all kids 5-13-17 to join and is recruiting motivated parents who would like to help build this great program. Contact: MaloneyL731@gmail.com. Check out HelpTheLagoon. org VV

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Viera Voice | February 2022

ACROSS 1 Cozy place to sit 4 Drain stopper 8 Gullet 11 Percent ending 12 Of great size 13 Fashion 14 Ostrich look-alike 15 Ottoman title 16 Mimicked 17 Put into words 19 Scoundrel 21 Ship's position 22 Wife of Osiris 25 Adorned 29 Windy and cold 31 Mongolian desert 34 Call -- -- cab 35 Stare stupidly 36 Love god 37 TV spots 38 Quaint lodgings 39 Resin 40 Kiss targets 42 Fill the hull 44 Egyptian sun god 47 Charged particle 49 Gloomy 51 Shaving mishap 54 Cheers for toreros 56 Caviar 57 Musical sound 58 Exclusive 59 Catch some rays 60 Attila the -61 Rapunzel's "ladder" 62 Wapiti

DOWN 1 Walk haltingly 2 Kahuna's hello 3 Lustrous gem 4 Sci-fi weapon 5 Kind of sled 6 Cry of distaste 7 Toothed wheel 8 Cleaning tool 9 Lemon cooler 10 Meld 13 Gym pads 18 Patronage 20 Bail out 23 Big oil supplier 24 Cut, as logs 26 Rani's servant 27 Give up land 28 Moderate 30 Mo. fractions 31 Congeal 32 Vaccine type 33 -- Raton 35 Main points 40 Co. honcho 41 German ruler 43 Dutch barrier 45 Overact 46 One academy 48 Grab a cookie 49 Pastrami purveyor 50 Rangy 51 Utmost degree 52 Debt letters 53 "Early Start" airer 55 Mauna -Crossword Solution, page 34

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Viera Voice | February 2022

y r a u r b e F SUNDAY

MONDAY

TUESDAY

28 North Speakeasy National Boy Scouts Day

Viera Wetlands Walk Feb. 5 • 8 - 10 a.m.

Ritch Grissom Memorial Wetlands Walk. Take any of the trails in any direction. Bring your camera as there are plenty of birds and gators. Meet in the parking area. 3658 Charlie Corbeil Way, Viera, 321-635-8885

National Chopsticks Day

Galentine's Day

Love Rocks Rockledge Outdoor Pop-Up Event

National Boy Scouts Day

National Muffin Day

Cycle 4 ALZ Cycle Event

7 a.m. - 1 p.m. Brevard Alzheimer’s Foundation 4676 N. Wickham Road Melbourne, 321-253-4430

Central Florida Winds Free Concert

SHINE Counseling

Health Insurance help 9 a.m. - Noon Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays Wickham Park Senior Center 2785 Leisure Way Melbourne, 321-255-4494

Mah Jongg, American Noon - 3:30 p.m. Wickham Park Senior Center 2785 Leisure Way Melbourne 321-255-4494

Solo Organ Recital – Michael T.C. Hey

3 - 5 p.m. Advent Lutheran Church 7550 N. Wickham Road Suntree, 321-259-8515

Mardi Gras: Paws in the Park

10 a.m. - 3 p.m. Free event — Pet parade, contests, music, pet adoptions and more. Cocoa Village, 401 Riveredge Blvd. Cocoa, 321-636-3343

Free Tip Tuesdays 5:30 - 6:30 p.m. Free golf tips included with a paid bucket of balls. Duran Golf Club Driving Range, 321-504-7776

Social Scrabble

9:30 a.m. - Noon Wickham Park Senior Center 2785 Leisure Way Melbourne, 321-255-4494

3 p.m. Central Florida Chamber Winds and Central Florida Chamber Brass concert. Suntree United Methodist Church, 7400 N. Wickham Road, Suntree, 321-405-2359

National Kaluah Day

6 - 8 p.m. Learn to make a Valentine’s charcuterie board. $40 per person $55 for couples. UF/IFAS Extension Office 3695 Lake Drive, Cocoa 321-633-3170

Tuesdays, 4 - 6 p.m. Pizza Gallery 2250 Town Center Ave. Viera, 321-633-0397

Ballroom Dancing & Swing Lessons Mondays 6:30 p.m. – Advanced 7:30 p.m. – Beginners $8 per class for members, $10 for non-members. Wickham Park Senior Center 2785 Leisure Way Melbourne, 321-258-5916

March 1 Free Tip Tuesdays 5:30 - 6:30 p.m. Free golf tips included with a paid bucket of balls. Duran Golf Club Driving Range, 321-504-7776

THURSDAY

7 p.m. Thursdays Combining weekly runs, social events and charity events. Each location meets on a weekly basis, runs a designated route, and enjoys brews and great conversation. Long Doggers 1970 Viera Blvd. Viera, 321-433-1116

7 p.m. Beatles Tribute Band, Liverpool Live. Benefiting St. Francis Reflections Lifestage Care. USSSA Space Coast Complex 5800 Stadium Parkway Viera, 321-360-3456

Running For Brews Running Club

11:30 a.m. Taste and compare a variety of delicious homemade chili contest entries. Shell Harbor Retirement Community 2855 Murrell Road Rockledge, 321-265-6875

National Random Acts of Kindness Day

Thirsty Third Thursday

6 - 7 p.m. Wednesdays West Melbourne Veterans Memorial Complex 2285 Minton Road W. Melbourne 321-837-7779

5 - 8 p.m. Live music, complimentary snacks and free drinks. The Avenue Viera Central Park 2251 Town Center Ave. Viera, 321-634-5390

National Chili Day

Special Needs Trust Seminar

National Peppermint Patty Day

10 - 11 a.m. Top 10 tips for optimum senior health. RSVP required. One Senior Place 8085 Spyglass Hill Road Viera, 321-751-6771

AKtive Legacy 5K

7:30 a.m. Event for all generations. Viera Regional Park 2300 Judge Fran Jamieson Way, 321-917-7368

No Bad Days Foundation Kickball Tournament and Family Fun Day

Viera East Farmers Market

10 a.m. Second Saturday Local products, eggs and honey, jelly, jams, pet snacks and products, local art, crafts and food trucks. Woodside Park 1705 Crane Creek Blvd. Viera, Facebook: VEFarmersmarket

321: Food Fest

Noon - 10 p.m. Wickham Park 2500 Leisure Way Melbourne, 321FoodFest.com

National Caregiver Day

Happy Hour & Trivia Night Run Domestic Violence Out of 7 p.m. Trivia starts Brevard 5K – The Love Run Drink and food specials Tradewinds at Duran 7032 Stadium Parkway Viera, 321-504-7776

8 a.m. Viera Regional Park 2300 Judge Fran Jamieson Way, Viera, 321-631-2764

Seaside Piecemakers Quilt Show

Melbourne Strawberry Fest

Quilts on display, vendors and a silent auction. Feb. 18 & 19 Melbourne Auditorium 625 Hibiscus Ave. Melbourne, 321-501-7900

Emerald City 5K

10 a.m. Elder Law Attorney William A. Johnson, P.A. will present. Limited seating must RSVP. One Senior Place 8085 Spyglass Hill Road Viera, 321-751-6771

SATURDAY

9 a.m. - 3 p.m. Fundraiser with bounce Ribbon Cutting for Revive houses, games and family Viera activities. 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. Viera Baseball Fields 2338 Citadel Way, Suite 2300 Fran Jamieson Way 105, Viera, 321-504-4722 Viera, 321-255-2332

Melbourne Chamber's Good Morning Space Coast Introduction to Senior 7:45 - 9:30 a.m. Health Holiday Inn Viera

10 - 11:30 a.m. Wednesdays Learn basic line dancing steps. Viera Regional Community Center, 2300 Judge Fran Jamieson Way, Viera 321-323-4928

Beginner Belly Dance Lessons

National Thank a Mail Carrier Day

Rockin’ the Sunset – Concert for a Cause

Chili Cook-off

Line Dancing with Larry

FRIDAY

8298 N. Wickham Road Viera, 321-724-5400

Valentine’s Day theme Charcuterie Board Class

Presidents Day

Groundhog Day

Free golf tips included with a paid bucket of balls. Duran Golf Club Driving Range, 321-504-7776

Trivia Night

10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Multi-vendor event featuring crystals, jewelry, smudging items, shamanic clearings, readings, handmade apothecary items, plants, artists, food, music and more. Rockledge Civic Hub 530 Barton Blvd. Rockledge, 321-305-4667

6 - 9 p.m. Special event—Roaring 20s themed night of swing dancing, food and fun. Four-course, scratch-made dinner inspired by a menu for Calvin Coolidge at the Waldorf Astoria. 28 North Gastropub Viera, 321-241-1159

Space Coast Cars & Coffee Ballroom Dancing & Swing Free Tip Tuesdays Lessons 5:30 - 6:30 p.m. Car Show Mondays 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. USSSA Space Coast Complex 6:30 p.m. – Advanced 7:30 p.m. – Beginners Viera, 800-741-3014 $8 per class for members, $10 for non-members. Wickham Park Senior Center 2785 Leisure Way Melbourne, 321-258-5916

WEDNESDAY

6 p.m. Church At Viera 9005 N. Wickham Road Viera, 321-209-3391 See page 24 for details.

Gastropalooza II

5 - 11 p.m. Brevard's premier culinary cuisine battle returns. 28 North Gastropub 2250 Town Center Ave. Viera, 321-241-1159 See page 31 for details.

Feb. 19 and 20 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Plant City strawberries, food and activities. Wickham Park 2500 Leisure Way, Melbourne melbournefest.com

An Evening of Elegance: Symphony and Sinatra

6 p.m. Michael Andrew and the BSO pay tribute to Frank Sinatra. Kelly Stadium at Holy Trinity 5625 Holy Trinity Drive Suntree, 321-723-8323

Foot Golf Tournament

4 - 8 p.m. Silent auctions, prizes, food trucks, music and more. Duran Golf Club 7032 Stadium Parkway Viera, 321-868-6610

Simpkins Speaker Series: Winston E. Scott

Tuesday, March 1 9:30 a.m.

Eastern Florida State College 3865 N. Wickham Road, Melbourne U.S. Navy Captain, aviator and astronaut Winston E. Scott will share his story of success at this in-person and live-streamed event presented by the EFSC Foundation's Simpkins Speaker Series. This free event is open to students, faculty, staff and the general public. No registration is needed. Streamed live https://youtu.be/FLUmDTm6KXA. For more information, call 321-433-7055.

Gastropalooza II features unique competition, fabulous food, drink BY JEFF NAVIN After a year hiatus, Chris Coneen is happy to bring back a culinary event that proved to be quite popular. Coneen, the owner of 28 North Gastropub and Pizza Gallery & Grill in Viera, will conduct Gastropalooza II from 6 to 10 p.m. Friday, Feb. 25 at 28 North Gastropub. Two renowned chefs, Kyle Hash and Travis Peters, will compete for the championship title of top chef in the event. Hash is the chef at 28 North Gastropub. “It’s going to be a lot of fun,’’ Coneen said. “For $25, you’ll get all you can eat and, for another $25, you’ll get all you want to drink. You’ll get a $5 discount if you buy both. Tru Phonic, a really good local band, will be playing music between each round. It will be a fun night.’’ The two chefs will be judged in three categories — appetizer, entree and dessert. Three separate judges will give them scores for presentation, taste and creative innovation. Each round, a new trio of judges

VIERA VOICE Courtesy of 28 North Gastropub

Chef Kyle Hash is looking forward to the Gastropalooza II.

will score the two chefs. Nine judges will participate in the event. “The celebrity judges will be notable people in the community,’’ Coneen said. “The chefs are going to be judged on their use of ingredients and how they did something out of the box.’’ Hash and Peters are friends. They met during a Marcon Produce sponsored competition in Monterey, Calif. through the Produce Alliance. Peters owns two restaurants in Tucson, Arizona — Parish and the newly-opened The Dutch.

He has appeared on Food Network shows “Late Night

buy tickets or gather more information. On Feb. 1, 28 North Gastropub will host its Speakeasy event to celebrate the Roaring 20s with a 1920s theme. The gathering, which will be held from 5 to 9 p.m., will offer professional dance instruction by Sunroom Ballroom instructors. There will be a VIP happy hour and a fourcourse scratch meal inspired by a menu crafted for former president Calvin Coolidge at the Waldorf Astoria in New York City. The cost is $70 per person. VV

Eats” and “Chopped.’’ He also won Guy Fieri’s “Guy’s Grocery Games” on the Food Network. “Chef Kyle is eager to defend his title,’’ Coneen said. “He’s excited to compete against Chef Travis Peters. Travis is super excited to bring his culinary talent to the East Coast.’’ Cheney Brothers and Gordon’s Food Services, as well as corporate chefs, national beer, wine and liquor distributorships will provide food and libations for the gathering. Go to eventbrite. com/e/251498467687 to

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Viera Voice | February 2022

February

Thursday, Feb. 3

Wine & Whiskers 6 - 9 p.m. Fundraiser for the SPCA. $20 and a bottle of wine gets you in the door. Delicious food, raffle items, live music and adoptable dogs. SPCA Thrift Store 790 S. Apollo Blvd. Melbourne 321-327-8305

Friday, Feb. 4

First Friday Art Walk 5:30 - 8:30 p.m. Eau Gallie Arts District 1429 Highland Ave. Melbourne 321-259-8261 Dancing at the VMC 7 - 10 p.m. Tickets are $7.50 per person. BYOB. Veterans Memorial Center 400 S. Sykes Creek Parkway Merritt Island 321-453-1776 Wickham Park First Friday 5 - 9 p.m. Food trucks and live music. Wickham Park Pavilion 2500 Parkway Drive Melbourne 321-633-2046

Music for Life and Love 3:30 and 7 p.m. Valentine concert with The Ditchfield Family Singers. Riverside Presbyterian Church 3400 N. Atlantic Ave. Cocoa Beach, 386-320-6112

More events around Brevard

Saturday, Feb. 5

13th annual Higher Power Car Show 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. Trinity Wellspring Church 638 S. Patrick Drive Satellite Beach, 321-777-2047 25th annual Wild Game Night 5 p.m. Delicious wild game dinner, beer, soft drinks and wine. Music, door prizes and dancing. Wickham Park Pavilion 2500 Parkway Drive Melbourne Eventbrite: 25thannualwildgamenight Belly Dance Shows 8 p.m. From the Cedars of Lebanon to the Pyramids of Egypt, Belly Dance is a celebration. Come see an amazing theatrical show while enjoying dinner. Seating is limited, please RSVP. Flames Mediterranean Grille 1270 N. Wickham Road Melbourne, 321-777-6677 Third annual Mighty MOPAR Show 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. Music, food, awards and music. Boniface Hiers Chrysler Dodge Jeep

2555 W. King Street Cocoa, 321-948-7553 Wreaths Across America Mobile Education Exhibit 10 a.m. - 7 p.m. The mobile museum educates visitors about the service and sacrifice of our nation’s heroes. Melbourne Square Mall 1700 W. New Haven Ave. Melbourne wreathsacrossamerica.org Hook Kids on Fishing 9 - 11 a.m. For kids 5 to 15. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Free t-shirt, rod, reel and tackle box. Grills Riverside 6075 N. U.S. 1, Suntree anglersforconservation.org

Sunday, Feb. 6

Brevard County Firefighters Chili Cook Off 1 - 5 p.m. Taste great chili and get to know your Brevard County firefighters. $10 for chili bracelets and $15 for beer bracelets. Cocoa Village Park 401 Riveredge Blvd. Cocoa 321-863-1690

Thursday, Feb. 10

Central Brevard Art Association Spring Art Show Feb. 10 to 12, 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. Artists will display and sell original fine art. Cape Canaveral Public Library 201 Polk Ave., Cape Canaveral 321-632-2922

Saturday, Feb. 12

REJ Memorial Scholarship Foundation's Taste of Brevard 6 - 9 p.m. Food sampling from local restaurants and chefs. Eau Gallie Civic Center 1551 Highland Ave. Melbourne, 321-727-3913 Bungle in the Jungle 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. Re-enactment of the battle between the Vikings and the Picts in the year 839 A.D. Wickham Park, Pavilion 4 2500 Parkway Drive Melbourne, 321-507-2315 Moonlight Stroll 6 - 10 p.m. Enjoy sky gazing with the Brevard Astronomical Society. Entry fee is $4, preregister at Brevardfl.gov/

ParksandRecreation. Erna Nixon Park 1200 Evans Road W. Melbourne, 321-633-2046

Friday, Feb. 18

Black History Pioneer Workshop 6 - 9 p.m. Guest speakers, fun stations, games and refreshments. Lipscomb Community Center 3316 S. Monroe St. Melbourne, 321-608-7450

Saturday, Feb. 19

Ocean Treasures Festival 10 a.m. Listen to ocean experts, music, enjoy food and local art. Barrier Island Sanctuary 8385 S. Highway A1A Melbourne Beach 321-723-3556 Pirate Costume Bash & Festival 11 a.m. - 10 p.m. Contests, rum samplings. Squid Lips Melbourne 1477 Pineapple Ave. Melbourne 321-259-3101 Bark Brew Fest 5 - 7 p.m. Bring your canine, enjoy drinks and food from Burger Rob's Food Truck. Proceeds benefit Golden Retriever Rescue of MidFlorida. Dirty Beer Company 329 King Street, Cocoa Village 407-332-2840

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February Events Chili Cook-Off Thursday, February 10 at 11:30 a.m. Spicy or mild? Beans or no beans? Taste and compare a variety of homemade chili contest entries and cast a vote for your favorite recipe! RSVP by February 3

Open House Saturday, February 19 from 10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. Take a personal tour of our community and get a sneak peek into the resort lifestyle that gives our residents the freedom they deserve to Celebrate Life! RSVP by February 12

Viera Voice | February 2022

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SENIORNews

Center to host Wreaths Across America, event Honoring Veterans BY GEORGE WHITE

The first ever visit by the national Wreaths Across America (WAA) mobile education exhibit Feb. 6 is the highlight of now several events integrated into one Honoring Veterans Throughout History at Brevard Veterans Memorial Center. For years, the center has used the date to honor “The Four Immortal Chaplains” of World War II. This year, partly due to the need for outdoor activities, the event has been expanded. Wreaths Across America coordinates wreath-laying ceremonies at more than 2,500 locations across the United States, including the graves at the 318-acre Cape Canaveral National Cemetery in Mims. At the invitation of location coordinator Betty Jo Green, the WAA, based in Maine, is sending its mobile team from noon to 4 p.m. The 48-foot exhibit features a 24-person screening room. “It’s exciting because this is the only time it’s ever been to the area,’’

VIERA VOICE Courtesy of Spc. James McCann

Wreaths Across America will have a mobile exhibit at its Honoring Veterans Throughout History event at the Brevard Veterans Museum on Merritt Island.

Green said. The 2 p.m. ceremony honoring chaplains will be held at a VMC monument commemorating the story of the SS Dorchester, which was struck by torpedoes from a German U Boat in early February 1943 on the way to reinforce forces in Europe and North Africa. Of the 902 men aboard, 672 died including four U.S. Army Chaplains — a Methodist, a Roman Catholic, a Dutch Reformed Church pastor and a Jewish rabbi—who offered their own coats, gloves and life jackets to those they could help. The VMC monument was

recognized as a national monument in 2018. Other aspects of the event include: At 2 p.m., DAV national commander Andy Marshall will reflect on the chaplains and all veterans, especially those served by Disabled American Veterans. The VMC hosts DAV Chapter 123, one of the biggest in Florida. From noon to 1 p.m., women Vietnam veterans will receive recognition at the museum for their service and heroism. Quilts of Valor is a grassroots organization founded in 2003 by Catherine Roberts

after she dreamed of a wounded warrior healed when he was

wrapped with a quilt. The organization has now awarded more than 250,000 quilts to veterans and active military. The local QOV group has honored more than 228 veterans in Brevard County since 2017. From 1 to 2 p.m., the local Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) will present pins and certificates to all Vietnam era veterans and surviving spouses. Brevard Veterans Memorial Center is located at 400 S. Sykes Creek Parkway on Merritt Island. For more information, call 321-453-1776. VV

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A Tuition Free Public Charter School | Grades K-8 College Preparatory • State-of-the-art Instructional Technology Dedicated Student Devices with Custom Microsoft Office 365 Accounts Clubs & Extracurricular Activities • Winning Athletic Programs

"A" Rated Every Year Since Opening!

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6206 Breslay Dr., Viera | 321.541.1434

Viera Voice | February 2022

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Seniors Day is the first Tuesday of each month. The Avenue Viera • 321.989.2170 ktcustompaint@gmail.com (321) 536-7134

Licensed & Insured

jvanoverandcompany.com

*Some restrictions apply

Lic.# 11-PT-CT-0032

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7155 N Wickham Rd, Melbourne 32940

Eco Friendly

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Special pricing available for bundles of 2 or more services

321-794-5168 FREE ESTIMATES Celebrating 20 Years Serving Central Brevard RandysPressureWash@att.net Randy Cano, Owner – Viera, Florida – Licensed & Insured

WINTER SPECIAL!

5 off

Haircut Special $19 Minimum

COUPON VALID ONLY AT THIS LOCATION: Pineda Landings (The Fresh Market Center)

6395 N. Wickham Rd., Suite B-102 Melbourne, FL 32940

321-425-4217

supercuts.com

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Viera Voice | February 2022

Home Sweet Home Deborah Tomczak

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N MI

O GS

HERONS LANDING BEAUTIFUL CUSTOM BUILT HOME, 3 BD, 2 BA, 2 CG ON A BEAUTIFUL LOT IN HERON’S LANDING! MANY UPGRADING INCLUDING CUSTOM BLINDING & ELECTRIC HURRICANE SHUTTERS & 20 X 20 TILES THROUGHOUT!

IN ND

Thanks to my wonderful clients that have entrusted me with their real estate needs in 2021!

Best wishes for good health and happiness in 2022!!

SEACOAST SHORES

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Viera Voice | February 2022

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