Space Coast LIVING - October 2020 by Space Coast Magazines

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October 2020

TABLE OF CONTENTS 24 Angelâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Envy Bourbon:

All in the Family & Part Time on the Space Coast

47 Diamonte Luxury Riverfront Condos to Sparkle on the River

53 Almost Everything Bridal 96 From Darkness to Light:

Taking a Second Look at Suspicious Convictions

Charity Spotlight: Sea Turtle Preservation Society

PUBLISHER’S LETTER Like so many other businesses here in Brevard, Space Coast Magazines recently has faced a multitude of challenges, options and decisions to determine how to best proceed into 2021. At the start of the pandemic, our first move was to change format by joining the two separate publications (Space Coast Living and Space Coast Business) into one flip book that we produced every other month. By taking that first step, we were able to streamline production processes, tool with design and develop more in-depth storytelling for our feature articles. Our first issue premiered in June and was well received by our clients and our readers. We think that’s a good thing. So, we’re going to keep doing that into 2021: We’re going to build on what’s been working as we make these two separate publications into one powerhouse community magazine that is dedicated to Business, Lifestyle and all things Space Coast. (To help with these efforts, we have hired two additional team members. Read more about them on p. 108.) Also, on the heels of recent announcements about increasing diversity across major media platforms in the U.S., I’d like to take a moment to acknowledge that my biggest overarching priority at Space Coast Magazines is to ensure our publications are more inclusive and accessible to a diverse audience. Making sure different voices tell the stories of the Space Coast and different faces show up in our magazines is very important to me. If you have ideas, I am open and welcome your input on how to make this happen. Our community well-being is also very important to me. Never before has it seemed more critical to be aware of our neighbors, our brothers and sisters, our children, our business owners. To be courteous and thoughtful. To put the well-being of others ahead of our own needs when it makes sense to do so. Take care of yourselves. Take care of each other.

#WEARYOURMASKS #BEKIND #BETHANKFUL

Shawna

SHAWNA L . LUCAS, PUBLISHER

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OCTOBER 2020

Michael Candelaria Michael Candelaria is a veteran writer and editor of the magazine industry in Central Florida, from city/regional and business magazines to travel/leisure and sports magazines. He formerly served as the editor of Orlando magazine and president of the Florida Magazine Association. He is well-known in the Central Florida community, working with numerous high-profile business and civic organizations. mikecandelaria4@gmail.com

Kelly Camirand Kelly Camirand grew up in the 321 and owns Executive & HealthCare Promotions, Inc., a boutique public relations and market development agency serving the medical, legal, sports, not-for-profit, arts and fashion industries. www.executiveandhealthcarepromotions.com

Brooke Deratany Goldfarb Brooke Deratany Goldfarb is a Harvard Law graduate, mother, wife, mediator, wellness advocate, yoga instructor and instantly-good friend to almost everyone she meets. peacebeachbrooke@yahoo.com

Bobbie Dyer Bobbie Dyer is Division President of Dyer Mortgage Group in Melbourne and had more than 30 years in mortgage banking, over 10,000 loans closed and over $500,000,000 in home mortgages. Dyer has been recognized as a Nationwide Top Producer, along with being voted one of the “70 Elite Women in Mortgage Banking in the U.S. in 2018.” bdyer@dyermtg.com

Harmony Lynn Goodson Harmony Lynn Goodson is an editorial stylist, content creator, and contributor for lifestyle and entertaining publications. Harmony aims to inspire people who entertain to create lavish parties with her DIY tips and tricks which she enjoys sharing on her personal blog and social media accounts. Website: harmonylynn.com. IG & FB: @harmonylynngoodson

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SCL Contributors - October 2020 Darcy Maeda Manning Darcy Maeda Manning is a 20-year public relations executive turned professional makeup artist who moonlights as a freelance writer. Darcy loves helping Brevard’s movers and shakers look and feel their best through the power of makeup, and equally enjoys writing about them. FB: Makeup by Darcy, IG: @makeupbydarcymm

Fred Mays Fred Mays is a freelance writer and photographer who resides in Satellite Beach. He is a retired television journalist, and active on media issues with the Brevard Indian River Lagoon Coalition. His blog is www.floridaunplugged.net.

Amanda Rose Newton Amanda Rose Newton is a Florida-certified horticulture professional, board certified entomologist, beekeeper, and educator. She holds multiple degrees in her field including Horticulture Technology, Biochemistry, and Entomology with a specialization in Integrated Pest Management. She currently is pursuing a Doctorate degree at Florida Institute of Technology. amandarosenewton@gmail.com.

Heather Motro In addition to writing and serving as Assistant Managing Editor for Space Coast Magazines, Heather Motro writes the sustainability blog The Blergh, manages social media for the Marine Resources Council and was co-Editor-in-Chief of Holy Trinity High School’s award-winning yearbook. She is a member of Clemson University Honors College Class of ’24 (go Tigers!). IG & FB: theblerghblog

Lyle Smith Lyle Smith is the principal, founder and chief writer for Nymblesmith, a content marketing agency dedicated to brand and business storytelling, and story-focused content strategy. Nymblesmith has delivered highly profitable content and content strategies for some of the most recognizable business brands in America. www.nymblesmith.com or lyle@nymblesmith.com.

OCTOBER 2020

OCTOBER 2020 SpaceCoastLIVING.com Eric Wright, President EDITORIAL Shawna Lucas, Publisher Heather Motro, Assistant Managing Editor

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A New Standard of Excellence

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Kelly Camirand, Mike Candelaria, Brooke Deratany Goldfarb, Bobbie Dyer, Harmony Lynn Goodson, Darcy Madea Manning, Fred Mays, Maya Mojica, Heather Motro, Amanda Rose Newton, Lyle Smith

ADVERTISING & SALES Sarah de la Hoz, Sales Manager sarahd@spaceocastmagazines.com Natalie Guzman, Account Manager natalie@spacecoastmagazines.com

ADMINISTRATION Helen Reyes, Director of Operations & Human Resources

MARKETING Tasha Macri, Director of Digital Marketing

OWNERS Joseph Duda, Eric Wright For general inquiries call (321) 622-5986 TO SUBSCRIBE: Subscribe online at SpaceCoastLIVING.com or mail $29.95 for a one year subscription to: Space Coast LIVING, 1900 S. Harbor City Blvd., Melbourne, FL 32901. Please include name, mailing address, city, state, zip code, phone number and email. Please allow 4-6 weeks for subscription to start. Space Coast LIVING® 1900 S. Harbor City Blvd., Melbourne, FL 32901 Space Coast LIVING® is a registered trademark of Space Coast Magzines, LLC (“SCM”). The contents of Space Coast LIVING, associated websites, and any other print or electronic publications published by SCM or related to the brand, including advertisements, articles, graphics, websites, web postings, photographs and all other information (“content”), are for informational purposes only, are protected by copyright law and may not be reproduced, distributed, transmitted, displayed, published, broadcast or modified in any way without the prior written consent of SCM, or in the case of third party content, the owner of that content. You may not alter or remove any trademark, copyright or other notice from copies of the content. SCM does not necessarily endorse, verify, or agree with the content, and makes no warranties or representations, express or implied, as to the accuracy, completeness, timeliness, or usefulness of any content. SCM shall not be held liable for any errors or omissions in the content. ©2020 All rights reserved. Any reproduction, in whole or in part, is prohibited without written permission from the publisher.

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OCTOBER 2020

CHANGE OF ADDRESS If you are moving or changing the mailing address for your subscription, send your complete old address (where the magazine is currently being mailed), your complete new address, including zip code, to info@spacecoastmagazines.com BACK ISSUES $10.00 each. To purchase call (321) 622-5986 or email info@spacecoastmagazines.com REPRINTS For reprints and commemorative plaques, please email info@spacecoastmagazines.com. CONTRIBUTE Send press releases, article submissions, announcements and images to editorial@ spacecoastmagazines.com. Please provide 2-3 months advance notice for requests for event announcements and/or coverage. “MAKING THE SCENE” SUBMISSIONS Please submit electronic hi-resolution images and captions along with a brief description of your event (who, what, where and when) to editorial@spacecoastmagazines.com.

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SPACE COAST LIVING® 1900 S. Harbor City Blvd., Melbourne, FL 32901 Tel. (321) 622-5986 SpaceCoastLiving.com Space Coast LIVING® is a registered trademark of Space Coast Magzines, LLC (“SCM”). The contents of Space Coast LIVING, associated websites, and any other print or electronic publications published by SCM or related to the brand, including advertisements, articles, graphics, websites, web postings, photographs and all other information (“content”), are for informational purposes only, are protected by copyright law and may not be reproduced, distributed, transmitted, displayed, published, broadcast or modified in any way without the prior written consent of SCM, or in the case of third party content, the owner of that content. You may not alter or remove any trademark, copyright or other notice from copies of the content. SCM does not necessarily endorse, verify, or agree with the content, and makes no warranties or representations, express or implied, as to the accuracy, completeness, timeliness, or usefulness of any content. SCM shall not be held liable for any errors or omissions in the content. ©2020 All rights reserved. Any reproduction, in whole or in part, is prohibited without written permission from the publisher.

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By Kelly Camirand, Contributing Writer

A Valued Leader in Urgent Care

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n the past decade, urgent care medical services have experienced a consistent uptick in popularity due to the rising costs of healthcare, overpriced emergency room visits and long waits to see a physician. For years, Space Coast residents have sought alternatives to emergency department visits that were not life threatening. In 2007, Dr. David Williams, President and Medical Director, identified this growing need and responded by founding MedFastâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Urgent Care, which has grown to a burgeoning company with multiple locations for patients seeking fast and affordable urgent care services. Williams previously served as Chairman of the Department of Emergency Medicine at Wuesthoff Health Systems, now Steward Health Care. These days, he leads a talented team of board-certified physicians, nurse practitioners and medical technicians seeing patients of every age (from infants to seniors) in 12 locations. The offices are open seven days a week from 8 am to 7 pm and provide medical services for occupational health, workers compensation care, DOT and sport physicals, on-site pharmaceutical operations and a seemingly endless drop list of services that can help patients forgo many hospital emergency department visits.

Team Approach The talented professionals at MedFast are highly trained in the fast-paced, ever changing world of urgent care medicine. Each location is equipped to diagnose and treat an array of non-life-threatening medical conditions and ailments, and on-site diagnostics include the latest in digital x-rays and EKG technologies, as well as addressing the newly defined need to offer COVID 19 testing. Accepting most insurances, the host of services is pretty impressive, and together offer a comparable alternative to a primary care physician or emergency room visit, he said.

â&#x20AC;&#x153;We are able to perform a wide range of minor procedures for a fraction of the costs associated with an ER visit.â&#x20AC;? Dr. David Williams, President and Medical Director, MedFast Urgent Care Centers OCTOBER 2020

The long wait times and costs associated with emergency department visits should be enough to encourage anyone to seek urgent care when appropriate. According to Consumer Reports, the number of urgent care centers increased from 6,400 in 2014 to 8,100 in 2018 and the number continues to climb, making it much easier to find an urgent care center in most markets.

to boast short wait times with a patient seeing a healthcare provider in less than an hour in most cases. “The confidence in ourselves - as an administrative team and the autonomy we enjoy, allow for us to make a lasting impact in the local healthcare industry – and ultimately the overall success of each of our centers,” added Whitlock.

When a Health Practice Becomes a Family

Care for the Provider = Care for the Patient

As the largest urgent care provider on the Space Coast, MedFast oversees the care of over 100,000 patients annually, solidifying their important role in the continuum of local health care.

This sense of family and commitment is felt by the staff and trickles down to the patient, with the center consistently earning high marks in positive customer service experiences.

From the billing director to the marketing director to the clinicians on the front lines, all employees come together to create and define a positive team approach for their patients.

A highly respected physician known for his medical acumen by his peers, Williams is equally acknowledged by his staff for his compassion and patient commitment.

“We are a seamless alternative for a patient in need of urgent care, with the ability to send direct referrals and outpatient diagnostics, to provide our patients appropriate coordination of care,” said Chief Operating Officer, Aimee Whitlock

With an eye for talent, Williams has hired and developed a dynamic all-female administrative team whose enthusiasm for providing the very best to all MedFast Urgent Care center patients is admirable.

So often, when an unexpected earache or ankle sprain happens, a primary care physicians’ office, usually already serving a packed patient schedule, isn’t able to treat an “add-on” appointment, making the urgent care visit an attractive alternative to a long, expensive wait in the local emergency room. Another attractive feature to MedFast Urgent Care is its ability

Marilyn Stevens, one employee in particular, happens to be one of William’s and MedFast’s biggest cheerleaders and has had a considerable influence on the practice since its inception. Williams said he values her commitment to the business and has grown to cherish her presence. He is known to get teary eyed when recounting all the accomplishments of his team over the years.

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The feeling is reciprocated by his staff “When you try to explain the influence Dr. Williams has made in the community and to see what MedFast has grown to become, there are just too many examples to mention,” said Stevens, who serves as billing director at the company. Having been diagnosed with breast cancer years before, Stevens is currently working as she fights a reoccurrence of the disease. While Marilyn isn’t the face of the practice, she surely is the heart, and she’s all heart when describing her boss. “He is such a fantastic person. His compassion is displayed in all aspects of his life, and I am forever grateful to him,” she added. •

MedFast Urgent Care Centers are conveniently located at 12 locations around the Space Coast. Remote visits are available, and many insurance plans will cover the cost. For more information, call 321-MEDFAST(633-3278) or visit online at medfastcare.com

OCTOBER 2020

c i s s a l c

O R T E R F

er n n i D all

By H armo ny L

r ri t e W i ng

ibut ynn Goodson, Contr

oop skirts with stilettos and fitted cardigans, horn rimmed glasses with plaid pants and bow ties: these iconic fashion staples of the 1950s and 1960s were the inspiration for this lineup of recipes for our Classic Retro Fall Dinner. Break out the turquoise or lemongrass Fiesta dinnerware or, perhaps, grandma’s classic bone china, if you have it. Hang an assortment of LED paper globe lights (available on line and at party stores) around the living and dining rooms (or backyard dining area) or fill spaces with varying sizes of candlesticks with white, unscented taper and column candles to further set the mood. Sprinkle in some classic Rat Pack or Bossa Nova tunes, and Daddy O, you’re ready to go!

Check out more of Harmony’s work here: om Website: Harmonylynn.c ngoodson Facebook: Harmonylyn nngoodson I nstagram: @harmonyly

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Hedgehog Cheeseball Approximately 20 appetizer servings INGREDIENTS: 16 oz whipped cream cheese 2 cups grated cheddar cheese 2 Tbsp finely chopped green onion 1 Tspn Worcestershire sauce 1 Tspn hot sauce 1 Tspn dried parsley 1/2 Tspn garlic powder 1/2 Tspn oregano 1/2 cup halved pecans Raisins for decoration DIRECTIONS: In a medium bowl, add all the ingredients and mix with your hands or a spatula to combine. (It’s easy to do this using disposable gloves which you can slightly grease with cooking spray to avoid sticking.) Loosely form a ball with the mixture and place on a serving dish. Using your fingers, shape a triangular face, and smooth out your hedgehog body shape. Starting with just behind the face, arrange the pecans in rows, allowing short equal space between rows to create the quills, and finish with 3 raisins for the eyes and nose. Serve with snappy vegetables, such as carrots, sliced peppers or celery and crackers, pretzels, or pita bread.

OCTOBER 2020

Strawberry Milkshakes 4 servings INGREDIENTS: 16 oz (1 pound) strawberries 2 Tbsp sugar 1/2 Cup whole milk 1 Pint vanilla ice cream Optional: Whipped Cream & Cherries for topping DIRECTIONS: Wash, dry, destem, and chop the strawberries. In a small bowl, combine the strawberries and sugar. Set aside for 30 minutes. In a large blender, combine the sugared strawberries, milk, and ice cream. Blend until smooth. Pour into glasses, top with whipped cream and cherries, if desired. Serve immediately.

Fall Turkey Meatloaf 6 servings INGREDIENTS: 1 Tbsp unsalted butter 1/4 cup yellow onion, chopped 3 garlic cloves, minced 1 Cup bell pepper, chopped 1 lb ground turkey 1/2 cup breadcrumbs 2 Tspn Worcestershire sauce 1/4 cup ketchup 1 egg 2 Tspn salt 2 Tspn pepper 1 package refrigerated pie crust, such as Pillsbury Raisins for decoration DIRECTIONS: Preheat oven to 350° F. Sautee the onions, peppers, and garlic in butter over medium heat until golden brown. Set aside to cool. In a mixing bowl, add the ground turkey, breadcrumbs, Worchester sauce, ketchup, egg, salt, pepper, and sauteed vegetables. Mix to combine with hands (you can use disposable gloves here, too). Grease a small casserole dish or bread pan. Add a layer of pie crust to the bottom and sides. Add the meat filling, top with more pie crust, seal the edges together with your fingers, and poke a few holes in the top with a fork. Top with pie crust cutouts, if desired. Cover with foil and bake for 40 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes or until the crust is golden brown. Cool for about 10 minutes before removing from the dish. Slice and serve. 20

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Gelatin Fruit Cake 10-12 servings INGREDIENTS: 1/4 cup unflavored gelatin (I like Knox) I cup cold water 7 cups cranberry Juice 1/2 cup pitted cherries 1 cup sliced strawberries 1/2 cup whole raspberries Tools: Cooking Spray Gelatin mold or Bundt pan DIRECTIONS: In a small bowl, slowly sprinkle the gelatin over the cold water while whisking to combine and soften, set aside. In a large pot, heat the cranberry juice. Remove from heat. Add the softened gelatin to the hot cranberry juice and stir until all the gelatin dissolves. Spray the bottom and sides of your mold with cooking spray. Arrange the fresh fruit so it covers the bottom of the pan. Pour enough warm cranberry liquid over the fruit to just cover the fruit layer at the bottom. Refrigerate the fruit layer for 2 hours to set. Once set, add the remaining liquid to the bundt and refrigerate overnight. To remove from the mold: Gently heat the bottom and sides of the pan in a large bowl of hot water for 5 seconds. Jiggle the sides, place the serving dish on top and flip over. Give the pan some taps and wait until you hear a plop. Serve immediately.

game day It might not be the Fall lineup we expected, but game day foods can be savored (and cheered for) anytime of the season. Pair these tasty recipes with your favorite apple cider or a dark, nutty seasonal brew, or make an apple cider float by combining equal parts sparkling apple cider with regular apple cider. Top with whipped cream and caramel drizzle, plus a dash of fresh cinnamon. Anchor it with an apple slice and you’ve got Fall Y’all!

Foods By Harmony Lynn Goodson, Contributing Writer

QUESO CON CARNE Ingredients: 2 tbsp olive oil 3 jalapeno peppers 3 serrano peppers 1 small yellow onion, chopped 1 lb lean ground beef 2 lb Velveeta cheese, cubed 1/2 cup whole milk 1 14 oz can diced tomatoes Directions: Remove seeds and finely chop peppers. In a large skillet, heat the oil over mediumhigh heat and sauté the onions and peppers until the onions are translucent. Add the beef and cook until browned. Reduce heat to low and add the cheese. Cook cheese, stirring constantly until melted. Add milk while continuously stirring. Drain tomatoes and stir into queso to combine. Serve hot. OCTOBER 2020

BLOOMIN’ ONIONS WITH HAIL MARY PASSING SAUCE Makes 4 Bloomin’ Onions, about enough for 6-8 people Ingredients: 4 medium sweet onions 2 eggs 2 cup milk 1 cup all-purpose flour 3 tspn salt 3 tspn cayenne pepper 1 tspn black pepper 1 tspn garlic powder 1/2 tspn thyme 1/2 tspn oregano 1/4 tspn cumin corn oil for frying Dipping Sauce Ingredients: 1/2 cup mayonnaise 2 tbsp horseradish 1 tbsp ketchup 1/4 tspn paprika 1/4 tspn salt 1/8 tspn cayenne pepper 1/8 tspn black pepper Directions: In a medium bowl, beat eggs and add milk. In a separate bowl, combine flour, salt, cayenne pepper, paprika, black pepper, oregano, thyme, and cumin. Prepare the onions: Slice off the top and bottom of each onion and remove the skin. Use a sharp knife to core out the middle of the onions and slice the petals. Do not cut down to the bottom of the onion as it will fall apart. Use your fingers to gently spread each of the petals apart. SPINACH & ARTICHOKE DIP-DIP HOORAY Makes about 10-12 servings Ingredients: 1 8 oz package cream cheese, softened 1/4 cup mayonnaise 1/2 cup each grated Parmesan & Romano cheese 1 tbsp minced garlic 1/2 tspn dried basil 1/4 tspn garlic powder 1 14 oz can artichoke hearts in water 1/2 cup frozen spinach, thawed 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese salt & pepper to taste Directions: Preheat oven to 350F. In a medium bowl, mix together the cream cheese, mayonnaise, cheese, garlic, basil, and garlic powder. Drain artichokes. Gently stir in artichoke hearts and spinach. Transfer mixture to a small casserole dish, top with mozzarella cheese and bake uncovered for 25 minutes or until the top is lightly browned. Serve hotwith an assortment of crackers and flat breads.

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Bread the onions: Dip the onion face down into the milk mixture, turn over and dip again. Repeat with the flour mixture and use a spoon to get more flour in between the petals. Repeat this process twice for each onion. Freeze the onions on a baking sheet for 1 hour. Make the sauce: While the onions are freezing, combine the dipping sauce ingredients in a medium bowl. Cover and refrigerate the dip until ready to serve. To cook: Heat oil to 350F in a pot large enough to hold and completely cover at least one onion. Fry one onion right side up in the oil for 5 minutes or until it turns medium brown. When the onion has browned, remove it from the oil and let it drain on a paper towel-lined plate. Repeat for remaining onions. Let cool a bit, bur serve warm with dipping sauce.

JOCKS IN A JERSEY Makes 24 servings Ingredients: 1 8 oz package Pillsbury Crescents 24 mini smoked sausages Instructions: Preheat the oven to 350F. Using a sharp knife, cut jersey and football shapes out of refrigerated dough and wrap around mini sausages. Arrange on a baking sheet with at least 2 inches between each sausage. Bake for 10 minutes or until golden brown. Let cool completely before decorating with mustard and/or ketchup.

HOLY GUACAMOLE Ingredients: 3 avocados, pitted and peeled 1 lime, juiced 1 tspn salt 1/2 cup yellow onion, diced 3 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro 1 large tomato, diced 1 tbsp minced garlic 1/8 tspn cayenne pepper Directions: In a medium bowl, add all ingredients. Mash and stir ingredients together until well combined. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. Serve with an assortment of crispy veggies, such as carrots or celery, or add some color with blue and red corn chips.

OCTOBER 2020

Family Matters: How the Worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Best Bourbon Stays in the Family

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AHA

Moment

“To tell you the truth, I don’t know why I didn’t think of it sooner,” said Wes about working with his father. “I suppose I had to go find my own way first, before figuring out that what I really wanted to do was work with my dad.” It was a lightning bolt moment. “For me, at that stage in my life and career, it was insane to make that leap. But, to make it with my father, with the wealth of experience he had, also made a certain kind of sense,” he said. The move paid off. Bigly.

Bourbon Disturbance n 2009, some four decades after the devil went down to Georgia, spirits of a different sort in Louisville, KY, started to experience a renaissance of sorts. It started with the simplest of ideas: a son wanted to work with his father. The son, Wes Anderson, had worked in the corporate world - for others - building a reputation as an astute businessman, fair employer and community patron. Wes had spent years in the spirits industry, serving various roles including as a consultant in the distilled

spirits industry and as president and CEO of Conecuh Ridge Distillery, the producer of Clyde Mays Whiskey. The father, Lincoln Anderson, was retired from a very successful and storied career spent crafting renowned bourbons, including Woodford Reserve and Gentleman Jack. Lincoln was revered, respected and, lucky for Wes, not yet ready to stop working, even after 40 years of experience, numerous accolades and awards and a “Lifetime Achievement Award” from the Malt Advocate.

Angel’s Envy officially launched in 2010, to the great delight of bourbon drinkers and industry insiders, who were spun around by subtle undernotes of the smooth, slightly sweet, amber liquor… a taste they had never quite experienced before. Wes and Lincoln (consulting his legendary black book of notes from decades of experimentation with process, fermentation, finishing and more) had gambled on a twist: to finish the bourbon in a way that was, traditionally, reserved for scotch whiskey. Angel’s Envy Kentucky Straight Bourbon is a small batch bourbon (812 barrels produced at a time) that is aged over six years. After the correct balance of flavors and maturation is achieved, the bourbon is transferred to its final resting place, ruby port wine casks, for six months. The 60-gallon ruby port barrels, which impart a subtle, slightly sweet flavor, are made from French oak and imported directly from Portugal. “We had immediate notoriety due to dad coming out of retirement,” said Wes.

Story by Shawna L. Lucas, Publisher

Photography by Jason Hook Photography

Images shot with permission in the Cellar at The Mansion in downtown Melbourne OCTOBER 2020

Accolades & Awards The initial response to the release was quite positive, the awards not far behind. Spirit Journal ranked Angel’s Envy Cask Strength as the “Best Spirit in the World” in 2013. Wine Enthusiast Magazine, which rates wines, spirits and liquors, awarded 98 points for its first bottling. Drink Spirits had this to say: If you’re looking for an amazing bourbon with complexity, balance, and flavor, Angel’s Envy is it. Highest Recommendation” Lincoln was instrumental in establishing the high production standards and flavor profiles that are manifest now in the legendary brand. The father-andson team were able to work together four years before Lincoln’s passing in 2013, and in a sweet nod to the original idea that sparked the brand, Lincoln also was able to work with his grandson, Kyle Anderson, who now serves as production manager at the company.

Local Connection Wes attended and graduated from Florida Institute of Technology with a degree in aeronautics. After moving around the country for various jobs and opportunities, he resettled here in 1997 with his family after accepting a position running a large division of a multinational company. His sons attended schools here, including Holy Name of Jesus Catholic School, West Shore and Melbourne Central Catholic High School.

Named for the

“angel’s share,” the portion that evaporates from the barrel during the aging process, this golden amber spirit is finished in Port barrels, which explains those juicy red-fruit notes that slide into the long finish. Look for orange peel, vanilla and roasted nut flavors, too. before they headed north, to the green and blue grasses of Kentucky, to create something that never had been done before. They moved back to Kentucky in 2009 to start the venture and raise their sons. Four of them now work directly at the distillery: Andrew as lead distiller, Kyle as production manager, and Connor and Spencer in maturation. They all are considered leaders in their field and have had the inclusive experience of learning at the feet of their father and grandfather, whose legacy lives on with each turn of the bottle. Additionally, Connor, Spencer, Andrew and Wes are all certified volunteer firefighters in Lexington, one way they work as a family to support their community.

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Award Winning Bourbon, Forward Thinking Innovation Angel’s Envy continues to experiment with flavors in a decidedly outside-the-bottle sort of way. Angel’s Envy Rye is finished in rum barrels, and sips both sweet and dry, with a rich, reddish amber color. Angel’s Envy Cask Strength is a herculean spirit at 122.4 proof, with a medium-length finish and a deeper, darker amber appearance. In mid-August, the company released Angel’s Envy Kentucky Straight Bourbon, finished in Japanese Mizunara Oak Casks in very limited quantities to celebrate the brands 10th anniversary. Angel’s Envy is available at fine liquor stores and at the CELLARS AT THE MANSION, 1218 E. New Haven Ave., where these images were shot. For more information about Angel’s Envy, visit online at angelsenvy.com. •

In 2004, after a very active hurricane season which brought three devastating storms to the shores of Central Florida, Wes said he started thinking about a change. It would be five years

Wine Enthusiast Magazine, 98 Points “A beautiful, mouthwatering newcomer to the whiskey scene.”

In 2015, Wes and his wife decided to give the Space Coast another try, if only part time. Now, seasonal homeowners who divide time between a beautiful riverfront “getaway” home on the Indian River in Indialantic and the “work home” he shares with his wife and family in Louisville, Wes is a self-described “reverse snowbird” who loves the Space Coast and has used his position to help support local nonprofit organizations including Women’s Center and Club Esteem.

BOURBON AND HALLOWEEN CANDY? Yes, please! For a few delicious options, hover your phone camera over this QR code:

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Safety in Self-Expression for All People by Heather Motro, Assistant Editor

n a world turned upside down, people searching for ways to control the unexpected have turned to self-care as a necessity in shaping individual narratives. Along with the self-tanning, teeth whitening and makeup application tutorials that are accessed through various social media platforms these days, hair care stands out as a prominent as scissored bangs. At the Glamour Lounge in West Melbourne, Glam Squad leaders Julianna Stafford and Taffy Schneider are helping bring back a sense of normalcy to those seeking expression and beauty through hair care, coloring, highlights, low lights and more. “We believe that members of the Melbourne community deserve a safe place to express themselves 28

and experiment with self-expression.” Before Glamour Lounge, Julianna practiced cosmetology in Missouri and also cared for the hair good friend Taffy Schneider and her mother, Carol Schneider. Stafford moved to Florida in 2015, remaining close friends with the mother/ daughter duo. When Taffy decided to move to Florida

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to study cosmetology a while later, she found a mentor in Julianna. The three came back full circle when Carol Schneider, owner of Glamour Lounge, knew a salon would be the perfect creative outlet for the two besties. In 2019, the three ladies opened Glamour Lounge, adding other longtime friends as well as

Stafford’s children - both pursuing beauty careers - to the staff. They call themselves the “Glam Squad,” and they work and live by their “Squad Goals” of kindness, diversity, teamwork, open-mindedness, fun, passion, creativity and respect. Creativity and fun spark when they create custom-tailored cuts, colors, makeup looks and extensions; kindness and passion show in their care for their clients’ hair and teamwork forms the family environment of Glamour Lounge. As for diversity, open-mindedness and respect, Glamour Lounge is actively anti-racist and recently partnered with The Dresscode Project, a program that educates salons on serving LGBTQ2S+ clientele.

Since joining with Dresscode in July, the Glam Squad has gained a better understanding of diversity and inclusivity practices. Now, they are expanding their staff and working to develop an environment inclusive towards people of all genders, races and identities. “We want everyone to feel glamorous and confident,” Julianna said, “And that means creating a gender-inclusive space where every client feels comfortable to be and express their self.” From most of March through May, the Lounge closed to slow the spread of COVID-19, but the glamour never stopped. Glamour Lounge offered online product ordering and curbside pickup. Determined to help each client meet their style goals from a distance, Glamour Lounge also launched curbside color kits tailored to each client’s specific needs. Social media posts continued the glam theme with topics such as a “Social Distancing Hair Care Survival Guide” for all hair types.

In May, the salon reopened for appointments, taking extensive measures to ensure safety for both expression and health. A full list of these measures is available on their website and social media. Meanwhile, curbside pickup remains an option for clients who want to maintain more distance. Glamour Lounge extends the safety sentiment out to the planet, as well, hoping to help undo some of the damage done in the name of industry. “For years, this industry has [not been kind] to the environment,” Taffy admitted. “We’re looking to change the way our practice treats our planet. We believe that what you put in your hair matters – for your body and for your environment.” They start with responsible merchandise, including Kevin Murphy products that are ethically sourced, vegan-friendly and packaged in biodegradable wrap. “Absolutely no testing on animals,” she added. Also, as a Green Circle-certified salon, most of their waste is forwarded to a Green Circle facility where 95% of it is recycled. Glamour Lounge knows hair is more than just a fashion statement. It’s an expression of the individual, so it’s essential that every person feels safe in their hair salon. “We get to know every client so we can provide the best cut to reach their style goals,” Julianna said. “They’ve trusted us with their self-expression, and we take that very seriously.” •

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Pigmy

PALM Readings

Foxtail

HOW TO SELECT THE RIGHT TREE FOR YOUR YARD

By Amanda Rose Newton, Contributing Writer

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Coconut

othing symbolizes the exclusive beach resort experience quite like a stately palm tree. Lucky for us, there are many varieties to choose from that grow well in our tropical climates and salt-hearty soils. For those unfamiliar with palms, our state tree, the Sabal Palmetto (or Cabbage Palm), is the only palm that is native to Brevard. This means that any other palm you choose to plant will require special care in order to ensure it thrives.

Bottle

Selecting the right palm for your landscape, following good planting practices and establishing a maintenance routine will reward you with the relaxing tropical beauty, softly swaying leaves and, perhaps, a coconut or two. The following is a short list of palms you are likely to run across at retail nursery locations, with information on helping you select the palm best suited for your needs.

OCTOBER 2020

FOXTAIL PALM

COCONUT PALM

SILVER BISMARK

The Foxtail Palm, from down-under Australia, is a popular choice due to its love of humidity, full sun and ease of care. These palms are “self-cleaning,” meaning they shed their own fronds, saving you from the chore of cutting and pruning.

Nothing conveys the tropics quite like the stately coconut palm. Originally from the South Pacific, this tree fares best among the barrier islands and Merritt Island on the Space Coast. Those in zone 10 who can successfully grow the palm will be rewarded with their own coconuts, nature’s perfect container for backyard cocktails!

Without a doubt, the majestic silver Bismarck is the ultimate statement palm. With its silvery-blue foliage and massive size, this Madagascar native adds sophisticated tropical flair to your landscape. This palm is a slow grower, but eventually can get to heights nearing 60’, so make sure you have the space for it.

BOTTLE PALM

EUROPEAN FAN PALM

FISHTAIL PALM

This palm gets its trademark name from the bottle-shaped trunk it possesses. Certainly a standout, it grows to about 8’ max, positioning it as a great accent for the garden. Cold-hardy and shade-tolerant, this is a great choice for yards across the county.

A clumping palm, this tree also doubles as a screen to block out the neighbors, an air conditioning unit or any other undesirable landscape feature. Maxing out at 15’, its fuller than typical foliage offers a lush tropical look ideal for smaller properties.

Like the fan palm, the Fishtail has dense foliage that helps create a fuller look when it is young. Growing to approximately 25’, the jagged foliage adds texture and dimension to a yard not usually provided by other palms. To add to its appeal, it does well in both sun and partial shade, and is cold hardy.

(Wodyetia bifurcata)

(Hyophorbe lagenicaulis)

(Cocos nucifera Linn)

(Bismarckia nobilis)

(Caryota mitis)

ADONIDIA PALM (Veitchia merrilli)

(Syagrus romanzoffiana)

QUEEN PALM

PYGMY DATE PALM

Smaller than many palms, with the max height being 25’, this is another self-cleaner popular with the low maintenance crowd. Nicknamed Christmas Palm due to the red berries that arrive near the holiday season, these are commonly sold as doubles (even triples), which is more bang for the buck—multiple trees for the cost of one!

If you want the full-swaying-in-thebreeze-tropical-island-looker, a Queen Palm will do quite well. Tall and majestic, they most certainly earn their royal title. This palm does require more maintenance as it is not self-cleaning and tends to be quite susceptible to the cold, nutrient deficiencies and disease.

The Pygmy Date Palm, or Robelenii, might not produce edible dates when grown in Florida, but is a phenomenal choice for areas in need of a small, cold-hardy, disease-resistant specimen. Like the Adonidia palm, it can be grown as a single, double, or even triple, adding visual interest and a splash of tropical flair. This is an especially popular choice to plant poolside, as they tend to not be terribly messy.

(Phoenix roebelenii)

Steps to Planting Success

Raising Healthy Palms

Be sure to follow these eight steps to get your palm off to a great start!

After planting, palms require regular maintenance throughout their lives. Palms are heavy feeders, so you want to be sure to feed them at least once every 3 months with a quality palm fertilizer. Palms tend to be deficient in magnesium and manganese, which causes yellowing and curling of the ends of the fronds. This curling is known as “frizzle top” in the horticulture world and can generally be corrected with the right nutrients.

1 2 3 4

Remove all grass 3 feet from where you plan to plant your palm Loosen the soil by digging 2 feet from intended planting area Dig a hole slightly wider than the palm, so that it can sit comfortably in the space Place the palm in the soil taking care that the root ball level is level with the ground

5 6 7 8

Backfill with a mix of your own dirt and an enriched soil (halfway) and water Backfill the rest of the hole with remaining soil and water again Use three inches of mulch, if desired, around the planting site, making sure to avoid putting it too close to the tree Water! Create a watering schedule to ensure your new palm is being properly hydrated. Water daily for the first 2 weeks, taper off to every other day for the next 2 weeks, and so on until you rest at 2 times a week (when it hasn’t rained).

Though we are known for our mild winters here, your palms are used to neotropical climates, and may require covering on nights when temperatures dip below 40 degrees. Choosing the right palm for your space will result in the creation of your own beautiful, lush Eden, a worthy backdrop for summer gettogethers for years to come. • OCTOBER 2020

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Ellingson

{ AND }

THE AMAZON EFFECT Unveiling A New Digital Platform

Henry Ford was a leader of American innovation, in both product and production, every bit as much as Elon Musk or Jeff Bezos have been of late. But unlike the two modern day innovators, Ford was slow to adapt, as evidenced by his fossilizing comment “People can have a Ford in any color they want, so long as it is black.” That failure to continue to grow and nurture an innovative and market-sensitive culture almost caused Ford to go the way of the dinosaurs.

ong before the pandemic, consumers worldwide have been impacted by what has been termed the “Amazon Effect,” which is the influence online, e-commerce or the digital marketplace has had on traditional business, shopping patterns and customer expectations. The sheltering and shutdowns of 2020 have only accelerated this trend. And, the businesses that were savvy enough to invest time and resources to catch and take advantage of this tsunami are now reaping the benefits.

Realizing the need to adapt and respond to consumer trends, in 2019, Greg Ellingson, founder of Ellingson Properties in Rockledge, invested over $50,000 along with thousands of programming and testing hours to complete a reinvention of the company’s website, www.gregellingson.com. Originally launched in 2009, the company’s website - at the time - was considered stateof-the-art. Much has changed in the decade since, and trying to continually update an aging platform was not what Ellingson saw as being market responsive, nor would live up to his company mantra of “Exceptional Service, Exceptional Results.”

By Eric Wright, President

OCTOBER 2020

PREFERRED VENDOR LIST: Whether you need screens on your porch repaired or an air conditioner replaced, new residents often do not know where to turn to get recommendations for these essential services. After getting thousands of requests for referrals over the years, Ellingson Properties included a wellvetted Preferred Vendor List on their new website. With nearly 70 different categories from Appliances and Cabinetry to Docks and Pools, this list is an invaluable resource, even for people who have lived here for years.

NEIGHBORHOOD GUIDE: Clients moving to Brevard can be overwhelmed by trying to decide where to live. What's in my price range? How close to work do I want to live? Being able to narrow down your home search based on location can be very helpful. To that end, Ellingson Properties' new website has created a guide to help clients do research on Brevard neighborhoods from the comfort of their own home....Map of the county displays specific regions or cities. Clients can compare and contrast potential locations to live. For example, what is the difference between Suntree and Viera? Click on the Viera tab and users are presented with information describing the area, including amenities, history, types of housing and images. If Viera is a region of interest, the client can scroll down on the page and look at popular neighborhoods or subdivisions. Drilling down there is more information, pictures and statistics specific to that neighborhood as well as links to all available homes for sale. The same information can be found by bypassing the map and going to Community Search under the PROPERTIES tab, then selecting the region of interest.

Classic Design, Cutting Edge “I liked our old website, it was like a beautiful home,” Ellingson said. “But we needed to take that estate home, built say in the 1970’s, and turn it into a state of the art, ‘smart home.’ We found that the best way to accomplish that goal was to start from scratch and build a completely new website.” Also, rather than build their website on preexisting templates, Ellingson decided to start anew and build a new website from the ground up. There were a number of challenges to consider: the site needed to be as user friendly as possible - regardless of the platform and device being used, speed and security issues needed to be maximized so clients would not waste time dealing with frustrating delays, hackers or viruses. To address this last point, Ellingson opted for a dedicated server to house the site, which increases speed and efficiency while reducing the potential virus spread, and built the entire platform using proprietary code, making it extremely difficult to hack. The upgrades and adaptation came at a heavy investment cost, but there’s no denying the results when you visit the site, which is robust, responsive and beautifully designed.

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Key Features As the market and Ellingson Properties has evolved, the new site is an unmatched tool for buyers and sellers. Another growing group of clients Ellingson is working with includes people looking for assistance with property management. Mary McCarthy, who leads the Business Analysis efforts at Ellingson Properties, employed her background as an engineer to guide the web site project and was particularly excited about the property management features. According to McCarthy, a growing number of home buyers are not selling their old properties but are maintaining them as rentals to provide an income stream and anchor investment opportunities. Rather than deal with particulars themselves, many are searching for assistance to manage these properties. That’s where Ellingson steps up. “We currently manage over 150 properties, so we studied some of the most interactive, user-friendly property management sites in the country,” she said. “We selected an online platform that makes things such as making payments and scheduling repairs and maintenance with vendors efficient and painless, for tenants, owners and managers. Everything is handled [virtually], from scheduling to billing, with a kind of built in ‘Angie’s List’ to ensure we execute to our owner’s requirements. Also, all the consuming monthly and annually reporting is as easy as a simple push of a button.” The primary purpose of the new website is to empower buyers and sellers with the knowledge they need to make real estate transactions as fulfilling and stress free as possible. To do this Ellingson weighed several elements that clients are looking for. MARKET TRENDS: Real Estate is very fluid, so it is important for consumers to have a pulse on the market. For instance, interest rates continue to be at historic lows, promising affordability and more home for your money than in previous times.

LOCATION, LOCATION: Even for people who are moving within the county, there is a diverse offering within the Space Coast market that is hard to find anywhere in the country. Whatever a buyer is looking for, from proximity to natural amenities like the Indian River or the Atlantic Ocean, to schools, neighborhoods, or places of employment, are all factors that play into home purchasing. Ellingson’s site provides easy tools to understand all the options and what works for the unique aspirations each consumer has. FINDING THE MATCH: Home styles vary widely across America and since people come here from around the country, and even around the world, they often are looking for certain design concepts while also shopping for particular price points. Ellingson Properties’ new site helps with this process and does more: their in-house design center helps buyers not only see the house that is, but also what it could be–from a home makeover perspective . Often a dowdy, dated home can be transformed into the showplace of their dreams, with the right creative guidance, which Ellingson Properties provides. ADA: One other aspect of the site that Ellingson is especially proud of is its compliance with ADA guidelines, which works to meet the needs and expectations of persons with disabilities. Whether a consumer has specialized audio or visual needs, or are searching for homes with ADA accessibility, Ellingson has taken steps to meet these needs.

BREVARD COUNTY LINKS: The value and the enjoyment you have in the home you buy goes well beyond your property line, to the neighborhood and community you become part of. Ellingson’s website includes a “Brevard County Links” tab which is particularly helpful for first-time home buyers and those new to the area. Just a sample of the information found here includes links to government and county offices, schools, public parks and recreational facilities, homestead, appraisal and tax information, utilities, code enforcement, law enforcement and more. Other information includes volunteer and cultural opportunities, hurricane preparation checklists, dining and shopping destinations, healthcare options and more. This essential tool provides quick and up to date access to all county offices, their location, and services they provide.

“We set our sights on being a full-service real estate firm for people new to the area or for those who are making home or lifestyle changes, but want to keep living on the Space Coast,” Ellingson said. “Our investment in this digital platform, coupled with the personal and professional services our people bring to every client, whether buying or selling, we think will create a unique and positive experience.” •

OCTOBER 2020

THE CUSTOM DIFFERENCE: Cabinet Designs of Central Florida itchens represent much more than a place where food is prepared. The communal hub of the home is also the spot where friends and family gather, where relationships, and birthdays, and anniversaries often are celebrated. Memories are made in the kitchen. Few things make these spaces–and more intimate places like bathrooms and walk in closets–more aesthetically-inviting and functionally-pleasing than the selection of furnishings such as custom cabinets that reflect the taste and style of the home, help provide storage solutions 40

By Eric Wright, President

and become the framework for other elements that make these rooms special.

Straight to the Source: Quality Craftsmanship Since 1984, Cabinet Designs of Central Florida has provided unparalleled local craftsmanship, design and product offerings for residential homes on the Space Coast. “Once people see the difference in the quality of our products, the selection we offer and the workmanship we deliver, the value is clear. Since we build all of our cabinetry made-to-order clients can choose the styles, finish-

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es, and woods they want and get the cabinets they dream of without having to go through dealers that basically represent large factory operations,” Scott Riley, general manager, said. “Many of our customers report back to us that our pricing for custom cabinets was similar to ‘semi-custom’ cabinets from a ‘big box’ store or a kitchen showroom,” said Leslie Riley, Scott’s wife and business partner. There is an assumption many people make that custom cabinets are simply too expensive for their budgets. However, the Riley’s have been able to combine high volume production, advanced software design tools, and state of the art manufacturing processes, with a factory-direct distribution model that eliminates all middlemen.

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A Family Tradition of Craftsmanship Scott and Leslie met in the seventh grade and have been together ever since, he said. Their partnership further developed into a burgeoning business where Scott serves as the company’s general manager and Leslie its principal designer. For Leslie, the cabinet business is in her genes. Her parents Dan and Sherry Scott opened the business over 35 years ago, founded on old world ideals of craftsmanship, meticulous attention to detail, and unwavering honesty. The combination of straight talk and traditional craftsmanship is something Dan built into the business that he and Sherry continue today. This is a tradition that Scott and Leslie are determined to maintain. “We are unique, in that we can design, build, and install anything you want and out of any material. If you want custom bunkbeds for the kid’s room, a summer kitchen by the pool, a gun room behind hidden doors, or a wine bar, we can design, build and install it,” Scott said. “We work with each client to maximize storage and ensure functionality based on how they use the space. Our design work includes working to scale CAD drawings and 3D renderings of the future finished product which we build right here [in Brevard]. In addition, all of our plywood and hardwoods comes from mills in the U.S., so the quality is second to none.” “The surprising thing to most clients is our understanding of space planning and interior design. Our ability to design, style, and execute complex projects really sets us apart. And we have fun doing it! Good design is all about making people happy,” Leslie concluded. •

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PRC: CREATING AN IMMERSIVE CLIENT EXPERIENCE By Eric Wright, President

Selection, Fabrication & Installation

any people speak of their job as a vocation. That word is derived from the Latin word for voice or calling. For Brian Haire of Property, Renovations and Construction, LLC, (PRC), it means much more than a job. That sense of calling and purpose has guided not only the meteoric growth of his businesses, but also the relationship he has with customers, employees and the community at large. Now that sense of mission is evidenced in one of the most innovative and unique home exterior design and treatment centers in the state which Haire created in an expansive renewal project on south US1 in Melbourne. In the near future that calling will take him further, with plans to expand this showroom concept to four other Florida locations. 42

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“I remember going to a job site and trying to show [clients] what a roof would look like by laying roofing samples on the ground or looking at 1”x1” samples in a product brochure,” he recalled. “What I wanted was to create a place where builders, architects and designers could bring clients, or where homeowners could come themselves to see what roof, window, door, railing or gate options would actually look like, full scale.” That dream has become a dramatic reality at the Welcome Home Design Center PRC developed.

They say a picture is worth 1,000 words, but no one picture or product sample can effectively communicate the dramatic look, the varied textures and rich colors of modern roof materials. That’s will all change when PRC opens its 15,000 square foot showroom in December, offering clients and builders a creative palette of full-scale roofing materials and a wide array of window and door options.

Preserving and Re-Imagining The portfolio of companies in the PRC family make a fascinating is a fascinating story of entrepreneurial initiative and a desire to preserve certain heritage companies in Brevard. Haire came to the Space Coast after recommending that the company he worked for in North Carolina, Baker Roofing Co., the third largest roofing firm in the world, serve the 1000’s of residents in Florida devastated by the hurricanes in 2004, the year that five hurricanes made landfall in Florida in just six short weeks. In a seemly fated alignment. Haire’s father knew and introduced him to Doug Wilson, a legendary contractor, even the Pro Health and Fitness Aquatic Center in Viera bears his name. Soon an email went

out to over 5,000 employees of just one major employer, recommending Haire’s company. It was the beginning of a frenetic period of growth, which eventually led to the start of PRC in 2011. “In our first one-room office, we had a white board where we tracked our jobs. One of my employee’s said, ‘Every time you put up a new white board, you fill it up with work.’ It was true; I now have a white board wall that is 60 feet long in our office, completely full,” Haire said. It was also a time when roofing products and options rapidly evolved in style, materials and wear, a trend which later served as part of the inspiration for the design center. Soon after, PRC has won the roof and window installation contract for nine Lowe’s outlets in the county, along with other major distributors. Simultaneously, Haire said he was approached about acquiring one of the oldest window companies in Brevard, Ability Windows & Doors, which was launched in 1975. Haire felt intrigued by the opportunity. He saw it as a chance to preserve a part of the area’s building and construction heritage more than an acquisition of assets or a book of business. Thus, Ability was added to the PRC brand and meshed well with their offerings.

PROPERTY RENOVATIONS AND CONSTRUCTION is located at 2500 S. Harbor City Blvd., Melbourne. For more information, call 321-638-5933 or online at prcfla.com

Growth & Diversification “Most of the contractors I work with are [based on] long standing relationships. One builder would recommend me to another, and the personal and professional respect have kept us together for years,” Haire said. Haire also started a non-profit to help other organizations grow and families make it through difficult times. “That really galvanized our team,” he said, “because they know we aren’t just about business or profits, we want to make a difference in our community by making a difference is the lives of individuals.” As his business grew, so did the need for more space. “There are some 33 different roofing systems that most people don’t have a clue exist; they [usually just think] tile, shingle or metal. I wanted to showcase those products, just like businesses that showcase interior cabinets, flooring and countertops.” The need to build a showroom spacious enough to show the myriad furnishings and finishing products and accommodate his growth at one location led him to the property on US1 that had previously been occupied by the Florida Beer Company and, for a season, Appliance Direct. After acquiring the property, Haire said he began looking at adjacent sites. Nearby, Smitty’s Welding & Metal Fabrication had been at their location since 1956. Mr. Bauer, who owned the business for 40 years, was ready to retire and wanted to sell the company, not just the property. Like Ability, Haire did not need the company, but wanted to keep the legacy alive and the expertise they had in custom metal railing and gates, along with sheet metal fabrication. It was a good fit for PRC. Now their master welders and metal fabricators, who share nearly 60 years of experience, are helping train another generation of craftsmen. “We are now a family of companies. We install the roofs, we make and install the fascia, we install the windows and doors, all with the same care and workmanship. With the metal company, we can make and install unique decorative metal work, which we manufacture,” he said. For Haire, the continuity of work, variety of services and standard of excellence define PRC and champion their message of integrity, honestly and quality, with a VIP customer experience. “What we have found is that the more we can guide the process, from selection to fabrication to installation, the better the client outcome will be,” Haire concluded. • OCTOBER 2020

COMPANY PROFILE:

hough the world is learning to adapt to the “New Normal,” the innovation that defines the American Dream is alive and thriving on the Space Coast. The local owner of HydroShield Space Coast, Frank Freda, is combining the latest in science with the lessons he learned through the experience of generations, growing up and working in the construction industry. The result: a unique and innovative solution for area homeowners. Two important elements— science and innovation— are drastically improving our way of life. HydroShield brings new advances to the building industry and is helping to usher in the home of the future, with a focus on health and the environment.

HydroShield™ Space Coast owner Frank Freda offers innovative science and superior service for surface protection solutions for homeowners.

MORE INFO 44

HydroShieldSpaceCoast.com frank@hydroshieldspacecoast.com (321) 301-6007

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“Our customers love the solutions that we provide. Our unique coatings transform existing surfaces in homes. We are creating homes that are easier-to-clean, anti-bacterial and guaranteed to stay looking new. Ultimately, our customers choose HydroShield because of the peace of mind our protection provides,” Freda said. Freda is a former general contractor who relocated here with his family from New Jersey in July, 2019. His previous 28-year construction background

and more than four years’ experience with his HydroShield business in the northeast taught him the value of honesty, integrity and passion in business. If you have the opportunity to sit down with Frank, you will be blown away by the ingenious solutions his company provides. But equally, you will be impressed with the values and core principles that guide him as a business owner. Frank is the first to tell you, “I operate my business under the platinum rule; simply put, ‘Treat your customers the way you would want to be treated.’ These are lessons I learned from my father in our family construction business years ago. It is this same legacy I plan to pass on to my kids and to demonstrate to our clients.” At the International Builders Show in 2019, HydroShield was a finalist for Green Building Product of the Year. HydroShield Space Coast works directly with builders to incorporate their protection into the building process. If your home is already completed, HydroShield can come in, complete a thorough cleaning, and protect your surfaces. It protects high-use, vulnerable surfaces throughout your home. From windows, shower surrounds, shower glass, grout, countertops and flooring, HydroShield has you covered. •

HOW HYDROSHIELDâ&#x201E;¢ WORKS SURFACE PROTECTION UNTREATED SURFACE

eliminating microscopic peaks and valleys.

A porous surface with microscopic peaks and valleys.

COVALENT BOND SURFACE EROSION Protecting your investment! In many ways HydroShield is like the case and tempered glass screen cover you buy to protect your $1000 smartphone. That is an investment we would not think twice about. It only makes sense to protect a much larger investment, like the ones we make in our homes.

Microscopic pores create a surface that is subject to staining, damage and bacteria.

Bonding at the surface-to-air interface, creating an ultra-smooth, stain resistant coating that is easy-to-clean.

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BREVARD PROPERTY MANAGEMENT & REALTY GROUP

Billie E. Simmons & Maureen Roche, Brokers/Co-Owners Brevard Property Management & Realty Group is a full-service real estate brokerage firm that specializes in sales, rentals and property management. Billie E. Simmons and Maureen Roche, the firm’s brokers and partners, represent a total of more than a quarter-century experience in real estate and property management. The firm provides tenant screening, computerized accounting, multiple listing service, attorney-approved leases, new listing notifications and free home evaluations. Brevard Property Management & Realty Group services areas from Titusville to Sebastian. The two partners are members of many industry organizations, including the Florida Association of Realtors and the Melbourne Association of Realtors, as well as serve as members on the Board of Realtors Professional Standards Committee. BREVARD PROPERTY MANAGEMENT & REALTY GROUP is known for following through each real estate transaction from start to finish with integrity and personal service.

(321) 508-3801 (cell) (321) 752-0460 (office) BPMRealtyGroup.com 901 Jordan Blass Drive, Suite 101 Melbourne, Florida 32940

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Diamonte:

Sparkling Homes in the Sky By Eric Wright, President

dentifying and building on a popular trend in upscale beach and big city developments, Jason Hart followed a hunch that is promising profitable returns. The trend is undeniable: usually, almost always, the first unit to sell in a new condominium development is the penthouse suite (some developments even have multiple such suites).

Hart took the concept a step further. OCTOBER 2020

Icaria Main Area: Stunning views of the Indian River in every unit.

â&#x20AC;&#x153;What if we built an entire condominium where every unit was a penthouse? Where we limited the development to ten extraordinary units, each having its own private two car garage, a ground floor air-conditioned storage unit, a propane generator connected to natural gas lines and boat slip, and also unrivaled views of the Indian River? And then another: What if all the owners shared similar lifestyles, thus reducing the friction common in tenant owned projects?â&#x20AC;?

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It would be like a rarity on the Space Coast. A multi-faceted, sparkling diamond solitaire. Jason decided to call it Diamonte.

Diamonte, Greek for diamond, is a nod to two of his development partners, George and Maria Savakis, who are originally from Greece and now live on Merritt Island. Located on US1, across from Post Road at the geographic center of the county, with convenient access to MLBâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s aerospace and technology corridor, myriad defense contractors and Kennedy Space Center to the north, and direct water access to the Port or Sebastian Inlet to the south, Diamonteâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s breathtaking condominiums range from between 3,000 to over 5,000 square feet of living space and include dynamic glass vistas and spacious patios overlooking the river. Another incredible design element: on the second-floor units, the developer captured an additional 550 square foot of space for a terrace that can be designed into a substantial lawn-like space. OCTOBER 2020

The Right Time After earning his real estate license at 18 and, working his way through UCF in just three years for his business administration degree while also working as a leasing agent and putting together coupon packets for students, Hart always has had an entrepreneurial spirit. He and his wife/partner Vickie share both a passion for what they do but also for what this area, with wise and intelligent growth, can become. Now appears to be the right time for a development like Diamonte. “In spite of the pandemic and maybe in part due to it, the housing market in Brevard has really heated up,” he said. He attributes this partly because the Space Coast is like a “well-kept secret,” and also “due to the [recent] influx of executive talent serving the local space and aerospace cluster,” he said. “Add to that the number of people who already live in the area, whose children are now grown and gone, who have beautiful estate homes but don’t want the burden of maintaining that type of property, [and something like] Diamonte is the type of transition they are looking for.” In a safety-conscious day and age, Diamonte is unparalleled. The property is completely gated and residents can park in their full garages, with access to walk directly into the lobby and then to the secured elevator that takes owners right to their unit. Hart is quick to acknowledge that development is a team sport. With Diamonte, he is confident that he has assembled all-stars at every level. Craig Hesse, Hart’s partner, has a lifetime of development knowhow and functions essentially as the COO of the operation. Drawing from past and successful experiences, Hart recruited Mike Williams, of MH Williams Construction Group, as the general contractor; and for design style and appeal that would be unique in Brevard, he chose David Jackson of Jackson Kirschner Architects. Craig Hesse, a twenty-year Brevard resident described by Hart as the one who keeps all aspects of the project coordinated and moving, commented on one of their best strategic partners on the project: the City of Melbourne. “The City Council and all the city staff has been incredibly helpful and supportive of the project since we introduced it,” Hesse said. 50

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“Our idea was to build everyone a ‘House in the Sky,’” said Jason Hart

A Boutique Flavor on a Grand Scale Icaria Floorplan

“Our idea was to build everyone a ‘House in the Sky,’” Hart explained. “I wanted to keep it a residential, single family home environment, but not your typical cookie cutter, condominium rectangle, trying to pack as many units into the space as possible. I like the smaller, boutique flavor Diamonte has. This is the size and type of project I enjoy working on.”

Take a virtual tour online!

Milos Floorplan

Santorini Floorplan

Milos Main Area: Entertaining and relaxation are elevated with inspiring views Inset photo: Jason and Vickie Hart

The Diamonte concept has had great success in South Florida and Florida’s southern west coast, but has not been introduced on the Space Coast until now. Units are already reserved and the project is planned for completion in the last quarter of 2021. Plus, with only ten total units, property values already are starting to edge upward. Both Hart and Hesse believe the design and the height of Diamonte will make this property a beacon along the river. “We thought our project would draw clients from South Florida or even the international market, and I’m sure it will, along with executives moving to the area. But most of the interest has come from within Brevard, which is a demand we didn’t fully anticipate,” Hesse said. With Diamonte’s dramatic master suites, direct river views, spacious balconies with glass rails for unobstructed sightlines that open to a great-room design, there is expansive and creative ‘free-flowing space’ that will bring much needed change to the shoreline. “This project is another step in both repairing the shoreline and enhancing a stretch of riverfront that is a jewel, yet has suffered from age and neglect,” Hesse said. •

DIAMONTE CONDOS are located at 3949 N Harbor City Blvd., Melbourne. For more information, call 321-698-0099 or for a virtual tour, online at diamontecondos.com/virtual-tour OCTOBER 2020

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Almost

Everything Space Coast

Bridal Bridal trends are definitely in flux, with big industry changes and some dashed expectations. But, many brides and grooms are adapting by hosting microweddings, virtual weddings and planning double (one smaller, one larger when itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s safer) celebrations. Here we offer lovebirds options on the Space Coast for venues, dresses, decĂłr and more. >>>

Who Invited this ‘Rona chick to My Wedding? Wedding Planning in Pandemic Times Story By Darcy Maeda Manning, Contributing Writer Images provided to Space Coast Living Magazine f you’ve ever done it, you know planning a wedding in “normal” circumstances is challenging. Lots of moving parts, deadlines, deposits, diplomacy (tell mom she absolutely cannot add “just one more person” to the guest list!) Imagine folding COVID-19 into the mix. “Brides have been looking forward to their wedding day for as long as they can remember. This is supposed to be the happiest day in their lives and now it has become full of sadness, confusion, and tears,” said Lori Braun, CEO and president of Grand Events by Lori, which offers a range of services from day-of coordination to full packages. The Space Coast wedding industry is doing everything it can to adjust to these new times to ensure brides still can have their magical, and socially responsible, wedding day. Of note, local wedding planners have been especially busy. The coronavirus is a prime example of how critical a planner’s role is to a bride and the process in an ever-changing situation. “It is important my clients know that we are in this together,” Braun continued, noting that she’s worked with

at least 14 bridal parties that have opted to postpone, with no penalty to the couple. “As a planner, compassion and caring is one of my biggest traits. I want my clients to know that I am always by their side,” she said.

New Trends in Trying Times Certified Wedding Planner Laura Adams-Cooper, owner and lead planner of Special Moments Event Planning, LLC., agreed that there have been many postponements and changes due to Covid-19. As a result, new trends are emerging, micro-weddings and double celebrations, among them. “The size of weddings has been smaller overall. However, many couples still want to have all their loved ones there, so instead of modifying their plans, they [are opting to] postpone until next year.” For couples who have dug their heels in the sand, micro-weddings have become a popular option. A micro-wedding is a scaled-down and typically more casual affair, usually with a guest list under 30 people.

Safety First The Space Coast wedding industry as a whole has experienced the impact of coronavirus and popular venues from rustic barns and estates to beachside hotels have taken extra precautions to ensure the safety of their guests. Some venues are even developing ways to be creative about it.

“We try any way we can to help our couples work through this element of their wedding by embracing the unavoidable,” said Shannon Perez, owner of three-time WeddingWire “Couples’ Choice” awardwinner Harbour House in Indian Harbour Beach. “We offer pandemic-friendly ideas such as custom masks for wedding parties and custom-labeled hand sanitizing bottles, and more. We have also a livestream option for loved ones that can’t make it, so they can still join the ceremony and we’ve

even had couples do photos with a screen of people tuning in via Zoom,” she said.

Industry Insight, Bespoke Options Bridal boutiques have also modified their services to respect social distancing rules and CDC guidelines. For example, Julia Barney, owner of Fifth Avenue Bridal by Julia Barney, is only accepting clients by appointment and limits the number of guests in her boutique during fittings. In April, at the first peak of the quarantine, Barney immediately took steps to figure out how to keep her thriving business afloat by attending numerous virtual workshops and retreats organized by industry leaders such as The Knot and The White Dress Society. The move paid off by allowing the savvy business owner to develop a variety of new services tailored to her elite clientele including the only at-home try-on service offered in our area called FAB@home, the only with the trend in weddings toward more intimate gatherings, some 2020 brides have opted to purchase an entirely new

Grand Events by Lori Lori Braun, CEO/President grandeventsbylori.com (321) 243-0887 Info@GrandEventsByLori.com IG: @grandeventsbylori

Special Moments Event Planning LLC Laura Adams-Cooper, CWP, Owner/Lead Planner specialmomentseventplanningllc.com (321) 720-3200 weddingpro@specialmomentseventplanningllc.com IG: @specialmomentseventplanning

dress for their smaller soirées, while others have decided to customize existing dresses. Barney and her in-house seamstress Ciara Paski of Ciara’s Alterations have had to find creative ways to accommodate micro-wedding brides searching for more casual options to better suit a smaller, more intimate wedding. “Ciara has been even busier with final fittings and custom changes such as removing sleeves or under layers in an effort to create a sleeker, simpler silhouette that honors a more intimate wedding. It’s been exciting for us to offer brides these new customization options for their gowns,” Barney said.

Venues From beachside settings to elegantly appointed manor houses to rustic barns with swaying chandeliers, plenty of gorgeous options abound up and down the Space Coast. Here, we offer a look at just a few of the many options.

Harbour House 1901 Highway A1A, Indian Harbour Beach harbourhouseevents.com (321) 610-3245Â info@harbourhouseevents.com IG: @harbourhouseoceanfront Elopement packages start at $895 Weddings start at: $2,995 Venue accommodates up to 85 guests

arbour House is a private and direct oceanfront wedding and event venue located on the pristine shores of Indian Harbour Beach. With almost 8,000 sq. ft. of flexible space, this unique slice of paradise specializes in the true all-inclusive experience, offering multiple packages that make it possible for couples to simply show up and enjoy their special day. Ideal for those seeking privacy, this is a perfect venue to host a quiet and intimate beach wedding.

The oceanfront property offers coastal elegance, dramatic ocean views, certified event planners, custom decor, 5-star catering and bar, an in-house fresh floral artist, and proudly labels itself LGBT-friendly. With its 85-guest maximum per event space, Harbour House has always catered to smaller weddings and has seen an uptick in bookings for its elopement and micro-wedding packages as a result of COVID-19. Owned and operated by the Perez Family, this two-story property features Key West Florida design and is the dream come true of Shannon and Jessee Perez after many years of providing award-winning, highend destination dream weddings throughout the state.

BRIDAL

OCTOBER 2020

Dragonfly Farms, FL Wedding & Event Venue 750 Osmosis Dr., Palm Bay dragonflyfarmsfl.com (321) 427-8683 brandy@dragonflyfarmsfl.com IG: @dragonflyfarmsfl Elopement packages start at $2,500 Prices start at: $5,500 Venue accommodates up to 150 guests

or thousands of years, the dragonfly has been recognized as a symbol of purity, happiness and change. Named for these good luck charms, Dragonfly Farms in Palm Bay is often frequented by gorgeous red, blue, magenta and striped dragonflies. The perfect location for an elegant wedding or a country chic affair, the 12-acre property includes a climatecontrolled barn, an amazing outdoor terrace, and a large covered pavilion. Two dressing suites are tastefully appointed and provide a relaxing, intimate space for wedding prep. Guests will enjoy onsite parking, lovely seating areas, multiple picturesque sites to say â&#x20AC;&#x153;I doâ&#x20AC;?, and a reception area sure to wow. Smaller gatherings and larger groups can be accommodated here, as there is room for up to 150 guests.

BRIDAL

OCTOBER 2020

he “Pinterest Bride” will adore the rustic charm of award-winning Ever After Farms. Named The Knot’s “Best of Weddings” for 2020 and Wedding Wire’s “Couples’ Choice Awards” in 2020, Ever After Farms Blueberry Barn has become one of Central Florida’s most popular barn wedding venues. The outdoor ceremony site is situated under a majestic mossy oak. A covered patio makes for an unforgettable cocktail hour, while the large, air-conditioned barn is the perfect reception site for wedding day festivities. Guests will be wowed by the barn’s large windows, high ceilings, chandeliers and modern amenities, all while being surrounded by acres of a beautiful blueberry vineyard. More intimate ceremonies for guests up to 100 will enjoy the Ever After Peach Barn just a mile away from the Blueberry Barn. Allinclusive packages make planning simple and couples have access to a huge variety of decor, signage, linens, and more. Add-ons such as a Cinderella carriage make for an even more magical entrance and ceremony.

Ever After Farms Blueberry Barn: 4400 Bougainvillea Drive, Mims Peach Barn: 4455 Dixie Way, Mims everafterfarms.com (321) 529-9319 weddings@everafterfarms.com IG: @everafterfarmsweddings Prices start at: $4,000 Peach Barn $6,000 Blueberry Barn Venue accommodates up to 100 / 200 guests

Indian River Queen 90 Delannoy Avenue, Cocoa www.indianriverqueen.com (321) 454-7414 tours@islandboatlines.com IG: @indianriverqueen Prices start at: $1,200 per hour Venue accommodates up to 234 guests

ocoa Village Marina is home to the Indian River Queen, a stunning triple deck paddlewheel boat, ideal for couples seeking an open-air option for their small wedding or special event. Guests travel from all over the world to experience this throwback to old time southern charm, with the picturesque Indian River as

backdrop. Intimate weddings for under 150 guests allow for ample space to enjoy festivities while social distancing. Experience the elegance and romance of the paddlewheel from a bygone era aboard the Queen and let yourself be spoiled by the venue’s wedding planners, who create first class, all-inclusive wedding plans customized to each couple.

Floral Trending: Faux Florals Sustainable, affordable, and oh-so-pretty

A recent trend involving wedding decoration has been readily observed by local florist Stefania Colucciello, owner of WEDideas.com in Indialantic.

he reports business is even busier than usual with, on average, 50 orders a week. However, couples are rethinking the big-ticket spend (as much as $5,000) on fresh flowers and opting, instead, for more earthfriendly options. “Flowers are normally not a top priority for today’s brides. They would rather spend the money on a different aspect of the wedding. We’re very happy to show them there are

other beautiful options that won’t break the bank,” she said. These include custom designed bouquets and decorations made of lifelike floral and greens. Many couples are planning two wedding events - the smaller one (micro-wedding) and a “regular” wedding to follow when safe to do so. Going artificial makes a lot of sense when couples consider (or are reminded) that everything can be reused. “Being able to get multiple uses

WEDideas.com 133 Fifth Ave., Indialantic FL 32903 wedideas.com (321) 250-8191 orders@wedideas.com IG: @wedideas

out of their flowers is a big deal for environmentallyconscious couples. They can also feel good knowing there’s very little to no waste involved with artificial florals, because unused flowers can be saved for future orders.” WEDideas.com also offers bridal party crafting events where the bride and her besties make their own bouquets at a class led by Colucciello. “It’s a really fun, interactive way for brides to spend quality time

with her bridal party, and also have creative say in the design of her floral arrangements. She’s able to see the arrangement in advance and make (any needed) modifications.” “We only use the best quality, real-touch flowers for our wedding bouquets. In my 20 years in this industry, the product has come such a long way. It’s incredible how realistic these flowers look and feel. It even surprises us, sometimes!” she said.

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Early Dining Monday - Friday • 4:30pm - 6pm Saturday & Sunday • 4pm - 6pm

Sunday Brunch 11am - 4pm 2250 Front Street • 321-729-6558 • chart-house.com

BRIDAL

OCTOBER 2020

Wedding

Boutiques Fifth Avenue Bridal by Julia Barney 135 Fifth Ave., Indialantic FL 32903 fifthavenuebridal.com (321) 512-4243 julia@fifthavenuebridal.com IG: @fifthavebridal

Nicole Maree Bridal 2271 Town Center Ave., Ste. 113, Melbourne FL 32940 (The Avenue Viera) nicolemareebridal.com (321) 373-1002 contact@nicolemareebridal.com IG: @nicolemareebridal

Olivia Bowen Bridal 909 E New Haven Ave., Melbourne FL 32901 oliviabowenbridal.com (321) 223-2629 oliviabowenbridal@gmail.com IG: @olivia_bowen_bridal

The King’s Daughter Bridal Boutique and Formal Wear 1900 Huntington Ln, Rockledge FL 32955 thekingsdaughterbridal.com (321) 536-7818 thekingsdaughterbridal@gmail.com IG: @thekingsdaughterbridal

STUNNING RIVER VIEWS, GREAT FOOD & INSPIRED LIBATIONS River Rocks is the Perfect Party Place ife’s special occasions–from a simple date night to something more inspired such as an anniversary or birthday celebration, wedding or retirement party–deserve to be made memorable. With stunning views, a variety of dining room options, an eclectic menu with creative and classic foods, imaginative cocktails and an expansive beer and wine list, River Rocks feel a bit like a “choose-your-own-adventure” locale for unforgettable special occasions. The venue here is split into two dining friendly scenes. River Rocks is the inside restaurant at the north end of the property with a separate entrance and a chef-inspired menu. The wall, covered in river rocks, frame the elegantly appointed dining tables spread out to offer maximum views of the river. Outside, the Dock at River Rocks, features a huge wooded deck that also focuses on direct access views to the river, albeit in a much more “Florida casual” relaxed setting.

By Heather Motro, Assistant Editor Photos by Jason Hook Photography For a luxurious date night, start at River Rocks bar with an appetizer and a glass of wine, then head to a table to dine on chef Alberto Sierra’s special of the night. Or, get an earlier start with their new Sunset Menu. From 4 to 5:30 p.m., this select menu offers a two-course meal including salad or lobster bisque and an elegant entrée such as Boursin Chicken, Shrimp and Grits or their award-winning prime rib, the best in the area, according to General Manager Joshua Kerwood. After dinner, transition to the bar, where the brand-new back bar is stocked with all the ingredients for River Rocks’s signature after-dinner cocktails. Whether you sit at a table or at the bar, views of the sunset on the Indian River Lagoon are unmatched and splendid.

And for a special twist on a centuries-old tradition, consider the gazebo overlooking the water for a memorable engagement spot. After the big ask, the sometime-soon-toSPACE COAST LIVING | SPACECOASTLIVING.COM

be newlyweds can stroll down the dock for engagement photos, then dine inside with the whole family. Ask for River Rocks’s semiprivate dining room when making reservations for a post-proposal party; depending on how busy the restaurant is, you might have the whole room for your festivities. Later, when planning the wedding, keep that same gazebo in mind, as it is a breathtaking site to exchange vows. Rehearsal dinners, wedding receptions, birthday parties, baby showers, business meetings and all manners of special events meet their ideal location at River Rocks’s banquet room. Separated from the rest of the restaurant by sliding doors, this spacious private room accommodates as many as 40 to 45 socially-distanced guests. The room is rigged with tech to play audio from a personal device and to project slideshows or videos, although

Lunch menus start at $20 per person; dinner menus start at $40 per person and end at a three-course, $125-per-person meal worthy of the title “banquet.” Fresh fish, the classic River Rocks house salad and the famous prime rib make their appearances on many of the menus. To start planning your event, contact River Rocks’s event coordinator, Gabrielle Rush, via the contact form on the guests might find their eyes wandering out the windows to the river view. Luckily for them, the banquet room has direct access to the gazebo and dock, so they can get a closer look without leaving the party. For larger affairs and swanky soirees, you might option to reserve the entire restaurant for your event. If you do, you can bring your own DJ or play music from your personal device direct on the

restaurant’s sound system. You and your guests can enjoy the entire restaurant like royalty, with servers and staff on hand to help the party run smoothly.

River Rocks website. The managers would be happy to show you around so you can see for yourself the variety of rooms, table setups and menus available to make your celebration memorable. No matter the size or style of the occasion, Joshua confirmed, River Rocks has the goods: picture perfect view, casual or refined ambience, family friendly, foody-friendly, affordable, and clever cocktails. •

River Rocks restaurant and The Dock at River Rocks are located at 6485 S. US 1, Rockledge. For information, www.riverrocksrestaurant.com or call 321-757-7200.

With semi-private, private and buyout parties, River Rocks takes care of the table, including tablecloths, candles and, most importantly, a delicious selection of seven separate menus.

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10 Golden Rules for a

Happy Marriage By Brooke Deratany Goldfarb, Community Editor

ou say you are looking for or have found â&#x20AC;&#x153;The One.â&#x20AC;? Perhaps you are setting the wedding date and do not want to become a divorce statistic. You want your relationship to last. I am not an expert, but I can share with you what I have learned from 22 years of marriage and having midwifed hundreds of divorces over the past dozen years. Here are my top ten tips: Know Yourself. Before you marry, figure out what you value and what matters to you and pursue your goals and interests. Consider what qualities matter most to you in a life partner. Love yourself as a complete person and be content on your own until you meet the right person. Go to therapy to resolve any childhood issues or trauma that might inhibit your ability to maintain a healthy relationship. Statistics show that people who wait to get married until after they have completed college, started their careers, and lived on their own for a while tend to stay married. If you are young, ask yourself, what is the rush?

Choose Wisely. People believe they will be married forever, but almost 40% of them will not. Think about how your Mr. or Mrs. Right handled past relationships and break ups? Were they honorable and conciliatory or spiteful and vindictive? Marry someone who fights fair and will talk things out without resorting to name-calling, threats or violence. To disagree is normal and even healthy. When done correctly, a couple can emerge from an argument feeling closer than before. Choose someone you respect and who respects you.

Share Values. Although it is convenient to have a life partner whose strengths and talents complement yours, it is equally important that you share common values and interests. How do you both feel about religion, politics, children, financial matters, gender roles, sex? Are you dog people or cat people? Do you want the same things out of life? How do you feel about renting versus owning, exercise, travel, alcohol consumption? Are any of these or other issues deal breakers for either of you?

OCTOBER 2020

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The Golden Rule. Treat your significant other the way you would want to be treated. Be the person you would want to be married to. Keep in mind how your actions or inaction may impact your spouse.

Be Grateful. Adopt an attitude of gratitude. Practice saying, “Thank you for making dinner,” “Thank you for mowing the lawn,” “Thank you for doing the laundry,” “Thank you for being my rock,” “Thank you for marrying me,” “Thank you for being you.” It might seem silly, but letting your partner know that you appreciate them makes for a pleasant homelife.

Communicate. According to Emily Tonn, licensed mental health counselor at Pamper Your Mind in Satellite Beach, “Couples need to know that they cannot read each other’s minds, no matter how much they love each other, or how long they have been together. They must learn how to effectively exchange information, clarify and validate what their partner is trying to tell them.” If a couple needs help communicating, help is available through books, courses and counseling.

Be Tolerant. My mother used to say that what we love most about a person can also be what annoys us the most about a person. You and your loved one will annoy each other. Remember to be gentle. Try not to sweat the small stuff. Nobody is perfect.

Forgive. At some point, your loved one will disappoint you. We all make mistakes, what matters is how we handle them. Sometimes the hardest words to say are, “I’m sorry.” If you have messed up, ask for forgiveness. If your partner offers a heartfelt apology, accept it and move on.

Have Interests. Make time for each other and find activities you can do together, but do not do everything together. Encourage one another to pursue individual hobbies and passions and maintain friend and family relationships. Get together with the girls or hang with the guys. Happy and fulfilled people are more fun to live with.

Understand People Change. However old you are, you are still evolving. Keep learning and growing in healthy and productive ways. You might realize that you like new things. By not trying to control your spouse, you are more likely to grow old together. That being said, sometimes people do decide that a relationship no longer serves them. Do the best you can to work it out with the help of a competent therapist or counselor. If you do decide that your highest and best interest would be served by moving on, do it in a way that honors the marriage divorce happens, but leaving a marriage does not have to be a destructive or messy tribulation. A non-adversarial uncoupling with the help of a neutral mediator can help couples transition out of marriage in a way that honors the relationship and allows the parties to get on with life.

A healthy union requires continuous nurturing, compassion, patience, a sense of humor, and teamwork. As Stephanie Byrd, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with Ascend Counseling and Wellness in Melbourne puts it: “Relationships are the longest, most important career we will ever embark on with the least amount of training. The best gift a couple can give each other is a commitment to ongoing individual and relational growth.” 74 68

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LAVENDER MOON shares the benefits of acupuncture with the Space Coast >>>

By Lyle Smith, Contributing Writer

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Heather Smith was a biochemist working at Rocky Mountain Cancer Centers in Boulder, CO., when she had an experience that would change the course of her life and her career. Living in the mountain air in her 20s, she suffered a debilitating snowboarding accident that forced her to walk with the assistance of a cane. After trying almost every medical intervention short of major surgery, a friend who was an acupuncturist convinced her that she could help.

After just a few treatments, she was able to discard the cane and began to feel her body healing itself. Soon she was back to mountain biking, kayaking, and rock climbing as if sheâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d never been injured in the first place.

The experience was so transformational that she decided to enroll in Southwest Acupuncture College to pursue a new career path. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s that experience that led her to an understanding, a true belief, that with a commitment to their own healing, acupuncture can help patients address a host of ailments.

Lavender Moon

LAVENDER MOON FOLLOWS EFFECTIVE COVID-19 PRACTICES

When you step inside Lavender Moon Acupuncture in Rockledge, the healing energy is unmistakable. You can feel it all around. It’s what makes you want to come back. Even the most skeptical patients say they feel something special when they meet the Acupuncture Physician and learn about her approach. One patient, Darren M., came to Lavender moon suffering from reduced range of motion and excessive scar tissue after seven knee surgeries. Although his orthopedic surgeon had recommended ongoing exercise to manage his range of motion, he said he was still having difficulty. After just six acupuncture treatments, his range of motion was much improved, and the scar tissue was dramatically decreased. Additionally, he said he’s seen significant muscle growth and renewed strength in both his quadriceps and calf muscles. “I came in thinking I didn’t believe in it, but I didn’t disbelieve it either,” he said. “And [the treatments have] definitely improved my quality of life, mobility, stability, and the time I can spend walking.”

Ancient History Acupuncture is an ancient practice with most of the tradition’s written texts dating back 2,500 years or more. The oral tradition dates back almost twice that far to an understanding of the flow of vital energy and how it works to heal the body. “Patient. Thorough. Knowledgeable,” said patient Jennifer L. of her experience. “She treated my case with the utmost professionalism, intensity, and intention. It was my goal to be free of unnecessary medications and Dr. Smith’s expertise provided me matchless relief.”

Dr. Smith developed her COVID-19 practices in consultation with one of the nation’s top infectious disease specialists and observes a strict “concierge” style approach to keep her patients safe and healthy during these times. Dr. Smith confers with a patient about treatment (top). Tools used to perform acupuncture-like treatments for children (right).

How it Works Acupuncture involves the placement of very fine sterile needles at specific points around the body to encourage the flow of vital energy known as Qi (pronounced “chee”). The tradition says that when that energy flows freely, the body is able to begin healing itself. Needle-phobes need not be concerned. Acupuncture needles are so thin that 2-3 of them would fit inside a typical injection needle. Add to that the gentle Japanese technique she favors and most patients achieve a unique level of relaxation.

What it Treats As the primary medical treatment for a quarter of the world’s population, acupuncture and what’s known as Traditional Chinese Medicine has been used to treat almost every medical condition imaginable. From pain and pain syndrome, arthritis, and acute injuries, to side effects of other treatments, to auto-immune issues to asthma and seasonal allergies to menopausal syndrome and gynecological health, to migraines and PTSD, to sleeplessness.

country and helped dozens of patients become families, even some large families. “Dr. Heather has a passion for practicing acupuncture and takes the time to explain the steps of her treatments,” said patient Rachel F.. “She truly cares about her patients which is evident during every session you have with her.”

With 20 years’ experience, Smith has developed successful treatments for fertility, gynecological health and pediatrics.

Younger children, under about age 10, do not receive the same needle treatment as adults. “I use a technique called Shoni Shin where I utilize small metal tools, like round-edged spoons, to stimulate those same points,” she said.

Fertility grew as a specialty in her New Jersey practice before she relocated to Florida six years ago. From then to now, she’s worked with some of the finest fertility specialists in the

Acupuncture is one of the few treatments effective for the symptoms of PTSD and has shown success in treating traumatic brain injury in studies done on military veterans.

In response to the pandemic, Lavender Moon is also offering “curbside acupuncture” for patients fearful of visiting too many places away from home. They are able to pull up to the practice to be treated in the comfort of their own car. For in-office appointments: ■ Patients wait in their cars at their appointed time rather than in the waiting room. ■ Patients are escorted individually into the practice after having their temperature checked. ■ Patients and staff all wear face masks throughout the treatment. ■ Treatment rooms and restroom are disinfected between patients.

Smith has created a multi-lingual practice that fosters an environment that is open, healthy and productive, not just for the patient and the practitioner, but also for the staff. The healing effects continue to impact Smith’s life and career. Acupuncture changed the course of her life and she’s turned that passion into a mission to help other people find their way to good health. • LAVENDER MOON ACUPUNCTURE is located at 1019 Harvin Way, Suite 110 (with the lavender door!) in Rockledge. For more information, call (321) 345-3711 or visit online at lavendermoonacupuncture.com

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COVID-19

UPDATED SAFETY PROTOCOLS FOR SAFE DENTAL TREATMENT ARS-CoV-2 (Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2) and the Corona Virus Disease 2019 (COVID -19) pandemic it caused has been challenging. These last five months have been a drain on collective physical and mental health, and the economic repercussions of the pandemic has stressed families in ways not understood before. We often find ourselves balancing questions about our personal safety and the need for getting back to some semblance of “normalcy,” or what we remember as normal. At the onset of the pandemic, on recommendations for the Center for Disease Control (CDC) and the American Dental Association (ADA), dentists were asked to postpone all but urgent and emergency care. This was so public health experts could better understand the disease, and consider its effect on dental patients, dental professionals and the greater community.

We continue to learn about the virus and have a better understanding of the disease it causes and how it spreads. More importantly, we now have a better understanding of how we can protect ourselves and our patients from being infected. As a matter of fact, both the ADA and the CDC have provided guidance for dental professionals related to COVID-19 and have called for the highest level of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) available. Though the World Health Organization (WHO) is still advising "routine non-essential oral health care be delayed,” the American Dental Association and the Center for Disease Control“respectfully yet strongly disagrees” with the WHO recommendation. “Oral health is integral to overall health. Dentistry is essential health care,” said ADA President Chad P. Gehani, D.D.S. “Dentistry is essential health care because of its role in evaluating, diagnosing,

By Cedric Chenet, DDS, PA

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preventing, or treating oral diseases, which can affect systemic health.” With the Personal Protective Equipment and guidelines that have been implemented, Dr. Gehani concludes, “Millions of patients have safely visited their dentists in the past few months for the full range of dental services. With appropriate PPE, dental care should continue to be delivered during global pandemics or other disaster situations.” Your safety and well-being are our top priority. Our office has always used the highest level of precautions to prevent the spread of infections, and we are continuing to engage in additional precautions to protect our patients and our team from the spread of COVID-19. We are here to work with you to take care of your oral health, while always keeping the highest level of safety possible.

“Oral health is integral to overall health. Dentistry is essential health care,” said ADA President Chad P. Gehani, D.D.S.

Please don’t hesitate to contact our office if you have any questions about the steps we are taking to keep you, and every patient, safe in our practice. To make an appointment, please call 321-253-3136 or visit online chenetdental.com and remember... you too, be safe out there!

Some of the protective guidelines we have implemented for your safety include: ▶ Screening questions will be asked of you ahead of your office visit. You’ll be asked the same questions again when you arrive at our office. ▶ Similarly, our staff is being screened daily with temperature monitoring and maintaining mask wearing and social distancing protocols throughout the work day. ▶ We will ask you to use hand sanitizer when you enter our office. You will also find more of it in the reception area and strategically placed around the office for your use as needed. ▶ We have installed air filtration/purifying units in all rooms. ▶ You may see that our waiting room is set up to accommodate social distancing. We no longer offer magazines since those items are difficult to clean and disinfect and we have installed clear barriers to shield you from the front desk staff. ▶ Appointment times will be managed to allow for social distancing between patients. This might mean that you’re offered fewer options for scheduling your appointment. ▶ We will allow greater time between patients to reduce waiting times for you, as well as to reduce the number of patients in the reception area at any one time. ▶ You will also notice clinical staff is wearing enhanced Personal Protective Equipment during your treatment.

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POSSIBILITIES LUXDEI Yoga & Art Studio in Melbourne

rom designing websites and publications to guiding people to the light in her yoga studio, plus enduring the inevitable ups and downs that come with life, Evelyn Sutton has learned “how the universe works with you.”

And that’s a good thing. By Michael Caandelaria, Contributing Writer Photos by Jason Hook Photography

OCTOBER 2020

In typical yoga fashion, Evelyn continually has stretched the boundaries of what can reasonably be considered possible.

Early Start, Early Successes Two examples: At 16, she began helping family friends by working as an assistant editor on a Brazilian magazine in South Florida. Soon after, she was helping out in the art department, and the “next thing you know, I became one of their junior designers.”

Within a year, she was acting lead designer, and at 23 she started her own publishing company, including a fashion magazine and a Brazilian newspaper planned for monthly distribution throughout Miami-Dade, Broward and Palm Beach counties. It wound up a weekly publication, which prompted her to expand skills into unfamiliar areas, eventually resulting in a successful sale.

“We are called to BE LIGHT in times of darkness.” 86

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Everywhere Evelyn went afterwards in publishing, a similar theme returned: a stretching of skills, a broadening of capabilities, a leap of faith into uncharted territory. “I used to say, ‘I don’t have blood in my veins; I have ink,’” Evelyn said. Born in Philadelphia, she grew up partially in Brazil, her parents’ native country. While Evelyn had ink, she also had spirit.

The Student Becomes the Teacher

“LUXDEI’s motto, Let Light Be, is a call to arms to be LIGHT in times of darkness, despite the circumstances around you.

Practicing yoga since 19, one day many years later she happened upon a flyer about YTT — yoga teacher training. Although she remained uberbusy as an award winning designer, full-time mom, and by then had also picked up painting as a new hobby/occupation without any formal training, in her forward-thinking characteristic style, she was seeking even greater fulfillment and willing to work for it. It happened.

Namaste means, ‘the light in me honors the light in you.’ I help others honor their light by finding the truth of who they really are on and off the mat.”

Following relocations from South Florida to Brevard via Sarasota, along with new workplaces, having a son, getting divorced and losing her mother to cancer — among many of life’s trials — she not only blossomed as an instructor, but also became a yoga studio owner. She gained a new passionate voice as a leader, too, and her fiery approach began making a difference in other people’s lives.

Evelyn Sutton

New Life, New Family Oh, and to go with new life purpose, she found a new life partner. That, in a nutshell, puts Evelyn Sutton today at her LuxDei Studio, teaching yoga and art, in Melbourne. LuxDei means “light of God” and the space best can be described as an art gallery and yoga studio with classes tailored to meet students at their yoga level from Vinyasa Flow and Power Yoga to restorative yoga and meditation. The focus is on physical development, self-expression and healing through art, creativity, pranayama (breathing exercises) and anatomy-based alignment.

Unofficially, it’s the center of her world. “It’s interesting how the universe works with you,” said Sutton, who leads graphic design services at Space Coast Magazines for Space Coast Business and Space Coast Living. “Now, looking back, I understand that I had to go through some stuff in life. I had to mature a little bit; I had to go through some difficult experiences... Those experiences enabled me to become the person I am today and learn that when you change your perspective, you change your life. Nothing happens to you. Everything happens FOR you.”

OCTOBER 2020

One Family, Two Studios

Finding Strength to Lead

LuxDei Studio is part of a combined 7,000-squarefoot warehouse facility-turned-family-gathering place, where yoga, meditation and art classes are offered, and where her husband of three years, David Sutton, teaches martial arts, particularly Brazilian JiuJitsu. The studio+gym family partnership is a winning combo for everyone. Children, for example, might be taking lessons from David on one side of the facility while their parents take classes from Evelyn on the other.

She emerged as a leader, remembering what early training had told her: “Be exactly who you are because there are students of yoga who need you — your stories, your words, your personality, the way you speak.’

Not long ago, the Suttons, operating their businesses separately, merged under that same roof and with different branding. Kala Art and Yoga became LuxDei Studio; his Five Rounds changed to Carlson Gracie JiuJitsu Team Melbourne. They also now have a daughter, born last year. Together, they have four children, David, Edgard, Maggie and baby Milena. Perfect timing for all? Not quite.

LuxDei Studio is located at 880 McClendon St., Melbourne. For information, call (321) 917-1599, or online at luxdeistudio.com or on Facebook @luxdeistudio

Just as they opened, the COVID-19 pandemic hit. The Suttons had to move quickly and---no surprise---Evelyn did, with virtual classes. “We kept all the students engaged,” Sutton said. “That was very important to us, not just for the physical exercise aspect, but also as a form of emotional support during a time of fear and uncertainty for everyone.” “We have so many great families, members of our gym and studio. We have people that are more than students, people we call friends, who we feel a real connection with. As they support us, we also wanted to be there to support them through all of this. We are truly a family.”

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Ambition and persistence had kicked in again. And people have followed. Now, with the calendar moving toward the fall, she offers gratitude: “It’s been amazing. I thank God everyday for His abundance of blessings and guidance.” For Sutton, it’s clear that adjustments are literally part of her life. Just like in yoga. “Yoga is a practice that you can adapt. Yoga is for, literally, everybody: every size, every shape, every age, every fitness level,” she said. Then she went deeper. “Yoga is so much more than just a physical practice. Yoga is about liberation from mental suffering, anguish, it’s about finding the strength within you to let go of the past, to embrace change, and not fear the future — which only results in anxiety and depression.” she explained. “It’s to surrender all that heaviness. To feel lighter in the body and the mind. To shine your light and bring forth the truth of who you are.” She’s is in a good place. “I feel really good,” Sutton concluded. “I feel that I am exactly where I am supposed to be, in my purpose, doing exactly what I’ve been called to do in every area of my life. I’m in alignment.” •

The number of American yoga practitioners has increased to over 36 million in 2016, up from 20.4 million in 2012, according to a widely published study by the Yoga Journal and the Yoga Alliance.

YOGA for everyBODY It’s almost impossible to pass a stretch of business real estate on the Space Coast these days without noticing a yoga studio. However, classes are not limited to four walls with hard floors and blowing air conditioners. Yoga is everywhere! At Front Street Park in Melbourne, you can practice yoga with a river view. From government centers with chair yoga for seniors, to classrooms that help children learn the discipline; whether following along from your home or taking a boot camp class at the park, yoga’s popularity continues to rise. And, if trends continue, it might become one of the all-time most practiced exercise routines for Americans. Yoga can be practiced by almost anyone who wants to try. It can be deliberate and slow or heated and fast. It imparts feelings of peacefulness, helps center and ground, and through specific poses, allows our bodies to stretch and achieve greater flexibility. Yoga has been proven to increase confidence, help alleviate stress, and increase strength. According to the government of India, where yoga originated around 2700 BC, “yoga is essentially a spiritual discipline based on an extremely subtle science, which focuses on bringing harmony between mind and body.”

There are different types of yoga, and each serves a different purpose, according to the Yoga Journal: ASHTANGA YOGA is athletic and demanding. Students learn a series of poses and practice at their own pace while a teacher moves around the room giving adjustments and personalized suggestions. BIKRAM YOGA. With Bikram, or Hot Yoga, rooms are heated to 105 degrees, and classes consist of 45 minutes of standing poses and 45 minutes of floor postures. You do the same series of two breathing exercises and 26 poses in each class. The overall objective is to allow the physical self to unify with the spiritual self.

Sometimes called the Yoga of Awareness, the primary goal is to awaken kundalini energy, the psychoenergetic force that leads to spiritual elevation, and kick-start the process of transformation. • The word yoga comes from Sanskrit and means to join, yoke, unite. The goal of the practice of is the union of individual consciousness with that of the universal consciousness, creating a perfect harmony between the mind and body, humankind & nature.

IYENGAR YOGA teaches a few select poses while exploring actions required to master proper alignment. Poses can be modified with props, making the practice accessible to all. For beginners, the primary objective is to understand the alignment and basic structure of the poses, and to gain greater physical awareness, strength, and flexibility. KUNDALINI YOGA typically begins with chanting and ends with singing, and features asana (poses), pranayama (breathing), and meditation in a sequence of combinations that will challenge and stretch your capabilities. OCTOBER 2020

THOROUGHLY

THROUGHBREDS Retired Horses Prepped for

ADOPTION at Local Farm

Story and Photos by Fred Mays

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OCTOBER 2020

“And DOWN the stretch they come…” Ellie McDowell places fly mask on “Erabel”. The horses can still see, but the mask keeps flies out of their eyes.

hat was the booming and memorable call of Triple Crown television announcer Dave Anderson as a throng of strong and steady thoroughbreds bounded for the finish line, nostrils flaring and hooves seeming to hover over the track. This high-stake race, the mother of all horse races – comprised of three races for three-year-old Thoroughbred horses – is considered among the most exciting few (two) minutes in sports. Very few racehorses make it to the Triple Crown. Most spend their short careers enticing bettors at small tracks, competing for modest purses. Usually before they reach middle age in horse years, they are retired and done with racing. A few lucky ones, the high stakes winners, are syndicated and put out to stud at breeding farms and lush green pastures in places like Ocala or Lexington, Kentucky. Some unlucky ones end up in slaughterhouses in Canada or Mexico. (Slaughterhouses for horses are currently banned in the United States.)

SAVING THE THOROUGHBREDS And then there are those who retire at places like HART (Hidden Acres Rescue for Thoroughbreds) in Port Saint John, just west of Cocoa.

Suzee Norris, HART’s founder & Executive Director.

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Led by founder Suzee Norris, an avid equine rider since she was seven years old, these magnificent beasts are rehabilitated from racing and groomed for adoption. Many of the horses come to HART “overworked, used and abused,” said Suzee, who opened the nonprofit in 2006 after work as a civil engineer. The stallions are gelded and can’t be used for breeding or racing. Most become welcome members of their adopted families and are used for recreational or dressage riding. Some are boarded longterm at HART for additional training and extended care. The normal life span of a thoroughbred is 25-30 years, so most have a long lifetime away from the racetrack. HART is a member of the Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance and their horses are received via the Jockey Club of the United States and the Alliance, which offers grants to help pay for care and treatment. Other funds are raised by the sale of horses and through donations.

HORSE CARE

One of the prized residents at HART is “Reservado”, a 13-year-old from Puerto Rico. He raced 106 times and often finished in the money. These days at the horse ranch, he lives a leisurely life and prepares for adoption. “He’s a super cool horse,” says Suzee. “We’re just making him happy, getting his body healthy.” She doesn’t anticipate any problems finding him a forever home. Typically, thoroughbreds are kept at HART for three to six months, although some stay longer. When it’s time for adoption, fees range from $500 to $2,500, a bargain for a thoroughbred. Some horses, with lengthy training and a pedigree background, can fetch as much as $15,000 to $20,000, according to current listings on the HART website. There are dozens of TAA approved horse rescue farms in the country, with seven others in Florida besides HART. The Cocoa horse farm was originally opened as an equestrian center in 2006 and transitioned to a nonprofit with TAA accreditation in 2011.

County Sheriff’s office in Orlando. She says the adoption rate is 100%, noting that the few returned during a 30-day trial period are immediately put back up for adoption.

THE RESCUE GOES BOTH WAYS “We’re rescuing horses, but in fact they rescue us,” says Suzee, explaining that both horses and their volunteer handlers evolve as they work together and establish trust and a bond. “Volunteers change as human beings.” And the horses become calmer as they adjust to the relaxed pace at HART. After a strenuous and regimented career at the track, thoroughbreds “become almost lazy” when they reach retirement…an almost human quality. But as Suzee says, “every horse we touch is magic” and calls it an emotional experience to watch the horses evolve.

get involved HART

(Hidden Acres Rescue for Thoroughbreds) is located at: 6360 Arborwood Avenue, Cocoa, FL To learn more or volunteer, visit online at: hartforhorses.org To see a list of horses available for adoption, visit hartforhorses.org/ share-the-care Each horse is listed with background information and the expected adoption price.

“We are the safety net.” •

Suzee says most adoptions are local. One thoroughbred recently was sold to the Orange

When a horse first arrives at HART, handlers will evaluate the animal for medical issues and prescribe needed medication and treatment, including even massages and chiropractic care. The most common injury to horses is to the ankles, with fractures and bone chips. A vet treats them with pins and screws and may even do surgery to remove bone chips. Tendon and ligament damage to the front legs is also common. In cases of injuries the horse is placed on “stall rest” for a month or two, followed by a period of limited exercise without riders.

Sharon Walker works with “50 Above” on rein training. OCTOBER 2020

Non-Profit Spotlight:

SEA TURTLE PRESERVATION SOCIETY

Story by Shawna L. Lucas, Publisher

ovid conditions notwithstanding, this year the challenge to continue protecting Space Coast sea turtles is also hamstringed by one of the most powerful projected hurricane seasons on record. At the time of this writing, 13 named storms had been identified. Beach erosion is directly threatening nesting sites and, in some cases, discouraging female loggerhead and green turtles that typically nest in this area to abandon plans and return to sea. Nighttime lighting issues in Melbourne Beach at the beginning of nesting season this year required human intervention to help return the bright skies to the dark night environs that turtles navigate by moonlight to find nesting spots and lay their eggs. Combined these issues with the fact that in-person fundraising is not tenable for anytime in the foreseeable future, and the results are daunting.

Faltering Revenues “Our revenue is down at least 40%,” said Sue Skinner, Board Chair and Director of Communications for the Sea Turtle Preservation Society of Indialantic. Incorporated as a non-profit by a group of citizen volunteers, the STPS works to help educate the public about sea turtles and help “sea turtles survive” through conservation and preservation projects, and in partnerships with other conservation-minded entities such as the Brevard Zoo.

When the pandemic took hold of the nation in the late Spring, the weight of it landed around the same time as the start of the sea turtle nesting season. Approximately 90% of sea turtle eggs in the US are laid in Florida, and the Space Coast represents a disproportionate amount of that number due to the beach nesting areas and rich foraging areas in the Indian River Lagoon. SPACE COAST LIVING | SPACECOASTLIVING.COM

How You Can Help: SEA TURTLE NESTING SEASON RUNS MAY 1 THROUGH OCTOBER 31.

The STPS has spent years, and hundreds of thousands of dollars, protecting sea turtles and offering up-close interactions through night walks, educational seminars and presentations, and community and fundraising events. No money for their efforts is accepted from the government - it’s all through grass roots fundraising. “It’s been a particularly rough year,” Sue said, but one that’s also forced a realignment of priorities and needs. Nesting surveys have continued with a limited lineup of volunteers. The hotlines are up and running, though it may take a minute or two for responders to reach back if you leave a message. “They will get back, but we’re swamped with calls, especially during heavy rains and storm periods,” she said. The organization’s seminal fundraising event “Turtle Crawl,” usually one of the county’s best attended, family friendly 5K walk/run through Indialantic, had to be converted to a virtual race this year. In 2019, the race registered 2,326 participants and raised over $60,000. Typically, dollars raised from that event are turned over to the Zoo’s Sea Turtle Healing Center, which rehabilitates and rescues sea turtles found injured on the Space Coast. “To address the anticipated shortfall this year, the STPS donated $10,000 on World Sea Turtle Day in June, and even though we are in the middle of a pandemic, people from the community matched and greatly exceeded our donations,” Sue said. All told, the community pitched in an additional $24,000. Baby sea turtle adoptions and online sales also are helping raise funds, she said. “Our Facebook page (@seaturtlespacecoast.org) changes regularly with new merchandise, and adoptions are great for birthdays and education purposes,” she said.

Do not Disturb Sea Turtles Never approach or touch a nesting sea turtle. Keep lights off, stay back, and be quiet. County ordinances prohibit visible lights of any type, including cellphones and flashlights. Hands off Hatchlings Allow hatchlings to crawl on their own to the ocean. Turtles imprint on the beach that they hatch on and picking them up could interfere with this natural process. Pick up Beach Chairs, Umbrellas & Debris Put away beach chairs, umbrellas, and any other obstacles to help avoid the potential risk of turtles getting stuck while on the beach. Debris on the beach can be an obstacle for nesting mothers as well as hatchlings. Fill in Holes & Knock Down Sandcastles Before leaving the beach, fill in any holes. These pose a threat to both humans and sea turtles. Sandcastles can keep hatchlings from reaching the ocean, and adults may expend extra energy trying to go around them. Stay off the Dunes and Vegetation Use only designated crossovers to access the beach. Staying off the dunes will protect the vegetation as well as shorebird nests and sea turtle nests. No Bonfires Beach bonfires are not allowed during nesting season. The heat from a fire built on top of an incubating nest would destroy it, and hatchlings emerging and traveling toward the brightest light might be drawn to fire. In addition, the bright light of a fire and people nearby may scare off nesting adult turtles . Call for Help The Sea Turtle Preservation Society’s emergency response line is 321-206-0646. You can also call the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission hotline at 888-404-3922 or on a mobile phone at *FWC or #FWC, depending on the provider.

For more information, or to volunteer, www.seaturtlespacecoast.org or call 321-676-1701. OCTOBER 2020

MURDER ON THE SPACE COAST: Shining a Light on Troubling Convictions By Shawna L. Lucas, Publisher

There is something about John Torres that reminds me of an old-timey, gumshoe detective. Sam Spade, or someone like that. He’s got the self-deprecating humor, for sure. He’s experienced. Thoughtful. And dogged. Man, he digs, and reviews, and researches. And then does some more of that.

Before the first chapter of Murder on the Space Coast aired four years ago, John said he wasn’t really sure what to think about podcasts. The globe-trotting reporter and award-winning columnist for Florida Today has seen a lot. But aside from some video reporting he’d done for the newspaper, he wasn’t paying much attention to social media newscasting. That all changed rather quickly. 96

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“After a conversation about it with my executive editor [Mara Bellaby] I listened to the podcast Serial on NPR and I was hooked,” he said. Serial chronicles the story of Baltimore high school student Hae Min Lee who disappeared one day after school, and the subsequent arrest of her ex-boyfriend Adnan Syed, who remains in prison to this day on a life sentence after he was convicted of her murder.

Step by Step Like readers of a true crime novel, podcast listeners are guided step by step through the story - and specifically, with Murder on the Space Coast, of in-depth reporting, hours of face to face interviews, reviews of crime scene notes, police reports and coroner’s findings, prison visits, and countless phone calls with attorneys, subject matter experts, victims and their families. No stone is unturned. Everything is examined. According to his boss, Mara: “John does all the hard work reporting, tracking down sources, interviewing them and combing through court documents and audio and plotting the story arc and then each segment. Rob Landers, the podcast producer, works with John to pull it all together into each episode. My job is…to ask John a lot of questions and brainstorm around what he’s finding. I read his scripts and sometimes we go back and forth. Mostly, I’m the one asking why and what does that mean.” Through these podcasts, which John researches, writes, produces and narrates, the veteran reporter has found a new way to share the stories borne of his determination and persistence. The words he labored carefully over before final edits at the paper now are used to report 98

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on gruesome murder scenes, sordid details of family scandals and sexual aberrations, jailhouse snitches, indictments, alibis, affairs, half-truths, full-blown lies and many debunked theories.

Local Angle Murder on the Space Coast podcasts have a local slant, tying the audience to the Space Coast, though John says he’s heard that there are listeners from as far away as the Netherlands. Now in Season Six after four years, things are getting interesting as a direct result of the reporting done by the team at Murder on the Space Coast. In Season One, John, Mara and Rob chose to report on the Gary Bennett case. Sentenced to life in prison in 1984, Bennett had already served more than 30 years inside when the podcast was recorded. The six-part series revealed disturbing inconsistencies and flat-out red flags, including judicial mismanagement, police malfeasance, and the hiring of at least one dubious “expert”, dog handler John Preston, who was paid to assist police and often given access to police notes prior to testifying against defendants. The “expert testimony” of Preston, who has been widely discredited and labeled a charlatan, helped convict at least two men who, after spending decades in prison, eventually were freed through DNA testing.

In Season Four, the team chronicled the case of Jeff Abramowski, who had been charged with the murder of a 78-year old prescription pill pusher in 2006. According to published news reports, Abramowski’s case was riddled with problems, including the lead detective lying on the witness stand, a lawyer with mental health issues, and a jailhouse snitch who said he was coached on what to say by detectives. Also, there was a lack of physical evidence tying Abramowski to the scene and the release of three suspects whose stories were filled with inconsistencies and contradictory statements.

Interactive Storytelling If you listen to the podcasts, a few things settle in as the segments wind through the twists and turns of each case. First, it feels somehow interactive. Listeners really are taking part in the telling, as John invites them along for interviews, ride-alongs, site visits and more. John is careful to point out the things that surprise him along the way, and in doing so, you feel like you’re with a trusted fried through the process. His editor agrees. “He’s so good at storytelling and bringing readers into his pieces…and with his background in criminal justice reporting, John was a natural to lead our efforts,” Mara said.

Murder on The Space Coast episodes are available on Apple Podcast, Soundcloud, I Tunes, Google Play Radio and Stitcher. com. Scan the QR code to listen now!

THE SPAC R ON E DE

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MU R

MURDER ON THE SPACE COAST: SHINING A LIGHT ON TROUBLING CONVICTIONS

Murder on the Space Coast has been downloaded 1 MILLION TIMES by listeners all over the globe.

Why it Matters

Accolades & Awards

After Murder on the Space Coast revealed the contradictions and problematic circumstances leading to the convictions of both Bennett and Abramowski, the two men were approached by new attorneys who have pledged to take their cases back to court in hopes of overturning their convictions.

It would seem that colleagues in the news industry agree. To date, Murder on the Space Coast has won multiple, high profile first place awards including 2017 Florida Press Club, 2018 Society of Professional Journalists, 2017 Florida Bar Media Award and 2019 Florida Society of Newspapers and Editors.

John is a bit stupefied that the information that seemed so obviously — glaringly — wrong to him wasn’t seen the same way by officers, lawyers and judges working the cases. “It feels great to be a part of this. To shine a light on it,” John said.

John says he’s most proud, though, of the 2017 EPPY from Editor and Publisher Magazine, which pitted the Florida Today podcast against submissions from industry giants such as NY Times and numerous California news organizations.

John, who also happens to write the music for the podcasts, clearly has warmed up to idea of podcasts. Murder on the Space Coast has been downloaded 1 million times by listeners all over the globe, and it looks like there’s no end in sight because there will always be another case to examine, another reason to take a second look. “I love my job and I’ll keep doing it for as long as they keep paying me to do it,” John said. • OCTOBER 2020

BOBBIE DYER, CONTRIBUTING WRITER

Understanding

Mortgages & Marriage Agreement Settlements I’m not an attorney and I don’t give legal advice. But after closing more than 10,000 loans, I’ve witnessed problems clients often have trying to purchase a home after divorce. There are many reasons this can happen, but many are avoidable if the marital settlement agreement includes specific language regarding the distribution of debts, real estate, alimony, and property.

When applying for a loan, lenders will review what debts you are now responsible to pay, whether your credit report has late payments, how long alimony/child support payments will last and the division of assets and liabilities. Here are some considerations to discuss with your attorney:

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When joint debts (such as credit cards) are divided, the creditor name and account number should be specifically defined. For example, instead of stating “VISA credit card,” the actual bank, account number and balance should be clearly stated. If child support and/or alimony are awarded, those payments typically require proof of receipt for six months before they are eligible for consideration as “income” for loan approval. They must also continue at least three years after the closing date on a new loan. If you plan on buying a home and need this income to qualify, it’s better to receive less money per month over

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If any real estate is encumbered by a mortgage, the best practice is to require the spouse retaining ownership to refinance the loan into just their name. By refinancing the loan out of name, your liability ends and the debt and payment are no longer your responsibility. I recommend that all loans be refinanced within six months of the divorce decree; at this time a quit claim deed can be done simultaneously with the loan refinance.

Once the property is solely in your name, you may need to refile for homestead exemption; check with your local property appraiserâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s office for guidance about this.

a longer period of time. For example, instead of alimony set at $5,000 per month for two years, stretch those payments to $2,500 per month over four years to meet the three-year requirement.

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Property distribution payments are not considered qualifying income for a home loan, regardless of how long payments will be received. Both spouses will have their future credit report negatively affected by any late payments on open joint accounts incurred during the marriage. Even if the settlement agreement orders one spouse to pay a debt, the creditor will report all late payments to both partyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s credit report. This can have a long-lasting and detrimental effect on your ability to obtain credit, rent or purchase a home, and obtain security clearance. A best practice is to be removed from liability on all joint accounts; this will prevent your credit from being damaged if late payments are made by your ex-spouse. It can also stop future unauthorized charges in your name after the divorce is finalized. Regardless of the settlement agreement, the creditor can come after both parties for payment if you are listed jointly on the account. This may well lead to costly litigation to hold the ex-spouse responsible for payment and will likely damage your credit report for as long as seven years.

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Divorces are difficult enough without adding the additional stress as a result of misunderstandings or vague terms that negatively affect all parties for years. The best practice is to have a clearly written agreement that addresses all financial matters. An experienced attorney can guide you and make sure your interests are protected and will reach out and consult with finance or accounting professionals if further clarification is needed or to structure an agreement that addresses all issues. Once finalized both parties can move on, avoid future litigation and stay out of the courtroom!

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Part of a sometimes-series on interesting things about the Space Coast By Maya Mojica, Contributing Writer

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BIRDING ON THE SPACE COAST

A Partial Primer to

What’s Up

f there’s one thing the Space Coast doesn’t lack, it’s beachfront access. And with all those miles of coastline (over 72, to be exact), it’s no surprise that so many different species of birds take flight above the sand. And, though we’re probably all far too familiar with the squawk of a seagull, those gulls certainly aren’t the only thing flapping through our skies: from Sandpipers to Great Blue Herons, there’s an abundance of other species flying above some of the coast’s most scenic spots. And though birds are not always welcome companions, they are a delight to watch floating on a lazy breeze or dive-bombing for their lunch.

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the United States, and not Australia. Although they typically nest in trees, Brown Pelicans get their meals, which primarily consist of fish, from the ocean. Their taste for seafood explains their signature aerial dive, where the bird tucks its head under its features and plunges under the waves. But watch out fishermen, Brown Pelicans have been known to steal and can often be spotted loitering near boats and piers.

Great Blue Heron The Great Blue Heron looks exactly like it sounds: great and blue. Well, not exactly. The term “blue” might be a little more accurately described as a “greyish light blue.” The bird, known scientifically as Ardea herodias, typically lives in marshland, but can still be found in the vast majority of North America. The Blue Heron exudes a sort of regal quality — they’re often seen

Sandpiper If you’ve ever gone to the beach on the Space Coast, you’ve probably seen a Sandpiper, although you might not have known its name. These small, beige birds come in many varieties and individual species, including the Pectoral Sandpiper, the Spotted Sandpiper and the Semipalmated Sandpiper, with some species being more endangered than others. However, what these species all have in common is that they reside along the shoreline and feast on small aquatic invertebrates. Sandpipers also spend a lot of time running — their long legs help bring them from worm to crustacean as they search for food along the shore.

Brown Pelican You may think you know the Brown Pelican, also known as Pelecanus occidentalis, from the classic movie “Finding Nemo.” But in real life, Brown Pelicans reside in the U.S. Virgin Islands, Puerto Rico and the eastern coast of

standing tall and still as they watch for fish, their meal of choice. But when it comes time to strike, the Blue Heron does not hold back. A very specially shaped neck vertebrae allows the bird to lunge for its prey swiftly and from a considerable distance.

Seagull Like it or not, we all know the seagull. Chances are, you’ve hidden french fries from a gull who flew too close for comfort. There are lots of species of seagulls — here in Florida, though, the most common is the Ring-billed Gull, also known as Larus delawarensis. This gull is small, covered in white and grey feathers, except around the tips of its wings, which are black. It is unsurprising that these birds tend to gather anywhere where a human might be. Although they are Omnivores, Ring-billed Bulls won’t say no to anything tasty and easy to access, a nod to their reputation as “fry-stealers”. In some cases, when a parking lot or garbage dump proves to be particularly appetizing, some scavenger seagulls live their lives separated from the sea entirely. 106 104

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WEEKEND. Space Coast Magazines, LLC, publishers of Space Coast Living, Space Coast Business and Discover the Space Coast, among others, is seeking experienced, motivated sales agents for magazine, digital, and cross platform sales. Must be self-motivated, must have own transportation, and must have proven track record of developing leads and closing sales. Compensation determined by experience. Spanish a plus.

*BRING IN THIS AD AND SAVE $15 OFF ANY $50 OR MORE PURCHASE. Discount valid on full retail price of Richard’s Paint labeled products only and cannot be combined with sale, markdown, promotional discounted items, closeouts or on previous purchases. Discount not valid toward shipping or sales tax. Company reserves the right to limit quantities. Any return of purchase will reduce your savings proportionately. No cash value. COUPON EXPIRES DECEMBER 30, 2020. AVAILABLE AT THESE STORES RICHARD’S PAINT STORES ACE TITUSVILLE

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SPACE COAST MAGAZINES IS GROWING AGAIN

Help Us

Welcome Two New Hires

Space Coast Magazines is thrilled to announce the employment of two new hires, Sarah de la Hoz, who will act as Sales Manager and Tracy McCaffrey, who will act as Production Manager and Art Director. NEW

growth of Space Coast Living and Space Coast Business magazines and looking forward to connecting with our base of existing and prospective clients to continue or help develop long-term and strategic relationships,” she said. SarahD@spacecoastmagazines.com

Sarah de la Hoz Sarah has made a big commitment to our company by relocating to the Space Coast from her Tampa-area home. She has experience in account management, business development, contract negotiation, sales cycle & client retention, new market penetration, stakeholder relationships & marketing campaigns.

I have only recently met Sarah but feel like I’ve reconnected with a long-lost relative. We have forged a strong bond in friendship and fellowship and are in touch daily about clients, driving business forward, identifying new opportunities and I’m helping her learn about her new home on the Space Coast.

Sarah is energetic and approachable, loves the beach and can be seen riding around town in her sleek black Jeep.

Tracy McCaffrey Tracy is a highly skilled and award-winning graphic designer working remotely for us from her home base in New York City. Tracy has a wealth of experience with design projects and has worked for some very impressive clients including AARP services, Time Inc., Travel + Leisure Golf, American Express and others.

“I am really excited to be part of the rebirth and

NEW

“I’m so excited to join the SCL/ SCB team at such a pivotal time for the publication. I look forward to bringing my expertise to the table and reigniting my love for the Sunshine State and all that it has to offer. The future looks bright,” she said. Tracy@spacecoastmagazines.com I have known and worked with Tracy since the 1980s when we were both starting out in the print/publication world. We have collaborated on a number of high-profile projects together and maintained a close and productive relationship over the years. I am glad to be working with her in a production capacity again and am sure you will start to see her design influence on our pages as we continue to tweak and perfect our presentation of stories and concepts.

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LET LIGHT BE.

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DIRECTORY Gatto’s Tires & Auto Service www.gattos.com

Gatto’s Tires & Auto Service is Brevard’s go-to for friendly customer service, leading tire brands and ASE-certified technicians. Started by Mike Gatto in 1971, Gatto’s continues to be a locally owned and operated family business with 6 locations across the county. Whether you have a car, truck, RV or a commercial fleet, Gatto’s is dedicated to providing quality work at an honest price.

Burke Consignment & Gallery

327 N. Babcock St., Melbourne, FL - (321) 917-2815

We offer quality collectibles like Waterford and Lladro, as well as costume and fine jewelry, and original art work. With us, you can find brand name furniture like Drexel, Henredon and Tommy Bahama, that is in such good condition that local interior designers purchase from us. We also buy individual items or whole estates with high-end items, which is a great solution for HOA’s that don’t allow estate sales. “Once You Visit, You’ll Keep Coming Back.” Hours of Operation: Wednesday-Friday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Saturday close at 3:30 p.m.

SPCA of Brevard Thrift Store & Boutique 790 S. Apollo Blvd. Melbourne, FL - (321) 327-8305

When you shop at or donate to SPCA of Brevard Thrift Store & Boutique, you are helping to save the lives of more than 2,600 animals every year. This location features a high-end boutique, including women’s designer fashion, shoes, and purses. Donations are accepted seven days a week and pick up is available for large items.

Q’s Cabinetry, Inc.

340 Cox Rd. Cocoa, FL - (321) 446-8162 Q’s Cabinetry is, simply put, all about the details required for a flawless cabinet and countertop install. This starts with tweaking your plans from your builder or architect. If you do not have plans, we will draw them up for you. During your first visit to Q’s we will discuss your needs and show you how we can accomplish them.

Sunrise Facial and Oral Surgery

1325 Pine Street, Suite 102, Melbourne - (321) 725-5377

Dr. Rick Schmid has been practicing oral and maxillofacial surgery in Melbourne, Florida since 1983. He is one of only two surgeons in Brevard County that has earned Board Certification as a Diplomate of both the American Board of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery and the National Dental Board of Anesthesiology. Sunrise surgeons, Drs. Schmid, Kim, and Kossak practice a full scope of oral and maxillofacial surgery with expertise ranging from corrective jaw surgery, trauma and dental implants to wisdom teeth removal. Website: SunriseOralSurgery.com

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DIRECTORY MI-BOX Space Coast

Melbourne, FL - (321) 500-4344

Locally owned & operated, our goal is to take the stress out of moving. Traditional methods of moving are simply becoming outdated. Don’t cram what should be a few weeks of work into a day. MI-BOX storage containers can be used at home, at the office, during events, at construction sites, during remodeling projects, or anywhere else you need secure, weathertight, convenient storage. MI-BOX portable storage containers come in three convenient sizes so you only rent the space you actually need. We are proud to offer 8’, 16’, and 20’ mobile storage containers. www.getmibox.com

Dental Choice of Melbourne

402 N. Babcock St. Suite 103 Melbourne, FL - (321) 600-4487 At Dental Choice of Melbourne, we will be delighted, if you choose to join our family of happy and satisfied patients. The practice provides full scope of general, cosmetic, and restorative dentistry. Dr. Julia Bunker, New York University graduated, brings to practice over 20 yrs. of experience in dentistry. Come and Meet our caring, knowledgeable, and friendly team.

Sara Hawks Houston State Farm Agency 1950 Viera Blvd. Suite 104, Viera, FL - (321) 425-5444

68a State Farm”

At Sara Hawks Houston State Farm Agency in Viera you will immediately feel the difference! Our local Agency is known for our strong commitment to our clients and to our community. State Farm is proud to be #1 in Auto and Homeowners Insurance in the Country! At our agency we take the time to get to know you, your individual needs, goals and dreams! We then work with you to remove liability risks, protect your assets and help you achieve your financial goals!

Glamour Lounge

635 S. Wickham Suite 101 West Melbourne, FL - (321) 220-0023 The Glamour Lounge is about more than just creating beautiful hair. Our mission is to help you discover your inner glamour and let it shine through. Our team specializes in creating custom-tailored top trending cuts and color for our clients. We believe in sustainable hairdressing and are a Green Circle salon. Hours: Monday 10 am - 3 pm, Tuesday-Thursday 9 am - 8 pm, Friday 9 am - 6 pm and Saturday 9 am - 4 pm.

HydroShield

Frank@hydroshieldspacecoast.com - (321) 301-6007 Keep your home looking new for years to come and protect your investment! In many ways HydroShield is like the case and tempered glass screen cover you buy to protect your $1000 smartphone. That is an investment we would not think twice about. It only makes sense to protect a much larger investment, like the ones we make in our homes. One application creates an ultra durable, easy to clean, stain and bacteria resistant surface.

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Hell ‘n Blazes Brewing Company is Brevard County’s finest craft brewery and GastroPub/Restaurant. HnB brews all beer on premises and there are usually 18 or more different styles to try on any given day. HnB’s beer styles rotate seasonally so there is always something new to try. They maintain a comprehensive wine list as well. Their menu represents local, fresh American-style pub food, made fresh daily. Daily specials round out their menu offerings.

Located waterfront on the beautiful Indian River Lagoon, River Rocks has long been regarded as one of Brevard County’s premier waterfront restaurants. Dinner is served nightly featuring fresh seafood and steaks in the stunning modern dining room with expansive waterfront views. The bar provides a perfect spot for business networking over innovative cocktails or sharing a bottle of wine and appetizers with friends. A delicious ala carte morning brunch menu is served on Saturday and Sundays along with unlimited mimosas and bloody marys. River Rocks specializes in spectacular events of all sizes with multiple private dining options and a personal event coordinator to help plan your occasion.

Hours

Monday 11AM–9PM Tuesday 11AM–10PM Wednesday 11AM–10PM Thursday 11AM–10PM Friday* 11AM–1AM Saturday* 11AM–1AM Sunday 11AM–9PM *Kitchen closes at 11PM

Monday 4PM–9PM Tuesday 4PM–9PM Wednesday 4PM–9PM Thursday 4PM–9PM Friday 4PM–10PM Saturday 4PM–10PM Sunday 4PM–9PM Brunch 8AM-2PM Sat. & Sun.

Monday 11AM–9PM Tuesday 11AM–9PM Wednesday 11AM–9PM Thursday 11AM–9PM Friday 11AM–10PM Saturday 11AM–10PM Sunday 11AM–9PM

Monday 11AM–10PM Tuesday 11AM–10PM Wednesday 11AM–10PM Thursday 11AM–10PM Friday 11AM–11PM Saturday 11AM–11PM Sunday 11AM–10PM

321.821.4052

321.757.7200

772.918.4229

321.757-0142

Location

1002 E New Haven Avenue, Historic Downtown Melbourne, FL 32901

6485 S. US-1 Rockledge, FL

1732 Indian River Drive Sebastian, FL

6485 S. US-1 Rockledge, FL

SPACE COAST LIVING | SPACECOASTLIVING.COM

Watch the fishing boats pull up and unload the day’s catch while enjoying some of the freshest seafood on the coast. Open daily for lunch and dinner, Captain Butcher’s features a large deck overlooking the marina. The happy hour specials at the waterfront bar always draw a crowd and are a local favorite. Inside, the inviting dining room is the perfect spot for a relaxing meal and includes private rooms to accommodate events of all sizes. Come join us!

Open daily for lunch and dinner, The Dock Bar and Grill is the more casual outdoor experience at River Rocks. With a perfect water view and dockage if you come by boat, the Dock features a family friendly menu focused on fresh seafood, sandwiches and salads. The 5,000 square foot covered deck is the perfect place to while away the afternoon or sip cocktails while listening to the area’s best live acoustic entertainers. Locals tend to quickly fill the large outdoor bar for great happy hour specials daily. Sit around the fire pit, feed the catfish off the dock, or pull up a stool on the waterfront boardwalk. The Dock welcomes groups of all sizes, come relax in true Florida style!