#VIERA - A DECADE OF CHANGE
VO L . 1 5 ISSUE 4
ISSN 2688-9331
e c i p S p U
YOUR HOLIDAY TRADITIONS
contents vo l u m e 1 5 : i s s u e 4 PRE SIDENT
Todd Pokrywa VP of Marke ting
Lauri Duda EDITOR
Stephanie Byrd STAFF EDITOR S
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THE PAST DECADE Looking back at the tremendous growth of Viera.
Carmen Vastola, Laurie Widzgowski, Todd Pokrywa, Ben Wilson, Scott Miller SENIOR WRITER S
Lyle Smith, Stephanie Byrd, Maria Sonnenberg, Laurie Widzgowski GUE ST WRITER
Eva Rey DE SIGN
Christina Geiger
IN THIS ISSUE
PHOTOGR APHY
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Cathy Heinz, Stephanie Byrd, Carmen Vastola, Kim Africano
VIERA SUNTREE LITTLE LEAGUE WINS BIG
MULTI-USE PATHS Summary of Brevard County Ordinance 2016-22, which governs golf cart use in the Viera Development of Regional Impact.
Majors State Championship, Juniors Division Southeast Regional trophy obtained with an undefeated tournament effort along with their own state title.
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HOLIDAY FOOD TRADITIONS
The final prep is under way for the greatest show in Viera.
Professional chef culinary secrets and Viera residents share their favorite dishes with ideas for creating new traditions in your family.
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CHANGING LIVES THIS HOLIDAY SEASON With over 3,700 local charities how do you decide? Here's a noteworthy list from our parade sponsors.
LETTER FROM THE EDITOR
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SNAPSHOTS AROUND TOWN
ADVERTISING S ALE S
Stephanie Byrd
FINANCE & ADMINISTR ATION
Shawn O’Keefe, Jennifer Swan LEG AL
Jay Decator, Ben Wilson DISTRIBUTION
Viera Vision is the official publication of Articles and advertisements printed in Viera Vision do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the publisher. The Viera Company and Viera Vision assume no liability for the content and shall not be held liable for any errors or omissions. ©2019. All rights reserved. Any reproduction, in whole or in part, is prohibited without written permission from the publishers.
IN EVERY ISSUE
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The Viera Company
Don Gust, All Service Graphics
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THE 7TH ANNUAL HOLIDAY PARADE
PUBLISHER
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WHY I LOVE VIERA
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UPCOMING EVENTS
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DEVELOPER LETTER
VIERA DISCOVERY CENTER 2261 Town Center Ave. #105 The Avenue Viera Viera, Florida 32940 (321) 253-2800
VIERA.com
/VIERAFLORIDA #EXPLOREVIERA /VIERAFLORIDA
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EDITORS LETTER
2020 Vision A decade has passed and when you take a moment to think back I believe you will be surprised at what you find. We have had five Olympic Games in this decade. Yep, the first was in Vancouver in 2010 and once I mention Shawn White’s gold-winning snowboard routine the memories will start to flood back. The iPad was presented to us in January of 2010 and now in 2019 we have so much new tech even our pets can order their own food via the IoT. If you do not know what IoT means then quickly look it up because initialism and acronyms are now being used in everyday conversations and you must catch up (FOMO) before we get into the 20s (IMHO). Over the last decade, the Viera Vision magazine has made every effort to bring you the best stories by local writers on all the changes in Viera. Our staff highlights the advancements in our community and as I personally re-read many of our stories, I am a little taken aback by how much Viera has changed in such a short period of time. When I started working for The Viera Company in 2007, we were opening the Viera Boulevard overpass and today it is our very own named interchange. The magazine has changed too and thanks to such a talented group of people, we can proudly hold up our ADDYŽ Awards and smile. We have a hospital, an annual holiday parade, and more parks and trails than ever before. Our schools continue to achieve great things and the community hosts various events all
WE HAVE A HOSPITAL, AN ANNUAL HOLIDAY PARADE, AND MORE PARKS AND TRAILS THAN EVER BEFORE. year long that are unique, fun and continue to raise more money for various charities and causes with each passing year. By the end of this decade, Viera will have over 27,000 residents and looking ahead to 2020, we are excited about the opening of more restaurants, connector roads for easier travel, additional businesses and services, and new home communities. A lot can happen in a decade and we hope you continue to enjoy the stories on the pages provided as we cover all the exciting community events and changes the new decade brings. Have a very happy holiday and New Year with 2020 vision!
/VIERAVISION
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Legacy Achievements in Viera, Florida
The last decade of the Viera community’s growth has been tremendous. A new business, restaurant, attraction, school or amenity opens each year and no one thing feels smaller or larger than the other but rather part of a large orchestra or masterwork where all the individual parts play a very important role to the entire production. The community is a masterwork of many people all contributing to its success. From a resident who walks their child to school each day, to the veteran who visits his or her doctor at the local VA clinic, the chef behind the scenes at the local restaurant, a teacher at a workshop at the school board offices, a local district representative at a board meeting, or retirees having a fun afternoon watching their grandchild play with their new dog, we all harmoniously work together to live inside of this masterwork within our daily routines. It was not easy to make a condensed list of highlights but we hope to provide a fun walk down memory lane and recall all these achievements over the last 10 years that make so many of us proud to call Viera home. 4
Elan Builders model home in 2016 at Modern Duran
2010s A Decade of Change for #Viera
2010: 1) VHS Graduation Ceremony 2) Fire Station 48 Ribbon Cutting; 3) Little League Champs; 4) Viera Hospital Contruction.
2011: 1) Viera Charter School Ground Breaking; 2) Duran Golf Clubhouse; 3) Tree Top Trek.
2010s - #VIERA
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2010
Nearly 20K people in Viera, fire station 48 opens and the first car dealership, Lexus of Melbourne, opens.
2011
100-bed Viera Hospital opens with a large firework show, debut of the Scarecrow Stroll and Harvest Festival, the Art of Sand at the Space Coast Stadium, Tree Top Trek opens at the Brevard Zoo, and A. Duda & Sons plants 85 trees in Viera for 85 years of business in Florida.
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#VIERA - 2010s
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2012
Publix opens their first hybrid store in Viera, the Washington Nationals (still at Space Coast Stadium for Spring Training) win the National League East Championships, the infrastructure for the Viera Builders’ neighborhood of Strom Park begins, and the Art Gallery of Viera has its first opening night gala.
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2012: 1 &2) 7 am Publix Grand Opening; 3) Space Coast Stadium; 4) Strom Park Neighborhood Jet Fountain.
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2013: 1) Arrivas Village: Cabrera model at night; 2) Viera Discovery Center Ribbon Cutting; 3) Wickham Road Widening; 4) Light Up Viera. 2014: 1) Grand Openings; 2) Linear Park Opening; 3) Meerkats at the Brevard Zoo.
2010s - #VIERA
2013
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The Viera Discovery Center opens at Shoppes Drive, welcoming visitors to the community, Viera has its fourth neighborhood sign erected on Stadium Parkway, Wickham Road widening begins, Viera Manor opens, the neighborhoods of Arrivas Village and Stadium Villas break ground, Viera Charter School opens, popular restaurants Bonefish Grill and Longdoggers take reservations, and the year ends with the first annual Light Up Viera holiday parade.
2014
Viera celebrates its 25th year with nearly 22K residents, 8,500 jobs and 240 businesses. New businesses in the area include TJ Maxx, HomeGoods, Dunkin’ Donuts and Crest Cleaners with Slow & Low BBQ breaking ground on their second restaurant in Brevard. The first 10-mile race called Excalibur hosts 1,300 participants and the Brevard Zoo’s Meerkat Exhibit opens to rave reviews.
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#VIERA - 2010s
Duran Golf Club hosts the National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA) Mens Division 1 National Championship tournament. Local races like the Eat My Crust 5K raise additional funds for local charities and 20K for the athletic department at Viera High School. New neighborhoods breaking ground are Bridgewater, Seville, Kerrington, Reeling Park, Trasona Cove East and West, Modern Duran and Adelaide.
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2015
In the center of this decade we see how the students at Viera High School are making themselves known across the state in various athletic championships and academic circles. During this year they will win their 5th Cape Coast Conference Championship, 10 FHSAA district and 4 regional championships, 1 FHSAA Team State Championship (girls soccer) and 1 FHSAA Team State Runner-Up (football) with several more individual FHSAA sport titles.
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2015: 1) VHS Hawks Nation; 2) Pet Smart Opens; 3) Addison Village Dog Park Opens. 2016; 1) Viera Builders Kerrington - Arezzo II; 2) Marisol Apartments Clubhouse and Pool.
2016
2017: 1) Fairfield Inn and Suites Ground Breaking; 2) Lake Bromley Trail; 3) Resident at the St. John the Evangelist dedication.; 4) World Trade Center Beam; 5) LifeStyle Homes St. Martin Model in Valencia. 6) Manatee Elementary Blue Ribbon Award; 7) USSSA Groundbreaking Ceremonhy.
2010s - #VIERA
2017
Viera is ranked 24th on the John Burns Real Estate Consulting list of top 100 best-selling masterplanned communities. United States Specialty Sports Association (USSSA) breaks ground along with the new Fairfield Inn and Suites, Viera Del Mar, and Artisan at Viera (formally known as Artistry at Viera). Work begins on the diverging diamond interchange at future I95 Interstate Exit 193. A portion of an I-beam recovered from the World Trade Center is installed inside a reflecting garden at The Avenue Viera, Hurricane Irma makes landfall, and Manatee Elementary School is named a National Blue Ribbon School. A new neighborhood named Valencia is on the map, restaurants First Watch and El Leoncito offer more dining choices to residents and Viera Children’s Academy expands to serve 284 students. We had a solar eclipse, the Florida Autism Society opens a new office in Viera East and St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church expands with a new 1050-seat sanctuary.
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#VIERA - 2010s
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2018
Todd Pokrywa is the new President of The Viera Company and the community continues to grow and change in new and exciting ways. Duran joins the Audubon Co-Op Sanctuary Program and the first Falcon Heavy rocket is launched from historical pad 39A at Kennedy Space Center. A new supermarket is coming to Viera named Earth Fare, the Viera Regional Park gets a 6 million dollar investment upgrade with AstroturfŽ on several fields, and USSSA hosts the Women’s Baseball World Cup. The Avenue Viera installs a new pop-jet fountain for families of all ages and everyone enjoys their newly designed Central Park outdoor venue area.
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2018: 1) Todd Pokrywa is President of The Viera Company; 2) SpaceX Falcon Heavy; 3) Blaze Pizza; 4) Duran's Audubon Co-op Sanctuary Program.
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2019: 1) Viera Town Center Playground; 2) Tours During the Viera Wetlands Nature Festival; 3) 30 Year Anniversary Proclamation at Brevard County Goverment Offices; 4) 28 North Gastropub Grand Opening.
2010s - #VIERA
2019
By the last year of the decade we see more stores, more amenities and many large-scale transportation projects completed. The interchange at Interstate I95, Exit 193 Viera Blvd., is now open with the eagle nest still visible from points along the overpass. Viera Town Center reveals its dog park and playground with a first event. A new supermarket named Earth Fare opens its doors along with Urban Air Adventure Park, 28 North Gastropub, Centre Pointe Apartments, and several other stores along Lake Andrew Drive. Before the year is finished we will see more infrastructure developed on the corner of Viera Blvd. and Stadium Parkway, a groundbreaking for a new elementary school, and a new 7-Eleven convenience station will open near the Viera Regional Park, along with three new dental offices, two storage facilities, and a new amenity center called Addison Village Club built for the residents of Addison Village. On August 20th, The Viera Company accepted an official proclamation on their 30 year anniversary (August 4th) by the Brevard County Board of County Commissioners for their continued contribution to the local area and the county as a whole. Viera now is home to over 27,000 residents, 12,000 homes, 725 businesses and remains on the top 25 list of bestselling master planned communities in the country.
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“Viera, celebrating 30 years since its groundbreaking, is not only recognized as a premier location to live, work, play, learn and worship in Florida but is also consistently ranked as one of the top master planned communities in the nation. Such accomplishments are not possible without countless hours of cooperation and collaboration with many stakeholders including Brevard County Government, Brevard Public Schools, major employers, small business owners and residents as well as the efforts of the hardworking and dedicated employees at The Viera Company, the support of their families, and the faith and commitment of the Duda family,” said Todd Pokrywa, President of The Viera Company. 11
Multi-Use Paths Summary of Brevard County Ordinance 2016-22, which governs golf cart use in the Viera Development of Regional Impact (Viera DRI). » Carts must be equipped with brakes, steering, safe tires, rearview mirror, and red reflectors on both front and rear of the cart. When operated by an unlicensed driver, the cart must also have a horn. » Golf carts cannot be driven between sunset and sunrise unless they are equipped with headlights, brake lights, turn signals, and a windshield. Headlights must be on during sunset and sunrise and must also be on during conditions of rain, smoke, or fog. » All golf carts must also follow all state and county traffic regulations.
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» A golf cart may only transport as many passengers as the golf cart was designed to carry. » Golf carts are not allowed to cross over/under I-95 on Viera Boulevard or Wickham Road. » Legal driving age for a golf cart is 14. » No carts are permitted outside of the Viera DRI on any road/street, sidewalk, or multi-use trail unless Brevard County has designated such for the use and operation of golf carts. » Within the Viera DRI, golf carts are allowed on the designated multi-use
trails and are allowed in the drive lanes on all roads/streets with a designated speed limit of 30mph or less. Golf carts are NOT allowed in the drive lanes of the following roadways: Murrell Road, Stadium Parkway, Tavistock Drive, Judge Fran Jamieson Way, Lake Andrew Drive, Viera Boulevard, Wickham Road, Pineda Causeway. » Golf carts can only cross roadways at signalized intersections and designated pedestrian crossings, yielding to pedestrians and all handicapped/ disabled mobility aids.
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2019 LIGHT UP VIERA - THE PARADE
Making Holiday Memories
There’s nothing quite like a parade to bring out the best in a community. The floats, marching bands, walking units, and special appearances by local police, fire and first responder units provide all the best elements showcased into one evening. The planning for the 7th Annual Light Up Viera holiday parade started in January; the final weeks of coordinating are wrapping up and it looks to be a fantastic show.
MARCHING AND MEETINGS
“THE MARCHING BANDS ARE ALWAYS CONTACTED FIRST. I WANT TO MAKE SURE WE GIVE EACH SCHOOL PLENTY OF TIME TO ACCEPT OUR REQUEST FOR PARTICIPATION,” SAID LAURIE WIDZGOWSKI, EVENT AND MARKETING COORDINATOR FOR THE VIERA COMPANY AND SECRETARY OF THE VIERA COMMUNITY INSTITUTE. It can be difficult for band directors to commit their schools to performing in a parade because it involves scheduling with students and parents, transportation arrangements, rehearsals, and permissions. If they want to extend the invitation to their dance or flag teams the group naturally grows larger with more cost and coordination. The parade organizers and members of the board at the Viera Community Institute did not want the cost burden of either transportation or uniform cleaning to become a reason not to participate in Light Up Viera. Each school is provided with a donation to its program for participation that supports each of these two elements. The donation in some cases has been used to refresh and replace uniforms altogether. Each year the sponsors and participants are contacted and a meeting is scheduled so they can learn the route, event day expectations and general event safety. As a key meeting with the Brevard Sheriff ’s office, all those that are involved in the parade are informed of safe event procedures. Participants also get a chance to ask questions and the parade team shares any special announcements.
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PARADE HISTORY
“I LOVE EVERYTHING ABOUT CHRISTMAS. EVERYTHING FROM THE LIGHTS AND DECORATIONS TO THE TWINKLE IN THE CHRISTMAS TREES. ALL THE SMELLS FROM A BALSAM TREE TO THE HOLIDAY BAKING OF COOKIES, PIES AND CAKES,” SAID LAURI DUDA, VICE PRESIDENT OF MARKETING AT THE VIERA COMPANY AND PRESIDENT OF THE VIERA COMMUNITY INSTITUTE.
As much as the event has grown over the years, the inaugural Light Up Viera Parade was no small task for the organizers. Thousands of people lined the longer, 3.5 mile parade route in 2013 to cheer the 24 professionally decorated and lighted floats, two marching bands, 6 walking units and 3 camels as they marched down the streets and celebrated the holiday season in front of the community. The first year the original idea for the parade was the theme. Everyone was encouraged to attend the holiday pops concert performed by the Brevard Symphony Orchestra immediately following the parade at Space Coast Stadium. But annual events have their own set of challenges and nothing is more difficult than deciding on a theme. The Tournament of Roses Parade has had over 90 themes and Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade was originally the Big Christmas Parade organized by a small group of Macy’s employees. A theme must be broad enough to excite but yet easy to convey within a holiday parade. The Light Up Viera holiday parade has had five themes and it all started with the Moments of Magic theme in 2015.
THE PARADE - 2019 LIGHT UP VIERA
very important part of almost every traditional holiday and in every culture a single dish or meal can be magical. For Lauri Duda the memories that stand out most are when she grew up as a child in Florida. “I’ve lived in Florida my whole life. When I was a child, every Christmas Eve we would travel from South Florida (Belle Glade) to Oviedo to celebrate Christmas with my grandparents.” For her family Christmas was really celebrated on Christmas Eve. “We opened our Christmas presents on Christmas Eve before sitting down to have sauerkraut and sausage as our traditional holiday meal.” Carmen Vastola, Supervisor at the Viera Discovery Center, fondly recalls her past holiday celebrations. “My most magical Christmas memories are centered on family activities: a sing-along with the musically talented members of the family playing piano and guitar, baking and decorating the types of cookies one makes only at Christmas, and sitting down to enjoy a special meal with lots of family, the kind of meal we’ve traditionally served over and over through the years.”
SHOWMANSHIP
INSPIRATIONAL MEMORIES
“WHEN WE FIRST BEGAN THINKING ABOUT THE THEME FOR THIS YEAR’S PARADE, ONE OF THE FIRST THINGS THAT CAME TO MIND WAS OUR INDIVIDUAL CHRISTMAS MEMORIES,” SAID WIDZGOWSKI.
Widzgowski says her family’s celebration of Christmas began each year by attending service on Christmas Eve. “Christmas morning was filled with an early morning of excitement to see what Santa had left and eventually breakfast. In the early afternoon we would travel to see relatives and celebrate with our traditional holiday foods and desserts,” she said. Toys are obviously what smaller children remember most but as they grow the stronger images of family and food emerge. Food is a
“AFTER THE SECOND YEAR WE WANTED TO ADD ELEMENTS OF SPECTATOR FUN. PARADES DURING THE HOLIDAYS MUST HAVE MUSIC AND COSTUMES BECAUSE THERE ARE SO MANY STRONG TRADITIONAL CHARACTERS TO BRING TO THE MAGIC OF THESE MOMENTS,” SAID STEPHANIE BYRD, MARKETING MANAGER AT THE VIERA COMPANY AND EDITOR OF THE VIERA VISION MAGAZINE.
New costumes in 2015 included snowmen, nutcrackers, snowflakes, stars, cupcakes, and candy canes. For the next two years, homemade costumes included reindeer, Christmas trees, angels and ugly sweaters. Sponsors started getting more creative with their floats too. Viera Builders, Fairway Management and East Coast Christian Center have all made elements to attach to the floats to bring their own personality to the parade. Lauri Duda and Sylvia and John Kirchel from Vintage Venue made a one-of-akind Santa’s workshop float in 2018.
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2019 LIGHT UP VIERA - THE PARADE
The start of the parade is coordinated with the Oak Tree lighting at the Wickham Road roundabout. The parade route makes a large loop from Viera High School off Stadium Parkway, west down Veterans Way and then right onto Breslay Drive. Then the parade turns right onto Tavistock Drive, right again onto Viera Blvd before making the final right to return back to Viera
“THE COOLEST ITEM (HANDED OUT ALONG THE PARADE ROUTE) OVER THE YEARS WAS THE LIGHTED BALLOONS BY PUZZLE BOX ACADEMY. THEY WERE JUST BEAUTIFULLY GLOWING ALONG THE PARADE ROUTE.” Companies are allowed to hand out approved items along the parade route but not throw candy. “We want to keep it safe for everyone. We do not want to have any spectators injured by flying candy or giveaway items,” said Byrd. “The coolest item over the years was the lighted balloons handed out by Puzzle Box Academy. They were just beautifully glowing along the parade route.”
FAVORITE MOMENTS When asked about an element they like the most each of our interviewees said something different. For Lauri Duda it is the early planning stages, working with her team, and days covered in glitter from the latest prop or costume. She enjoys digging into the creative elements and finding ways to create original pieces with the lights. The event coordinator, Laurie Widzgowski, enjoys the excitement from participants planning their elements and exploring new ways to add fun and innovative details to the event. Laurie starts researching, making calls, and interviewing new acts in the spring in order to prebook some of the talent. Carmen Vastola enjoys the holiday music. “For me, the holiday music that fills the air during the parade brings me joy! I love carolers, and the sounds of people all joining in to sing a holiday classic like Deck the Halls is thrilling. Christmas has officially begun!” Stephanie Byrd likes the hour right before the fireworks and the parade begins. The excitement for her is like “being backstage” before a show because the spectators are ready, floats are ready, and the marching bands are pacing - ready to start their performance.
THE MAIN EVENT
“KEEP AN EYE OUT FOR EXCITING FEATURES THAT ARE DEBUTING IN THE PARADE THIS YEAR SUCH AS ACROBATIC AND SYNCHRONIZED ROUTINES, SWIRLING LIGHTS AND OTHER ‘UNIVERSAL STUDIOS PARADE’ CALIBER SURPRISES,” SAID WIDZGOWSKI. 16
High School off Stadium Parkway (see map opposite page). In addition to the traditional elements that have appeared each year, of lighted floats, marching bands, walking and dancing units, and fireworks that fill the sky, the seventh annual parade is expected to draw more than 20,000 spectators, 1,000 participants, hundreds of volunteers and a few special surprises before the arrival of Santa Claus and his sleigh at the end of the parade. So as the Light Up Viera holiday parade approaches, they hope that you not only get to continue to include this event as part of your holiday traditions, but that you make new memories with family and friends in the process of being part of this annual community event in Viera. For more information on the Light Up Viera holiday parade be sure to visit VieraCommunityInstitute.com or follow the Viera Community Institute Facebook page for the latest updates.
2019 PARADE ROUTE VIERA BLVD
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Manatee Elementary
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VETERANS ET TERAN WAY Santa Letter Writing Station
Food Trucks
Calvary Chapel
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Space Coast Stadium
VETERANS WAY
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Calvary Chapel
FELLOWSHIP PL
Please park in designated areas only. Parking
STADIUM PKWY
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Participants Only)
Food Trucks iiHeart Emcee m & Me Media Areas 1
George
1240 AM
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99.3 FM
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Wingnut W 95.1 FM
Portable Restrooms Portable Restrooms Trash Receptacles
Viera High School
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Fireworks
JUDGE FRAN JAMIESON WAY Learn more about this year’s Parade and download this map at LightUpViera.com
DURAN GOLF CLUB
1 Government Center
2019 LIGHT UP VIERA - SCHEDULE
WEEKEND TIMELINE:
Event Schedule PARADE START & FINISH:
PARKING:
Viera High School 6130 Stadium Parkway The parade route will make a loop from Viera High School to Veterans Way to Breslay Drive around Tavistock Drive to Viera Boulevard back to Viera High School.
» Government Center » School Board » Viera High School (Sponsors & Parade Participants Only) » Calvary Chapel » Manatee Elementary
Thursday, November 28th THANKSGIVING DAY Enjoy the day with family and friends. Saturday, November 30th LIGHT UP VIERA HOLIDAY PARADE 4:30 PM: Find your spot to view the magical parade. 5:00 PM: Roads begin closing. Details on FB/VieraCommunityInstitute. Have dinner and dessert from one of the fabulous food trucks at Calvary Chapel. 6:00 PM: Look to the sky for the spectacular fireworks display. 6:10 PM: Light Up Viera Holiday Parade Begins!
SPECIALTY FLOAT SPONSOR
We Wish You And Your Loved Ones A Safe And Happy Holiday Season! GOD Bless And MERRY CHRISTMAS ANGEL
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BANDS - 2019 LIGHT UP VIERA
Marching Bands
VIERA HIGH SCHOOL VIERA H.S. MARCHING HAWKS MR. NICK EGGEN, BAND DIRECTOR
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2019 LIGHT UP VIERA - BANDS
ROCKLEDGE HIGH SCHOOL RHS RAIDER REGIMENT MR. STEVEN JOHNSON, BAND DIRECTOR
SATELLITE HIGH SCHOOL SATELLITE H.S. MARCHING SCORPIONS MR. PATRICK PHILLIPS, BAND DIRECTOR
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SPECIALTY FLOAT SPONSOR
Wishing You All The Best This Holiday Season And Throughout The Year! UGLY SWEATER
SPECIALTY FLOAT SPONSOR
Wishing you a joyful season
Making Holiday Memories followed by a bright new year. WINTER WONDERLAND
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2019 LIGHT UP VIERA - BANDS
MERRITT ISLAND HIGH SCHOOL MIHS MARCHING MUSTANGS MR. BEN GERRARD, BAND DIRECTOR
ASTRONAUT HIGH SCHOOL AHS WAR EAGLE MARCHING BAND MR. CHRISTOPHER RODRIGUEZ, BAND DIRECTOR
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SPECIALTY FLOAT SPONSOR
May Your Holidays Be Filled With Happiness, Health, Good Cheer MILITARY
y And The Warmth Of Family!
SPECIALTY FLOAT SPONSOR
Wishing You A Joyous Holiday Season And A New Year Filled With Peace And Happiness. TOY SOLDIER
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The Viera Community Institute would like to thank Ron Norris Buick GMC Honda Dealerships and Everglades Farm Equipment for signiďŹ cant contributions to the Light Up Viera
In its 6th consecutive year of participation, Ron Norris Buick GMC Honda provided drivers and trucks to safely pull the lighted oats along the parade route.
For the 7th consecutive year, Everglades Equipment worked behind the scenes providing transportation extremely valuable to staff and volunteers.
G Charitable
iving
There’s something extra special about giving during the holiday season.
It is a time when many local charities hope to have enough donations to fund their operations and giving during the next calendar year. Brevard County has an estimated 3,739 nonprofit charitable organizations - so how do you decide? We asked our parade sponsors to provide a list of local organizations that they find to be exceptional, unique, or noteworthy this holiday season. Generous donations of time cannot be undervalued either. For many, the act of volunteering in ways that provide a gift of labor, knowledge, or mentorship has a value that goes beyond the balance sheet. It changes lives.
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ALTHOUGH THERE ARE MANY, WE CONTRIBUTE THE MOST TO DANAFARBER CANCER INSTITUTE FOR CANCER RESEARCH. I RAN THE BOSTON MARATHON LAST YEAR TO RAISE MONEY FOR THEM AND I WILL BE DOING IT AGAIN IN 2020. - Thomas Dillon, Fairway Management » Dana-Farber Cancer Institute for Cancer Research » American Cancer Society » Viera High School/Back the Track
WE FOCUS ON A FEW YOUTH ORGANIZATIONS EACH YEAR, ESPECIALLY DURING THE HOLIDAYS LIKE KIDS WITHOUT CHRISTMAS, AMIKIDS, AND THE ECKERD YOUTH ALTERNATIVE FOUNDATION. - Don Gust, All Service Graphics, Inc. » To Write Love On Her Arms » Brevard Humane Society » United Veterans » Promise of Brevard » The Visiting Nurses Association
SINCE 2015, THE EMPLOYEES OF FLORIDA CITY GAS WORK WITH THE UNITED WAY OF BREVARD AND HAVE DONATED OVER $42,000. THE EMPLOYEES DONATE THROUGH PAYROLL DEDUCTION OR FUNDRAISING EVENTS ON THEIR OWN. IT IS SOMETHING WE ARE ALL VERY PROUD OF EACH YEAR. - Logan Hausler, Florida City Gas » United Way of Brevard
WE HAVE AN ANNUAL ADOPTION DAY EVENT TO HELP THE BREVARD HUMANE SOCIETY AND CONTRIBUTE TO THEIR LOCAL ORGANIZATION. - Ian Birkbeck, Island Animal Hospital » Brevard Humane Society
WE ENJOY HELPING TRIAD’S SENIOR SANTA PROGRAM THIS TIME OF YEAR. IT MEANS A LOT TO US TO HELP THESE SENIORS WITH A SPECIAL GIFT DURING THE HOLIDAYS.
WE WANT TO HELP TRANSFORM THE LIVES OF THE KIDS AT AMIKIDS SPACE COAST. IT IS POWERFUL WHAT WE CAN ALL DO TO HELP CHANGE THE WAY KIDS WILL VIEW THEIR FUTURE.
- Jill Gaines, Viera Voice » Devereux » Family Promise of Brevard » Endeavor Elementary » TRIAD’s Senior Santa Program
- Julie and Don Herndon, Classic Wood Flooring » AMIKids Space Coast
THE AVENUE VIERA HAS THE UNIQUE OPPORTUNITY TO PROVIDE A LOCATION FOR AN EVENT ALONG WITH SUPPORTING ORGANIZATIONS LIKE THE ST. BALDRICK’S FOUNDATION. - Michelle Bujold, The Avenue Viera » Friends of the Children of Brevard » St. Baldrick’s Foundation » American Cancer Society » American Heart Association
TOYS FOR TOTS IS A WONDERFUL WAY TO GIVE BACK TO LOCAL FAMILIES THIS HOLIDAY SEASON AND WE ENJOY BEING A DROP OFF POINT FOR THE COLLECTION. - Christina Bosley, Viera Storage Co. » Toys For Tots
WE APPRECIATE THE OPPORTUNITY TO HIGHLIGHT SOME OF THE ORGANIZATIONS WE ARE PROUD TO SUPPORT SUCH AS BREVARD SCHOOL FOUNDATION, AGING MATTERS IN BREVARD AND KICK OFF FOR KIDS. - Linda Brandt, BRC & Co. » Brevard Cultural Alliance » Brevard Schools Foundation » Hospice of St. Francis Foundation » Aging Matters » Keep Brevard Beautiful » Kick Off For Kids
MOVE FOR HUNGER IS A POWERFUL WAY FOR US TO ALIGN OUR BUSINESS WITH A LOCAL NEED. WE GATHER BOXES OF CANNED GOODS WHILE OUR CUSTOMERS ARE DOING THEIR PACK OUTS. - Stephen Brand, Brand Transfer and Storage Co. » Brevard Zoo » Move For Hunger » Viera Suntree Little League » Rockledge Little League
WE ENJOY GIVING TO THE VETERAN’S OUTPATIENT CLINIC AND RAISING MONEY, CLOTHING AND SCHOOL SUPPLIES NEEDED FOR A FEW OF THE FAMILIES AT ENDEAVOR ELEMENTARY THAT ARE FACING DIFFICULT TIMES. - Dr. Julie Cady, Viera Charter School » WESH 2 Share Your Christmas Food Drive » Brevard Sharing Center » ASPCA » Cocoa SPCA » Brevard Rescue Mission » Brevard Zoo » Sea Turtle Rescue » Hurricane Relief for Puerto Rico » Hurricane Relief to Florida Panhandle » Veterans Outpatient Clinic » Endeavor Elementary
Giving back to the community continues to be a strong tradition for many local businesses in Brevard and residents are also proud to donate time, resources, funding and labor to these charitable causes. For more information on local 501(c)3 organizations and the Florida Philanthropic Network contact Community Foundation for Brevard at CFBrevard.org. 27
Viera Suntree Little Leaguers Capture Hearts and Titles The Viera Suntree Little League delivered on a great deal of promise this year, giving the community something to shout about with a Majors State Championship and Juniors Division Southeast Regional trophy captured with an undefeated tournament effort, in addition to their own state title. In recognition of their efforts, the Brevard County Commission unanimously passed a resolution honoring the teams’ accomplishments during the 2019 All-Star season. The resolution specifically congratulates players, coaches, and parents for their success in winning the state championship, while calling out the teams’ outstanding play across state, regional and World Series competition. Families, fans and community supporters alike followed both teams throughout their championship seasons in person and online as they both captured their 28
state titles in July to advance to the Southeast Regional Tournament held the first week in August. JUNIORS CAPTURE REGIONAL TROPHY The Juniors, made up of Aaron Brand, Luke Campbell, Lucas Glendinning, Apollos Horrell, Luc Iten, Dylan Jordan, Logan Keith, Luke McDonough, Cameron Ruston, Cameron Simpkins, Cole Smith, Blake Strode, Brycen Weeks and Camden Wicker, managed by Jason Allen and coached by John Glendinning and Dustin Keith, played an undefeated State Tournament scoring a total of 46 runs against their opposition.
That performance carried them on to the Southeast Regional tournament of the Little League World Series in Virginia where they went undefeated against Georgia (118), North Carolina (7-1), Tennessee (127), and finally South Carolina (16-1) in the championship game. That victory carried the team on to the U.S. final played in Taylor, Michigan, where, playing against California, they came up just one victory short of a national title. MAJORS WIN STATE CROWN The Majors division tread a similar path this season winning the Florida state title with a 10-0 shutout victory against Plant City. That victory took the Majors team onto their Southeast Regional Tournament played in Warner Robins,
Georgia, where they played to a 2-2 record. The players and coaches celebrated their success this season, but as you might expect, are all looking forward to another shot at bigger and better things next season as well. The players aboard the state champion majors are Izzy Birru, Robbie Caruso, Micah Cheatham, Brennan Confreda, Finn Goldinger, Dominic Leoni, Evan Lipski, Austin Marshall, Colton Marshall, Deaglan McBride, Mikey Minarik, Jonah Peacock and Brandon Reiter and managed by Russell Cheatham. The Southeast Region includes Florida, Alabama, Georgia, North and South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia and West Virginia and is one of the eight regional organizations that send local winning teams to the Little League World Series every year.
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HOLIDAY - TRADITIONS
Holiday Menu
Green Bean Casserole
This is a tale of love, persistence, passion and heritage. This is the story of holiday meals. Beloved and, yes, often maligned holiday standards such as marshmallow-laden sweet potato casserole and green bean casserole, stuffing, pumpkin pie, relish tray, mulled wine and even that uncontested star of the show, the turkey, each feature a fascinating back story. Consider the unlikely tuber-intensive highlight of many a Thanksgiving dinner, the sweet potato casserole. Sweet potatoes have been popular well before the New World was a gleam in Columbus’ eye, and candied sweet potato recipes in the United States were so abundant that even George Washington Carver had his own favorite. But sweet potatoes and marshmallows? We can thank Cracker Jack for that marriage of gooey convenience. Angelus Marshmallows, makers of Cracker Jack, presented America with the glory of mass-produced marshmallows in 1907. Not surprisingly, America initially was underwhelmed, so to drum up business, the company enlisted the help of Janet McKenzie Hill, founder of the Boston Cooking
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School Magazine, to whip up a cookbook featuring marshmallow recipes, and among these was, you guessed it, the sweet potato casserole. Why is this even a thing, much less a Thanksgiving staple? Love is blind, it seems. Perseverance was in order when in 1955 Campbell’s Soup Company nutritionist Dorcas Reilly concocted the idea of combining green beans, canned mushroom soup and milk, with canned fried onions for visual appeal into that dish we love to hate, the green bean casserole. The recipe was originally intended for one of the little recipe folders food companies once routinely printed to inspire home cooks and weekend chefs. The story goes that Campbell’s execs weren’t originally that keen on it, but the nutritionist persisted, and the rest is history. Reilly had the last laugh,
since her ultimate comfort food recipe was inducted into the National Inventors Hall of Fame in 2002 and, even 66 years later, 40 percent of the Campbell’s Cream of Mushroom soup sold in the U.S goes into green bean casserole. Stuffing, like sweet potatoes, is nothing new. The dish has been doing the rounds since Caesar and Cleopatra were enjoying wild weekends along the Nile. Southerners prefer to call it dressing, possibly because they liked the name their British cousins gave the stuff. Victorian England considered the term “stuffing” as too vulgar; dressing seemed more genteel. Every corner of America has put its unique stamp on it. Despite the different ingredients that surface
TRADITIONS - HOLIDAY
according to the different points of origin, stuffing these days remains mostly out of the bird, thanks to those party-poopers from the Health Department with their scary stories of deadly bacteria thriving within the bird’s cavity. If there is a prize for a Thanksgiving recipe with impeccable pedigree, pumpkin pie wins hands down. It has lurked around the holiday from the get-go. Tasty, traditional and timeless, pumpkin pie is impossible to dethrone. Pumpkins were cultivated as far back as 5,500 BC, so it is safe to say that when those 50 tired Pilgrims joined 90 Wampanoag for a three-day harvest celebration, there was probably some pumpkin pie passed around. The pie has seen its share of change, however. Housewives breathed a collective sigh of relief when in 1929 Libby’s introduced canned pumpkin pie. Opening a can sure beat roasting and straining squash, and the taste wasn’t that much different. Some holiday recipes stand the test of time…and then they don’t. Remember relish trays? Up until the 1970s, it was a “yum” part of the Thanksgiving feast, but these days, mentioning relish trays elicits more of a “whaaa?” As the amuse-bouche before the big event, a spread of relishes, sweet pickles, radishes, olives, green onions celery and even small preserved fish, was easy to make ahead of time and kept the grownups munching and the kids quiet while waiting for dinner. No one seems to know why, but that trusty old relish tray has slowly disappeared from our tables. Too bad. As liquid traditions go, mulled or spiced wine, although not everyone’s cup of tea, exudes an aroma that is quintessentially of the season. Cheap red wine, cloves, cinnamon and citrus is all it takes for the holiday magic to happen, and it has been happening since the Ancient Greeks, who in an effort to make the less-than-ideal part of the
harvest palatable, starting adding spices and heating up B-list wine. It worked. Versions exist in just about every country, from Chile (vino navega’o) to Hungary (forralt bor). As for the holiday dish with a history most shrouded in controversy, the winner goes to…the turkey. Were turkeys at the first Thanksgiving? Probably, but they weren’t the only bird in town and they certainly didn’t look like the morbidly obese creatures modern science has orchestrated for our holiday gluttony. Turkeys of yore were muscular and svelte and they were probably served along with venison and other wild game, plus fish. The beauty of Thanksgiving dinner is that while we still depend on the triedand-true, we also imprint our individual modifications into the iconic meal. Christy Helton cannot envision Thanksgiving without Mom’s Crabbies. “Coming from Maryland, it’s a must to use crab and Old Bay Spice,” said Helton, sales administrator at Duran Golf Club. “This is a great appetizer that is a must at all our gatherings. They don’t even last five minutes once they are out of the oven!” At the home of Joyce Wilden, a part of the old relish tray gloriously lives on in the delicious but deadly form of stuffed celery. “Instead of being stuffed with cream cheese, the Wilden family version is half gorgonzola and half butter,” said the Viera resident, owner of BUZZ Biz Public Relations. In the brave spirit of green bean casserole creator Dorcas Reilly, Charlene Spangler’s family depends on canned goods, albeit canned mixed veggies, for a Thanksgiving fave. Butter, Cheese Whiz, Ritz crackers and French-fried onions are mixed with the veggies for the Spangler signature dish. “People remember it and ask us to bring it to all types of gatherings,” said Spangler, executive assistant with The Viera Company.
Family origins always play an important role in these delectable addendums. In Eric Byrd’s household, Grandma Kathy’s Carrot Casserole, inspired by his Scandinavian roots, always takes pride of place every Thanksgiving, conjuring happy repasts long gone. “Every year my grandmother made this dish, with its bright orange color and sweet taste,” said Byrd, community association manager. Chrusciki, or Angels’ Wings, are a heavenly tradition in Laurie Widzgowski’s household in Viera. “My father-in-law made this traditional Polish cookie,” said Widzgowski, event and marketing coordinator for The Viera Company. Angel's Wings
“His Angel’s Wings were always light and sweet and covered in powdered sugar. Even though he made at least three batches each time, they never lasted long. My family now carries on this tradition each year. “ Alicia Faessen, design manager with Viera Builders, goes Dutch treat with Oliebollen, aka Dutch Donuts, on Thanksgiving. “These are typically eaten on New Year’s Eve in the Netherlands, but they make for a sweet and delicious breakfast treat on Thanksgiving morning,” said Faessen. Whatever you and your clan prefers for Thanksgiving, be thankful for the simple joy of sharing a meal with loved ones, and in this gorgeous part of the country, no less.
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HOLIDAY - TRADITIONS
ACROSS THE MILES TRADITIONAL RECIPES AND NEW FINDS We asked a local group of hard-working ladies, having perfected the art of keeping a dish traditional in their families, about their holiday cooking. It didn’t have to be passed down from generation to generation but many of their answers include recipes that are worthy of this honorable place on the family table. These recipes and their variations can be found on almost all recipe platforms and we included the top 10 platforms in the world for you to find a new favorite. Especially when you have little time to prepare.
Dish: Slovak Rocky
Dish: Aunt Lou’s Pumpkin Pie
What makes it unique: It is a traditional Slovak pastry filled with nuts or fruit. I remember learning how to make the dough and roll it out on wooden boards in my mother’s and grandmother’s kitchens. There are a lot of ways to make elements of this dish ahead of time.
What makes it unique: Aunt Lou always used real pumpkin to make her pies. I cook the mix in advance and freeze it while the small pumpkins are still available in the stores. Cook the entire pumpkin in the oven (make a small slit at the top to allow for steam to vent) and then easily scoop out the portions of pumpkin. So easy.
Origin: Slovakia Linda Nichols and Leslie Schnake, Viera Residents
Origin: Johnson City, Tennessee Angela Saylor, Melbourne Resident
Cyndi Pokrywa’s Cheese & Potato Pierogi FOR THE FILLING
FOR THE DOUGH
2 Tbsp. butter 2 onions, finely chopped 1 lb. potatoes, unpeeled ¼-½ lb. farmers cheese (or cheddar), grated Salt, pepper and paprika, to taste
2½ Cups all-purpose flour ½ Tsp. salt 1 egg ½ Cup sour cream ¼ Cup melted salted butter (½-1 Tsp. baking powder “puffs” them a bit, but is not necessary)
INSTRUCTIONS
Brown onions in butter until lightly browned and let cool. While cooling, cook whole potatoes as desired until tender; peel under cold running water; mash well. Mix in cheese, cooled onions and spices to taste. Cover filling and set aside while making dough. (You will most likely have extra filling; I usually make several batches of dough.)
INSTRUCTIONS
Sift flour and salt together on counter or board; make well in center and add egg, sour cream and butter. Work into a smooth, elastic dough. Using about 1/3 of the dough, roll flat to about 1/8-1/4” thickness, and using a biscuit cutter or inverted glass, cut circles out of dough. Re-roll scraps and continue until all rolled dough is used. Place about 1 Tbsp. filling on one half of each circle, fold over in half, and pinch edges together to seal. Drop filled pierogi into large pot of boiling, salted water, and cook until they float, about 5-8 minutes. Do not overcrowd the pot. Remove with slotted spoon to cool slightly. (Pierogi can be individually frozen on a flat baking sheet lined with parchment at this point, then bagged and kept in freezer for several months. Partially defrost before cooking.) Sauté in melted butter until lightly browned. Serve with sautéed or caramelized onions and mushrooms, grilled or sautéed kielbasa, and sour cream. Yield varies according to cutting implement size. Approximately 25-35, per batch of dough.
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TRADITIONS - HOLIDAY
TOP 10 RECIPE SITES
Dish: Magical Mashed Potatoes made in the Instant PotÂŽ What makes it unique: It is a lifesaver on time and frees up my other appliances. Origin: A tradition has to start somewhere; it starts with me. Shannon Daly, Principal Manatee Elementary
Dish: Brown Bread Plum Pudding What makes it unique: This is a tradition that goes back generations in my family and usually is served at Christmas but we serve it prior to the meal at Thanksgiving. Origin: Ireland Jeaniey Geremia, Ralph Williams Elementary
Wanna stretch a little and find something different or fun to try? Visit these top 10 recipe sites from around the world. Ask Google to translate the site from its native language to English or type the name of the dish into your search bar and it will locate the nearest site to translate the dish.
1. cookpad.com - Japan 2. allrecipes.com- USA 3. chefkoch.de - German 4. marmiton.org - French 5. delish.com - USA 6. journaldesfemmes.fr - French 7. giallozafferano.it - Italian 8. foodnetwork.com - USA 9. tudogostoso.com.br - Brazil 10. nefisyemektarifleri.com - Turkey
TOP 5 RECIPE APPS What are the top five apps to make life easier in the kitchen?
1. BigOven 2. Yummly 3. Allrecipes Dinner Spinner (organizing recipes) 4. Paprika Recipe Manager (storing recipes) 5. ChefTap Honorable Mention: Fooducate (a healthy diet toolbox app)
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HOLIDAY - TRADITIONS
Thanksgiving Like a Pro Professional chefs, like the rest of us, cherish holiday culinary traditions,
but they just seem to do them better than the rest of us mere mortals. For example, Chef Ercan Ekinci, executive chef and partner at Green Turtle Market, each year wows his guests with brined turkey, a recipe he gladly shares below. “I have been doing this at my Thanksgiving celebrations for years now. My guests go crazy for it,” said the busy chef. “Last year I had 16 guests and they were completely speechless during dinner because the intense flavor and tender meat blew them away. This recipe doesn’t take much prep and has layers of flavors!” The chef notes that there is a huge difference between brined turkeys and turkeys cooked in a traditional fashion. “Not only is the moisture incomparable to other recipes but the flavor delivered by the brining solution resets the bar,” he said. Brining turkeys has been a part of Ekinci’s family tradition since he can remember and he has a couple of tricks to make the preparations easier. “I would definitely recommend using heavy duty cooking bags versus a large pot,” he said. “This ensures that you receive the best looking and tasting results while also helping save space in your refrigerator during the process. Pre-boiling your brining
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solution will ensure that you get a more powerful flavor profile out of your meal all the way around. To spice things even further, Chef swaps old fashioned stuffing
for dressings that feature anything from chorizo to Italian sausage/ apricot. Chef Ekinci graciously makes Thanksgiving dinner easier for the rest of us by also preparing these for sale at the Green Turtle. “This is one of my favorite holidays because I love getting my closest friends and family around the same table to enjoy a home-cooked meal that has flavor incomparable to any other!” said the chef.
Chef Ercan’s Turkey Brining Recipe INGREDIENTS 3 2 3 3 3 2 3
Cups Apple Cider Gallons Cold Water Whole Orange Peels Tbsp. Juniper Berries Tbsp. Star Anise Tbsp. Whole Allspice Sprigs of Sage
INSTRUCTIONS
3 Sprigs of Thyme 4 Sprig Fresh Rosemary Leaves 6 Cloves of Garlic 1½ Cups Kosher Salt 2 Cups Brown Sugar 4 Tbsp. Black Peppercorns 6 Whole Bay Leaves
Combine all ingredients in a large pot with ½ a gallon of water and bring to a boil for about 5 minutes. Then, add remaining 1 ½ gallons of cold water to completely cool solution. Place your 15-20lb. uncooked turkey in a large plastic bag (you can use a large pot if bag isn’t available) and slowly submerge your turkey in the cold brining solution. Place your turkey in the refrigerator and leave it for roughly 18 hours. Before you start cooking, dispose of the remaining brining solution and thoroughly rinse turkey. Pat turkey dry and touch up with additional seasonings/fresh herbs from the inside out. This will promote more flavorful tasting turkey meat.
TRADITIONS - HOLIDAY
“My personal cooking technique involves keeping the turkey as moist as possible without compromising the crunchy layer on the outside,” said Ekinci. “I start with a layer of parchment paper and follow it with a layer of aluminum foil, nice and tight to seal in the moisture.” If you choose to use stuffing in your bird you may need to adjust the cooking time a bit more to accommodate that. Rule of Thumb is usually 15 minutes per pound at 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Ekinci typically uses a convection oven because of better air circulation, which allows the meat to be cooked more evenly throughout. For example, a 20 lb. bird would cook for about 3 ½ hours at 350 degrees, and for the first 2 ½ hours you don’t want to let any of the steam escape so keep the turkey covered tightly. You may take the cover off your turkey for the last remaining hour but don’t forget to regularly baste your turkey to ensure a nice, crisp outside while leaving the inside moisture. Your timing may need to be adjusted according to your oven’s capacity, but this recipe guarantees a flavorful, fall-offthe-bone meal.
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Provide Healing and Hope to a Grieving Child This Holiday Season
Your gift of any size to the Health First Foundation will ensure grieving children and their families celebrate a brighter holiday season. Make your gift online at HF.org/gift or mail your gift to the Health First Foundation 1350 S. Hickory St., Melbourne, FL 32901
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¡ Bright Star is a specialized children’s program for grief and loss that encourages the expression of grief experiences through creative, positive play within a peer group setting ¡ Commonly called “silent grievers,” children deal with the loss of a loved one in a unique way, and their path toward healing is different than adults ¡ Activities led by professional staff with advanced degrees in Counseling and Social Work, as well as prior experience in dealing with bereavement ¡ All of this delivered at no cost to the family 1350 S. Hickory St. ¡ Melbourne, FL 32901 HFgive.org ¡ Foundation@HF.org
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AT DURAN Thanksgiving Buffet
Breakfast With Santa
Holiday Concert
New Year’s Eve Dinner
Nov. 28th 12:00 pm or 3:00 pm
by Viera High Chorus Dec. 4th; 6:00 pm
Dec. 1st 9:00 am
Dec. 31st 7:30 pm
For more information: Call Duran Golf Club 321.504.7771 www.DuranGolf.com 7032 Stadium Pkwy, Viera, FL 32940
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SNAP SHOTS - AROUND TOWN
1. VHS WIND ENSEMBLE IS INVITED TO THE NATIONAL CONCERT BAND FESTIVAL Congratulations to the Viera High School Wind Ensemble for being invited to represent the Music For All organization and perform at the National Concert Band Festival in Indianapolis, Indiana in March 2020.
2. GROUND BREAKING: NEW VIERA ELEMENTARY SCHOOL The official ground breaking for the next elementary school in Viera was attended by local School Board members Matt Susin and Katye Campbell along with Superintendent Dr. Mark Mullins, Todd Pokrywa of The Viera Company and other local officials. The proposed opening date of the school is August 2020.
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3. THRIVE LOCAL
Thive Local, a first Pop Up Store in Viera, provides workshops, events and goods from local artisans and businesses. Customers can hang out and snack on gourmet treats while shopping in the store.
4. JOELLA’S HOT CHICKEN
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Hopeful customers stand in line at Viera’s newest fast casual restaurant for a chance at free hot chicken for one year.
5. SCARECROW STROLL AND HARVEST FESTIVAL The 8th annual event was moved to Nov. 2nd because of a tropical storm. The scarecrow seen here was one of many that were up for auction to support local charities.
6. REAL MEN WEAR PINK OF BREVARD COUNTY The group raised over $35,000 towards the local efforts supporting the mission of the American Cancer Society.
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WHY I LOVE - VIERA
Resident Artists Inspired by Viera The Art Gallery of Viera is back and we wanted to ask a few of the resident artist what inspires them and what they love about Viera. SUSAN KENNICOTT (FOUNDING MEMBER) In 2nd grade...yes I remember way back then. I had a teacher and we had an art project and she recognized the fact that I was not just doing it to quickly finish (as most students do) but that to me it was so much more. When the time period was over I was not finished. She must have been intuitive enough to realize the art project meant so much more to me and I was allowed to stay in from recess to finish it to my satisfaction. I remember her speaking to my mom about how much pride I took in the piece. Being a person with 2 left feet when it came to sports, I realized I could excel at something that many could not! I think this is the reason I enjoy teaching painting. I enjoy watching students young and old find their ah ha moment! When I see a student that comes to me having never painted before and I see their eyes light up when they bring a canvas to life...well that is my ah ha moment! ered so many beautiful areas where nature has inspired me. I particularly loved traveling in Alaska and out west where we will probably head again next year.
JERRY HANZL (FOUNDING MEMBER) I love being an artist in the Viera area because of what it has to offer. It is an emerging community with all the shops, restaurants and businesses and it still respects nature and all that Florida is about. With the green spaces, the wetlands, and many lakes, the nearby Zoo and abundant wildlife and flora I never run out of subject matter as a photographer to shoot and use in my artwork. I love it here in paradise, the perfect place to be. I find all the inspiration I need, right here in this beautiful place. JEANETTE DRAKE (FOUNDING MEMBER) One of the things that I always wanted to do was to see what I could of the United States. There are so many beautiful places in this country. We have been RVing since 2006 and I have discov40
ED CARLSON First, my career since I was 19 years old was the US Army, when I was accepted to West Point, graduated in 1970, and served over 20 years in tanks and armored cavalry units along the Czech-East German border, and the DMZ in Korea. All my education during that period was math and engineering. Upon retirement in Florida, my wife, Pat, and I purchased a cruising sailboat, upon which we
spent months at a time cruising Florida and the Bahamas. I started painting watercolors as a hobby 20 years ago, drawing upon the inspiring tropical scenes we encountered over the years on the water. Watercolor, for me, has a unique way of capturing the essence of the tropics, with its spontaneous and fluid colors. Most of my work draws upon those tropical images of beaches, boats and marinas. But, having lived in Indiana and upstate New York in my earlier years, I still love to paint a snow scene on occasion. LAURA KUCHARYSON There are so many things that have inspired me as an artist. Being around other artists who are so very talented in their craft inspires me to continue growing as an artist and try new art mediums. We encourage each other.
UPCOMING - EVENTS
Fun For All
Date Night
Date: November 30th Location: Viera High School Contact: LIGHTUPVIERA.COM
Date: December 7th Location: King Center for the Performing Arts Contact: KINGCENTER.COM
Fundraising
STEVE MARTIN & MARTIN SHORT: “THE FUNNIEST SHOW IN TOWN AT THE MOMENT”
LIGHT UP VIERA HOLIDAY PARADE 2019
35TH ANNUAL FESTIVAL OF TREES
Date: November 23rd Location: Viera Regional Park Community Center, Viera Contact: JLSB.NET
Musical
THE FOUR ITALIAN TENORS
Date: December 1st Location: King Center for the Performing Arts Contact: KINGCENTER.COM BREVARD COMMUNITY CHORUS IN CONCERT MESSIAH, BY GEORG FRIEDERICH HANDEL
Date: December 14th Location: King Center for the Performing Arts Contact: KINGCENTER.COM
A MAGICAL CIRQUE CHRISTMAS
Date: January 26th Location: King Center for the Performing Arts Contact: KINGCENTER.COM
Art show
COCOA BEACH ART SHOW 2019
Date: November 30th & December 1st Location: Downtown Cocoa Beach Contact: COCOABEACHARTSHOW.COM
Active event
RUN RUN SANTA 1 MILE - VIERA
Date: December 21st Location: Calvary Chapel Viera, Viera Contact: RUNNINGZONE.COM
FIGHT CHILD HUNGER 5K
Date: January 11th Location: Viera High School, Viera Contact: RUNNINGZONE.COM SUPER HERO 5K & 1 MILE FUN RUN
Date: February 1st Location: The Avenue Viera, Viera Contact: RUNNINGZONE.COM BREVARD ZOO’S BEAR BUSTLE 3K
Date: February 8th Location: Brevard Zoo, Viera Contact: RUNNINGZONE.COM EMERALD CITY 5K
Date: February 28th Location: Church of Viera, Viera Contact: RUNNINGZONE.COM
Viera Park Market
VIERA PARK MARKET & FOOD TRUCK EVENTS
Date(s): Monthly 1st Friday Vendor Market 3-9 p.m. (weather permitting) and Food Trucks 5 -9 p.m. (weather permitting) Location: Viera Regional Park, Viera Contact: BREVARDCOUNTY.US
Theatre
THE NUTCRACKER
Date: December 3rd Location: King Center for the Performing Arts Contact: KINGCENTER.COM SWAN LAKE
Date: December 27th Location: King Center for the Performing Arts Contact: KINGCENTER.COM
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Holiday Happenings DURAN EVENTS - PG 37
THE AVENUE VIERA - PG 43
WHERE HOLIDAY MAGIC BEGINS
2019HOLIDAYEVENTS ANNUAL CHRISTMAS TREE LIGHTING | NOV. 29 | 5PM - 7PM | AMC THEATRES PLAZA HOLIDAY CARRIAGE RIDES | NOV. 30 - DEC. 21 | FRIDAYS & SATURDAYS | 5PM - 8PM | AMC THEATRES PLAZA VISIT WITH SANTA & MRS. CLAUS | NOV. 30 - DEC. 24 | FRIDAYS - SUNDAYS | TIMES VARY | CENTRAL PARK HOLIDAY CONCERTS & PERFORMANCES | DEC. 1 - 22 | TIMES VARY | CENTRAL PARK THIRSTY 3RD THURSDAY WITH HOT PINK | DEC. 19 | 5PM - 8PM | CENTRAL PARK Visit AvenueViera.com/Events for details.
DEVELOPER - LETTER
Tradition Mixed with New Experiences Although our temperatures may not accurately reflect the changes of the seasons here on the Space Coast, winter is definitely upon us. The shorter days
TODD POKRYWA, PRESIDENT
and longer nights are bustling with shopping and dinner events, the hockey season is in full swing, Christmas and Hanukkah decorations abound, and our thoughts are filled with the excitement of the wonderful aromas and tastes that are sure to be on everyone’s festive dinner tables. Traditions of old remind us of fond memories of our childhoods, and along the way we are creating new experiences, too. Within our community of Viera, these changes are evident all around us.
Exit 193 - the new interchange at Viera Boulevard and I-95 opened this past summer providing a new route for relatives visiting over the holidays and relief to traffic volumes at both the Fiske Boulevard and Wickham Road interchanges; we are also well on our way with the work being done on the extension of Lake Andrew Drive from Viera Boulevard southward as well as the connection to Stadium Parkway via an extension to Porada Drive. These improvements position this area of Viera as the most accessible, centrally-located and highly visible commercial property in the Brevard County market supported by strong surrounding demographics. The Viera Company’s plans for the interchange provide for a potential mix of restaurants, corporate offices and hotel sites anchored by a linear trail and park area. If you or your visitors are traveling to and from Viera during this busy time of year, we hope the new access point at the Viera Boulevard interchange will ease the travel burden and help you get to your destination quickly and safely. For Cyndi and me, Christmas is usually spent in Viera with family visiting. We host for the main meal,
and dishes are offered from other family members to share. There are the usual favorites like turkey, dressing, and various casseroles that we look forward to every year, but one that holds a special place on the table every year since I was a child growing up in Canada is our Christmas Eve feast of traditional Polish pierogi. Cyndi makes them from scratch every year and it is truly a tradition that the whole family enjoys. We have shared the basic recipe for you (page 32). Maybe it will become a tradition for you, as well. Whether old or new, we hope your traditions bring you gratitude, joy and time well spent with family and friends. From all of us here at The Viera Company, we wish you and yours a very Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays and a healthy and joyful 2020!
"THESE IMPROVEMENTS POSITION THIS AREA OF VIERA AS THE MOST ACCESSIBLE, CENTRALLY-LOCATED AND HIGHLY VISIBLE COMMERCIAL PROPERTY IN THE BREVARD COUNTY MARKET SUPPORTED BY STRONG SURROUNDING DEMOGRAPHICS." 44
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years
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SPECIAL THANKS The Viera Community Institute wishes to thank our wonderful Viera community residents and partners for their gracious support of the 2019 Light Up Viera Parade. The parade continues to be successful each year because of the continued effort made by our sponsors, participants and volunteers. We want to thank you for your participation, hard work and dedication to the event. You each help us make Viera a unique and wonderful place to celebrate and make holiday memories.