Featured Family
Hosey family keeps busy, active in the Viera community
BY NICHOLE YUAN
Tucked away in a peaceful area of Viera is the beautiful home of the Hosey family. The last rays of sunshine beam through the windows before giving way to dusk, making the atmosphere feel relaxed and unapologetically Floridian.
It’s surprising that the Hosey family maintains such a calm aura, especially since they always seem to be on the move. Josiah, 11, and
Nyah, 7, play competitive soccer, which means that one weekend the family could be headed to Daytona Beach, and the next weekend they could be headed to Tampa.
“I’m looking forward to the point where we don’t have as much to do. But I feel like the older they get, the more they do,” said Nicole Hosey, who maintains a busy schedule herself as a local attorney.
Outside of soccer games, Jalani, 12, along with
his siblings, also plays basketball and enjoys participating in school clubs and activities. Nyah is also active in cheerleading. And with the children being so active, Nicole and Jabari Hosey find little time for hobbies these days. Instead, they use their free time volunteering in the community.
“She’s just as busy as the kids outside of work,” said husband Jabari Hosey, a software engineer.
The Murtha Law Group, PA
“So, there’s the local (American) Inns of Court for attorneys, so I do that. I’m part of an organization called Jack and Jill, so I do that. And then, I’m a board member with Space Coast United Soccer Club,” Nicole Hosey said. “And did I mention (Jabari)’s going to be their basketball coach for the Viera rec league? One of the assistant coaches,” she added, noting more of the family’s community involvement.
Although the family maintains a busy schedule, they always plan out at least one, if not two, family vacations together. Anyone who has the opportunity to meet the Hosey family would easily see that they value one another immensely and their trips together are as much about spending time together as they are about having fun. Like Florida sunshine, their love for one another shines bright. VV
Season of Giving
‘This the season of giving. There are organizations that give and provide for others not only during the yearend holidays but throughout the year. Here are a few opportunities for sharing with others in need.
• The Salvation Army – bell ringers are at various locations in Viera and elsewhere. The Red Kettles campaign is the organization’s biggest fundraising to support those in need throughout the year.
• Viera Voice Food Drive for Food Pantry For Advent Lutheran Church, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Dec. 1 - 22. Collecting non-perishable items. Viera Voice, 7350 Shoppes Drive, Suite 102 in Viera.
• Duran Golf Club is holding a food drive to help Matthew’s Hope in Cocoa, which supports the homeless in the area. The Duran Golf Club Holiday Shopping Night and Food Drive will be held Dec. 2. The public can donate non-perishable food items.
• Aging Solutions, Office of Public Guardian –deadline for Elder Gift Collection is Dec. 4. The gifts are for individuals in the community who will be spending the season in care facilities. Items needed: clothing, hygiene/toiletry items, shoes, sensory and social stimulation items and books. Items may be dropped off at Aging Solutions at 1299 Bedford Drive, Suite A in Viera.
• Toy Drive Basketball Game, Noon - 3 p.m. Dec. 7 Slam dunk of kindness. AATG vs LEAD. Admission is free with an unwrapped toy, $10 without toy. Viera Community Center, 2300 Judge Fran Jamieson Way, Viera.
VIERA VOICE Jill Blue
Jabari and Nicole Hosey said their family is dedicated to several different sports, which keep their three children, Jalani, Josiah and Nyah, busy throughout the year.
Twenty children run the bases of adoption at Space Coast Stadium
BY CHRIS BONANNO
Twenty children found themselves safe at home plate at USSSA Space Coast Stadium in time for the holidays
Volume 16, Issue 11
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All rights reserved
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Writers/Reporters
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Mike Gaffey
Linda Jump
Betty Porter
Flora Reigada
Emily Warner
Nichole Yuan
Fifteen local families officially welcomed the children during a Celebration of Adoption ceremony on Nov. 18 at the Stadium in Viera.
The children ranging in age from two to 18 years were adopted by 15 families at the ceremony, according to Tita Parham, the marketing and communications director for Family Partnerships of Central Florida (FPOCF), which hosted the event.
The ceremony was held to coincide in part with National Adoption Day, which was Nov. 23.
The theme, “It’s a Home Run,” took place on the baseball field with adoptees having the opportunity to run around the bases to celebrate at the end of the ceremony.
“This is about children, right? Our national sports pastime is a great venue for bringing the community together,” said Phil Scarpelli, the president and CEO of FPOCF.
Each family had the opportunity to come to a dais, staged at home plate, where Judge Kelly McKibben officially confirmed each adoption.
Scarpelli also discussed the emotions of the day and the process that families take to get to being able to officially adopt.
“It’s exhilarating. It’s humbling because it takes a lot of effort to get here,”
Scarpelli said. “As you can imagine, from where the
children are coming and how we stabilize a situation and evaluate what is in their best interests. When these
particular families step up forward, they go through a lot. They go through a lot of evaluation to make sure that is the right placement for a child, these are the right relationships for a child and that the child’s present and future needs are going to be met. So it’s like really coming together with a laser focus about the child’s future.”
Among the families officially welcoming a new member was the Jackson family, who adopted 5-yearold Noah.
“It means a new beginning,” said Shan Jackson, Noah’s adoptive mom. “It means that we get to move forward without having an additional process. We can go through normalcy. We can do all the things that make decisions for our son and just be happy.”
Also completing an adoption at the ceremony was the Rivera family, who have officially welcomed 3-year-old Liam. The Riveras, who had previously adopted Liam’s older sisters Kyree and Mariah six years ago, said they liked the ceremony on the baseball field as opposed to the courthouse, where their
VIERA VOICE Jill Blue
Meseroll family.
VIERA VOICE Jill Blue
Judge Kelly McKibben officially confirmed each adoption
VIERA VOICE Jill Blue Fischer family
VIERA VOICE Jill Blue Anderson family
VIERA VOICE Chris Bonanno Jackson family
VIERA VOICE Jill Blue Burkett family
VIERA VOICE Jill Blue Dasher family
VIERA VOICE Jill Blue
Hundreds of Santas run for fun
BY VIERA VOICE STAFF
The ninth annual Run Run Santa 1 Mile, a Viera tradition featuring all runners and walkers dressed in Santa suits, returns. The run starts at 7:30 a.m. Dec. 21 at Calvary Chapel Viera.
Registrants of all ages will receive a Florida-style Santa outfit that includes a top, shorts, beard, hat and belt.
The family-friendly event will begin and end at the church at 2852 Fellowship Place.
Last year's run had 1,100 registered Santas, their highest number of
participants running the certified course along Stadium Parkway. Organizers hope to surpass that number of runners/walkers this year.
“Last year, we had finishers ages 3 to 93,” race director Brittany Streufert said. “It's a race that everyone is capable of doing.”
Runners and walkers will receive special holiday reindeer medals and the free post-race holiday treats and drinks.
This year’s run features a Reindeer Team Competition. Groups of nine friends and family members can register as a team. The top three
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teams will receive prizes.
“There's really nothing else like it at Christmas time. It's amazing how many families come out and participate together,” Streufert said.
A virtual option is available for those unable to participate in person. “The virtual is for those out of town or unable to make it on race day,” Streufert stated. Donations from this
year's Run Run Santa Viera race will benefit Calvary Chapel Youth Outreach Program.
For race details and to register, visit the race at runrunsanta.com VV
TUESDAY, DECEMBER 24 11:00am • 1:00pm • 3:00pm • 5:00pm • 7:00pm Children's experience for infants–preschool will be available for all
VIERA VOICE Susie Parente
More than 1,100 Santas are expected at this year's Run Run Santa in Viera.
Parades, events signal the start of festive season
BY FLORA REIGADA
Get ready to experience colorful lights, festive floats and holiday fun at Christmas parades and cheerful events on the Space Coast.
Here’s what to expect:
Palm Bay Tree Lighting Ceremony
Friday, Dec. 6, 6:30 p.m.
Kick off the holiday season in Palm Bay as it lights up the city Christmas tree. Enjoy singing performances, refreshments and more.
Tony Rosa Community Center 1502 Port Malabar Blvd. NE
Mims Christmas Parade
Saturday, Dec. 7, 10:30 a.m.
The parade, hosted by the Mims Volunteer Fire Department, starts at Mims Elementary School. Its theme is “Honoring Our Nation’s Veterans.”
For more information, visit the department’s Facebook page.
Merritt Island Christmas Boat Parade
Saturday, Dec. 7, 5:30 to 9 p.m.
The parade starts at the Old Ulumay Bridge in Sykes Creek. Visit them on Facebook.
City of Palm Bay
Holiday Light Parade
Saturday, Dec. 7, 6 p.m.
The light parade starts at Eastern Florida State College’s Palm Bay campus and ends at Minton Road in front of City Hall.
For more information, call 321952-3443 or email HolidayParade@ PalmBayFlorida.
The Light Up Rockledge and Festival of Trees
Saturday, Dec. 7, 4 to 7 p.m.
The two-part event is presented by the City of Rockledge. It takes place at Rockledge Civic Hub at 530 Barton Blvd. For more information, call 321-221-7540.
Blizzard at the Barn
Sunday, Dec. 8, 1 to 4 p.m. Festive holiday open house. Vendors, food trucks, games, feed treats to
horses (carrots $1 a bag), pony rides ($5), petting zoo and more. Free admission.
Harmony Farms
2205 Pluckebaum Road, Cocoa For information, call Donna at 847-989-4248,
City of Melbourne
Christmas in the Park
Friday, Dec. 13, 6 to 9 p.m.
Come celebrate the holidays with Mr. & Mrs. Claus, Santa’s workshop, choral performances, arts and crafts. and refreshments.
3316 S. Monroe St., Melbourne.
Historic Cocoa Village Holiday Boat Parade
Friday, Dec. 13 • 6 to 7 p.m.
The Cocoa Village Main Street parade begins at the Rockledge Valencia Dock, heads north along the shore, cuts in near Cocoa Riverfront Park, continues north under the 520 bridge up to the Highland Park area. Boat captains transform their vessels into a magical winter wonderland. Proceeds will benefit the Central Brevard Sharing Center.
22nd annual Turkey Creek Boat Parade
Saturday, Dec. 14, 5 p.m.
Decorated boats will meet at 5:30 p.m. on Turkey Creek in front of Palm Bay Marina. It will head east past Palm Bay Point to the mouth of the Indian River and turn around before heading back to Turkey Creek toward Port Malabar Blvd.
Titusville Christmas Parade
Saturday, Dec. 14, 6 p.m.
The parade is sponsored by the Indian River Church. It starts at 6 p.m. at Titusville High School. The theme is “A Winter Wonderland.” For more information, visit christmasparadeirc.com
Cocoa Beach Boat Parade
Saturday, Dec. 14, 6 p.m.
The parade is organized by the Rotary Club of Cocoa Beach. It starts at Marker 101 near Centennial Park
SPORTS
Nazon takes over as Hawks look to maintain soccer success
BY CARL KOTALA
Nic Nazon was an assistant coach at Viera High when the Hawks’ boys soccer program was starting to ascend into one of the best in the state.
Now, it’s his job to help keep it there.
Nazon, 28, takes over for Nick Robinson, who led the Hawks to a Class 6A state championship and three consecutive title game appearances before stepping down after being named the men’s head coach at Florida Tech.
Naturally, Nazon — who was an assistant coach at Viera in 2017-18 and 201819 — will look to put his own stamp on things, but that doesn’t mean there will be major changes coming, either.
“Nick’s Nick and I’m me,” Nazon said. “We do have very similar thoughts and ideologies in how we believe programs should be run. We’ve worked in a lot of similar environments together at Space Coast, at Eastern Florida and at Florida Tech.
“I’m not looking to come in and do a total re-haul and change absolutely everything. You don’t really have to fix something that’s
not necessarily broken.
“But with graduating 15 seniors last year, there’s room for, one, improvement. And two, a similar culture, but maybe slight twists in things that may not have been there in the past. But in regards to a change in the way they play, culture and the way Viera views the game, probably not.”
Losing 15 seniors, of course, creates a lot of holes that need filling.
Senior Lucas Evans steps in at goalkeeper for the Hawks, with senior Matthew Murtha and junior Dane Boss as the two center backs. Freshman Elliot Shelton — whom Nazon is very high on — is at left back with senior Xavier Jackson on the right side.
Junior Tim Payet and senior Achille Turo are in the midfield. Ahead of them is sophomore Gunner Vance, who scored two goals in
his first two games and is already making a name for himself.
Junior Rod Rincones is the right wing, with senior Mikkel Jensen on the left side. Junior Tyler Campbell is the striker.
Other players with key roles this season are junior Owen Kaufman; junior Martin Bolivar; senior Tyler
McMenemy-Hoang and senior Matthew Da Silva.
The Hawks were off to a 3-2 start with wins against Horizon, West Shore and Rockledge heading into December.
“The standard’s still the same in regards to what the expectation is,” Nazon said. “We’ll take the postseason week by week.” VV
VIERA VOICE Courtesy of Jennifer Rincones
The Viera High boys soccer team has been to three state championship games. This year, the Hawks have a new coach in Nic Nazon, who will try to keep Viera among the top programs in the state.
Holy Trinity boys soccer off to hot start with new players
BY CARL KOTALA
The Holy Trinity Tigers weren’t really sure what kind of a team they were going to have coming into this boys soccer season.
But when you’ve got two all-time Holy Trinity greats in seniors Keegan Harrison and Jake Wells, that’s a good place to start.
And look at the start the Tigers are off to.
Holy Trinity has started off the season 5-0, which includes the program’s firstever win against Viera.
The Tigers aren’t just thinking about winning a sixth consecutive district championship under coach Adrian Moreno. They want that and more.
“Basically, the goal is to get back to the state tournament like we were last year and get one step closer, winning that semifinal to get to the final and see what happens,” Moreno said.
After graduating six seniors and then losing four other players for various reasons, the Tigers weren’t sure what kind of lineup they would field this year.
Holy Trinity picked up senior goalkeeper Chandler Draper, who moved back from Atlanta. Freshmen Luke Daigler and Thomas Greene, both up from the JV
team, have also been seeing significant playing time and have helped create a spark.
Getting junior Jude Lindbaek back and healthy has been a big boost as well.
And with Harrison and Wells — who have both been playing varsity soccer since the eighth grade — helping to lead the way, the Tigers are off and running.
Draper’s arrival means last year’s starter, Finn Werder, can be used in the field along with backup Brody Delboccio.
The back line is anchored by junior Duncan MacKenzie, who is trying to step into a leadership role. Next to him are sophomore Nate
New football season about to begin in SVYFL
SPECIAL TO VIERA VOICE
Registration has begun for the Suntree Viera Youth Football League NFL Flag Football 2025 Winter season. It is the largest youth flag football league in Brevard County. The SVYFL follows the NFL Flag Regular Season Rulebook and it offers boys and girls a safe, inclusive and non-contact opportunity to learn the fundamentals of the game.
It is open to all boys and girls with the players age determined on Aug. 1 of each year.
Nine-player teams will be grouped into age divisions of 6U, 8U, 10U, 12U, 14U and 16U. Depending on registration numbers, this could change.
All games will be played at Viera Regional Park on four fields that meet NFL Flag standards.
The Winter season will run from the middle of January through late February. During the Fall season, 32 teams competed. For information, email Gary Miracle, the SVYFL NFL Flag director, at flag@svyfl. com or go to svyfl.com. VV
Combs and sophomore Kush Barochia, who was brought up from the JV team late last season.
Harrison controls the midfield along with Daigler and junior teammates Cooper Euziere and Aiden Holtkamp. On the wings, the Tigers have Lindbaek and junior Evan Spreitzer, fresh off an incredible cross-country season.
Up top, it’s Wells, who is as dangerous a goal scorer as there is in Brevard County this season.
While the Tigers aren’t as deep as they usually are, they do have two key contributors in sophomore Cody Seitz and junior Grady Houston
Holy Trinity dropped from 3A to 2A this season, but so did district rivals West Shore and Edgewood.
Ideally, the Tigers would like to win another district title and host the regional final.
VIERA VOICE Courtesy of Georgia Greene
After reaching the Class 3A state soccer state semifinals last season, the Holy Trinity boys soccer team is hoping to get to the title game.
VOICE Courtesy of SVYFL
The Suntree Viera Youth Football League NFL Flag Football Winter season will begin in January.
Viera girls soccer building for future; present looks pretty good, too
BY CARL KOTALA
In three years, maybe even sooner, the Viera Hawks are going to have an experienced girls soccer team with players that know each other’s game inside and out.
“
— Cal Dixon
This … this is the starting point.
And so far, it’s looking pretty good.
“It’s a very young team,” Viera coach Cal Dixon said.
“It’s probably the youngest I’ve had since I’ve been there. We’re just trying to work through what that brings … but hopefully, we’ll get all that (settled) by the end of the season, I would hope.”
Viera’s upper class begins with its three senior captains — goalkeeper Kendall Mix, midfielder Meghan Nadle and defender Allison Teschendorf. Together, they’ve been part of Viera teams that have played in the state semifinals two of the past three seasons.
Then there’s midfielder Cathryn Orr, the only junior on the roster. She’s been playing varsity since she was a freshman.
After that, well, let’s just say there are 12 sophomores and three freshmen on the roster who represent both the present and the future of the Viera girls soccer program.
— saw extensive playing time on last year’s final four team. The rest were either called up late in the season, or are
new to the varsity team all together.
Viera has already dealt with some early-season injuries and illnesses, but was off to a 4-0-1 start.
The lineup includes Mix and sophomore Cassidy Kirkley in goal with defenders Teschendorf; Riley Confreda (freshman); Maliyah Parker (sophomore); Samantha Rhoads (sophomore); Madalyn Zavaletta (sophomore); Canlas and Riley Robinson (sophomore).
The midfielders include Nadle; Orr; McMenemyHoang; Alyssa Keating (freshman); Taylor Roberts (sophomore) and Katerina Thomas (sophomore).
Up front, Viera features forwards Peyton Attleson (sophomore); Olivia Campbell (sophomore); Detwiler and Avery Bryant (freshman).
“We’re young, so it’s a case of learning how to play with each other, to be honest. I think in the future that’s going to be bright because a lot of them will grow up with each other for three years. By the end of those three years, we’ll be in sync.
“But to start with right now, they’re all young girls coming from different places — the JV team maybe, or straight from club to varsity. It’s all different. They know each other a little bit from club … it’s just a matter of trying to get them in sync as quick as possible.” VV-
Three of those sophomores — Eva McMenemy-Hoang; Avery Canlas and Caroline Detwiler
VIERA VOICE Jill Blue
The Viera High School girls soccer team has a lot of young players, which bodes well for the future.
Tigers put district championship as top goal
BY CARL KOTALA
The early-season signs have been good for a Holy Trinity girls soccer team that has a big goal it's working hard to achieve:
Winning the Class 2A, District 7 championship.
“It’s been a long time since we’ve done it,” coach Taylor Pitts said. “We’ve never done it as a 2A (school). That’s our goal.”
Holy Trinity, which competed at 3A last year, has dropped to 2A this season to form a district with traditional foes such as Edgewood, Melbourne Central Catholic and West Shore. John Carroll and Somerset College Prep are also part of the district.
While the Tigers don’t have as much depth as they have had in the past, they definitely have the talent — a nice mixture of veterans and younger players — and the work ethic to make a run at the title.
Senior co-captains Catherine McCarthy, Ava Knight and Greer
Reynolds are all fouryear varsity players with the kind of leadership and skills to help carry the Tigers far.
Seventh-grader
Audrey Tracy has been a big addition with her technical ability.
Freshman Adelin Eggers gives the Tigers stability in goal with McCarthy and junior Julianna Balda leading the defense from their center back positions. Junior Annika Schumacher also sees time at center back.
Knight plays on the outside of Holy Trinity’s defense, with junior Julianna Pedicini on the other side.
Junior Evie Flickinger has been a standout as a holding midfielder for the Tigers. Junior Ella Shannon, who has been working her way back from injury, rotates as a central midfielder with sophomore Finley Reynolds.
Tracy is an attacking midfielder for the Tigers.
Greer Reynolds and Cailyn Easton are up top for the Tigers and have certainly formed
a dangerous scoring combination. In the first three games of the season, Reynolds had one goal and four assists while Easton had a teamhigh four goals.
Other key Tigers include freshman utility player Zooey Flickinger.
Junior Alyssa Villmow plays central midfielder, while sophomore speedster Avery Parchinski helps out up front for the Tigers.
Junior central
midfielder Virginia Lacey is working her way back from an injury and could be ready to join the Tigers in January.
Senior outside defender Valentina Velarde is also working her way back from injury.
Keeping things in the family, this year’s Holy Trinity JV team is being coached by former Tigers standout Kailey Dunne. Kaileigh Smith, who just graduated last year, is her assistant. VV-
VIERA VOICE Holy Trinity girls soccer
Led by a group of solid soccer veteran returners, the Holy Trinity Tigers have their sights set on winning the Class 2A, District 7 championship this season.
Viera boys golf team brings home historic championship
BY CARL KOTALA
The Viera High boys golf team made history on so many levels Nov. 20 at the Class 3A state championship tournament at the Mission Inn and Resort in Howey-in-theHills.
Not only did the Hawks win the first state title in school history … it’s the first boys
state golf team championship in Brevard County history.
“I’m still shocked that we actually got it done,” Viera junior Ryan Woodward wrote in a text message.
“There were a couple other schools that could have easily taken the title too, but I’m proud of me and my team for staying with it and getting the win.
“It means a lot. I will be thinking about this and smiling every single time. It’s a great accomplishment for our school due to the fact that it’s the first time in Viera boys golf history that we have won a state championship.”
Viera’s team score of 591 was seven shots better than second-place Lakewood Ranch (Bradenton) as the Hawks — who also led after the first day of the two-day event — were able to stave off any challengers and bring home the gold.
That wasn’t the only history on the day as
Woodward shot 2-underpar 142 during the two-day tournament to finish fourth individually. That’s the highest finish ever for a Viera boy at the state tournament.
Calvin Sierota finished tied for fifth as a freshman in 2014 and then tied for sixth as a senior in 2017.
Right behind Woodward was Viera senior Arth Sinha, who tied for fifth overall with an even-par 144.
Sophomore Shayaan Kim finished 17th overall with a score of 150. Senior Campbell Ryan came in 156 and junior Alexander Bercea carded 157.
“I am thrilled that the kids and the parents were able to celebrate all the hard work they have done for many years,” Viera coach Paul Bentley wrote in an email. “Winning a golf championship is so difficult because you have to outplay 15 other schools over two days. You have a bad hour of golf and the hole that you dug is too deep to get out.
“The kids played their hearts out and battled for hours each day. It takes a community to get this done. Duran Golf Club has been so gracious for making us feel at home. Justin Blazer bringing his expertise to the Duran Developmental Center and creating the U.S. Kids Tour a decade ago set this in motion.
“I am so happy for all the players who helped get Brevard County its first boys golf state championship.”
Lakewood Ranch certainly put up a fight, closing the gap to three shots with Woodward — the last Hawk to tee off — still five holes away from finishing his round.
“It made everyone a little nervous,” Woodward wrote. “Arth Sinha and I ended up making a couple of birdies
coming down the stretch that solidified our win.”
The only drama at the end was whether or not Woodward would birdie the 18th hole to put himself in what would have been a fourway playoff for the individual championship.
“I ended up coming up a little short of the hole, but after I walked off the green, it was pure joy from everyone,” Woodward wrote. “We played and won as a team.”
Finishing one shot away from the playoff — which went four extra holes — may have been a little disappointing, but that didn’t take anything away from Woodward and what the Hawks accomplished during the two-day tournament.
“I am very pleased with my performance,” Woodward wrote. “I shot two solid rounds of 71-71 (-2) at an extremely difficult golf course. Two-under par is now my best two-day golf tournament score.
“Although I came up a little short of the lead, I am still very satisfied with my finish. We can’t forget about my team though. When I wasn’t playing my best during the Cape Coast Conference and district (tournaments), my teammates had my back and made up for my bad round.
“When I got to states, I knew I had to make it up to them. We played excellent team golf together over the course of these past couple of weeks.”
When it comes to performing at a state championship level, no other golf program can compare to what the Hawks have done.
VIERA VOICE Courtesy of Viera High School boys golf
Viera High School won the Class 3A State Championship in boys golf with a team score of 591. The Hawks finished seven strokes ahead of second-place Lakewood Ranch of Bradenton.
SCHOOLNews
Viera High percussionists couldn’t stop smiling after PASIC performance
BY CARL KOTALA
This wasn’t any ordinary audience they were about to play for.
For six Viera High School students attending the Percussive Arts Society International Convention (PASIC) in Indianapolis last month, this was a chance to play in front of some famous people in their field of drummers, percussionists and performers.
“Going in, I was nervous,” Viera High senior Jack Marden wrote in a text message.
“Performing on an international stage is anything but easy. But at the end of the day, it is me and my closest friends having a jam in front of a live audience, so that helped cure some of the nerves.
“And yes, we were incredibly happy with our performance. We couldn’t stop smiling during and after we were on stage.”
A panel of three world-
class judges liked it, too.
They gave Viera’s group that included Marden, sophomore Nick DiValerio; senior Reilly Halsey; senior Zach Hislop; senior Parker Kortman and junior Isaac Moss a score of 97.46.
That placed them second in the PASIC Concert Chamber Percussion Ensemble Competition, which pitted them against 20 high-school age groups from around the country.
“It was an unexpected pleasant surprise,” Dan Johnson, Viera High’s Percussion Director, wrote in a text.
“We didn’t go for the competition per se. We never discussed the potential of medaling or winning. It was just a great opportunity to be seen by some amazing players and teachers and an amazing experience for everyone involved.”
It was the first time Viera has ever attended the PASIC, and the kids were the only group from Florida to perform.
Marden described the PASIC as a convention that ties all kinds of percussionists under one roof and gives attendees a chance to sell and buy new instruments and
equipment, as well as meet their favorite composers and percussionists and attend master classes and concerts from famous musicians.
Those in attendance this year included the Quey
PERCUSSIONISTS continued on page 33
Percussion Duo; Casey Cangelosi and Bill Bachman. Among those putting on clinics were Eriko Daimo and VIERA VOICE Courtesy of Maria Dix
The Viera High percussionists finished second in the Percussive Arts Society International Convention in Indianapolis last month. Pictured are Director of Percussion Daniel Johnson, left, Reilly Halsey, Parker Kortman, Zach Hislop, Isaac Moss, Nick DiValerio and Jack Marden.
Dec. 6
Brevard Antiques and Collectibles Club
10 a.m.
December subject is Crafts and Homemade Items.
Suntree/Viera Library 902 Jordan Blass Drive Suntree, 321-254-5831
Dining Out & Events
Dec. 7
Melbourne Train Show
9 a.m. – 2 p.m.
More than 100 tables of merchandise for sale. AZAN Shriners Center 1591 W. Eau Gallie Blvd. Melbourne 321-381-9465
Dec. 14
Holiday Craft Fair, Market and Food Truck Event
9 a.m. - 3 p.m.
Handmade crafts and gifts, holiday items and decor and food trucks. Support Project Graduation 2025. Edgewood Junior/Senior High
Playa Bowls
School 180 E. Merritt Island Cswy. Merritt Island, 321-454-1030
Viera Country Fest 2024 4 - 9:30 p.m.
Live music, food trucks and vendors.
Wickham Park 2500 Parkway Drive Melbourne, 321-622-3309
Breakfast With Santa 9 - 10:30 a.m. Wickham Park Community Center 2815 Leisure Way Melbourne, 321-608-7400
Viera East Farmers Market 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. 1705 Crane Creek Blvd. Viera, Facebook.com/ VEFarmersmarket
Thrive + Prime Holiday Festival 11 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Marketplace with more than 40
local vendors, a performance by the Brevard Ballet Youth Company, art exhibit and Santa Claus along with live music. Urban Prime Marketplace 2435 Metfield Drive Viera, 321-499-1188
City of Cocoa’s Holiday Festival 11 a.m. - 3 p.m.
Face painting, caricature drawings, balloon art, bounce houses, pictures with Santa, live performances and food trucks. Cocoa Riverfront Park 401 River Edge Blvd. Cocoa, 321-633-1874
Dec. 15
Christian Comedy and Dessert Night 5 p.m.
A night full of laughter, fun and desserts.
Rockledge Christian Center 2175 S. Fiske Blvd. Rockledge, 321-632-6966
3
Upcoming Trips
St. Augustine Night of Lights
Dec. 12, $126
Annual trip — second largest holiday lights display in the U.S. Horse and carriage tour. Minimum of 35, final due Nov. 25.
Voyager of the Seas — Transatlantic Sailing
May 3 - 16, 2025
Port Canaveral to Barcelona. Limited space.
Scottish Highlands and Islands
May 10 - 23, 2025
Join Jean for an immersive two-week cotland trip!
Deposit is $250 per person, plus travel protection.
Spotlight on Northern Italy
Sept. 12 - 20, 2025
Join Jean in Treviso and enjoy day trips to Venice, Verona and the Dolomites! Ask about the Slovenia pre-extension.
Sky Princess Total Solar Eclipse Voyage
Aug. 8 - 22, 2026
Rates starting at $2,889 per person for interior and $4,296 per person for balconies. Call for more details.
I Love
Piano
Card Readings
Viera High places seven on All-State Band, nine make All-State Chorus
BY CARL KOTALA
As a freshman at Viera High School, Marcus Palermo didn’t audition to make the all-county or all-state band.
A year later, it was still just something he did. He went to school. He played the bassoon.
And then …
“I just put in a tiny bit more effort and I felt like I got something out of it for the first time,” Palermo said. “It was the best feeling in the world, (being) last chair all county.
“… I was like, ‘Oh my gosh, maybe there’s something more to this.’”
Oh, there was something all right.
Last month, Palermo was among seven Viera students named to the All-State Ensemble. It’s the second time the senior has made All-State, the first time he made the 11-12 Symphonic Orchestra.
“I was just ecstatic,” Palermo said. “A lot of people who audition and want to make it in will work really hard for a long time. Just to hear that that work has really paid off in the best way, it’s great news — especially to hear about the orchestra.
“… Just watching my growth, I think All-State has been a really good check point. My sophomore year, I was last chair in the county. My junior year, I was last chair in the state. And then this year, I’m in the orchestra, which means I’m either No. 1 or No. 3 in the state. It’s very exciting to me.”
Palmero’s career path could lead to teaching music, or pursuing playing professionally.
Also making All-State for Viera were: Jack Marden, percussion (11-12 Symphonic Band); Devin Miller, trombone (11-12 Symphonic Band); Tyler Blood, trumpet (11-12 Symphonic Band); Liam Deasy, horn (9-10 Concert Orchestra); Katerina Thomas, oboe (9-10 Concert Band) and Elisabeth McDaniel, clarinet (9-10 Concert Band).
Those students will prepare ensemble music on their own and perform in Tampa at the Florida Music Educator’s Conference in January.
Viera High’s Nick Eggen, the director of Instrumental Music (band and orchestra); Maria Dix, the director of Instrumental Music and Dan Johnson, the director of Percussion, couldn’t be prouder.
“We cannot speak highly enough to the work ethic and commitment all our students have made, especially these
students,” Eggen wrote in an email.
“We wish them the best as they continue to grow as both musicians and young adults.”
November was also a big month for Viera’s chorus, which had nine students make all-state under the direction of Michael Coppola.
Those students include freshman Kathryn Bresette (SATB Concert Choir); junior Jane Brooker (SSAA Choir); freshman Ryan Burnham (TTBB Choir); senior Ryan Farias (TTBB Choir); senior Beau Mattessich (TTBB Choir); freshman Anna Nelson (SSAA Choir); sophomore Lauren Orr (SSAA Choir); junior Sophia Polvino (SSAA Choir) and freshman Leena Swartz (SATB Concert Choir). VV
VIERA VOICE Jill Blue
Seven members of the Viera High School Band earned the honor of being named to the All-State Ensemble.
VIERA VOICE Jill Blue
Nine members of the Viera High School Chorus were named All-State. They are directed by Michael Coppola.
Young entrepreneurs learn valuable skills at Brevard Children’s Business Fair
BY CHRIS BONANNO
Youth entrepreneurs had the opportunity to gain valuable experience running their businesses and dealing with customers during the Nov. 16 Brevard Children’s Business Fair at The Avenue Viera.
“At least 25 percent of teens … do not have very good financial literacy, basic financial literacy,” said Nora McFarland, the Fair’s executive director. “So that’s a lot. That’s like 1 in 4, which is scary. So, what I want to make sure is that these kids that are here today are learning basic financial literacy — how to give change, how to receive money and how to exchange it. And with that being said, everything that’s extra, those are bonuses.”
Patrons at the event had the opportunity to shop at about 90 youth-run businesses.
“We open up registration six months in advance to give kids six months at least to prep their business because they’re going to school,’’ McFarland said. “So, with that in mind, you have some businesses that are going to take longer like art and perhaps some of the more intricate art pieces. The food stuff is a little shorter because they have to make it fresh. So, it really depends on what kind of product they’re making.”
Among those who sold food was Juliet Karsak, with Juliet’s Bakeshop, which sold lavender and lemon sugar, chocolate chip, matcha shortbread and gingerbread cookies.
“I can bake all I want at home, but customer service is something that is a difficult experience to get when you’re younger ’cause you can’t really go for those jobs until like 15, 16,” Karsak said.
Participants at the Fair had the chance to win awards, too. Among the winners was Ella Grace Helton, who won Best in Show with her business Everything Ella. Just a week
before, she won first place in the 3-D design and sculpture category for Grades 6 to 8 at the Space Coast Art Festival. That also was held at The Avenue Viera.
“I always have a whole bunch of fun at these things and I like setting up,” said Helton, who had pastel paintings along with bracelets, beads, cards, laptop cases and bookmarks at her business stand. “That’s the fun part and then meeting people and talking with them and interacting with people. It’s the most fun part.”
Crafted by Carlisle, the brainchild of 12-year-old William Carlisle, a seventh grader at West Shore Junior/ Senior High School, sold each of his 13 metal bonsai trees. It won the Most Original/ Innovative category.
“I like each one since they’re unique,’’ said Carlisle, a resident of Viera. “I can adjust them to my liking or other people’s liking. I can make them asymmetrical or balance them in a certain way.’’
The larger trees take about a week and a half to make, while the smaller trees can be completed in a day and a half.
Carlisle’s mother, Jane, joked that he started Crafted by Carlisle in the spring to supplement his coin collection.
“That’s probably the reason,’’ William Carlisle said. “But, it’s a good craft to do. And, I’m delighted that I was able to sell all of them.’’
Jenna Marshall ran the Adorned Bracelet Company at the event and won Most Likely to Go to Market.
“It was really fun,” Marshall said. “I feel like everybody was just super sweet. It was getting to know everyone and getting to know just, like, how to work and the personality to use and the voice inflection. I feel like everything put together makes a really good presentation.”
Some came from relatively far away to participate in the event, including three children and their parents with Three Happy
from Celebration. They won an award for presentation that was run by 6-year-old Abigail, 5-year-old Samantha and 4-year-old Melissa Kolcasky, each of whom were dressed in crayon costumes.
“People say ‘I like your costume,’ ” Abigail Kolcasky said.
For
about the Fair, check out brevardcbf. org VV
Crayons
VIERA VOICE Jill Blue
William Carlisle won the Most Original/Innovative category.
VIERA VOICE Jill Blue
Jenna Marshall won Most Likely to Go to Market with Adorned Bracelets.
VIERA VOICE Jill Blue
Ella Grace Helton won Best in Show with her business, Everything Ella.
VIERA VOICE Jill Blue
The children were happy to earn money at the event.
Students leading with basket brigade to give to the community
BY GENEVIEVE GREGORY
The holiday season is infused with shopping, party planning, and giving and receiving invitations to multiple morsel-stuffed meetups. But what of the family this year, right here in Viera, whose main provider parted ways with a job or whose money didn’t keep up with inflation?
Student leaders at the K-8 Viera Charter School are smashing holiday hunger with Viera’s own Space Coast Basket Brigade charity. Giving back to others is a habit students hope is contagious.
“It puts us as a student council in the position to not just worry about ourselves during the holiday season, but to give to the ones who need it the most,” said Audrey Diaz, the VCS student council vice president, one of the school’s organizers of a holiday food drive for each grade level for various holiday meal staples.
By promoting kindness and prioritizing the community’s wellbeing, these young leaders hope to help Brevard thrive. Their efforts could inspire more elementary, middle and high school students in the area to do the same.
The holiday outreach also changes the young people who participate in helping others.
“I think the project will
add to their character for the students by helping them look at the world in a different way, and help them look at people differently,” said Jordan Brewer, the VCS student council president. “It will help them to be kinder.”
Outreach projects like these can also build a better future for the student, as well as the future of the family that is helped during a hard time. It comes down to Jordan’s comment about character building. The advancedplus student in the VCS Cambridge English Language Arts program will head to his Cambridge high school of choice next year, Rockledge High, which also features a Criminal Justice program. The future attorney is the founding student member of the VCS Speech and Debate Club, one of the family of afterschool
clubs of Artemis Academy, whose main goal is to prepare students for acceptance at their high school of choice.
“This group of student leaders is an inspiration,” said Viera Charter principal Dr. Julie Cady. “Not only are they working hard to help those less fortunate, they are all individually super focused on what they want to do in their school career now in the eighth grade, at their high school of choice next year, and beyond — to make their school, their community, and the world a better place.” VV
Writer Genevieve Gregory is an eighth grader at Viera Charter School’s advancedplus English Language Arts Cambridge program that feeds to Rockledge High School.
From small beginnings come great things
Jackie Mancuso and her family helped out four families with a holiday meal basket containing a large turkey and all the trimmings in 2009. The Viera family reached out to friends to expand their efforts. Following a story in Viera Voice, that effort grew to help dozens of families in Brevard County and Orlando.
The Space Coast Basket Brigade expects to provide 3,500 baskets this year. Now, families get a box of food with items for infants to seniors to get them from Thanksgiving through the holidays.
The students get a list of staples for each grade level and do contests for the class that gives the most.
This year, the items were delivered to Viera Regional Community Center, outgrowing the Viera High School gymnasium from last year.
The Central Viera Community Association is a partner in the effort. Viera residents and others packed up baskets and boxes Nov. 23 and delivered them to families. They enjoyed a Harvest to Holiday family fun day and the effort’s inaugural 3K Red Carpet Run to Feed Families.
“There is definitely so much that goes into this,” said Amanda Thurn, the effort’s leader, as she picked up a load of food in a U-Haul truck going from school to school. The group established the Three Wishes Foundation to help raise funds and expand to meet additional needs of children and families.
“It’s a thrill to make Jackie’s dream a reality.” For more information or to plan to participate in next year’s drive, go to spacecoastbasketbrigade com
VIERA VOICE Courtesy of Linda Gaffey Viera Charter School students load a truck with food that will go to help people in the community in need.
VIERA VOICE Courtesy of Linda Gaffey Students led Basket Brigade, a holiday food drive.
VIERA VOICE
Courtesy of Linda Gaffey Students had fun helping to collect food for those in need.
50+Wedding VowRenewals
A Valentine’s Day to remember
Date/Time: The Vow Renewal ceremony will take place during the All You Need is Love Senior Expo at 10:30 a.m. Feb. 14/Valentine’s Day. Friends and family are welcome to attend, witness the event and take photos.
Cost: Entrance to the Senior Expo is free. Vow renewal, cake, champagne toast and digital photos are free. Registration is required. The Senior Expo is an independent event. Entrance to the Brevard Zoo is not included.
Venue: Vow Renewals will take place in a group setting on the veranda overlooking the giraffe habitat at the Nyami Nyami River Lodge. The River Lodge (convention hall) is on the left side of the Brevard Zoo entrance gate.
Dress: There is no wrong dress attire for this occasion. Wear the dress of your dreams, formal or casual. Men can wear a suit, uniform, something casual or opt for a special look to make lasting memories.
Photos will be taken during and after the wedding vow renewal.
Sign up: Registration is required.
Limited to the first 20 couples.
Deadline to register is Feb. 1. Call early to reserve your spot.
For more information, call Sylvia at 321-242-1235.
Friday, Feb. 14 — Wedding Vow Renewal Registration
Police K-9 Competition brings out
The top dogs and their handlers in the Space Coast K-9 Competition enthralled the crowd at USSSA Space Coast Stadium during this year’s event.
The Space Coast Police K-9 Foundation, Inc., which had held the competition since 2018, announced the winners in this year’s event.
Obstacle Course
Winners —
Law enforcement/military
Anna King/Debra – 02:02.4
Joe Pusich/Hugo – 02:10.7
Matthew Waddington/CairoTime: 02:13.7
Winners — civilian
Stan Smith/Boots 01:34.4
Robert Hall/XE – 01:40.1
Antonio Gordon/Demon 02:02.1
Hardest dog — law enforcement/military
Matthew Waddington/Cairo
Fastest dog — law enforcement/military
Matthew Waddington/Cairo 10, Time: 2.3
Hardest dog — civilian
Robert Hall/XE
Fastest dog/civilian
Henry Konhauser/Dax 7, Time: 2.36
The event served to educate the public on the importance of the canines in police work and to help raise funds to support the K-9 programs.
Training for a police dog with its handler can cost from $10,000 to $30,000, not including equipment needed.
The most recent annual Space Coast Police K-9 Competition was held Nov. 8 at USSSA Space Coast Stadium in Viera. VV
VIERA VOICE Susie Parente
The Patrick Space Force Base K-9 team and other law enforcement teams had a strong presence at the Space Coast Police K-9 Competition.
VIERA VOICE Susie Parente Anna King and K-9 Debra, left, took first place, while Joe Pusich and K-9 Hugo took second in the law enforcement/military division.
VIERA VOICE Susie Parente Antonio Gordon/Demon, left, Stan Smith/Boots, and Robert Hall with XE were the winners in the civilian category.
VIERA VOICE Susie Parente
Cpl. Shawn Crook of the Brevard County Sheriff's Office was the emcee. Yvonne Martinez is one of the founders of the competition.
Rotary Club's Great Tastes at Suntree funds worthy projects
For years, 19 to be exact, the Suntree Rotary Club’s Great Tastes at Suntree has pleased the culinary palates of those lucky to attend the annual event at Suntree Country Club.
Local restaurants have provided sumptuous entrees, appetizers and desserts to help local charities.
This year, the Rotarians can add future job creators to its resume as $8,000 has been donated to the Aerospace/ Aircraft Assembly Program at Eau Gallie High School. The Boys & Girls Club of Temple Terrace in Melbourne also received $8,000.
“The $8,000 will provide supplies for up to 40 middle school students to attend our summer camp,’’ said Bill McInnish, who runs the Aerospace/Aircraft Assembly Program at Eau Gallie High School. “The camp includes a trip to NASA.’’
McInnish is proud of the program which he created 10
years ago at the high school.
“We’re reaching down to the middle schools,’’ McInnish said. “Their parents end up coming to me about input for the program. We have a 100% placement, whether it be on the job, college or through the military.’’
The school and McInnish are excited about a NASA prototype Orion service module that is scheduled to come to Eau Gallie High School in January.
“It’s 13 tons, 10-feet
tall and 23-feet around,’’ McInnish said. “It’s going to take some coordination to get it here. It’s going to be a media circus. NASA paid for it, Lockheed Martin designed it and the European Space Agency built it.’’
Children from the Boys & Girls Club enjoyed the outing.
“We are eternally grateful for our partnership with the Suntree Rotary,” said Erin Harvey, a spokesperson for the Boys & Girls Club. “They have done so many things for our kids. The kids enjoyed tasting food they wouldn't ordinarily eat. It breaks them out of their comfort zone.”
The $8,000 donation will help them immensely.
“The dollars will directly impact and help the kids,” Harvey said. “This will help with the homework program, mentor steps and other activities at the club that provide positive influences.”
VIERA VOICE By Jill Blue
Erin Harvey, second from right, is a spokesperson for the Boys & Girls Club.
VIERA VOICE By Jill Blue
Bill McInnish, center, runs the Aerospace/Aircraft Assembly Program at Eau Gallie High School.
VIERA VOICE Jill Blue
The Foley family with Judge Kelly McKibben.
Great question. Here’s the answer.
Come to the Lagoon Straight Talk event taking place at the Eau Gallie Civic Center from 5:30 to 8 p.m. on Tuesday, Dec. 10. Register for free at HelpTheLagoon.org
You will hear brief updates on our progress from key experts. But most of the time will be devoted to answering questions from the audience. Get Straight Talk about our Lagoon.
We’ll address issues such as:
• What progress has
Outside of what the Viera boys just accomplished, there is only one other team that has won a state golf championship.
That would be the Viera girls, who won it in 2010 and 2014.
The Viera boys actually finished second in the regionals, seven shots behind
How can I ask about our Lagoon’s progress?
volunteer opportunities? You’ll hear from a panel of experts:
• Virginia Barker, the director of Brevard County Natural Resources Department.
been made by the sales Tax funded Save Our Indian River Lagoon (SOIRL) Plan, and what still needs to be done?
• What are the new regulations on septic systems and are there funds to help meet the requirements?
• How can I get involved and help the Indian River Lagoon? Are there
Jupiter, which came in as the No. 1 seed while the Hawks were fifth.
Bentley, who said at the beginning of the season that this was a state-championship caliber team, said he liked Viera’s chances at the Mission Inn and Resort because of the team’s experience and knowledge of the El Campeon course and also because of his team’s shot-making abilities.
“It is very well known
• Anthony Gubler, Brevard Natural Resources Department; Septic System Upgrades.
• Olivia Escandell, Conservation Manager, Brevard Zoo, Restore Our Shores.
• Austin Fox, Florida Institute of Technology, Assistant Professor of Ocean Sciences.
• Keith Winsten,
that this course is hilly and difficult,” Woodward wrote.
“Hole 4 and hole 13 are two holes that almost seem like you need rock climbing gear. They are both directly uphill that test you physically. The rest of the holes are very unique, which makes the course interesting.
“… I wouldn’t say that a specific course fits our team well. There obviously are some courses out there that
Executive Director of the Brevard Zoo and Aquarium: Duane De Freese Coastal Conservation Hub There will also be multiple exhibitors.
This event is organized by the Brevard Indian River Lagoon Coalition (BIRLC). It was instrumental in the 2016 campaign to pass the half-cent SOIRL Plan Sales Tax.
The SOIRL tax is raising $540 million during its 10year term to co-fund some 450 Indian River Lagoon restoration projects, which together will remove almost 1.5 tons of Nitrogen
benefit each of my teammates in different ways, but all in all, I think that it was just our overall consistency of good golf.
“Each and every one of us have put countless hours of work into our games all for this one moment of the high school season. We have all hit thousands and thousands of balls to earn that win, so I would say it’s the hard work that helped us overcome the difficulties of the course, not that the course itself helped us.”
pollution from the Indian River Lagoon. You will also have a chance to meet other key organizations working to Heal Our Lagoon, including Brevard County SOIRL Program; IRL National Estuary Program; Brevard Zoo & Aquarium; Restore Our Shores; Marine Resources Council; Right to Clean Water, Keep Brevard Beautiful; Native Plant Society; City of Cape Canaveral and Fuji Clean. Hope to see you there! Check out HelpTheLagoon. org. VV
season.
That will stick with them for a long time.
“We couldn’t have done it if we didn’t play like a team,” Woodward wrote. “All of the guys on the team are the most selfless people, which helped us play such good team golf these past couple days.
“I give each and every one of them all the credit for my 2-under-par tournament score. Every single one of them came up to me individually and gave me a little talk. Or said something encouraging, which freed me up after I was nervous before the second round.
The Viera boys have had talented teams before, but a sixth-place finish roughly 10 years ago was the previous best finish Bentley could remember.
It took a special group to do what the Hawks did this
“All I want to add is that I believe I had the best team to win this state championship, and I won’t ever forget them, or this moment.” VV
Blessed is the season which engages the whole world in a conspiracy of love.
— Hamilton Wright Mabie
GOLF continued from page 12
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Dog resort picks Viera Boulevard for its newest location
BY EMILY WARNER
Grooming, spa and doggie ice cream are only part of the pampering dogs and cats will be able to get at Pet Paradise Resort and Day Spa.
This coming year, these and other services will be available in Viera when Pet Paradise Resort and Day Spa opens a new location at 900 Viera Blvd., near U.S.1.
Founded by Fred Goldsmith more than 20 years ago, with its headquarters in Jacksonville, Pet Paradise now has more than 60 locations across the United States.
The company says its premium pet service is all about providing dogs and cats with the best care while giving pet owners a peace of mind.
Pet Paradise offers a wide variety of services, from boarding to day camp, grooming and dog training. Veterinary service will also be available.
At each location, the teams ensure that pets are treated with the care, love and attention they deserve. Pet Paradise says it has considered every
detail to help pets feel as though they are on their own vacation while you are on yours. The resort will have everything from a bone-shaped pool to climate-controlled suites, raised beds and private patios.
Even when the dogs are out for group playtimes, there’s a Tiny Town area designated specifically for small dogs.
All pet owners are able to connect to the live-streaming cameras in the
play yards at any time.
“In addition to a premium resortstyle environment, (Pet Paradise offers) pet parents a convenient, all-in-one solution when it comes to caring for their pet,” said Kristen Majdanics, the vice president of marketing and communications at Pet Paradise.
Pet owners can combine services, so when their pups are at the facility for a day camp, they can also be scheduled for a grooming appointment, allowing owners to pick up their freshly bathed and trimmed pets. If you’ll be boarding
your dog for a longer period, but also wish to work on their training and manners, then you can enroll them in Paradise’s Board and Train program.
“As a resort, we also offer little luxuries that make all the difference — from doggie ice cream to scented spa packages,” Majdanics said.
Construction is getting started on the new Viera location, but it is expected to open in 2025.
To learn more about Pet Paradise, check out petparadise.com or follow them on Instagram, Facebook or
Help us ring in the New Year with ReStore donations. Schedule your pick up today! 9am - 4pm Tuesday-Saturday
VIERA VOICE Susie Parente
Construction is getting underway on the new Viera Pet Paradise Resort and Day Spa, which is set to open in 2025.
VIERA VOICE Courtesy of Pet Paradise
The Pet Paradise Resort and Day Spa on Viera Boulevard will look like one recently opened in Lawerenceville, Georgia. It will feature a bone-shaped pool.
Chiropractor celebrates 40 years of practice in Rockledge
BY BETTY PORTER
As a student at Merritt Island High School, Kevin Fogarty set his focus on becoming a chiropractor after exploring careers and visiting healthcare professionals.
Dr. Fogarty is now celebrating his 40th year in chiropractic practice in Rockledge.
Fogarty graduated with honors in 1985 from Palmer College of Chiropractic in Davenport, Iowa. He has received advanced certifications in Spinal Biomechanics, Spinal Whiplash trauma and is nationally certified in non-surgical spinal decompression and cold laser therapy. In 2004, he received his Legion of Chiropractic Philosophers from Palmer College.
“While I was a student at Merritt Island High School, I started visiting different healthcare professionals to hone in on what I wanted to be,” Fogarty said. “I found that the chiropractors I visited seemed to be healthier, liked what they
for Life University.
— Dr. Kevin Fogarty
did and helped people without drugs or surgery. That holistic view resonated with me at a young age and so my focus was set on becoming a chiropractor.”
Born in Huntington, New York, he moved at a young age to Brevard County.
Fogarty’s wife, Liliana, said an accomplishment that he is most proud of is watching his daughters,
Sara and Kaitlin, who were adopted from China — grow into beautiful and confident young women.
Fogarty serves as the current chairman for Life University and has spoken throughout the Americas, Europe, China and Australia. In addition, he teaches continuing education for the profession.
“I truly enjoy professing
the benefits of chiropractic worldwide and seeing to fruition the completion of the chiropractic educational footprints that Life University is establishing in China, Costa Rica and Europe,” Fogarty said. “To me, chiropractic is not a job. It is a lifestyle.”
Liliana Fogarty assists in the decompression center of the clinic Rockledge Disc Centers, which they incorporated in 2023 as
part of Fogarty Chiropractic Life Clinic. It is located at 839 Barton Boulevard in Rockledge.
“Our passion is to help as many people feel better drug and surgery free,” she said. “I can tell you that he is dedicated to giving his time, talent and treasure to the profession that he loves.” For more information, check out fogartychiropractic.com VV
BY MIKE GAFFEY
Longtime Brevard County dentist Dr. Cedric Chenet recently faced a dilemma when his oldest son, Derek, also a dentist, decided to move his family to Connecticut.
“So here I was with two practices and I needed somebody,” said the Suntree resident, who has offices at 7331 Office Park Place, Suite 100 in Viera and at 336 N. Babcock St., No. 102 in Melbourne.
Through an online matching program offered by the American Dental Association that pairs dentists with associates, Chenet found Dr. Nishita Patel, a native of Gujarat, India. She had lived in Florida and worked at
dental offices across the state before moving to Viera with her husband.
Patel now provides comprehensive dental care at the Babcock Street office Monday through Wednesday and at the Viera location Thursday and Friday.
“It worked out great because we see things the same way in terms of our values in terms of how we treat our patients,” Chenet said. “Dr. Patel is known as the gentle dentist with the small hands.”
Patel said she felt comfortable about working with Chenet after their first discussion.
“I could see how he valued his work, and I like that,” said Patel, who initially worked part time
“Dr. Patel is known as the gentle dentist with the small hands."
— Dr. Cedric Chenet
for Chenet after the birth of her daughter. “And he's also very kind and it was an additional plus that he is very up to date on all the technology that we have in the dental world.”
Some of that new technology includes intraoral cameras that allow patients to view their teeth on a chair-side monitor, digital X-rays that expose patients to less radiation, an anesthesiafree, soft-tissue laser that eliminates scalpels and sutures and speeds healing, and a digital impressions system that can provide a patient with a crown or
bridge in a day. “I don't know if you've ever been to the dentist and had a crown where they mix that putty stuff and they put it in your mouth and you gag on it,” Chenet said. “And then they put a spare part like a temporary crown and you have to come back in two weeks. Now we do everything in house. The digital scan is a lot more comfortable and a lot more accurate.”
A native of Port-auPrince, Haiti and a 20-year U.S. Air Force veteran who retired as a lieutenant colonel, Chenet is a married father of three sons. He admits he’s a bit envious of young dentists who will have even more advanced technology available to give patients bright, healthy smiles. “I can't imagine where
things are going to be in 20, let alone 40 years,” he said. “Eventually, they're probably going to be able to grow teeth. I'm serious. That's probably the direction that things are going. It’s amazing.”
For more information, go to chenetdental.com/ or call the Viera office at 321-473-6575 or the Melbourne office at 321405-1715. VV
VIERA VOICE Klinton Landress
Dr. Kevin Fogarty, a Merritt Island High School graduate, is a chairman
VIERA VOICE Courtesy of Dr. Kevin Fogarty
Dr. Kevin Fogarty, left, has a passion for helping people without drugs or surgery.
VIERA VOICE Courtesy of Dr. Cedric Chenet Longtime Brevard County dentist Dr. Cedric Chenet has added Dr. Nishita Patel to his staff at his offices in Viera and Melbourne.
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Pedestrian safety is a priority — watch for people in crosswalks
BY CHRIS BONANNO
Drawing attention to pedestrian safety is a priority for transportation officials in Brevard County.
Crosswalks with flashing lights have been installed at several locations on State Road A1A along the Space Coast beaches. Some are going up at beach crosswalks in Cocoa Beach.
There is a clear effort to make it safer for pedestrians not only on beachside roadways but throughout the county. And, transportation officials want to remind motorists to watch carefully for people in crosswalks.
The Space Coast Transportation Planning Organization and the Florida Department of Transportation held a Mobility Week event Oct. 28.
The event to draw attention to pedestrian safety was held at the Brevard County Government Center in Viera.
“The purpose of this event is to raise awareness for the traveling public to watch out for pedestrians,” said Georganna Gillette, the executive director at the SCTPO.
“At the end of the day, we really do have to watch out for each other. It’s an opportunity for us to kind of remind everyone that you need
to watch for pedestrians and that when a pedestrian steps out into the crosswalk, you should come to a stop and let them pass.”
As part of the event, SCTPO personnel were among those who waved signs asking motorists to stop for pedestrians in a crosswalk on Stadium Parkway in front of the Government Center and to slow in other circumstances.
“It is the law to stop for pedestrians when they’re in the crosswalk,’’ said Vince Dyer, the program manager of the Best Foot Forward program with Bike/ Walk Central Florida. “That’s kind of what our signs point out. To try to bring visibility so that when drivers pass through here they see the commotion, they see that something’s going on, they remember it.”
The gathering was part of a series of events held in late October and early November that the SCTPO held in conjunction with the Florida Department of Transportation.
“It’s (getting) darker outside. It’s actually Pedestrian Safety Month,” said Abby Hemenway, the public information and outreach manager with the SCTPO. “Our motorists need to slow down, pay attention, but our pedestrians should be wearing bright colors, high visibility colors.” VV
Edited by Margie E. Burke
TO
Each row must contain the numbers 1 to 9; each column must contain the numbers 1 to 9; and each set of 3 by 3 boxes must contain the numbers 1 to 9.
(Answer appears elsewhere in this issue)
VIERA VOICE Chris Bonanno
The Space Coast Transportation Planning Organization held a rally to remind motorists to be aware of pedestrians in crosswalks.
Flying Burro brings Mexican fare to Viera, its second location
BY CHRIS BONANNO
Step into the new Flying Burro in Viera for a tasty taco or other Mexican fare and you’ll feel greeted by a mural depicting the large portrait of a woman surrounded by stained glass.
This new eatery has opened at 2348 Citadel Way #105, just east of Lake Andrew Drive and south of Judge Fran Jamieson Way.
The Viera location is the second Flying Burro. The first opened about a year-and-a-half ago on South Babcock Street in Melbourne.
“Very, very excited because Viera is a market we always wanted to get into,” said Arvind Maddikonda, who is the coowner with his wife Anna.
“I also feel like people here will appreciate the food.”
Patrons will have the opportunity to order tacos, quesadillas, flying rice bowls, burritos, enchiladas, chimichangas and even breakfast foods such as a fajita omelette and a spinach egg and cheese quesadilla. There are also a wide variety of beverages available from Mexican soda to freshly brewed iced tea to a host of alcoholic beverage choices.
“We do have the drafts,” Maddikonda said. “We have international beers as well as domestic.”
out happy and we will do everything we can from our end to see that we are providing fresh and tasty food,” Maddikonda said.
Those visiting the establishment will immediately notice the large colorful mural painted by artist Jesse Travis that features the portrait of the woman with stained glass windows painted on either service.
“Between morning to evening shifts, we will have 20 to 22 people working for us,” added Anna Maddikonda, Arvind’s wife.
To see the eatery's menu or to order online, visit
PERCUSSIONIST
continued from page 13
Peter Erskine. One clinic Marden enjoyed was put on by Adam Tan, who talked about how to get your name out in public and start your career as a percussionist.
The Viera senior who plans to be a percussion performance major at either Florida State or Miami, also said he found the PASIC concert nights inspirational.
Performing well, and placing as high as they did, only made the trip that much more rewarding.
“All we knew was that we crushed it in our performance. Then, as our name got called for being second place, we all immediately jumped up and smiled at each other as we went up to the stage to get our picture taken.
“That was a very memorable moment, as that definitely made history, not only for our own percussion program, but (it) was (also) a huge score for Viera and Brevard County.” VV
“Being on an international stage, the variety between groups is so large that we had no idea how we compared to other groups,” Marden wrote.
VIERA VOICE Jill Blue
Arvind Maddikonda and his wife Anna are excited to open their Flying Burro eatery in Viera, which is their second location in Brevard County.
VIERA VOICE Jill Blue Local artist Jesse Travis painted a large mural on an interior wall of the Flying Burro.
Swearingen & Jayne Kelli
Swearingen & Jayne Kelli
December Greetings
SATURDAY
SUNDAY
1 2 3 4 5 6 7
Christmas Tree Lighting
6 - 8 p.m.
Begin the Christmas spirit with refreshments, carols and a tree lighting.
Green Gables 1501 S. Harbor City Blvd.
Melbourne 321-306-8635
Free Liver Scans
10 a.m. - 2 p.m.
Free fibroscan.
ClinCloud 8085 Spyglass Hill Road Viera, 321-751-6771
Sheriff Ivey & Junny's
Reverse Christmas Parade
Bring an unwrapped gift.
2:30 p.m.
Barton & Fiske in Rockledge
Carols in the Park
6 and 7 p.m.
Enjoy Carols in the Park performed by local schools, choirs and performance groups. The Avenue Viera 2261 Town Center Ave. Viera, 321-634-5390
Line Dancing by Larry 10 - 11:30 a.m.
Viera Regional Community Center 2300 Judge Fran Jamieson Way Viera, 321-323-4928
Sit-n-Stitch
1 - 3 p.m.
Embroidery, knitting, crochet group.
Suntree/Viera Library 902 Jordan Blass Drive Suntree, 321-255-4404
Drive-thru Nativity Dec. 5 and 6 6 - 8 p.m.
Faith Viera 5550 Faith Drive Viera, 321-636-5505
Brevard Authors Critique Group
10 a.m. - 1 p.m. Come talk to the group and be inspired.
Suntree/Viera Library 902 Jordan Blass Drive Suntree, 321-255-4404
National Bartender Day
Moonlight Music on the Promenade 6 - 9 p.m.
Live music
Cocoa Riverfront Park 401 Riveredge Blvd. Cocoa, 321-631-9075
Christmas on the Boulevard 6 p.m.
Bounce houses and real snow. East Coast Christian 3474 Viera Blvd. Viera, 321-452-1060
Travel Open House
7:30 - 11 a.m. Pick up your new 2025 travel brochures. 5525 Porada Drive Viera, 321-591-0392 Elks
8 9 10 11 12 13 14
Blizzard at the Barn
Holiday Open House
1 to 4 p.m. Free Vendors, food trucks, games, feed treats to horses (carrots $1 a bag), pony rides ($5), petting zoo and more. Call Donna, 847989-4248, or email blizzardatthebarn@ harmonyfarmsinc.com
Harmony Farms
2205 Pluckebaum Road Cocoa
Beautiful Inside and Out 10 a.m. - noon GFWC Viera Woman's Club with Sephora private event. RSVP, space limited. Sephora 2271 Town Center Ave. Viera jldyna@yahoo.com
Viera Bright Lights Battle begins Find the map of homes at vieravoice.com
Lagoon Straight Talk 5:30 - 8:30 p.m.
Learn about the progress being made.
Eau Gallie Civic Center 1551 Highland Ave. Melbourne, helpthelagoon.org
First Senior Appreciation Party
Noon - 2 p.m.
One Senior Place 8085 Spyglass Hill Road Viera, 321-751-6771
Water's Edge Dermatology
4 - 7 p.m. Ribbon cut: 4:30 p.m. Tours, raffle drawings. 8045 Spyglass Hill Road Suite 104, Viera 321-294-5800
Barbershop Quartet Concert
4 p.m.
Shell Harbor 2855 Murrell Road Rockledge 321-252-1221
Second annual Junny the Red Nose Bloodhound’s Christmas Light Fest 6:30 - 9:30 p.m. Dec. 5 to 14, 19 to 22 Drive-through light display, $10 per car. Dec. 21 – walk-through night, $2 per person. BCSO Jail Complex 855 Camp Road Cocoa, 321-264-5201 2024lights.eventbrite. com
Carols in the Park 6 and 7 p.m. Local schools, choirs and performance groups. The Avenue Viera 2261 Town Center Ave. Viera, 321-634-5390
Santa Visits
5 - 8 p.m.
Meet Santa and Mrs. Claus in Central Park. The Avenue Viera Viera, 321-634-5390
30th Anniversary Celebration 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Long drive specials and a putting competition. Viera East Golf Club 2300 Clubhouse Drive Viera, 321-693-3487
Pancakes with Santa 9 - 11 a.m. Palm Shores Bistro 5060 U.S. Highway 1 Palm Shores 321-752-5222
15 16 17 18 19 20 21
Ford's Garage Car Show/Toy Drive
8 a.m. to 10:30 p.m.
A “Fords only” car show. Bring a new unwrapped toy for the Brevard County Sheriff's Office campaign.
Ford's Garage 5480 Lake Andrew Drive Viera 321-405-3673
Library Holiday Party
6 - 7:30 p.m. Photos with Santa, treats and crafts! The Youth in Harmony a Cappella Choir will be singing Christmas carols for your holiday enjoyment.
Suntree/Viera Library 902 Jordan Blass Drive Suntree, 321-255-4404
Medicaid Planning Seminar 10 - 11 a.m. Presented by elder law
attorney William A. Johnson. RSVP One Senior Place 8085 Spyglass Hill Road Viera, 321-751-6771
Community Open House
5:30 p.m.
Viera Charter School 6206 Breslay Drive Viera, 321-541-1434
Line Dancing by Larry 10 - 11:30 a.m. Viera Regional Community Center 2300 Judge Fran Jamieson Way Viera, 321-323-4928
Wednesday Pickleball 5:30 p.m.
McLarty Park 788 Barton Blvd. Rockledge
Neighbors Book Club 2 - 4:30 p.m. The book being discussed is The Heaven and Earth Grocery Store by James McBride. Suntree/Viera Library 902 Jordan Blass Drive Suntree, 321-255-4404
Tai Chi with Brad 9:30 - 10:30 a.m.
Suntree/Viera Library 902 Jordan Blass Drive Suntree, 321-255-4404
Swingtimers Trio 2 - 4 p.m.
Christmas music. Suntree/Viera Library 902 Jordan Blass Drive Suntree, 321-255-4404
Music on the Patio 6 - 9 p.m.
Hook & Eagle Tavern 2300 Clubhouse Drive Viera, 321-693-3487 22 23 24 25 26 27 28
Carols in the Park
5 p.m.
Join in and sing carols. No singing talent necessary. Riverfront Park 401 Riveredge Blvd. Cocoa, 321-433-8800
"It's a Wonderful Life"
6:30 p.m.
Cocoa Village Playhouse 300 Brevard Ave. Cocoa, 321-636-5050
AARP Smart Driver Course
9 a.m. A refresher driving course. One Senior Place 8085 Spyglass Hill Road Viera, 973-607-7996
Christmas Eve Service 11 a.m., 1 p.m., 3 p.m., 5 p.m. and 7 p.m. Church At Viera 9005 N. Wickham Road Viera, 321-259-3454
Christmas Day Service 10 a.m. with communion Faith Viera 5550 Faith Drive Viera, 321-636-5504
Christmas Eve Services
4 p.m., 6 p.m., 8 p.m.
10 p.m. with communion
Faith Viera 5550 Faith Drive Viera, 321-636-5504
29 30 31 Jan. 1
Sunset in the Hollows
3:30 - 5:30 p.m.
Brevard County Farmers' Market
3 - 6 p.m. Wickham Park 2500 Parkway Drive Melbourne, 321-6331702
Bone Builders 9:30 - 11 a.m. Cocoa Library 305 Forrest Ave. Cocoa, 321-631-2749
Bees Love Honey Workshop 11:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. Explore the world of bees up close. 1309 Moonlight Drive Cocoa beeslovebees.com
Brevard Beagle Meet 10 a.m. Pieloch Dog Park Monthly meet hosted by Beagles of Brevard. 1703 Crane Creek Blvd. Viera Music on the Patio
HOLIDAY CELEBRATIONS
Continued from page 6
on State Road 520 across from Cape Canaveral Hospital.
Cocoa Village Bike Parade
Friday, Dec. 20, 6:30 p.m.
Join us for a bike ride — individual or bring out a crew to ride down the historic streets of Cocoa Village. The parade route begins at Cocoa Riverfront Park, goes through the heart of the Village, and up Riverside Drive. Check in at 5 p.m. at the park.
A Celtic Christmas 1
Friday, Dec. 20, 7 p.m.
The event will take place at St. Andrew United Methodist Church at 3380 Dairy Road in Titusville. For more information, go to saintandrew-umc.com.
Fifth annual Holiday Golf Cart Parade and Contest
Friday, Dec 20, 5 p.m.
This festive event will feature a golf cart parade and contest, food trucks, a DJ, kids’ activities and more.
Satellite Beach Sports Park 751 Jamaica Blvd. For information, call 321-773-6458.
Deck the District - A Festive Holiday Celebration
Saturday, Dec 21. 4 to 9 p.m.
Eau Gallie turns into a winter wonderland filled with vendors, food trucks, live music, local artisans
and entertainment. Highland Ave, between Montreal & Eau Gallie Blvd., Eau Gallie Arts District
A Celtic Christmas 2
Saturday, Dec. 21, 7 p.m.
The concert will take place at First United Methodist Church
206 S. Hopkins Ave.
Admission is free.
For more information, go to fumctitusville.com.
West Cocoa Community Christmas Parade
Saturday, Dec. 21, 6 p.m.
The parade starts at the East Coast Christian Center's Cocoa Campus at 1855 Friday Road.
Parade information is on Facebook.
June Park Light Parade
Saturday, Dec. 21, 4 p.m.
A lighted night street parade bringing the hometown feeling of Christmas to you. There will be food trucks, a bounce house, a DJ, raffle baskets and our local Brevard Animal Shelter trailer for donations.
Police Foundation Park 4150 Miami Ave. Melbourne, 321-914-3877
Surfing Santas
Tuesday, Dec. 24, 7:30 a.m.
Surfing Santas begins at Minutemen Causeway in front of Coconuts on the Beach in Cocoa Beach.
For more information, call 321-2236400 or visit surfingsantas.org
Viera Cookbook
Gingerbread French Toast
Ingredients:
1/3 cup (about three large) egg whites or liquid egg substitute
2 tsp. molasses
1/2 tsp. vanilla extract
1/2 tsp. pumpkin pie spice
1/4 tsp. ground ginger
2 tsp. light butter
Two slices whole-grain bread with 60 to 80 calories per slice 1 tsp. powdered sugar
Optional topping: sugar-free or light pancake syrup
Directions: In a wide bowl, combine egg whites/substitute, molasses, vanilla extract, pumpkin pie spice and ginger. Whisk until uniform.
Bring a large skillet sprayed with nonstick spray to medium heat. Add butter and let it coat the bottom. Coat bread with egg mixture. Cook until golden brown, 1 to 2 minutes per side. Serve topped with powdered sugar. Makes one serving.
Fudge Meltaways
Part 1
1/2 cup butter
1 sq. unsweetened chocolate
1/4 cup sugar
1 tsp. vanilla
2 cups graham cracker crumbs
1 cup coconut
1/2 cup chopped nuts
1 beaten egg
Melt the butter and chocolate. Blend in sugar, vanilla, egg, crumbs, coconut, and nuts. Mix. Put in an ungreased 11 x 7 pan. Refrigerate.
Part 2 1/4 cup butter
2 cups powdered sugar
1 tsp. vanilla
1 tbsp. milk Mix. Spread over the refrigerated mix. Cool.
Part 3
Entire recipe (two slices): 227 calories, 4.5g total fat (1g sat. fat), 406mg sodium, 32.5g carbs, 5g fiber, 12.5g sugars, 14g protein
Prep: 5 minutes Cook: 5 minutes
3 sq. unsweetened chocolate.(may use chocolate chips) Melt. Spread over the refrigerated mix. Chill. Cut in small squares before completely firm.
Reconnecting with Earth echoes the spirit of holiday season
The importance of gratitude can’t be overstated.
“Imagine raising children in a culture in which gratitude is the first priority,” Robin Kimmerer suggests in her book “Braiding Sweetgrass.”
The type of gratitude that recognizes all the gifts around us but are frequently taken for granted — the air we breathe, the sun that keeps us warm, the soil that provides food, the rain that replenishes our water tables, and the organisms and animals that work to keep the world going. Oh, so many things to be grateful for each day.
When we take a moment, we realize that we are not apart from nature.
“The air, the water, the soil, it is all constantly migrating and cycling through us. There is no out there, it is all in here,’ according to John Seed in Ecopsychology
“We are nature. There’s no separation,” Janine Benyus writes in her essay “Genius of Nature.”
Sarah A. Conn has a poignant observation in “When the Earth Hurts, Who Responds.”
“Everything we touch comes from the natural world and can connect us to it in the way that strawberries connected me to the sun, rain and soil. But most of us still seem to act as if the Earth and its nonhuman aspects were separate from us, something out there with no life of its own and therefore unrelated to our merely personal concerns. … Because we experience the self as separate from the Earth, we feel either overwhelmed by or removed from what we learn about environmental deterioration; we become helpless or
indifferent in the face of it, and unable to respond except with numbness and denial.”
Apathy has no future and is not successful in setting roots once we change our view and relationship with nature. For violence against it is violence against ourselves.
Kimmerer draws upon weaving a basket to describe important elements involved in building a balanced relationship with nature.
“By weaving well-being for land and people, we need to pay attention to the lessons of the three rows. Ecological well-being and laws of nature are always the first row. Without them, there is no basket. (… The second,) economy built upon ecology. By using materials as if they were a gift and returning that gift through worthy use, we find balance. (… The third is) reciprocity. All our relations. … The three rows represent recognition that our lives depend on one another, human needs being only one
row in the basket that must hold us all. In relationships, the separate splints become a whole basket, sturdy and resilient enough to carry us into the future.”
The metaphor puts human needs in perspective — that is just one of the many intricate relationships that we need to work through. “(We) have everything to learn about how to live gracefully on this planet. Organisms have done everything we humans want to do … but we are a very young species still trying to get it right. … Seeing nature as a model, measure and mentor changes the very way you view and value the natural world. Instead of seeing nature as a warehouse, you begin to see her as teacher,” explains Janine Benyus when describing biomimicry, a way to improve human lives through observing and learning from nature.
That steers us into a path to find gratitude and gratitude, as Kimmerer continues,
“cultivates an ethic of fullness. … It reminds you every day that you have enough. … Everything needed to sustain life is already here. When we do this every day, it leads us to an outlook of contentment and respect for all of Creation. (That type of ) gratitude does not send you shopping to find satisfaction; it comes as a gift rather than a commodity.”
These were quotes shared during our discussion course this fall, Reconnecting with Earth. It echoes the spirit of this time of the year. Gratitude can be in everything we do and every step of the way. I am grateful for being able to host such a course and now for writing this article to share the message with you. VV Email Marcia Booth at Marcia@RecycleBrevard.org. Recycle Brevard is an independent nonprofit organization 100% run by volunteers focused on reducing waste and promoting sustainable living.
VIERA VOICE Courtesy of HungryGirl.com
Gingerbread French Toast offers a unique taste during the Christmas season.
VIERA VOICE Courtesy of Ruth Blue from Nancy Butler
Recycle Brevard BEYOND the CURB
For an invitation to the December VMB meeting, call 321-242-1235.
In November, the Viera Means Business networking group met at the Devereux Advanced Behavioral Health for gourmet breakfast and coffee. Many VMB members arrived with gift cards to donate to the kids for the holidays.
The Viera Means Business networking group meets at 8 a.m. the second Thursday of each month at various locations. Join business colleagues in Viera and the surrounding area to network.
VIERA MEANS BUSINESS EANS BUSINES NETWORKING GROUP
Denise Adams, Cheryl Clark, Adam Copenhaver, LaChrista, Jones
Michael Charles, Brandan Payne
Suzanne Witenhafer, Brian Dillon, Christina Stolaas, Reetu Haave, Curtis Stolaas
Suzanne Witenhafer, Anjanette Wicks, Michael Charles, Chef Hyde, Kimberly Hayes, Michelle Llorens
Breakfast was complete with a pineapple bird.
Jeff Law, Tom Niedert
Devereux team, Wendell Normile, Kristy Perkins, Shaniece Patacer, Michelle Llorens, Erikka Williams, Chef Hyde and Kimberly Hayes
Erikka Williams, Denise Adams
SENIOR News
Edited by Margie E. Burke
Innovative healing garden aims to help prevent veterans’ suicides
BY LINDA JUMP
American Legion Post 117 in Palm Bay is encouraging veterans to play in the dirt in a healing garden to reduce veteran suicides.
“It will be a safe place for veterans and their families to come together to share their stories about their struggles within their lives after service,” said Dana Jackson, the Post 117 adjutant.
Debbie Nixon of Palm Bay, the garden coordinator, said growing vegetables, herbs and flowers is calming.
“Active microvilli in soil releases serotonin,” she said.
Sunlight and connection with nature are also mood boosters. Organic produce will be used in the Post’s kitchen, and Nixon said local restaurants expressed interest in purchasing any excess to keep the garden sustainable. Local organizations and businesses helped, including children from Odyssey Charter School, who planted. Nixon said that a schedule of group activities is planned.
A ribbon cutting was held last month. Planned in five phases are a fenced garden around a portion of the Post’s pond with several raised beds, some wheelchair accessible areas, as well as sitting areas, a greenhouse with storage, work tables, a children’s planting area and a ramped deck.
“It will be a safe place for veterans and their families to come together to share their stories about their struggles within their lives after service.”
— Dana Jackson
The Department of Veteran Affairs 2021 report cited 6,392 former soldiers died by suicide, 546 from Florida, which has the third-largest population of veterans. The American Legion, working with Columbia University, launched a Be the One initiative with a website betheone.org to reduce the stigma of mental health treatment and prevent veteran suicides, estimated at 17 to 22 veterans daily. A veterans’ crisis line is at 988, option 1.
Terry Struben, the Post
commander, said “as far as we know, this (a therapy garden) is the first of its kind within the American Legion.”
Guadalupe Lopez of Palm Bay began home gardening after her release from five years in the Army to deal with her post-traumatic stress disorder.
“I was deployed to Iraq two times and when I’m gardening, I feel like I’m in the present moment with the dirt and plants,’’ Lopez said. “I hope other vets can experience that peace of mind too.”
Ken Nilsen of Palm Bay, a
Marine from 1969 to 1972 and a military contractor, said he eats only natural food and welcomes the garden “to help people get over the combat and get together to talk because we don’t get to defuse before we get out. I’m very optimistic.”
VV
VIERA VOICE Linda Jump
Debbie Nixon, left, and Dana Jackson, the adjutant of American Legion Post 117, hold the sign for a healing garden planned around the Post’s pond as a way to help combat veteran suicide. Veterans and their families from around the county are invited to visit the garden to reduce stress.
VIERA VOICE Linda Jump
Ken Nilsen, left, Guadalupe Lopez and Leo Belanger, three Palm Bay veterans, help establish raised-bed planters at the healing garden at American Legion Post 117 in Palm Bay.
VIERA VOICE Linda Jump
Debbie Nixon is coordinating construction of a healing garden at American Legion Post 117 in Palm Bay. Officials think the garden, designed to reduce the stress of PTSD, is the first of its kind at an American Legion.
WWII veteran danced at his 100th birthday celebration
BY CHRIS BONANNO
Charles Cook, a resident at Sonata Viera assisted living facility, swayed recently to the live music at his 100th birthday celebration.
At times during the celebration, Cook, a World
War II veteran, stood up and danced to the bluegrass and country music played by the Penny Creek Band.
“I haven’t had fun like this in a long time,” Cook said. “I can get up and dance here.”
Family, friends and residents at Sonata Viera
“I haven’t had fun like this in a long time. I can get up and dance here.”
— Charles Cook
gathered Nov. 14 for Cook’s 100th birthday celebration.
Cook’s daughter, Christa Hoffman, who traveled from Arizona for the birthday celebration, said that Penny Creek Band’s modern bluegrass is her father’s favorite.
The staff at Sonata was glad to celebrate Cook. The celebration included a large birthday cake.
“This is the best, to see our resident turn 100 years old and have such a great time,” said Jackie Cantwell, the lifestyle director at Sonata Viera.
Members of a local Veterans of Foreign Wars Post planned to honor Cook with an appearance during the celebration.
“They came in last year for dad’s 99th, but this one’s a big one,” Hoffman said.
Cook grew up in western Tennessee and served in the U.S. Army during World War II. He served 20 years in the Army before retiring.
He would eventually settle in Fort Knox, Kentucky, where he raised his son Rudy and daughters Carol and Christa.
“I am not surprised that
it means a great deal ’cause we love him tremendously,”
Hoffman said. “I mean, he is just a fabulous man. Always has been.”
Hoffman indicated that Cook’s two other children were also in attendance along with grandchildren Roman and Chas.
“He’s just well-liked by everybody. It’s just wonderful,” she said. “I am so happy that we found this place (Sonata) for him.”
Cook remains active, walking a mile a day around the facility, according to Sonata’s assistant lifestyle director Mary Cruz.
“Twice sometimes or three times,” said Cook of his walks. “… I try to keep myself going.” VV
SALE
Plants, office and craft supplies and misc. items. December 13 and 14, 8 a.m. to noon 1315 Bonaventure Drive, Suntree
When veterinary care is unavailable or unaffordable ask for Happy Jack ToneKote supplement for dogs and cats dull, dry coats. Amber Acres Feed ~ 321-632-3333
VIERA VOICE Chris Bonanno
World War II veteran Charles Cook, a resident of Sonata Viera, remains active, walking one mile a day around the facility.
Buy 1 Get 10% OFF or Buy 2 Get 20% OFF Plus FREE Installation Get 10% off any order of $1,000 or more. 20% off two or more Closets or Garage Centers of $3,000 or more. Not valid with any other offer. Expires Dec. 31, 2024