Viera Voice, July 2021 by Viera Voice • Senior Life • Boomer Guide

Newspaper of Viera & Suntree...........BLUEWATER CREATIVE GROUP

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Vol. 15 Issue 6 | July 2021

Viera's tallest building set to rise on Rodina Drive BY LINDA JUMP The Luna, a $100 million six-story complex developed by North American Properties, will add 245 apartments off Rodina Drive in Viera by fall 2022. “Our focus now is building on the Space Coast. We’re helping get businesses here and recruit new employees with a combination of class A multifamily housing and our industrial program,” said Kat Butler, the vice president of acquisitions for North American Properties.

Headquarters are in Cincinnati, but Butler said the company will create six offices in downtown Melbourne in a site formerly used as an attorney’s office. “We’re excited to move to the Space Coast to help them grow,” she said. “The lease kicks in July 1, beginning with eight employees and growing to 13.” In three years, NAP has developed 22 million square feet of commercial space and 19,000 apartments in

UPSCALE LIVING

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VIERA VOICE Courtesy of North American Properties

The Luna is a mixed residential commercial building coming to Viera.

VIERA VOICE 7350 Shoppes Dr., Suite 102 Viera, FL 32940

VIERA VOICE Courtesy of Trevor DeSaussure

Trevor DeSaussure started his news media career with the Viera Voice in 2009.

Viera Voice intern thrives in D.C.

BY MARIA SONNENBERG Viera Voice proved a very nurturing professional nursery for Trevor DeSaussure, now a producer, cinematographer and editor with NewsWatch TV in Washington, D.C. “Viera Voice was my first job,” said the busy DeSaussure, who also runs Mediac Productions. He was just 16 years old in 2009 when the newspaper took him under its wing after receiving glowing recommendations from his Viera TV teacher Elizabeth Sivco at Viera High School. “VTV had a wonderful working relationship with

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the Viera Voice, and they were hiring our students to shoot, write and edit stories,” Sivco said. Sivco didn’t hesitate to nominate Trevor. “I had Trevor in my class for four years, and I knew that he had what it took to make it in the business, because he would take any assignment I needed covered,” she said. Although DeSaussure’s internship with Viera Voice lasted only a year, it gave him real-life work experience that put him ahead of the pack. “Viera Voice gave me the confidence I needed,” he said. According to Sivco, DeSaussure already had

the built-in discipline and interest needed for success. “He was always so determined to deliver a quality story by deadline,” she said. Sivco remembers tryouts for the pool of writers, videographers and editors. DeSaussure was there, of course. “I put him on a crew, and they all went out to cover a story, and they had it shot, written and edited by the time we left that day,” she said. Career plans are hard to pin for most 16-year-olds, but not for Trevor. Working at Viera Voice sealed the deal.

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Will Lilienthal works at Treetop Trek at the Brevard Zoo.

VIERA VOICE Courtesy of Will Lilienthal

Viera resident Will Lilienthal was a firefighter with Brevard County Fire Rescue for 27 years.

Retired ﬁreﬁghter swings from treetops, illustrates books BY MARIA SONNENBERG What does a firehouse have in common with illustrated book covers and Brevard Zoo’s zipline? They are all part of Will Lilienthal’s life. After 27

years with Brevard County Fire Rescue, most of them spent in Viera, Lilienthal moved on to second and third careers as a zipline tour guide and book illustrator. You will find him at Brevard Zoo from 7:30 in the

morning until at least 4 p.m. on Sundays and Mondays, when he hangs around Treetop Trek, the zoo’s expansive aerial adventure course. He instructs guests on the proper use of the equipment and follows them through the course to make sure all goes as planned. The 30-year resident of Viera never imagined he would be flying through the trees at the zoo. “I had no intention of getting another job,” he said. However, it is not surprising he was drawn to work at Treetop Trek, for a couple of reasons. As a firefighter, he trained in specialized response that included experience with sophisticated rope rescue. “This is a way to put the training into action,” he said. Lilienthal has always been

a big fan of Brevard Zoo. “I was one of the volunteers who helped build the zoo, and it’s really cool to now be a part of it,” he said. The creative part of Lilienthal’s life began in high school, where he majored in art. He later attended the Art Institute of Boston before deciding he preferred the financial security of a steady job to the often unreliable income stream of an artist. Being on duty as a firefighter meant long days of waiting in the firehouse. In the beginning of his firstresponder career, Lilienthal would take his pencils for drawing practice until an emergency required his time. While he dropped the hobby for some years, he picked it up again just before retirement. Friend and local author

Donna Puglisi, who met Lilienthal during her frequent visits to Vieraarea firehouses to treat firefighters to cakes, meals and pizza, encouraged him to rekindle his interest in art, inviting him to illustrate one of her books. Two books later, Lilienthal is currently working with Puglisi on her fourth book, “I’m No Angel in Stilettos.” “Donna inspired me to get back to art,” Lilienthal said. The new challenges of his “no-retirement” retirement satisfy both his creative cravings and his desire to help. Lilienthal always gets a kick from guest reactions at Treetop Trek. Many begin the course fearfully but complete it fearlessly. “They feel good at the end,” he said. V V

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Viera Voice | July 2021

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Guardian Ad Litem advocates for children in need BY ERNEST ARICO July is National Make a Difference for Children month. And what better way to make a difference in a child’s life than by becoming a volunteer with the Florida Guardian Ad Litem program in Brevard County. On national, state and county levels, many children are suffering. They are facing abuse and neglect, as well as an extreme lack of healthcare, food and supplies. The Guardian Ad Litem program is one way to ensure these children are not left behind. Guardians Ad Litem volunteers are people who become part of a court program to represent the best interests of an assigned child. A Guardian Ad Litem does not have to be a lawyer, counselor, therapist or parent. The volunteer is a representative for the child before the court, social service agencies and the community. Cynthia Rickerd, a volunteer recruiter for the program in Brevard, said the Guardian Ad Litem represents the best interests of the child in a variety of ways. Rickerd said volunteers independently conduct a thorough investigation on behalf of the child. He or she interviews the child, counselors, pediatricians, psychiatrists and psychologists, mental health professionals, people from the neighborhood, schools,

VIERA VOICE Ernest Arico

Cynthia Rickerd, a volunteer recruiter for the Guardian Ad Litem program, goes over a case file with volunteer Sandy Samuel, left, at the Harry T. and Harriette V. Moore Justice Center in Viera.

churches, law enforcement and friends. The Guardian Ad Litem also examines and collects records from many sources concerning the child. The volunteer then takes this information to the experts in the community for recommendations on what is best for the child. Rickerd also said the Guardian Ad Litem serves as a monitor of the agencies and persons who provide services to the child. He or she assures that orders of the court are carried out and that families and children in need receive the help they should get. The Guardian Ad Litem assures that the child’s wishes are heard and that the best interest of the child

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is presented to the court and agencies dealing with the child. He or she writes reports and speaks in court for the child, Rickerd explained. In Brevard, Rickerd said 660 children are assigned to a Guardian Ad Litem volunteer. However, 276 children are without one. Therefore, the need for more volunteers. “With the ending of the COVID-19 pandemic, we’re definitely seeing an increase in the number of cases,” she said. “That’s why we need more volunteers.” To volunteer, Rickerd said you must be at least 21, complete a Level 2 background check (fingerprinted and criminal history check), and

complete a 30-hour training program. In addition to the training, Rickerd said volunteers are provided with a mentor, a child advisory manager and lawyers to counsel volunteers during each case. “Each program has a network of community resources and experts who are available to assist each Guardian Ad Litem,” Rickerd said. Sandy Samuel of Melbourne has been a Guardian Ad Litem volunteer for 3½ years. She decided to become a volunteer after working for the Women’s Center in Melbourne and domestic violence cases against battered women. “I’ve always wanted to give back to my community,” said Samuel, who retired after 36 years as a program manager for Lockheed Martin. “I saw what was happening to children, working on

domestic violence cases, and I wanted to advocate for them because they can’t express their wishes.” Samuel said she likes advocating for smaller children, especially infants to 5 or 6. “I love that age,” she said. “It’s a wonderful thing to do. I’ve learned so much about community support.” Samuel said her biggest challenge is making sure the children and parents are given all the help and resources available to them. “One of the problems is that there are not enough people working the system for them,” she said. “There is only so much you can do.” “If you’re interested in volunteering, we ask that you give me a one-year commitment,” Rickerd said. “We have no age cutoff. We’ll take anyone between the ages of 21 to 75." For more information about the Guardian Ad Litem program, call 321-271-1304. V V

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Viera Voice | July 2021

Assignment Editor R. Norman Moody Office Manager Sylvia Montes Art Director Adam Palumbo Staff Reporter Katie Sivco Copy Editor Jeff Navin Sports Writer/SportsBlog Carl Kotala Writers/Reporters Ernest Arico Brenda Eggert Brader Charlotte A. Corbeil Mike Gaffey Linda Jump Fred Mays Flora Reigada Wendy Scheuring VIERA MEANS Katie Sivco Maria N E T W Sonnenberg ORKING GROUP

BUSINESS

Featured Family1

Family living the Viera dream

BY WENDY SCHEURING

VIERA VOICE is not liable for errors or omissions in editorial, advertorial or advertising materials. VIERA MEANS BUSINESS NETWORKING GROUP Distribution of this newspaper does not constitute an endorsement of products or services herein. Reproduction or use without permission, of editorial or graphic content in any manner is prohibited.

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spending her youth watching American TV shows such as “Beverly Hills, 90210.” From a young

A lady named Vanessa grew up in France,

VIERA VOICE Katie Sivco

Patrick, right, and Vanessa Karcher along with Vanessa’s children, Jordan and Ilona Zimmer, made their dream come true when they moved from France to Orlando, then Viera.

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age, she had dreams of living in America. When she was in high school, she received an award that provided her an opportunity to travel to the United States. She visited Grand Rapids, Michigan and vowed to return to the U.S. one day. “I was American in my heart,” said Vanessa Karcher. “I promised myself I would come back and live here.” “The funny part is that when I met (my husband) Patrick (Karcher), one of the first subjects we talked about was the U.S. We promised each other we would find a way to come and live here.” The couple have been married seven years. They met at a wedding. Vanessa was the beautician in charge of the bride’s makeup. Patrick’s brother was the groom. Five years ago, Vanessa and Patrick, along with

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Vanessa’s children, Jordan and Ilona Zimmer, made that dream come true. They moved to Orlando, then Viera, first in Capron Ridge, then Bayhill. In France, the family’s hometown of Strasbourg

“It’s been my dream to live in the U.S. since I was a little girl. It’s such a huge accomplishment for me.” — Vanessa Karcher

was 10 hours away from the Mediterranean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean. Now that they live in Viera, the family enjoys having easy access to the beach. Patrick, who is employed at the Eau Gallie Yacht Club as a pastry chef, also feels that Viera is much safer than Orlando and has less traffic. Patrick calls himself a foodie. He enjoys discussing anything about food, beer, wine and cheese. During the pandemic, he started a YouTube channel called “Cooking with Patrick.” He enjoys teaching people how to cook French and American food, always emphasizing the history of the dish he is presenting.

FEATURED FAMILY

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FEATURED FAMILY

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Vanessa began a business eight years ago as a coach for health and wellness, as well as business, while living in France. She continues working from her home office in Viera. Jordan and Ilona quickly adjusted to school life when they first arrived in the United States, learning English within three months through the school system’s English as a Second Language program. They are 19 and 17, respectively. Jordan will graduate with an associates degree in December from Eastern Florida State College. Vanessa, a recent graduate of Viera High School, will attend EFSC in the fall. “It’s calm. There are not a lot of people,” Jordan said of Viera, where he enjoys going to The Avenue Viera. He plans on applying to

the college’s EMT program and wants to become a firefighter. Ilona would like to be a dermatologist or a forensic scientist. “I love everything to do with the skin,” she said. She took a course in forensic science at Viera High and immediately became interested. “I’m not scared of blood and don’t find anything disgusting,” she said. The family feels that everyday living in Viera is an adventure. They have seen sea turtles nesting at night on the beach. They enjoy visiting the Brevard Zoo, and watching sunrises and sunsets together. “It’s been my dream to live in the U.S. since I was a little girl,” said Vanessa Karcher. “It’s such a huge accomplishment for me.” V V

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Viera Voice | July 2021

Summer Adventure Guide

North Carolina and Georgia

Mountains, historic riverfront adventures just hours away Less than a day’s drive away, South Carolina, North Carolina and Georgia oﬀer unique vacation experiences. Florida ﬂatlanders can experience the mountains, winding country roads and unique outdoor activities. Experience Bavaria in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains, stroll the riverfront in Savannah, take in the history of Georgia’s oldest city or ride a steam train on the Great Smoky Mountain Railroad.

Great Smoky Mountain Railroad Bryson City, North Carolina

photo: Elaine Moody

Bryson City is a small town in western North Carolina that is surrounded by mountains, streams, waterfalls and lakes. The area has a wide range of outdoor activities such as hiking, walking, biking, fishing and swimming. But many visitors come to experience the Great Smoky Mountain Railroad. Various trail excursions include the Nantahala Gorge Excursion, a five-hour trip through the mountains, over a lake and along the Nantahala River. Location: Bryson City is about a nine-hour drive from Brevard County. Phone: 828-488-3335 Websites: brysoncity.gov; Great Smoky Mountain Railroad, gsmr. comfloridastateparks.org/parks-and-trails/blue-spring-state-park Video Tour: vieravoice.com/videos

Blue Ridge Mountains Helen, Georgia It is said to be the charm of Bavaria in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains. This town in north Georgia gives visitors a glimpse of a German village. The entire town follows the Bavarian theme, with its building designs, cobblestone walks, alleys with shops, restaurants, wineries and attractions. It is along the Chattahoochee River, which oﬀers tubing and other activities. Location: Helen is in northern Georgia, about a nine-hour drive from Brevard. Phone: 800-858-8027, 706-878-2181 photo: Elaine Moody

Website: helenga.org

Oldest City in Georgia Savannah, Georgia

photo: Elaine Moody

Viera Voice | July 2021

Savannah is the oldest city in Georgia, with lots of Victorian mansions, 20 park squares, including the 30-acre Forsyth Park that attracts lots of visitors to the city’s unique architecture, art, trendy boutique and cuisine. They come for the history and charm of a stroll along the Savannah River. A recommendation is to take a hop-on, hop-oﬀ trolley tour to decide what areas, museums or attractions to visit. There are several tour companies based at the City Market. Location: Along the Savannah River across from South Carolina, it is about a 4 1/2-hour drive from Brevard. Website: visitsavannah.com

vieravoice.com

Summer Adventure Guide

Florida day trips

Natural and manmade wonders await nearby Places and choices for summer vacation or day outings, including nearby trips and multiday road trips that can take you to interesting sites. Here are a few that we have visited and recommend.

Pelican Island National Wildlife Refuge Pelican Island is America’s first National Wildlife Refuge. It is a little island in the Indian River Lagoon that is surrounded by more than 5,400 acres of protected lands and waters. Pelican Island Wildlife Refuge is home to plenty of fish and wildlife. Pelican Island’s designation in 1903 was the first of 568 national wildlife refuges created since. It offers several trails, walkways and boardwalks, and wildlife viewing. Bring drinking water, sunscreen, mosquito repellant and binoculars. Location: South of Sebastian Inlet, off SR A1A, near the community of Orchid Hours: 7:30 a.m. to sunset Admission: free Phone: 772-581-5557 photo: Elaine Moody

Website: fws.gov/refuge/Pelican_Island

Chihuly Collection at the Morean Art Center The Chihuly Collection is stunning glass art of world-renowned Dale Chihuly in a 15,000-square-foot setting at the Morean Art Center in St. Petersburg. The experience is complemented by video presentations in the theater and in a retail store with a wide variety of Chihuly merchandise. Adults and children will likely marvel at the exhibit at the Morean Art Center as well as the Glass Studio and Hot Shop, where visitors can see glass artists creating pieces. It also has an outdoor garden. Location: 720 Central Ave., St. Petersburg Hours: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday to Saturday; noon to 5 p.m., Sunday; check website for holiday hours Admission: adult, $20; 65 and older, military, $18; ages 6 to 18 and anybody with a valid college ID, $13 photo: Jill Blue

Website: moreanartscenter.org/chihuly

De Leon Springs State Park

photo: Wikipedia

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De Leon Springs is a great place to cool off in the summer heat and explore the trails of the subtropical forest that features a massive old-growth bald cypress tree. The spring was once used to turn a sugar cane mill followed by a grist mill to turn corn into flour during the Civil War. In addition to hiking, there are opportunities for swimming, fishing, boating, snorkeling, scuba diving, picnicking and wildlife and wading birds viewing. Restrooms, boardwalks and sidewalks are wheelchair accessible. Location: 601 Ponce de Leon Blvd., De Leon Springs Hours: 8 a.m. until sunset. Restaurant is open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. weekdays and 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. weekends Admission: Vehicle with two to eight people, $6; one-person vehicle and motorcycle, $4; pedestrians and bicyclists, $2 Phone: 386-985-4212 Website: floridastateparks.org/parks-and-trails/de-leon-springs-state-park

Viera Voice | July 2021

p u p a SPORTSWr

Viera linebacker Eaton set on leading state in tackles BY CARL KOTALA

Ask Viera High rising senior Johnny Eaton what he likes about the position he plays for the Hawks football team and his eyes light up. “The action,” he said. “I love hitting. I love hitting. That’s my favorite thing in the world.” Spoken like a true linebacker. During the past two seasons, Eaton has had quite an impact on Viera’s defense, leading the team in tackles. He had 118 as a junior, which ranked him among the state’s leaders and gave him a goal for his upcoming senior season. “I expect to do that every year, so that’s not really something I’m looking to do,” Eaton said about leading Viera in tackles again. “I’m looking to lead the state in tackles this year.” Viera coach Derek Smith, who has been watching Eaton play football with his son, Austin, since the two were 8 years old, referred to Eaton as a “terroristic animal” on the field and didn’t seem to doubt whether he can rack up more stops than anyone in the state this season.

AHA

VIERA VOICE Carl Kotala

Viera High linebacker Johnny Eaton had a team-high 118 tackles last season. This year, he wants to lead the state.

“Johnny’s an explosive, high-energy kid,” Smith said. “He’s long, he gets to the football and he plays full speed — even at practice. He’s a kid that coaches love to have at practice if you’re a defensive coach and hate to have at practice if you’re an offensive coach, because he doesn’t know how to slow down. “When he’s got a goal set in

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mind, he’s going to achieve it.” At 6-foot-3 and somewhere between 195 and 200 pounds, Eaton has a combination of size, speed and sports IQ that always has him around the football. “What sets him apart is his speed to the football,” Smith said. “When he sees the read, he’s full speed. He doesn’t hesitate. And he doesn’t let a running back knock him over.

He tackles backwards.” Eaton, who said he’s been playing football in some form since he started walking, credits another former Hawk for helping him develop on and off the football field — his older brother, David. “He’s one of the people that made me who I am today,” Johnny Eaton said. “I thank him every day for that.” As for the preparation that

INSIDE THE ROPES

Viera East names new Classic Club champion BY DAVID D. HORST

We have a new club champion and several other award winners. Finally, we had a match between VEMA and Duran Golf Club with all flights, included and limited teams sponsored by Golf Carts Unlimited. Ben Dickerson became the Classic Club champion. Tied for second place were Jim Kopliner and Robbie Rosenberger. Fourth place went to Al Fopianno.

The low net from the Green Tee box, top six of 31, were Kenneth Conrad, Ben Herrman, Craig Smith, Robbie Rosenberger, Danny Barrios and David Horst. The low net from the Sky Blue Tees were David Hill, Tony Hines, Bill Hall, Lawrence Henris, Bruce Schwanda and Wilson Butler. The low gross winners using no handicaps were Bruce Schwanda, first; Wilson Butler, second; and Tony Hines, third.

On May 20, we played a four-man scramble and counted three scores on par 5s, two scores on par 4s and one score on par 3s. The top three teams were: 1. Al Foppiano, Danny Barrios, Bob David and Kerin Vetter. 2. Bill Scholtens, Randy Sweaney, Martin Gillette and David Horst. 3. Bruce Ames, Roger Braker, Bob Gustavson and Bill Hall VV

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comes with playing linebacker at a high level, Eaton not only puts in the time on the field and in the gym, but he has been studying film from an early age. “I always put hours of film in,” he said. “That’s one of my favorite things to do. One of my role models is (former Carolina Panthers linebacker) Luke Kuechly, and he studied film all the time. V V

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Viera Voice | July 2021

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VSLL All-Star teams show power in tournament play BY CARL KOTALA The Viera Suntree Little League had six teams playing in the District 2 All-Star Tournament this summer. Three won championships, and one more was still in title contention after the first two rounds of pool play. The teams that won titles — 50/70 baseball, 8-10 softball and Majors softball — moved onto the sectional round with an eye on reaching their respective state tournaments, which take place this month. Here’s a look at how each VSLL team has fared through mid-June: 8-10 softball It was certainly a wild ride to the district title as the VSLL swept a best-of-five series against Greater West Melbourne. Manager Dan Smith’s team received strong play from Alivia Roszkowiak, Arianna Vega, Bella Smith, Alyssa Furst, Klara Latham, Emily Volz, Addison Couch, Claire Doolittle, Cara Main, Morgan McNulty and Addison Steffen throughout the tournament. Gracen Baker was expected to make an impact in the sectionals. Majors Softball Once again, it was a threegame sweep for the VSLL as it defeated Beachside in a best-of-five series, thanks to some excellent pitching and timely hitting. Lindsey Daly, Sara Fentress, Ryleigh Hattrup, Aleecia Johnson, Evangeline Martin, Addyson Maxwell, Kaitlyn Peedin, Haley Rogers, Olivia Smith, Selena Vega and Valentinna Worden all played well for manager Mike Worden’s team during the tournament. The team was hoping to get Harlowe Doolittle and Molly Peters back for sectionals. 50/70 Baseball The VSLL got a combined no-hitter from Blaine Werkeiser and Dominic Deligato in the first game of

VIERA VOICE Carl Kotala

Lindsey Daly, right, tags out a Beachside runner during the District 2 Tournament at Rodes Park in West Melbourne. Daly and her Viera Suntree Little League All-Star teammates won the district title to advance to the sectional round.

runs in an opening-game win against Palm Bay East. Coby Wallace, Brady Jensen and Brody Vogel all played significant roles in a win over South Beaches in Game 2. Manager David Jensen’s

team was also getting significant contributions from Luca Bongiovi, Nathan Burrus, Nathan Harriman, Lucas Kapatoes, Max Leoni, Steven Moore, Noah Ott, Kamryn Potts and Trey Slavik. V V

VIERA VOICE Carl Kotala

Evan King of the Viera Suntree Little League All-Star 11-year-old baseball team makes contract during a game in the District 2 Tournament.

its series against Beachside. Derek Galluzzi threw a nohitter in Game 2 to clinch it. Manager Nick Galluzzi also got some big contributions from Andrew Cincimino, Jake Couturier, Kian Crockett, Nick Cunningham, Ethan Nunes, Owen Stacharczyk, Jack Park, Jackson Spradlen, Trey Spratt and Brian Winsten. 11-year-old Baseball The VSLL got off to a great start, beating Beachside 15-5 in its opening game before dropping its next two. Still, manager Mark Huffman got a solid effort from a roster that included Ryan Amos, Bronson Chodachek, Rogan Crockett, Xavier Buckley, Zeke Buckley, Jaxon Hayes, Ryan Hissam, Evan King, Tyler Rothe, Carter Samuels, Evan Scalia, Brady Spratt and RJ Wright. 8-10 Baseball A pair of opening-round

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losses kept this team from advancing to the championship round. But that doesn’t mean it didn’t represent the VSLL well in the District 2 Tournament. Manager Ron Long’s team certainly had its moments, including a game against Eau Gallie when Jordan Holtz had two doubles and two RBI; Sergio Prieto had a pair of singles; and Ethan Nagel had a triple and drove in two runs. Dylan Nagle also had an RBI in that game. Other key players for Viera Suntree included Gavin Brower, Brock Chodachek, Dylan Lee, Angelina Long, Thomas Lunsford Gonzales, Reed Phelps, Conner Purvis, Conner Temple and Carter Trosset. Majors Baseball At press time, the VSLL was 2-0 in pool play with two more games to go before the semifinals and finals. Noah Renes hit two home

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Viera Voice | July 2021

s w e N

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Schools seek bus drivers for ‘critical’ service BY CARL KOTALA

VIERA VOICE Carl Kotala

The Brevard Public Schools district is looking to fill 66 bus routes for the upcoming school year.

Brevard Public Schools needs bus drivers. The district will host a career fair from 8 a.m. to noon July 4 at its main office at 2700 Judge Fran Jamieson Way in Viera. Glen Enstice, the assistant director of transportation for Brevard Public Schools, said the district is looking to fill 66 bus routes for the upcoming school year, which is set to open for students Aug. 10. “We’ve got to get drivers,” Enstice said. “This is critical.” Driver requirements for the position include a Class B CDL license, for which Enstice said Brevard

Public Schools will provide training. Applicants must have at least five years of experience as a licensed driver with a good driving record, no felony convictions and no DUI’s within the past seven years. Other requirements include passing a Department of Transportation physical and agreeing to take random drug and alcohol tests. To apply right away, go to BrevardSchools.org or call 321-633-3680. John Davis, who is the South Area Supervisor for BPS and a former bus driver, said he has a message he always passes on when recruiting potential drivers. It focuses on the impact a

driver can have on a young person’s life. “Just like every job, bus driving has its challenges, but not every job can give you the satisfaction and fulfillment that driving a bus can give you,” Davis said. “The fulfillment of helping these kids and doing something for your community, you can’t get paid enough for that. “If you join our family, you become a part of our children’s future. You always remember your bus driver from when you were a kid. Every single person can tell you the name of their bus driver who had an influence on their life.” V V

Roller hockey rink debuts at La Roca Park in Viera BY KATIE SIVCO The Viera Co. and the Central Viera Community Association recently celebrated the grand opening of La Roca Park with about 100 visitors. The park is complete with an outdoor hockey rink, a rock-climbing feature, concrete cornhole games, playground and open play areas, pavilion, restrooms and mail kiosk. Although La Roca Park is inside the Sierra Cove neighborhood, any Central Viera community resident can use its amenities. “It’s hockey day in Viera,” said Todd Pokrywa, the president of The Viera Co. “It’s here on the rink at La Roca Park that our community’s children have a new opportunity to learn important life skills while having fun and playing a game I grew up playing in Canada.”

VIERA VOICE Jill Blue

Todd Pokrywa played hockey as a boy in Toronto.

Pokrywa played both street and ice hockey in his youth while living in Toronto. He said the sport isn’t just about points and passes, it can teach children the value of teamwork, time management, respect and determination. “This new park offers yet another safe opportunity for our community’s families to enjoy Viera’s active, outdoor lifestyle,” Pokrywa said. The June 5 grand opening,

Viera Voice | July 2021

The outdoor hockey rink at La Roca Park is unique to the area.

which featured a ribboncutting ceremony, DJ, bounce houses, face painting and food trucks, kept kids and parents entertained. But the highlight of the day was the free roller hockey clinics offered by the Tampa Bay Lightning and Lightning Made Hockey. “We’re here to promote hockey, teach kids all about the sport and help grow the game,” said Aaron Humphrey, the youth ice and street hockey coordinator for the Tampa Bay Lightning. “With this new rink here, we’re looking forward to the future

VIERA VOICE Caleb Nyberg

of the kids growing on this side of the coast.” Previous to the opening of La Roca Park, the closest place to play hockey was the Space Coast Iceplex in Rockledge. Now, Viera residents can practice off the ice a little closer to home. “Innovation is what builds a community stronger and better. We believe that with this rollerball rink here, we can create a symbiotic relationship with the Space Coast Iceplex,” said Matt Smith, the owner of Space Coast Iceplex. V V

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Going Places 2021 Viera High School Graduation PHOTOGRAPHS BY ADAM PALUMBO

HIGHLIGHT VIDEO AVAILABLE AT VIERAVOICE.COM

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Viera Voice | July 2021

Trevor DeSaussure remembers his days at the Viera Voice fondly.

VIERA INTERN

continued from page 1

“Working his first professional job at Viera Voice sparked an interest to seriously pursue video and digital media production as a career,” said Sivco, who keeps up with Trevor’s adventures through Facebook. After high school, DeSaussure headed to George Mason University in Virginia and remained in

VIERA VOICE Courtesy of Trevor DeSaussure

the area after graduation. He launched Mediac Productions, which boasts clients from nonprofits to large public relations agencies, in 2015. “We have a pretty wide array of clients,” DeSaussure said. In fact, NewsWatch was a Mediac client before hiring DeSaussure. His assignments these days are so varied that he even carries a White House press card. DeSaussure is one of

those fortunate people who loves his work. The stories he now covers may be different than those of his Viera Voice days, but the fun remains the same. He still loves meeting new people and covering great stories, as his teacher notes. He just has higher-priced equipment for his storytelling these days. “I’m still the same kid, but my toys are a little more expensive,” he said, laughing. VV

VIERA VOICE Courtesy of Trevor DeSaussure

Trevor DeSaussure is a graduate of Viera High School.

Viera Voice | July 2021

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Masks in school a thing of the past BY LINDA WIGGINS School rules for pandemic protection will soften at the start of the new year Aug. 12, and for many students the changes cannot come soon enough. With masks now optional and the option of eLearning with an in-person teacher and classroom a thing of the past, how have mandatory face coverings, social distancing and learning from home affected students these past two school years? The new rules decided by the Brevard County School Board May 21 make masks optional and removes eLearning from the available choices in favor of allowing concerned parents to enroll their children in Brevard Virtual School. Students at the K-8 Viera Charter School partnered with students at Cocoa High School to look at how the pandemic has affected them the past one and a half school years. The VCS Student Council has partnered with the junior and now senior high school students since the Cocoa High student attended Endeavour Elementary School. “I have been a lot more stressed out and anxious in the pandemic,” said Caterina Grant, who along with her student council peers will for the most part be moving to Viera High School and other select high schools.

“It has taken a toll on a lot of people’s mental health, with all the isolation, family members passing away, changes to school events, having to wear a mask, and so on.” The school district has tried to intervene with mandatory mental health teachings on how to deal with depression and how students can spot their peers who might be at risk for suicide. Suicide touched home at Cocoa High when a student took his life this year. “If I only knew, I would have reached out to him to make sure he was OK,” journalism student Steven Zembreski wrote in a yearbook article about his classmate and best friend. School absenteeism has become a huge red flag for mental health distress, Cocoa High social worker Katherine Warrick noted. “The effects of the pandemic on students is only now becoming clear and will likely take some years to address it,” Warrick added. For Faith Johnson, the Viera field trip to Washington, D.C. for eighth graders to enhance Civics and U.S. Government education was something she looked forward to for years and had to miss due to cancellation. “It’s such a huge part of what we have all looked forward to for years for our chance to go, and the

opportunity won’t come again. There have been many ceremonies and events like this one that many students will miss out on forever.” One thing Johnson won’t miss are the face masks. “They really are a hassle to wear all day, they get sweaty, it’s hard to exert yourself and then have to breathe hard, and it is impossible to clearly hear people when they speak. You also miss out on so much communication because you don’t see facial expressions.” Add to all of this, the social distancing requirement on top of masks. “In middle school, it’s a big deal to be with your friends,” said rising eighth grader Johnnyla Smith. “You want to hug them and run around and be a kid with your friends, but you can’t even sit next to them and talk to them, at a time when you need your friends the most. It makes a hard time even harder without that support.” According to the May 21 decision, some social distancing rules will remain in place. “Making masks optional is a step in the direction of returning to normal,” VCS Principal Dr. Julie Cady said. “But obviously, we have a way to go before we are out of the pandemic in schools, and helping students regain what they may have lost will be an ongoing mission.” V V

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VIERA VOICE Mike Gaﬀey

Carnival Cruise Line’s newest and largest cruise ship, the Mardi Gras, arrives June 4 at its new homeport at Port Canaveral’s Cruise Terminal 3.

Cruise industry’s future brightens as ships sail again BY MIKE GAFFEY After a devastating, pandemicinduced shutdown of the cruise industry, cruise ships carrying passengers are sailing from U.S. ports once more. At nearby Port Canaveral, where cruise ships carrying paying guests haven’t sailed since March 2020, Disney Cruise Line’s Disney Dream became the first passengercarrying cruise ship to depart the Port on June 29. The test cruise with volunteer Disney employees as passengers was set to return July 1. Disney is one of five cruise lines that operate from the Port’s six cruise terminals, along with Carnival, Royal Caribbean, MSC and Norwegian. All five plan to slowly resume cruises this year from the Port, including Carnival’s newest cruise ship Mardi Gras, which arrived June 4 at its new homeport at Cruise Terminal 3. The Mardi Gras, the first liquefied natural gas-powered cruise ship to operate in North America, is set to make its inaugural seven-day cruise on July 31. Cruise lines must follow numerous health and safety protocols during test cruises established by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in order to resume revenue sailings. Disney, MSC and Royal Caribbean have opted for test cruises, while Carnival and Norwegian will follow the CDC’s other option to cruise with at least 98 percent of crew and 95 percent of passengers vaccinated. Carnival will sail with vaccinated guests through July, and Norwegian’s vaccination mandate will extend through Oct. 31. However, the CDC’s cruise rules

may clash with Florida’s ban on so-called “vaccine passports,” which forbids businesses from asking whether customers have been vaccinated against COVID-19. Cruise industry officials and the Governor’s Office are working to find a solution. Florida had sued the CDC in April to lift its cruising restrictions. On June 18, the state won an injunction against CDC regulations. But a judge in Tampa delayed the injunction until July 18 and gave the CDC until July 2 to create narrower guidelines. In the meantime, thousands of crew members from visiting cruise ships have been vaccinated at the Port in an effort to speed up a return to sailing. “There is a tremendous pent-up demand for cruises,” Port CEO Capt. John Murray said. The shutdown has cost the world’s second-busiest cruise port behind PortMiami before the pandemic nearly 80 percent of its revenue and about half of its workforce. Cruise expert Stewart Chiron predicts the industry will fully rebound by the first or second quarter of 2022. “They’re way ahead of where they were same time in 2019 and there were no hiccups in 2019,” Chiron said of the pace of cruise bookings during a June 15 episode of “TravelPulse Podcast.” Jean Paugh, owner of All About You Travel Unlimited, 1240 U.S. 1, Suite 6 in Rockledge, said cruise ships will be safer than ever in the pandemic’s wake. “Cruise lines always have been cleaner than most restaurants and hotels, but now it will be a step above with the new filtration systems and protocols that are being put in place,” Paugh said. V V

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Travel bookings pick up to pre-pandemic levels BY LINDA JUMP Elaine Margolis of Satellite Beach plans to fly to Houston this month for her granddaughter’s first birthday. She’s more concerned about passenger “craziness” than restrictions or contracting a virus. “I’ve seen passengers create disturbances on planes (on the news) and that worries me more than COVID. I think things are somewhat normal, so I feel completely safe otherwise,” she said. She’s flown three times in the past year, with another flight planned this fall to San Diego. Dr. Cheryl Winchell of Fellsmere and her husband were at the Melbourne Orlando International Airport awaiting a flight to Charlotte, N.C. for a long weekend to celebrate her birthday. “I’m a physician and my husband is an engineer on ships, and we have no reservations about traveling.”

“People are excited to return to the beaches and attractions they’ve missed.” — Mark Jenkins “Know before you go” takes on new meaning as states, municipalities, modes of transportation, hotels and motels, restaurants and attractions navigate the pandemic with closures and reduced options for hours, number of visitors at one time, or amenities. As local residents join the nation in becoming more comfortable with resuming travel, demand is driving up bookings and the price to pre-pandemic figures. Jean Paugh, owner of All About You Travel Unlimited, said that means passengers need to book early. “If you haven’t booked vacations for summer yet, it will be slim pickings. We are booking a lot of 2022 and 2023 already,” she said. Paugh said recently, cruise bookings are also exploding, as lines resume some offerings. “Port Canaveral will have five cruise lines home-ported here, now,” she said. Mark Jenkins, a

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SENIOR LIFE Linda Jump

Elaine Margolis of Satellite Beach is planning a trip to Houston.

SENIOR LIFE Linda Jump

Dr. Cheryl Winchell is not afraid to travel as she heads from Melbourne Orlando International Airport to Charlotte, North Carolina.

spokesman for the American Automobile Association, said their bookings have increased dramatically every month this year. “People are excited to return to the beaches and attractions they’ve missed,” he said. Jenkins stressed the importance of renting a car quickly. “There’ve been shortages because some companies sold off cars last year when they had no business during the pandemic.” He also noted that most airlines haven’t

returned to a full flight schedule. “Travelers have fewer flight options.” Because of high demand for road trips, Paugh suggests having an agent book hotels and attractions “if you don’t want to spend the night in your car and see no attractions.” She said National Park

tours are popular, as well as Alaska and Hawaii. “Now, we have non-stop flights from Orlando to Honolulu,” Paugh said. In mid-June, Hawaii was the only state to still require a 10-day selfquarantine or proof of a negative test within 72 hours before arrival. Illinois and Idaho also still had some city travel restrictions. Other states have lifted restrictions for interstate travel. To check for state-bystate pandemic travel requirements, go to triptik.aaa.com and click on the box in the upper right corner. Both Paugh and Jenkins said a travel agent is needed now more than ever, to ensure an uneventful trip, especially with international travel. “There’s still so much confusion about restrictions or what documentation is needed at the time,” Jenkins said. “We can also offer exclusive trips that a traveler won’t find on their own.” V V

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Community rallies together for injured veteran BY KATIE SIVCO Veterans’ advocates headed by The Good Deed Foundation, which is part of the Military Officers Association of America, Cape Canaveral Chapter, held a rally and fundraiser June 22 at USSSA Space Coast Stadium for a local injured veteran. The event benefited Mike Sonnenschein and his wife, Hope, who were attacked May 17 by a gunman in Haiti. They were serving as Christian missionaries. “He is one of the most unselfish people I have ever met in my life,” said retired Army Lt. Col. Tim Thomas, a friend of Sonnenschein and the senior Army JROTC instructor at Viera High School. Mike Sonnenschein, a retired Army Ranger and one of the founders of the Viera High School Army

JROTC program, suffered severe injuries to his lungs and spinal column. He was transferred to Shepherd Center and Spinal Cord Injury Rehabilitation in Atlanta. The rehabilitation process will be long and place an extreme financial burden on the family. “We’re taking things one day at a time,” said Mike Sonnenschein in a video presented during the fundraiser. “I can still do things from a wheelchair. I’m just happy I have breath in my lungs and the use of my arms.” In addition to Thomas, notable speakers at the fundraiser included Donn Weaver, president of the Brevard Veterans Council, Sheriff Wayne Ivey and retired Army Col. Danny McKnight. “He’s working hard in rehab. It's pretty tough. The goal is that he regains some feeling and mobility, and we get Mike back the

SENIOR LIFE Courtesy of Mike Sonnenschein

Brevard County residents Hope and Mike Sonnenschein were attacked by a gunman on a motorcycle in Haiti. Mike sustained serious injuries to his lungs and spinal column.

way he was,” Thomas said. Nearly 200 people attended the fundraiser,

which had to be moved under a covered walkway of the stadium due to

lightning. That night, the community donated more than $7,000 to go toward Sonnenschein’s recovery. A GoFundMe set up for Sonnenschein surpassed its goal of $65,000 by midJune. “Even in this tragic event that Mike and Hope are going through, he maintains the consistency and perseverance to not be distracted by his circumstances and understands that God is in control,” Thomas said. Tax-deductible donations can be made by check, payable to MOAACC Good Deed Foundation, designated to the Ranger Mike Fund. It can be mailed to MOAACC Good Deed Foundation, P.O. Box 560023, Rockledge, FL. 32956-0023. Donations can also be made by logging into moaacc.org and looking for the Good Deed Foundation donation button. V V

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Viera Voice | July 2021

p o o c BUSINESSS

The Pearl community welcomes residents this fall BY LINDA JUMP

Next month, families will begin moving into The Pearl of Viera, a 300-unit apartment complex off Stadium Parkway. Managed by Davis Development of Atlanta, the 11-acre complex will offer one-, two- and three-bedroom units ranging in cost from $1,584 to more than $2,500. “The site has convenient access to all that the Viera Town Center has to offer, including businesses and the beach,” said Carissa Brogdon, the director of marketing and brand development. Apartment amenities include lofty ceilings, wood

�inish �looring, walk-in closets, home intrusion alarms, washer-dryers, quartz countertops, and a screenedin patio or balcony. The complex will offer a saltwater pool with Wi-Fi, a sun shelf and cabanas. Gray Schau�ler of Davis Development said residents will have access to a cyber lounge. “This is a workspace for residents to use with Wi-Fi with computers and a printer,” he said. The property will have social lounges, one for multisport simulators and games. A two-story �itness center houses equipment for cardio, resistance, free

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VIERA VOICE Katie Sivco

services. Residents with pets will pay a one-time fee per pet plus an additional rent of $20 a month. Residents can have a total of two cats or dogs, with breed restrictions. One-bedroom apartments are expected to be open Aug. 17, and larger units beginning Sept. 10. For more information, go to thepearlofviera.com. V V

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VIERA VOICE Courtesy of North American Properties

The Luna plans to offer 146 one-bedroom apartments, 94 two-bedroom apartments, ﬁve studio apartments and retail space on the ground ﬂoor.

Upscale apartments, amenities coming to Rodina Drive UPSCALE LIVING

continued from page 1

15 states and 67 cities at a capital cost of $1.1 billion. Butler said construction for The Luna at Viera project will take 14 to 18 months. “There’s a huge materials backup right now because everything is in high demand. Labor is also in high demand, but we have 80 percent of the work already under contract,” she said. Brian Baluta, director of communications and partner relations at the Space Coast Economic Development Council, said: “NAP are smart, datadriven developers who see what we are. Nationally, the Space Coast boasts the second-best economy, ranks seventh for net migration, and Viera, in particular, is

the 16th best-selling master plan community.” The Luna includes 212,000 square feet on 2.5 acres in east and west towers. Planned are 146 one-bedroom, 94 twobedroom and �ive studio apartments. Pets are allowed with a fee. Butler said the rental prices haven’t been determined. “It’s a primo location at the entrance to The Avenue,” she said. Amenities include a sky wine lounge with sunset view, a club pub with access to the pool and grills, a �itness studio, courtyard with lawn games and movie theater, a dog wash, bike repair area, and business lounge. A high-tech boardroom was designed with the help of art students from Florida State University, Butler said. VV

VIERA VOICE Courtesy of North American Properties

The Luna will boast a location near the entrance to The Avenue Viera.

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www.RonNorrisBuickGMC.com Viera Voice | July 2021

Viera Voice Presents

PEOPLE ON THE MOVE

Work starts on new Cumberland Farms in Viera BY MIKE GAFFEY

Felicia Hubner has been named the new Director of Wellness at Sonata Viera. Hubner has been in nursing for 20 years. She started out as a CNA, before going on to earn her nursing license in 2003. She has always enjoyed working with older adults. Her experience has been in long term care, acute rehabilitation and hospice. “There is something special about serving

those in their later years of life.… The knowledge they have, their life stories and experiences are unique to each of them. I am fortunate to have found my calling working with seniors,” Hubner said. In her spare time, Hubner enjoys spending time with her husband, four children and their pets. Her hobbies include reading, DIY projects and baking. VV

Viera Voice | July 2021

Construction has begun at the site of a Cumberland Farms convenience store at the northwest corner of Viera Boulevard and Star Rush Drive in Viera. Brevard County’s 18th Cumberland Farms store is scheduled to open this fall, according to Sean Hennessey, the senior vice president for public relations with The Castle Group. The convenience store at 1990 Viera Blvd. will be 8,190 square feet and have 14 gas pumps, Hennessey stated in an email. “It’s too early to say how employees will be utilized,” Hennessey stated. Framingham, Massachusetts-based Cumberland Farms has nearly 600 locations. A family-owned business since 1939, Cumberland Farms is in the midst of a multi-year overhaul of all the brand’s stores. New stores will incorporate modernized architecture and design and older stores will be remodeled

VIERA VOICE Mike Gaffey

Construction crews work at the site of a Cumberland Farms convenience store set to open this fall at the northwest corner of Viera Boulevard and Star Rush Drive in Viera.

to reflect the new look. Upgrades include extra square footage, high-top bar counters, outdoor seating and more parking spaces and gas pumps. Stores also will feature new food items such as pizza and hot sandwiches. The convenience store just west of Long Doggers is the latest business to be built along a growing corridor of Viera Boulevard east and west of the diverging diamond interchange that

links the boulevard to Interstate 95. During the past two years, a Texas Roadhouse restaurant, a CubeSmart storage facility, a Mister Car Wash and a Goodwill thrift store have opened near the Viera Boulevard-Star Rush Drive intersection. A Chick-fil-A restaurant has opened west of the interchange at Onate Lane, and a WaWa convenience store is planned near the Chick-fil-A. VV

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ACROSS 1 Caribou kin 4 Crafty 7 Youngster 10 Itch 11 Twitter 13 Finish a cake 14 Kind of trip 15 Give an address 16 That woman 17 Followed orders 19 Spud 21 Modern 22 Game piece 23 Preside 26 Malady 30 Chieftain 31 Musical scale note 32 Princess perturber 33 Chest-beater 34 Have a mortgage 35 Count (on) 36 Border river 39 Feudal estates 40 Filbert 41 Place (abbr.) 42 Foretell 45 Beat the rap 48 Hosp. staffer 49 Taken __ (startled) 51 RV haven 53 __ __ glance 54 Fries and slaw 55 Constantly, to Poe 56 Leave wide-eyed 57 Danson or Kennedy 58 Title of respect, in India

DOWN 1 Observe 2 Construction toy 3 Drawer part 4 Mouselike animal 5 Conduct 6 So far 7 Roster 8 Pang 9 Woodlands grazer 11 More demure 12 Peony part 18 Writer ___ Bagnold 20 First name in advice 22 Mme.'s daughter 23 Plaid wearers 24 Kachina maker 25 Field of study 26 The Hawkeyes 27 Fencer's weapon 28 Type of interest 29 Responds 31 Type 35 Stack of wood 37 Veld grazer 38 Halos 39 Mom and Pop 41 Drew together 42 __ __ unto itself 43 __ __ speed 44 What mice do 45 Play in the kiddie pool 46 Really skimps 47 Mover and shaker 50 Crumb 52 "Exodus" name

Crossword Solution, page 34

Viera Voice | July 2021

BUSINESS The June Viera Means Business networking group meeting was held June 10 and hosted by CareerSource Brevard at Chateau Madeleine. The Viera Means Business networking group meets at 8:30 a.m. the VIERA MEANS second Thursday of each month at member business locations. For an invitation to the July 8 VMB meeting, call 321-242-1235.

BUSINESS Photos by Adam Palumbo

VIE R A

VIERA MEANS

SS E IN

ANS BU E S M

Cyndi Byars and Megan Cochran

KIN G

O GR

Stephanie Seiser, left, Judy Blanchard and Melissa Byers

Attendees shared breakfast and conversation under the event tent at Chateau Madeleine - Senior Living & Memory Care in Suntree.

AMC Avenue 16 returns to in-person, big-screen experience BY ERNEST ARICO

chain — asks that you continue to wear a mask throughout the theater unless actively enjoying food or drinks. If needed, masks are available to purchase for $1. Movie theaters, including AMC Avenue 16, closed its doors a year ago as the coronavirus pandemic swept the globe. While some movie theaters have opened over the past few months with limited capacity and enhanced safety protocols, AMC’s reopening means more people will have more locations to choose from if they want to see a �ilm on the big screen. “I think it’s great they’re open,” said Cheryl Roe of Melbourne. “They’re

separating people in the theater. There’s nobody in front or behind you.” With more Brevard “It feels great to be back,” County residents getting said Edinnette Rosario of the COVID-19 vaccines, fans Palm Bay. can once again return to the AMC’s announcement is movie theaters this summer. welcomed by movie fans not Moviegoers can return to only because more of them AMC Avenue 16 in The Avenue will get to return to AMC’s Viera to see the latest releases reclining seats and stadiumand those movies held back style format, but because because of the pandemic. it means the company has, According to the hopefully, put the worst company’s website — behind it. It was only last June amctheatres.com — and in that AMC cautioned it may accordance with the Centers not survive the coronavirus for Disease Control guidelines, pandemic, as its theaters masks are not required for closed and �ilm studios fully vaccinated guests. started releasing more However, if you are not movies directly to viewers on fully vaccinated, the company streaming services. — the nation’s largest movie But AMC stayed the course, slowly opening its Brevard County’s ONLY Continuing Care theaters over the past several Retirement Community. months when it was allowed to and pivoting its business. ETIREMENT COMMUNITY MYTH #3 According to its website, one outside-the-box moves included renting out theaters Brevard County’s ONLY Continuing Care for private movie screenings Retirement Community. to a limited number of people. Cozetta Smith, AMC’s RETIREMENT COMMUNITY MYTH #3 manager of corporate communications, said in an Imagine a place where hurricane preparedness, safe living without having to evacuate and peace effort to program its theaters of mind are all in one place. At Buena Vida Estates our residents know our management team as ef�iciently as possible, some responds with important preparation meetings and implements ways to ensure they remain safe may temporarily locations and well fed! “Your staff performed flawlessly before, during and after the hurricane. We think have limited weekday hours Imagine a place where hurricane preparedness, safe living without of them as family and are comfortable knowing they are feel the ”place. —John Imagine a to place where hurricane preparedness, safeall living without having & to Maureen evacuate peace to and meet current business having evacuate and peace of mind insame. one of mind are all in one place. At Buena Vida Estates our residents know our management levels.team Plan your futuremeetings and call us today! responds with for important preparation and implements ways to ensure they remain safe Currently, AMC Avenue 16 and well fed! “Your staff performed flawlessly before, during and after the hurricane. We think a limited schedule is running (321) 339-1347 • Toll-free (800) 742-0060 of them as family and are comfortable knowing they feel the same.” —John & Maureen of movie times, mostly late afternoon and evening hours. Plan for your future and call us today! Prior to the pandemic, AMC (321) 339-1347 • Toll-free (800) 742-0060 Avenue 16 employed about 2129 West New Haven Avenue, West Melbourne, FL 32904 — Entrance on Doherty Drive — 40 people. In June, the theater had only eight employees. BuenaVidaEstates.org “AMC consistently A 501(c)(3) Not For Profit Organization 2129 West New Haven Avenue, West Melbourne, FL 32904 reviews guest demand in — Entrance on Doherty Drive —

“I need to have a hurricane back-up plan.”

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For Profit Organization Viera VoiceA |501(c)(3) JulyNot2021

VIERA VOICE Ernest Arico

AMC Avenue 16 is at 2241 Town Center Ave. in The Avenue Viera.

all of our markets, and as business levels begin to pick up throughout the summer as more �ilms make their way to the big screen, we expect operating hours to expand, giving the theater the opportunity to schedule earlier or later as needed,” she said. AMC public relations director Ryan Noonan explained in a news release that more theaters reopening will mean more jobs. He said the company is welcoming back employees who were working for it prior to theaters being shut down, as well as bringing in new workers. All will be trained on its cleaning and safety protocols, which include social distancing and automatic

seat blocking in each theater, mandatory mask wearing, hand-sanitizing stations, upgraded air �iltration, contactless ticketing and mobile ordering for food and drinks. In addition, the company reports that once you’re in the auditorium, if you are uncomfortable in your reserved seat, you can see an associate for assistance in moving to another location. AMC Avenue 16 is at 2241 Town Center Ave. in The Avenue Viera. The general manager is Matt Prosser. For more information about the theater and showtimes, visit amctheatres. com/movie-theatres/orlandodaytona-beach/amc-avenue-16. VV

vieravoice.com

VIERA VOICE Adam Palumbo

Fourteen of Brevard County's 17 mayors attended the 13th annual Mayors Breakfast.

VIERA VOICE Adam Palumbo

Brevard County Sheriff Wayne Ivey and Mayor Del Yonts of Grant/ Valkaria share a joke at the podium.

Ivey roasts mayors in front of a sold out crowd in Viera BY ERNEST ARICO Brevard County Sheriff Wayne Ivey loosened up the crowd with witty banter and a barrage of jokes. Poking fun at the mayors turned the 13th annual Mayors Breakfast into a comedic roast. Ivey had everyone laughing with his anecdotes and sarcasm. On a serious note, the cleanup of the Indian River Lagoon, housing growth and new businesses dominated the discussion at the Holiday Inn Melbourne-Viera Conference Center on June 18. More than 270 people attended the breakfast sponsored by the Greater Palm Bay Chamber of Commerce. “It’s a very informative and fun time for everyone,” said Nancy Peltonen, the chamber president and CEO. “It’s great to hear what’s happening in our communities.” Fourteen of Brevard

County’s 17 mayors attended the event, including for the first time Col. Edward Marshall, “mayor” of Patrick Space Force Base, now home of Space Launch Delta 45. Other mayors attending included Bob Hoog of Cape Canaveral; Mike Blake, Cocoa; Ben Malik, Cocoa Beach; Del Yonts, Grant/ Valkaria; Dave Berkman, Indialantic; Scott Nickle, Indian Harbour Beach; Pat Reilly, Malabar; Paul Alfrey, Melbourne; Wyatt Hoover, Melbourne Beach; Rob Medina, Palm Bay; Carol McCormack, Palm Shores; Daniel Diesel, Titusville; and Hal Rose, West Melbourne. Rockledge Mayor Thomas Price gave a video presentation. State Sen. Debbie Mayfield, who represents the 17th District that includes Indian River County and southern Brevard County, gave opening remarks about the recently concluded session of the Florida Legislature. “We had an incredible session,” she said. “We

had a lot of Zoom calls and texting during this pandemic, but we came out and accomplished so much.” Although the COVID-19 pandemic forced many municipalities to shut down or curtail services, many mayors told the audience about their accomplishments during the past year. One area many mayors talked about was the Indian River Lagoon and their efforts to clean it up. “We have got to stop putting crap into the lagoon,” Malik said. “Water quality is the most important thing we have.” Alfrey said Melbourne is trying to deal with its homeless issue. “We are thinking outside the box,” he said. “We have moved nearly three dozen people from homeless to housing.” During a break, Alfrey gave an update about the new dog park and children’s playground at Woodside Park in Viera. Alfrey said the project should be completed and

opened in August. “The permit process has been extended,” he explained. “Things were delayed because of the children’s playground.” The park, which will have state-of-the-art technology, is part of the Viera East Community Development District. Medina said his goal in the coming year is to increase accountability and transparency with the public. “I want to make Palm Bay proud,” said. “We’re open for business.” Blake said he hopes Florida’s new Brightline train service puts a terminal in Cocoa. “It would be a big boom to our economy,” he said. Blake also praised the city’s “liquid gold” — water. “We (Cocoa) are the 11th largest distributor of water in Florida,” he said. In his video presentation, Price said the Barton Boulevard corridor is seeing new growth with several new businesses. “Development is rampant in Rockledge,”

he said. Diesel said it is the first time in six years a Titusville mayor has attended this event. “Our city is changing,” he said. “Titusville is no longer the town east of Orlando and south of Daytona. We are Brevard.” The chamber also recognized many of the event’s sponsors: Platinum: Waste Management, Melbourne Orlando International Airport, Florida, Power and Light Co., and WorkMagic. Gold: Florida Institute of Technology, L.H. Tanner Construction and Sollensys. Silver: City of Palm Bay, Buena Vida Estates, Health First Health Plans, Vitas Healthcare, Spectrum Reach and Beachside Connections. For more information about the Greater Palm Bay Chamber of Commerce visit GreaterPalmBayChamber. com or call 321-951-9998. VV

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Viera Voice | July 2021

TOPICS OF THE DAY JULY 2021

VIERA/SUNTREE

Should summer reading be mandatory? COMPILED BY KATIE SIVCO Reading is fun, but should it be required? Many kids are assigned books to read during the summer. Some people say summer reading keeps kids’ minds sharp. Others say kids need a break. Viera Voice Kids’ News readers weigh in.

YES

Evan S.

Fifth grade, Pinecrest Academy Space Coast Kids who don’t read will not be good at reading when the school year starts, and they might fail their grade. Reading is a great way to not get bored and stay smart.

YES

BY KATIE SIVCO Twelve-year-old Ignacio Leivas wants to inspire youth athletes to pursue their passions. “I want young athletes to learn to never give up, because it’s worth the time. The effort you put in will pay back,” Leivas said. Leivas found his passion for soccer after trying a number of sports. He dabbled in Taekwondo and tennis, but they never stuck. He played soccer recreationally until he realized he wanted to play competitively like his younger brother. He became determined to improve his game so he could play on a team. “It really surprised me because he was never into soccer. But when he has something in his mind, he goes for it,” said Ignacio’s

mom, Maria Talarico. Leivas decided to take up a strict workout regimen consisting of four hours of daily practice and three three-mile runs a week. “At ﬁrst, this was very challenging to me, because I had no one to learn from,” Leivas said. “I struggled and almost gave up.” The biggest improvement Leivas saw was in his mentality. He started to look at his mistakes as challenges. All of his hard work ﬁnally paid off when he earned a spot on the U13 team of Space Coast United this summer. Leivas said he wants to support other kids who might not have a trainer or coach to help push them. “This is only soccer. In anything he wants to improve, he works for it. He won at the school science fair last year,” Talarico said.

Viera Voice | July 2021

YES

Lila G. Second grade, St. Mary Catholic School Summer reading will help kids learn and not be lazy. Reading is better for your brain than TV.

Laney D.

Sixth grade,Viera Charter School Summer is a break from learning meant to rest our brains, and it’s unfair for kids who travel to be

Kaley H.

Third grade,Viera Charter School I already read so much in school. Kids deserve time to play, exercise and spend time with family during the summer.

Narin S.

Seventh grade, Edgewood Jr./Sr. High Making summer reading mandatory will make it a job instead of a journey. Reading is a passion, and forcing people to follow that passion will not make them love it. Author Kate DiCamillo once said, “Reading should not be presented to children as a chore or duty. It should be offered as a precious gift.”

Summer S.

Fourth grade, Quest Elementary If reading was mandatory, when I get home from an exciting day at camp learning new things, I would have to read a book and learn even more. If reading wasn’t mandatory, I could just come home and relax.

The books every kid should read Whether your child is exploring picture books, graphic novels or chapter books right now, there are a few choice titles to explore as they swing into summer. These books were popular at Scholastic Book Fairs across the country and cover important themes for all ages.

PICTURE BOOKS

Young athlete wants to encourage others to pursue their sport

Third grade, Quest Elementary Mandatory reading is important because it helps kids become better readers and learn new words. It’s easy to make reading fun by reading in fun, new places.

GRAPHIC NOVELS

Viera Voice Katie Sivco

Maria Talarico is proud of her son Ignacio Leivas’ initiative to encourage other young athletes to pursue their dreams.

Jaxon C.

required to read while on vacation. Kids should be able to make the choice for themselves.

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Viera Voice | July 2021

Just to be safe — please call each event location to confirm date and time.

SUNDAY

MONDAY

TUESDAY

WEDNESDAY

Summer Camp

Special Event

2021 USSSA Space Coast 2021 After School Summer World Series June 28 - July 3 Camp Ongoing through July 30

THURSDAY

Ironworks Fencing

6 - 7 p.m. Thursdays Ages 13 and up, Around the World 40 Days. All games: Pride vs Mexico equipment provided. Viera Regional Community Art, wellness, games, Thursday, July 1, 7:05 p.m. Center, 2300 Judge Fran STEM, music, nature and Friday, July 2, 7:05 p.m. Jamieson Way, Viera dance. Saturday, July 3, 7:05 p.m. 321-258-1054 Viera Elementary Bracket/Championship 8300 Stadium Parkway USSSA Space Coast Complex Viera, 321-350-8691, ext. 4th of July Viera, usssaspacecoast.com Booms in Brevard 53613 800-741-3014

See page 34

Independence Day

4th of July Big Cup Tournament

Two-person scramble using oversized 8-inch cups. Duran Golf Club 321-504-7776

Great American Celebration 4th of July Fireworks in Viera

National Hawaii Day— 50th state

Stop Motion Animaton Summer Camp

July 5 - 9 Half Day, 8 a.m. - Noon Full Day, 8 a.m. - 3 p.m. Code Ninjas 1950 Viera Blvd., #112 Rockledge, 321-622-4358

Duran Junior Golf Camps 9

Canning 101 2 - 4 p.m. Learn how to can and jar your own food. Learn the basics of both water bath and pressure canning. UF/IFAS Extension Brevard County, 3695 Lake Drive Cocoa, 321-633-1702

9 - 10 p.m. USSSA Stadium, 6091 Stadium Pkwy.

9 a.m., July 5 - 9 Ages 6 - 13 7032 Stadium Pkwy., Viera 321-504-7776

Brevard Users Group (BUG Club)

National Pecan Pie Day Summer Sunday Breakfast Sweat Like a Mother 8 a.m. - 1 p.m. (S.L.A.M.) Summer a la Carte Breakfast. Tradwinds Restaurant 7032 Stadium Parkway Viera, 321-504-7771

9:30 -10:30 a.m. Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays Stroller exercises. 386-341-6779

Become a YouTuber Summer Camp

July 12 - 16 Half Day – 8 a.m. - Noon Full Day – 8 a.m. - 3 p.m. Code Ninjas 1950 Viera Blvd., #112 Rockledge, 321-622-4358

National Caviar Day National Ice Cream Day Annie Jr. Cast 2

7 - 9 p.m. With equal measures of pluck and positivity, little orphan Annie charms everyone's hearts in this musical favorite. Presented by the Viera Studio for the Performing Arts. Scott Center for the Performing Arts. 5625 Holy Trinity Drive Suntree, 321-541-0536

National Parents' Day

Brevard Zoo Camp Animal Oddity or Advantage

2 - 3 p.m. First Monday One Senior Place 8085 Spyglass Hill Road Viera, 321-751-6771

National French Fry Day

Informational Seminar by Shell Harbor July 13, 14, 27, 28 11:30 a.m. Discover why Shell Harbor Retirement Community is the talk of the town. River Rocks 6485 S. U.S. Highway 1 Rockledge, 321-252-4882

Jams, Jellies and Pickling

10 a.m. - Noon Learn how to preserve food. UF/IFAS Extension Brevard County, Cocoa, 321-633-1702

Estate Planning Seminar

10 am. Elder Law Attorney William A. Johnson, P.A. will July 19 - July 23 present. Limited seating. 8 a.m. - 4 p.m. One Senior Place entering grades 3 & 4 8085 Spyglass Hill Road Brevard Zoo 8225 N. Wickham Rd., Viera Viera. 321-751-6771 321-254-9453

Duran Junior Golf Camps

6 - 9 p.m. 2 Angry Wives 3826 Murrell Road Rockledge, 321-848-0227

10 a.m. Mondays Senior adults meeting together weekly for Bible study, fellowship and fun. Church At Viera 9005 N, Wickham Road Viera, 321-256-3454

Junior Explorers

July 26 - 30 8 a.m. - 4 p.m. entering grades 5 & 6 Brevard Zoo 8225 N. Wickham Rd., Viera 321-254-9453

Brevard Federated Republican Women

11:30 a.m. The meeting fee of $25 includes lunch. Space Coast Convention Center 103 Tucker Lane Cocoa, 321-727-1212

Informational Seminar by Shell Harbor July 13, 14, 27, 28 11:30 a.m. Discover why Shell Harbor Retirement Community is the talk of the town. River Rocks 6485 S. U.S. Highway 1 Rockledge, 321-252-4882

Trivia Tuesday

6 - 9 p.m. 2 Angry Wives 3826 Murrell Road

VECDD Board Workshop

7 - 9 p.m. VECDD Board discussion of future agenda items. Faith Viera Luthern Chuch 5550 Faith Blvd. Viera, 407-839-1526

Sip & Smoke

Yoga in the Park

8 - 9 a.m. The Avenue Viera

5:30 - 9 p.m. Cigar and spirit-themed monthly event. 28 North Gastropub 2250 Town Center Ave. Viera, 321-241-1159

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

6 p.m. Free in-person Orthopedic Seminar with orthopedic surgeon Kenneth Sands, MD. Melbourne Regional Medical Center 250 N. Wickham Road Melbourne, 321-752-1200

Line Dancing with Larry

Dancing Little Stars

6:30 - 7:15 p.m. July 14, July 21, July 28 Viera Regional Community Center, 2300 Judge Fran Jamieson Way, Viera 407-312-5924

Tae Kwon Do

Orthopedic Seminar

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

Professional Softball USSSA Pride vs FL Gulf Coast League

Evening concert and dinner featuring Melbourne Municipal Band 5-6 p.m. and Sunshine Brass Quintet from 6-7 p.m. Hot dogs, chips, lemonade and ice cream. Bring your own lawn chair and enjoy lawn games patriotic sing-a-longs. Viera Park Market Suntree United 4 - 8 p.m. Methodist Church Viera Regional Park 7400 N. Wickham Rd. 2300 Judge Fran Jamieson Suntree, 321-242-2585 Way, Viera July 2 - 6 A competitive baseball tournament for AA/AAA in different age divisions. USSSA Space Coast Complex 5800 Stadium Parkway Viera, 800-741-3014

Bingo

11:15 a.m. - 2 p.m. Tuesdays and Fridays Wickham Park Senior Center, 2785 Leisure Drive Melbourne 321-255-4494

ARW - Star Spangled Slammer 5

5 - 11 p.m. Holiday Inn MelbourneViera Conference Center 8298 N. Wickham Road ARW is the new face of extreme professional wrestling.

Victory Olympics

10 - 11 a.m. Children will compete in various field-day experiences, tug of war, relay rescue, sock races, softball toss and much more. $12 per child Viera Elementary 8300 Stadium Parkway Viera, 321-216-2011

1 -2 p.m. Gorgeous Grandma Day Read thought provoking literature and participate in lively discussions. RSVP. One Senior Place 8085 Spyglass Hill Road Take a photo Viera, 321-751-6771 of your grandma

today

Line Dancing with Larry

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

VA Aid and Attendance Seminar

Presented by Elder Law Attorney William A. Johnson, P.A. Limited seating, must RSVP. One Senior Place 8085 Spyglass Hill Road Viera, 321-751-6771

National Pina Colada Day

Kids Night at the Aquatic Center

6 - 10 p.m. McLarty Park 790 Barton Blvd. Rockledge, 321-633-1870

Women's / Men’s UPSL Brevard Fire Soccer FC Soccer Tryouts

10 a.m. Women's / Men’s open team tryout UPSL Division I and Premier Division. Register at brevardfiresoccer.com

World Emoji Day

Musical Journey to the New World

7 p.m. Concert #2 in our 2021 Summer Evenings Series. Presented by BSO violinist Olga Ferroni. Suntree United Methodist Church 7400 N. Wickham Road in Melbourne. Tickets are $25 general admission. Call 321-345-5052 or visit Brevardsymphony. com/summertickets

National Beautician’s Day

Free Concert Wickham Park Music by Greggie and the Jets. 6 - 9 p.m. Wickham Park 2500 Parkway Drive Melbourne, 321-255-4400

Legacy Club – Book Club

SATURDAY

National Fruitcake National Trivia Day Toss Day Firecracker Classic Suntree Stars & Stripes 5 p.m. Baseball Tournament

6 - 8 p.m. Wednesdays Viera Regional Community 7 p.m. Center, 2300 Judge Fran USSSA Space Coast Complex Jamieson Way, Viera Viera, 800-741-3014 321-474-8205

Trivia Tuesday

July 19 - 23 9 a.m. 7032 Stadium Pkwy., Viera 321-504-7776

Young at Heart Seniors

National Father Daughter Take a Walk Day

FRIDAY

Bingo

11:15 a.m. - 2 p.m. Tuesdays and Fridays Wickham Park Senior Center, 2785 Leisure Drive Melbourne 321-255-4494

Professional Softball USSSA Pride vs FL Gulf Coast League

7 p.m. USSSA Space Coast Complex Viera, 800-741-3014

National Mutt Day

Luna Pearl Concert

Luna Pearl is a five-piece band with powerful female vocals. 2 - 10 p.m. Space Coast Convention Center, 301 Tucker Lane Cocoa, 321-635-9975

Eye surgery should be done only by surgeons BY DR. FREDERICK HO Most physicians and surgeons focus on science classes during their four years of college education and then immerse in a challenging medical school study for four more years. Those who become surgeons participate in three to �ive years of residency during which they learn their clinical and surgical skills under the direct supervision of experienced surgeons. In the current Florida Legislature session, House Bill 631 and Senate Bill 876 would allow optometrists, who are not medical doctors or surgeons, to perform eye laser and scalpel surgery after completing an unspeci�ied course and examination. To become ophthalmologists or eye surgeons, the medical school graduates participate in three or more years of residency and fellowship training. They spend years learning and practicing eye laser and surgery to become pro�icient and safe eye surgeons. Oklahoma is one of the few states where optometrists are allowed to perform laser surgery. Experts from

VIERA VOICE Katie Sivco

to master complex eye laser or eye surgery. House and Senate Bills that allow optometrists, who do not have formal medical education or years of surgical training to perform eye laser or surgery after completing a course and an examination, are harmful to the health of all Floridians. This dangerous

legislature is bad public policy and a disservice to the citizens of Florida. V V Dr. Frederick Ho, MD, FACS, is a board certi�ied ophthalmologist and a fellow of the American College of Surgeons. He has practiced in Brevard County for more than 30 years.

Dr. Frederick Ho has practiced in Brevard County for more than 30 years.

the University of Michigan conducted a study that compared surgical outcomes of laser surgeries performed by ophthalmologists in Oklahoma to those performed by optometrists. The result of that study was startling. It shows the frequency of repeated surgeries by optometrists was more than double the frequency of repeat surgeries by ophthalmologists. Adverse surgical events, repeat surgeries and surgical complications only harm patients; they drive up healthcare costs by requiring additional surgical procedures and forcing patients out of the workplace for longer periods of time.

In a debacle in a Veterans Administration Hospital in California, many veterans became blind after botched surgeries performed by optometrists. Medical doctors or physicians who are trained in non-surgical specialties, such as internal medicine or pediatrics, do not perform surgery because they recognize the complexity and challenges of surgery. In the book “Outliers,” author Malcolm Gladwell presents the 10,000-Hour Rule. Researchers �ind 10,000 hours of practice is required to have expertise in complex skills in anything. There is no shortcut for hard work or substitute through legislature

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Viera Voice | July 2021

The Perfect Summertime Pie Coconut Key Lime Cream Pie

To make this cool, creamy creation, add vanilla wafers to a blender to make crumbs. Add melted butter and blend. Add crumb mixture to the bottom of a pie pan and press against the sides. Refrigerate to make crust. In another large bowl, beat cream cheese, condensed milk and coconut extract.

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In a diﬀerent large bowl, beat whipping cream until it starts to thicken. Add powdered sugar and lime juice. Reserve one cup of the whipped topping. Add lime juice, coconut ﬂakes and the reserved whipped topping to the cream cheese mixture then stir to combine. Add cream cheese mixture to the pie crust and smooth it out. Top with whipped topping then garnish with toasted coconut, lime zest and maraschino cherries.

Ingredients Servings: 6-8

1 package (11 ounces) vanilla wafers 1/3 cup butter, melted 2 cups heavy whipping cream 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar 1/2 cup Key lime juice, divided 1 package (8 ounces) cream cheese, softened 1 can (14 ounces) sweetened condensed milk 1 teaspoon coconut extract 1 cup shredded coconut 1/4 cup toasted shredded coconut lime zest maraschino cherries

It’s the perfect pie to enjoy whether you’re outside enjoying some sunshine or inside, taking a break from the summer fun. After being chilled, all of the ﬂavors combine to leave you with a delicious, one of a kind treat. Culinary.net Sudoku Solution, page 34

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Manatee deaths call for state of emergency declaration The Brevard Indian River Lagoon Coalition and 16 other concerned organizations and businesses are urging Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis to declare a state of emergency triggered by the deaths of more than 800 manatees this year, a horrifying mortality event. Most of these deaths are believed to result from starvation due primarily to the loss of seagrass, especially in the Indian River Lagoon. This loss of their primary food source is attributed to the large amounts of nutrient pollution that have fed algae blooms since at least 2011, killing many acres of seagrass. Many experts, including Pat Rose, president of the Save the Manatee Club, agree that no quick solution exists to reduce manatee starvation especially during the winter. Nutrient pollution must be further reduced. Large scale seagrass cultivation and planting is recommended. While some measures

Lagoon Straight Talk From the Brevard Indian River Lagoon Coalition

such as further reduction in lawn fertilizer applications do not require funding, large amounts of additional funding are needed. The Indian River Lagoon National Estuary Program has compiled a list of recommended projects with an estimated cost of $5 billion. The Brevard County portion is approximately $3 billion since 70 percent of the lagoon surface area is located in this county. But it’s going to take more than funding. The state needs to provide effective regulatory controls on all forms of urban, suburban and agricultural pollution, including: • Fully implement the governor’s BlueGreen Task Force recommendations;

This year, there were more than 800 manatee deaths reported in Florida.

• Substantially reduce the nutrient pollution from lawn fertilizer entering the IRL; • Stop discharges from Lake Okeechobee from entering the Indian River Lagoon; • Ban the use of glyphosate herbicide and other similarly harmful chemicals in or adjacent to waterways; • Require advanced technology septic systems where a sewer

VIERA VOICE Klinton Landress

is not available. The economic importance of the Indian River Lagoon to the state of Florida and the �ive counties surrounding the water body is enormous. Brevard County continues to attract residents and businesses associated with the rapidly growing space program as well as other technology-based businesses. Within these �ive counties, quality of life is heavily in�luenced

by the condition of this Lagoon. Economic analysis has revealed that a severe downturn in Lagoon water quality could cost billions of dollars. If no quick solution exists, why is a state of emergency needed? It is urgent to raise the level of lagoon restoration and protection before most other marine life is gone completely. VV For more information, visit HelpTheLagoon.org.

direction of Art Martin, will perform the marches of John Philip Sousa and other well-loved tunes celebrating America. The audience can expect to hear the “Washington Post March,” “You're a Grand Old Flag,” “America the Beautiful,” “God Bless America,” “Stars & Stripes Forever” and many more. The public is asked to bring lawn chairs and blankets for the outdoor concert. For more information about Suntree Stars & Stripes, call Suntree United Methodist Church at 321-242-2585.

Director of traditional music at Suntree United Methodist Church and professor of music at Eastern Florida State College, Dr. Robert E. Lamb looks forward to welcoming old and new friends. “This is going to be an evening of fun, food and music here on the church grounds,” Lamb said. “For many of our neighbors, this will be a time to renew acquaintances. We hope many in the community will come by and enjoy this old-fashioned American celebration.” VV

Suntree United Methodist presents patriotic concert, picnic

SPECIAL TO VIERA VOICE Suntree United Methodist Church is presenting Suntree Stars & Stripes, a free patriotic celebration Saturday, July 3 on the church grounds at 7400 N. Wickham Road. The event starts at 5 p.m., when attendees can enjoy a free dinner of hot dogs, chips, lemonade and ice cream while listening to a concert of patriotic favorites by the Sunshine Brass Quintet. At 6 p.m., the 40-plus members of the Melbourne Municipal Band, under the

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Viera Voice | July 2021

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Viera Voice | July 2021

A simple piece of paper shaped the world One of the products that revolutionized the world was paper. Communication was transformed from painting on cave walls to writing on paper surfaces. Papyrus, an aquatic plant, was processed into material on which to write or paint around 3,000 B.C. in Egypt. Other products included sails, baskets and ropes. The word “paper” stems from papyrus, but papyrus is not a true paper. From the second century B.C., there is evidence of primitive paper in China. Around 105 A.D., more re�ined paper was introduced. Presumably a mixture of mulberry bark, hemp and rags were mixed with water, mashed into pulp, pressed out and dried. The �irst paper mill in America was established in Pennsylvania in 1690. Cotton rags, frequently imported from Europe, were manufactured into paper. Improved printing presses and enthusiasm for books increased the demand. Eventually, wood, which was abundant and economical, became the main paper source. By 1880, America produced the most paper goods. In wood papermaking, cellulose �ibers from softwood and hardwood trees are converted into pulp. In our country, 85 percent of wood pulp is derived from pine, �ir, spruce, hemlock and larch. These softwood coniferous trees have longer cellulose �ibers that produce stronger paper. Yet, the demand for cotton rag paper is ongoing due to its durability. It is desirable for stationery or special paper and may be combined with materials like linen and synthetics. U.S. paper currency is 75 percent cotton, 25 percent linen and survives a wash cycle. Acid-free archival paper, often from cotton, is extra permanent and museum grade. In 1990, the U.S.

passed the Permanent Paper Law for the use of acid-free paper to preserve federal records, books and signi�icant publications. Still, the main source of paper comes from trees. Therefore, the environmental impact of deforestation is disturbing since we rely on many bene�its from trees. To name a few, trees supply lumber, shelter animals, purify air and provide medicine. Chemotherapy drugs are derived from yew species. The conservation of trees is intensi�ied by using alternative sources, such as leaves, plant stalks like hemp and sugarcane, excrement from herbivores like cows, and processed leather waste. Some leftovers from plants, including olive stones, orange peels and walnut shells, can be crushed into paper. As for rice paper, it is a misnomer for some paper products from East Asia. For example, mulberry tree paper, sometimes used to wrap rice bundles, is referred to as rice paper. Also, paper fabricated from the straw of the rice plant is frequently identi�ied as rice paper. A unique alternative, but not from plants, is stone paper. Made mostly with calcium carbonate found in rocks, it is oil- and tearresistant, waterproof and biodegradable. Besides stationery, other products include wallpaper and playing cards. Experts are optimistic that with alternative paper sources, recycling, digital paperless correspondence and forest management, papermaking will not impose a negative impact on our planet. VV

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Your voice

What does freedom mean to you? Photos by Ernest Arico

Ronnie Rodriguez

“Not living in Communist Cuba anymore. I was born there.”

Rediscover the joy of life without joint pain.

Mike Yarnold

“It means being a responsible citizen.”

Caleb Hera

“Being able to do whatever you want to do with some restrictions.”

Please join Orthopedic Surgeon, Kenneth Sands, MD for a free seminar on the different approaches to relieving joint pain. Learn about non-surgical treatment options to relieve joint pain including the latest techniques in joint replacement surgery.

FREE ORTHOPEDIC SEMINAR WITH ORTHOPEDIC SURGEON KENNETH SANDS, MD

Nathan Tran

“Freedom means no school.”

Thursday, July 15 6:00 - 7:00 p.m. Melbourne Regional Medical Center 250 N. Wickham Road Melbourne, FL 32935.

Luca Priami

“I think freedom is the ability to make your own choices.”

To register, please visit melbourneregional.org or call 321-752-1314. Light refreshments will be served.

Gianna Collins

“Having the right to do things like thinking and praying.”

vieravoice.com

melbourneregional.org

Viera Voice | July 2021

Fourth of July booms in Brevard

Solution, Puzzle page 30

BY FLORA REIGADA Brevard County Independence Day celebrations will kick off with three days of “Smoke on the Water and Fire in the Sky” presented by three cities. Viera: In Viera, in honor of the Great American Celebration, look for vibrant light displays �illing the sky at 9 p.m. just east of the USSSA Space Coast Complex. Rockledge: • The 34th annual Rockledge Independence Day picnic, with games, music, food and more, will take place from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at McLarty Park, 790 Barton Blvd. Melbourne: • Melbourne 4th of Juy Parade sponsored by American Legion Post 163 will be held at 10 a.m. in Downtown Melbourne. • The �ireworks celebration MelBOOM!, hosted by Melbourne Parks, Recreation and Golf, will begin at 9 p.m. at Front Street Park, 2205 Front St. Port Canaveral: • Friday, July 2 in Port Canaveral at The Cove, 670 Nisbet Drive. Fireworks start at 9 p.m. Cocoa Beach: • Saturday, July 3 in Cocoa Beach at Sidney Fischer Park, 2200 N. Atlantic Ave. Fireworks at 9 p.m. Cocoa: • Sunday, July 4 in Cocoa Riverfront Park, 401 Riveredge Drive. The celebration starts at 8 p.m. with a free concert, “Symphony Under the Stars,”

by the Brevard Symphony Orchestra. Fireworks start at 9:15 p.m. Merritt Island: • The Merritt Island Independence Day Parade, hosted by the Brevard County Sheriff’s Of�ice Charity and the Brevard Veterans Memorial Center, will take place from 9 to 11 a.m. Saturday, July 3. Parade �loats will line the right, eastbound lane of State Road 520 from Plumosa Street to Sykes Creek Parkway. Celebrations are planned afterward at the Brevard Veterans Memorial Center, 400 S. Sykes Creek Parkway. Palm Bay: • Palm Bay will present Food Trucks and Fireworks from 6 to 10 p.m. at Fred Poppe Regional Park, 1951 Malabar Road N.W. Titusville: • Titusville will present Red, White and Boom over North Brevard from 7 to 10 p.m. at Chain of Lakes Park, 2300 Truman Scarborough Way. A live DJ pyrotechnics display starts at 9:15 p.m. Spectators can bring food and non-alcoholic drinks. • Also in Titusville, First United Methodist Church, 206 S. Hopkins Ave., will celebrate with a block party starting at 11:30 a.m., featuring a car show, music, games for the children and food trucks.

Solution, Puzzle page 23

Celebrate Your Independence. Enjoy the freedom of independent resort-style living!

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Viera Voice | July 2021

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