Viera Vision Volume 16, Issue 4 by Viera Vision

OPERATION SUMMER FUN VO L . 1 6 ISSUE 4

ISSN 2688-9358

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Cover: Addison Village Club

CONTENTS VOLUME 16: ISSUE 4

PRESIDENT

Todd Pokrywa VP OF MARKETING

Lauri Duda EDITOR

Stephanie Byrd

REACHING FOR THE STARS, AGAIN A new chapter in Brevard County's space exploration.

STAFF EDITORS

Carmen Vastola, Laurie Widzgowski, Todd Pokrywa, Ben Wilson, Scott Miller SENIOR WRITERS

Maria Sonnenberg, Lyle Smith, Sue DeWerff Panzarino, Susan Saylor, Stephanie Byrd, Laurie Widzgowski DESIGN

Jennifer Roberts IN THIS ISSUE

HOME2 SUITES

Home2 Suites by Hilton is scheduled to open in August.

THE PEARL OF VIERA The Pearl will be ready for occupancy in late 2020.

A HAVEN FOR VETERANS Services and resources for veterans in Brevard County.

Future of Aerospace in Brevard becomes “Supersonic.”

Summertime recipes for you to try this summer from Duda Farm Fresh Foods. IN EVERY ISSUE

GOLF CART REGULATIONS AND SAFETY Regulations and safety information for driving golf carts around Viera.

WHY I LOVE VIERA

Cover photo: Richmond Gibbs Photography Photos provided by subject unless otherwise noted PUBLISHER

The Viera Company ADVERTISING SALES

Stephanie Byrd FINANCE & ADMINISTRATION

BIKE AND PARK SAFETY

Important safety information for riding bikes and using the parks in Viera.

Shawn O’Keefe, Jennifer Swan, Laurie Widzgowski LEGAL

Jay Decator, Ben Wilson DISTRIBUTION

Don Gust, All Service Graphics

HOW TO PLAY PICKLEBALL

CATCHITECT OF VIERA The Viera “catchitect” who designs kitty habitats.

DANDY SUMMER RECIPES

LETTER FROM THE EDITOR

How to play the U.S.' favorite new game.

AERION JETS

PHOTOGRAPHY

VIERA TRAILS

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. ©2020. All rights reserved. Any reproduction, in whole or part, is prohibited without written permission from the publishers.

Part 4 in our series on trails around Viera.

VIERA DISCOVERY CENTER 2261 Town Center Ave. #105 The Avenue Viera Viera, Florida 32940

(321) 253-2800 VIERA.COM

SUMMER/ ACTIVITIES

DEVELOPER LETTER

/VIERAFLORIDA #EXPLOREVIERA /VIERAFLORIDA

EDITOR'S Letter

Spectators at Shiloh’s Steak and Seafood restaurant watched the launch of the SpaceX rocket on May 30th carrying two astronauts to the International Space Station from Kennedy Space Center. (Photo: Tim Shortt/Florida Today)

IT'S SUMMERTIME! Every summer we talk about heading outdoors for fun in the sun and this year we really want to encourage everyone to get outside. Walking, biking and park play is a great way to energize your spirit. We also want everyone to stay safe this summer and develop good habits. With just these few practices, we can help keep Brevard’s new cases as low as possible. Top 5 habits to maintain this summer during the pandemic: 1. Social distancing 2. Wash your hands/use hand sanitizer before, during and after you leave any location 3. Do not touch your face 4. Wear a mask in public places 5. Bring your own pen for signatures and touching buttons As we work together to continue to flatten the curve, what else can we do this summer to stay focused and not lose our resolve to stay healthy? I’ve been researching a few fun things to try, with all ideas lasting the entire week, ending with a final event on the weekend. Retro Gaming: Find a few old-fashioned games to play both inside and outside. Vote on the best game to play and keep scores, with the highest-scoring player winning a gift card to purchase a new game by the end of the week. Food Challenge: Create a cooking or baking challenge with family members participating in a final dessert design challenge, with the winning dessert to be eaten with a take-out meal at the end of the week. Another play on this idea is the Top Chef-inspired Restaurant Wars

style match-up with a menu that includes an appetizer, entrée and a dessert. Puzzling Times: It’s time for a summer puzzle on a foldout table. Place the puzzle where family members can work on the puzzle at various times during the week. You can glue the pieces together as a fun art piece for family or repaint the surface and create a new puzzle. Rock and Roll: A room refresh can be impactful with just a few gallons of paint. If the whole room is too much to change, pick a single wall and give it a new color. Creativity can go one step further by using blue painter’s tape and creating shapes and unique designs. Make a playlist that includes songs to listen to while painting to keep the mood fun. It will continue to be a transformative year for us all in so many ways. I hope this summer, more than any other year before it, will become one in which everyone can experience a few moments of joy with a little fun on the side. I end with one of my favorite photos of the launch, taken by a local resident, Craig Bailey. The joy of seeing the launch on the faces of the onlookers in this particular photo is exactly what I hope you might experience a little of this summer.

#VIERAVISION #SUMMERTIME

MAKING TIME AWAY FROM HOME BET TER ONE E X TENDED STAY AT A TIME

HE VIERA TOWN CENTER IS GROWING INTO ITS NAME EVERY DAY, WITH MULTIPLE PROPERTIES UNDER CONSTRUCTION, INCLUDING A NEW HOME2 SUITES BY HILTON EXTENDED-STAY HOTEL SCHEDULED TO OPEN AT THE CORNER OF LAKE ANDREW DRIVE AND METFIELD DRIVE IN AUGUST. AS THE STATE BEGINS TO REOPEN IN STAGES DUE TO THE COVID-19 CRISIS, VISITORS FROM FAMILIES TO SPORTS TEAMS TO BUSINESSPEOPLE BEGIN TO RETURN TO THEIR TRAVELING HABITS AND ARE LOOKING FOR ACCOMMODATIONS IN OUR COMMUNITY THAT MEET THEIR NEEDS. THE 118 SUITES IN THE NEW HOME2 SUITES ARE DESIGNED TO PROVIDE COMFORT FOR EXTENDED STAYS.

“We’re proud to see the vision for the Viera Town Center area being realized and excited to welcome Home2 Suites by Hilton into our community,” said The Viera Company President Todd Pokrywa. “It’s another element of the vision of Viera intended to help make the community attractive to visitors, businesses, and residents alike." Currently under development by the Sycamore Investment Group, the project, led by Executive Vice President Ronak Jasani, is well under way and will more than double the room space established by the Sycamore Group’s other recent project, the Fairfield Inn & Suites that opened 116 rooms in May 2018 also in the Viera Town Center. As USSSA tournaments begin again at USSSA Space Coast Complex, the extended stay nature and petfriendly policy of Home2 Suites will provide yet another attractive option for teams and families traveling together. Being able to have their pets in tow can make family travel much easier. The suite format and extended stay approach also 4

provides an attractive solution to corporate travelers and businesses in the area. The hotel is within easy walking access to The Avenue Viera and the developing Viera Town Center areas, creating an attractive district where visitors can enjoy their time and really feel welcomed into the community during the time they are here. “Our other two properties in the area have performed well, and the timing was right to bring a new Hilton product to market in this area,” said Jasani. “With close proximity to The Avenue Viera shopping center, this is an

ideal site for an extended-stay hotel and offers our guests access to dining, entertainment and retail shops just steps away from the property.” As suites, all 118 rooms include separate sitting and sleeping areas and a small kitchen fully stocked with dishware, an apartment-sized refrigerator, and cooktop stoves when requested, all to serve the needs of extended stay guests who may not always want to eat out. The property surrounding the four-story hotel building will boast a large pool and patio area where guests can kick back and relax during their off-moments, congregate around the fire pit, enjoy the extensive outdoor seating, or even put one of several outdoor grills to use. Home2 Suites will also feature all the other amenities guests have come to expect like free WiFi, fitness center, business center and meeting space, as well as breakfast service. A known entity in our community, the Sycamore Group also owns and operates the Hampton Inn Hotel at 130 Sheriff Drive in Melbourne. American Momentum Bank provided an almost $14 million construction loan to assist with financing and cost of construction. Senior Vice President and Senior Commercial Relationship Manager at American Momentum, Robert Castillo, said, “We’re thrilled to partner with Sycamore Investment Group on this project. American Momentum has worked with the Sycamore Group on all three of its local projects over the past decade. Our bank has cultivated a long-standing relationship with Ronak and his team, and we’re excited to assist once again on this new project in the booming Viera area.” As we’ve all seen over time, Viera is growing and continues to grow even through the current health and

“WE’RE PROUD TO SEE THE VISION FOR THE VIERA TOWN CENTER AREA BEING REALIZED AND EXCITED TO WELCOME HOME2 SUITES BY HILTON INTO OUR COMMUNITY. IT’S ANOTHER ELEMENT OF THE VISION OF VIERA INTENDED TO HELP MAKE THE COMMUNITY ATTRACTIVE TO VISITORS, BUSINESSES, AND RESIDENTS ALIKE." TODD POKRYWA, PRESIDENT OF THE VIERA COMPANY

economic challenges. Development of properties like Home2 Suites are appropriate pieces of the puzzle that help make Viera the attractive environment for family and business that it is intended to be. “We see the new Home2 Suites as occupying a truly integrated need in the Viera plan,” Pokrywa said. “Properties like this one further deliver on the vision for the Viera Town Center and help provide the mixed-use environment we’re trying to create here. ”

THE PEARL

T CAN TAKE YEARS FOR AN OYSTER TO CREATE A PEARL FROM A SINGLE GRAIN OF SAND AND IT TAKES A WIDE VARIE T Y OF COMPONENTS TO BUILD A COMMUNIT Y.

As Viera celebrated its 30th anniversary as a master-planned community, the components became more apparent, especially as the long-awaited Town Center began to take shape with a variety of hotel, residential, retail, and office properties in varying stages of development. Rising up across Lake Andrew Drive from The Avenue Viera is one of the newest additions to the Viera Town Center, expected to be completed and ready for occupancy in late 2020. The Pearl of Viera is a 298 unit 1-, 2-, and 3-bedroom luxury apartments building under development and managed by Davis Development of Atlanta, Georgia. “We are thrilled to see the progress being made with The Pearl of Viera project,” said The Viera Company President, Todd Pokrywa. “It is just another very well-crafted brick in the central district known as the Viera Town Center.” Ask any experienced real estate professional or city planner and they’ll tell you a community requires a balance of different types of properties to prosper. While Viera has historically been known for its extensive offering of beautiful single-family homes, as larger businesses grow and change in the county, there arises a need for apartment and rental properties to serve workers and professionals with different needs than that of someone taking on a 30-year fixed. The Pearl of Viera is just such a solution to that challenge. Realtors will tell you that a “lack of inventory” is one of the biggest real estate challenges in our rapidly 6

BRINGING NEW LUSTRE TO THE VIERA TOWN CENTER

growing market. At the same time, as more and more people move to work in Brevard County from other parts of the country, many of them come for assignments that may only last a year or two. Others are transitioning or waiting for their new home to be built, but still need a home in the community where that will be. Luxury apartment living solutions like The Pearl of Viera are a natural and even enjoyable, almost resort-like living solution to many of these challenges. As The Pearl grows out of that piece of the former Duda Ranch property that will soon be known as Metfield Drive, fronting Lake Andrew Drive with views of The Avenue Viera to the East and Duran Golf Club to the West, it marks the northernmost edge of the emerging and centrally-located Town Center district. “There is a need for rental living space in the community and it provides the necessary density for the other compatible uses to follow in the Viera Town Center. It’s something we’ve understood and planned for from the beginning,” Pokrywa said. “And to see a place so welldesigned and executed; we are extremely happy to see what’s

happening at The Pearl of Viera property.” As a pet-friendly community, The Pearl of Viera provides an upscale atmosphere and will include amenities like a spacious resort-style swimming pool, indoor and outdoor entertaining areas, and a high-endurance fitness center. Central and accessible by foot to most of the community’s premier shopping, dining, and entertainment experiences, residents of The Pearl will have easy access to some of the best Viera has to offer every single day; a place many will happily call home sweet home. Apartments feature gourmet kitchens, stainless steel appliances, upscale wood flooring and high, 9-foot ceilings. Granite countertops are features in both the kitchen and bathrooms and large walk-in closets offer expansive storage in each unit. For those who work from home, or work remotely, or otherwise need regular access, high-speed WiFi will be available throughout the pool area and sundeck. Without doubt, when it opens later this year, The Pearl of Viera will be another precious jewel in Viera’s community.

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A HAVEN FOR VETERANS

YNONYMOUS WITH RE TREAT, SANC TUARY AND HARBOR, “HAVEN” DESCRIBES THE WAY MANY OF THE VE TERANS IN OUR COMMUNIT Y VIE W BRE VARD. WHE THER YOUR STATUS IS AC TIVE DUT Y, RESER VES, VE TERAN, RE TIRED OR MILITARY SPOUSE, YOU WILL FIND THE BREADTH OF SER VICES AND ORGANIZATIONS DEDICATED TO YOUR WELLBEING TO BE ABUNDANT IN BRE VARD COUNT Y.

Want to socialize with other vets? The county boasts many chapters of organizations like the VFW, American Legion, AMVETS, Knights of Columbus, Disabled American Veterans (DAV)...the list goes on and on. They provide an opportunity to meet and socialize with other veterans and their spouses and offer volunteer opportunities that serve your fellow vets as well. Are you a vet with talent? Brevard is home to over 46 music groups and there is something for everyone. Entertaining the Space Coast for over 50 years, the

Melbourne Municipal Band continues to have a huge following and would welcome you. Singers can check out the Harbor City Harmonizers, if barbershop singing is your forte, or the 140-voice Brevard Community Chorus, should you lean to the classical side. Specialty groups also dot the landscape, like the Space Coast Highlanders, a wonderful group of dedicated bagpipers. Search and you’re sure to find one that’s right for you. The job of honoring vets falls to military museums and other similar organizations. Vets have found the Veterans Memorial Museum located on Merritt Island to be a hidden gem. Covering military history dating back to the Revolutionary War and going all the way to the recent conflicts in the Middle East, visiting vets have described it as impressive, clean, and appropriate for visiting with grandchildren. Founded in 1977 by a group of aviation enthusiasts, veterans, and pilots, the Warbird Air Museum boasts worldclass aircraft restorations and an exceptional collection of military aircraft, some of which are exclusive to this 9

museum. Located at Space Coast Regional Airport in Titusville, just minutes from the heartbeat of the American Space Program, it is worth the short drive. Take a guided tour led by knowledgeable staff and visit the gift shop, rumored to have some unique treasures. You may want to add two more museums: The Air Force Space and Missile Museum at Cape Canaveral and the Liberty Bell Museum in Melbourne. As of this writing, museums are closed due to the pandemic, but these are worth filing away for future visits. When it comes to benefits, vets must start with the United States Department of Veterans Affairs (VA.gov). Once there, they will find several high level organizations dedicated to assisting them prior to locating the local services. Vets will find organizations for the disabled, those wanting more education, returning service members, women vets and even help locating records. Want to further your education or learn a new skill? Are you buying a home or do you need to refinance your current mortgage? Safe and trusted resources dedicated to helping veterans reach their goals await either locally or a phone call away. Of course, no matter your age or status, health care remains high on the list of important services. Located in Viera, one of the two VA Clinics in the county continues to serve our heroes with an impressive array of services such as outpatient surgery, psychiatry, physical therapy, pulmonary, neurology, orthopedics, dentistry, optometry, and audiology. In addition, Vets will find a full range of diagnostic services such as radiology, nuclear medicine, and laboratory services. Support groups for vets also abound. Help is always available for handling a crisis situation, not only from the VA but also local support groups. You can pick up a complete free guide to all of these and more from One Senior Place on Spyglass Road. Also available in their guide are resources listed below to help vets start their own business or locate veteran-owned businesses to support. The community continues to foster the many ways to help and support our military heroes and it has been a priority for generations. Brevard is home to these individuals and we salute their lifetime of bravery.

i There are patriots among us, the veterans and heroes who served their country... our country. We thank them for their service, and we are grateful that Brevard County offers many resources specifically for the military. Among them: Employment Services: Homeless Veterans Community Employment Services 321.637.3788 Housing Assistance: National Veterans Homeless Support, Inc. 321.208.7562 | 888.787.6847 Housing for Homeless Veterans Service Program 321.639.0166 HousingForHomeless.org Veterans Resource Council (affiliated with the Melbourne Regional Chamber): 321.724.5400

Advocacy: Aid & Attendance pension â&#x20AC;&#x201C; VeteranAid.org Florida Dept. Of Veterans Affairs: 850.487.1533 FloridaVets.org Viera VA Outpatient Clinic: 321.637.3788 Orlando.VA.Gov/locations/Viera.asp Melbourne Veterans Center: 321.254.3410 National Resource Directory: Searchable database of resources â&#x20AC;&#x201C; NRD.gov One Senior Place: 321.323.7325 | OneSeniorPlace.com

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e c a p s o r e A f o e s r e u m t o c Fu e b d r a v e r B in

” c i n o s

r e p u “S

T WAS JUST MORE THAN SEVENTEEN YEARS AGO, BACK IN 2003, WHEN THE SLEEK AND POINTYNOSED CONCORDE SUPER JET DEPARTED FROM JOHN F. KENNEDY INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT (JFK) ON ITS FINAL COMMERCIAL FLIGHT AFTER NEARLY FOUR DECADES.

That same year, a Reno, Nevada-based fledgling startup company called Aerion Supersonic formed. Since then, the company has transformed into one of the next generation of leaders in the supersonic flight industry and is on a mission to provide a modern-day, hyper-luxury, enjoyable, and environmentally-friendly replacement. In April, the company announced plans to relocate their global headquarters to Melbourne—where they will manufacture the world’s first privately built AS2 supersonic jet—one that will fly faster than the speed of sound. The proposed $300 million campus, Aerion Park, will break ground on a nearly 60-acre site located just north of Orlando Melbourne International Airport (MLB) later this year, ahead of manufacturing to begin in 2023. Deemed by Brevard officials as a bright spot in an otherwise somewhat gloomy time, the project is expected to bring some 675 jobs to the Space Coast by 2026, with average salaries in the $105,000 range. “When choosing to relocate to Melbourne we gave very detailed consideration to several potential sites,” said Tom Vice, Aerion's president and CEO. “Melbourne emerged as the clear choice to build our state-of-the-art campus. Our decision was based on an excellent education system, a significant engineering and manufacturing talent pool, the right business climate with global access and both the offering of unique attributes of Orlando/Melbourne Airport and the innovative cluster of aviation technology companies in the area. We were greatly encouraged by the sense of partnership expressed by both the state and the Brevard community.” Aerion’s decision to relocate here was welcomed by Governor Ron DeSantis. In November of 2019, he announced the Space Coast would be receiving a $3.9 million Florida Job Growth grant for infrastructure improvements to the airport. The grant will initiate the construction of the taxi way, storm water, utility and road improvements to the site. Aerion’s headquarters will be constructed just west of Embraer Executive Jets, who moved to the location in 2008. “The Space Coast has become a hub for the aviation and aerospace industry, and my administration continues to make it a priority to expand this “high-wage and important business sector,” DeSantis said in a news conference last April. According to Lynda Weatherman, president and CEO of the Economic Development Commission of the Space Coast, state and local entities have been working together since 2018 to pursue Aerion as a potential business to join the aerospace industry here in Brevard. The EDC provided $200,000 to offset development fees for the relocation. Space Florida President and CEO, Frank DiBello, said 13

Photos by: Aerion Supersonic

the move would be a truly transformational project for Florida that changes the game both for high-speed air transportation, as well as advanced aerospace manufacturing within the state. Among those working on the effort to bring Aerion to Melbourne included officials from Enterprise Florida, Space Florida, Orlando Melbourne International Airport, Brevard County and the City of Melbourne. Florida ranks in the top five states in the nation for aerospace employment, with more than 132,000plus employees working in the industry during the last decade. Vice has a long relationship with the Melbourne community, having spent 31 years at Northrop Grumman, where he was President of the company’s Aerospace Systems sector until he retired in 2017. He joined Aerion in 2018. “While I truly loved my work at Grumman, I have always wanted to help revolutionize global mobility and I believe Aerion Supersonic can do just that,” he said. “We have a team of passionate entrepreneurs, collaborative innovators, and courageous creative engineers—bonded by unwavering integrity and driven to build the next generation of global transportation networks—that will significantly reduce the time and friction of travel while leaving no carbon footprint behind.” Aerion Supersonics AS2 business jet is described on the company’s website as a “Time Machine” for the first step towards a new paradigm of global mobility. The 12-passenger jet will be capable of traveling at speeds of more than 1,000 mph. The cabin interiors and seating arrangements will be designed to feature “a modern, minimalist visual language that matches the overall design 14

of the AS2.” The AS2 business jet, which is estimated to cost in the neighborhood of $120 million, will be the first in its class designed with the ability to accept 100 percent biofuels and the first OEM to commit to a carbon-neutral operating system designed without an afterburner. This technology will allow the renewable energy capabilities. The company entered into a partnership with Boeing last year to develop and advance the supersonic jet market. While financial terms of the deal were not disclosed, sources said several

hundred million were invested with Aerion, giving Boeing a substantial stake of approximately 40 percent in the project. GE Aviation’s Affinity supersonic engines will power the innovative AS2 planes. Aerion’s work on the supersonic technology will include a partnership with NASA as well. “Unlike the Concorde jets of the 80’s and 90’s, there will be no sonic booms heard on the ground and the jets will be able to test over the water, another consideration for relocating to the Space Coast,” said Matt Clarke, VP of Marketing for Aerion.

"UNLIKE THE CONCORDE JETS OF THE 80’S AND 90’S, THERE WILL BE NO SONIC BOOMS HEARD ON THE GROUND AND THE JETS WILL BE ABLE TO TEST OVER THE WATER, ANOTHER CONSIDERATION FOR RELOCATING TO THE SPACE COAST.” MATT CLARKE, VP OF MARKETING FOR AERION “While the Concorde was a great design for its era, its flaws also show many of the challenges as to why it has yet to be replaced,” said Vice. “Noise, carbon emissions, expensive operating costs; these are all things we must address.” Aerion Supersonic’s website references the AS2 jets: “Advanced aerodynamics enables our company to create hyper-luxury and quiet, with an aim to make the air travel supremely enjoyable.” The move to Melbourne by Aerion Supersonic will also give key area suppliers from the supersonic technology ecosystem a boost and bring further growth to the area, while adding specific jobs within the company to include scientists, designers, engineers and aircraft construction personnel. Orlando Melbourne International Airport Director, Greg Donovan, said the airport “...is incredibly honored and thrilled to bring this news to our community at a time when it’s needed the most.” 15

g n i h c ea

For The

Stars, Again

Photo by: Kennedy Space Center

NE OF THE MOST WELL-KNOWN SITES LISTED IN THE NATIONAL REGISTER OF HISTORIC PL ACES, TOGETHER WITH A VISIONARY BILLIONAIRE, TEAMED UP TO START THE NEX T CHAPTER IN BRE VARD COUNT Y’S STORIED HISTORY OF SPACE EXPLOR ATION.

When veteran NASA astronauts Bob Behnken and Doug Hurley arrived at Kennedy Space Center’s venerable Launch Complex 39A on a spiffy Tesla Model X SUV to ascend to SpaceX’s Crew Dragon capsule on May 30, they were taking the first steps on a long voyage to the International Space Station. They were also realizing entrepreneur Elon Musk’s vision of transforming the aerospace industry, right in Brevard County. Musk could not have chosen a more perfect setting than Pad 39A for America’s return to crewed space flight, for it was from this very spot that the Apollo 11 astronauts took off for the moon in 1969 and from where Atlantis---with Hurley as her pilot---launched in 2011 as the final flight of the 30-year-old Space Shuttle Program. The first private company to successfully launch and return a spacecraft from Earth’s orbit and to dock with the International Space Station, SpaceX, which has been delivering cargo to the ISS for years, also broke America’s nine-year dry spell of crewed space flights and set the stage for space explorers to venture back to the Moon and later on to Mars. Not far from Pad 39A is Launch Pad 36, another space veteran location that has notched 145 launches in its lifetime. From here, Jeff Bezos of Amazon fame hopes to send his Blue Origin rockets for Artemis, the U.S. space agency program that anticipates landing the first woman and next man on the lunar surface by 2024. SpaceX and Dynetics were also selected to design and develop human landing systems for Artemis. “It’s a new dawn for space exploration,” tweeted NASA administrator Jim Bridenstine after the recent release of the Artemis Accords, the principles private companies and international space agencies alike will abide by during the next stage of space exploration. For Brevard, the sky is the limit for job opportunities in the highwage aerospace sector. “In addition to making history as the first crewed commercial spacecraft launch, the return of astronauts to Cape Canaveral opens a thrilling new chapter for space exploration and economic development in Brevard County,” said Linda Weatherman, president and CEO of the Economic Development Commission of the Space Coast. “SpaceX’s Crew Dragon will be joined by Boeing’s Starliner, Lockheed Martin’s Orion and numerous other rockets and spacecraft, many of which will be assembled, manufactured, launched and recovered 16

NASA astronauts Doug Hurley and Bob Behnken familiarize themselves with SpaceXâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Crew Dragon, the spacecraft that transported them to the International Space Station as part of NASAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Commercial Crew Program. (Photo: Kennedy Space Center)

This artist illustration shows the SpaceX Crew Dragon spacecraft docking to the International Space Station. (Photo: Kennedy Space Center) 18

So many companies with so many exciting job opportunities helped propel the Palm Bay-MelbourneTitusville Metropolitan Statistical Area---which includes Viera---to the Number 10 spot in Milken Institute’s “Best Performing Cities 2020: Where America’s Jobs are Created and Sustained,” placing the Space Coast in the company of major cities such as San Francisco and Seattle…but without the exorbitant housing costs and exhausting commutes. Viera’s many communities, which offer housing options that range from affordable first homes to multi-milliondollar executive properties, make for a centrally located base for the immense workforce the new era of the space program will demand.

Linda Weatherman - President and CEO of the Economic Development Commission of the Space Coast here as the world’s premier gateway to space.” She is right. Aerospace and aviation companies are flocking to the Space Coast. Boeing, for example, last year announced the relocation of headquarters for its Space and Launch Division to Brevard. “This storied Florida space community will be the center of gravity for Boeing’s space programs as we continue to build our company’s leadership beyond gravity,” said Boeing Defense, Space & Security president and CEO Leanne Caret. “The time is right for us to locate our space headquarters where so much of our space history was made over the past six decades and where so much history awaits.” Even in the midst of the pandemic, good news emerged for Brevard when Aerion Supersonic this year announced the construction of a state-of-the-art campus in Melbourne for research, design, building and maintenance of the company’s supersonic aircraft. “Brevard County is home to the pioneers of space exploration and now the pioneers of sustainable supersonic transportation,” said Weatherman. In addition to the major players, subcontractors such as All Points Logistics, named Small Business Subcontractor of the Year from NASA and Top 100 Supplier from the Department of Homeland Security, are also working on new space and defense-related projects for NASA, the National Security Agency, the Department of Homeland Security, and others. “The commercialization of space exploration is providing a very positive influence to the Space Coast,” said Steve Lloyd, chief development officer for All Points. “This is just the beginning of a new and exciting chapter for our industry and our area. With the activities ramping up to return the next man and first women to the moon, Brevard is poised to play a significant role in helping achieve that goal.”

WATCHING SPACESHIPS FROM THE BACKYARD Dr. Daniel Batcheldor, like many folks in Brevard, wished the Crew Dragon well from the comfort his driveway. “Being able to see the launches from home is one of the advantages of living on the Space Coast,” said Dr. Batcheldor, head of the Department of Aerospace, Physics and Space Sciences at Florida Tech in Melbourne. He considers himself extremely fortunate to live in Brevard during this unique time. “The return of crewed space flight is a major step, particularly because the program is transitioning to a commercial model that is more fast-paced,” he said. “There is an uptick in high-tech coming into the area, which is not surprising, because we have an extremely talented workforce.” Florida Tech is doing its part for the new age of crewed extended space flights with research into subjects as how to create food supply for the astronauts during those long voyages. When it comes to aerospace, the stars have aligned for the Space Coast for many years to come. “The Space Coast has become a hub for the aviation and aerospace industry, and my administration continues to make it a priority to expand this high-wage and important business sector,” said Florida Governor Ron DeSantis.

Photo by: Florida Tech Dr. Daniel Batcheldor - Head of the Department of Aerospace, Physics and Space Sciences at Florida Tech in Melbourne 19

SpaceX Falcon 9 lifts off from pad 39A at Kennedy Space Center, FL Saturday May 30, 2020 carrying astronauts Bob Behnken and Doug Hurley. (Photo: Craig Bailey/Florida Today)

Astronaut Doug Hurley reaches out to his wife Karen Nyberg and son Jack before heading to the launch pad. (Photo: Craig Bailey/Florida Today)

Summer Recipes from Duda Farm Fresh Foods We selected a few summertime recipes for you to try this summer from Duda Farm Fresh Foods. The six generations of family farming for nearly 100 years have provided consistent products with busy lifestyles in mind. You can also download several eBooks and recipe guides from their website. Enjoy!

Dandy® Radish & Pineapple Aqua Fresca Ingredients: • 4 cups filtered water • 2 cups fresh ripe pineapple, core removed, cut into 1” pieces • ¼ cup sugar • 2 tsp. fresh squeezed lime juice • 1 cup Dandy® Radishes, minced • Lime wedges or mint leaves for garnish (optional) Make It: In a blender, combine water, pineapple, and sugar. Puree until smooth. Pour mixture into a pitcher or serving container. Stir in lime juice and minced Dandy® Radishes. Taste, then add additional sugar if necessary. Garnish with a lime wedge or mint leaf. Aqua Fresca may be served over ice, although it is better if the entire mixture is refrigerated before serving as ice will water down the combination. Yield: 3-4 servings Available on DudaFresh.com/recipes 22

The Perfect Dandy® Radish Burger Ingredients: For the caramelized onions: • 2 sweet onions, sliced thin • 2 Tbsp. butter For patties: • 1 ½ lbs ground beef (80/20 fat ratio) • 2 eggs • ¼ cup bread crumbs • ½ tsp. ancho chile pepper • ¾ tsp. salt • ½ tsp. pepper • 6 hamburger buns • Butter • 6 Tbsp. spreadable blue cheese • ¼ cup Dandy® Radish Coins (Optional: Try them quick pickled for added flavor!) • 6 slices of tomato • 1 cup thinly sliced cucumber (Optional) Make It: 1. First caramelize the onions. In a large sauce pan, melt butter then add the sweet onions. Reduce heat to medium or medium low so that the onions brown but do not burn. Stir rarely, until they are brown and fragrant (30-40 minutes). You may need to add a splash of water at the end to keep them from drying out and burning. 2. Preheat grill on high for 10 minutes. Clean and oil grates to help prevent burgers from sticking. 3. Thoroughly combine ground beef, eggs, bread crumbs and chile pepper in medium bowl. Form into 6 patties and just before grilling, season with salt and pepper. 4. Grill until slightly charred on the first side (about 3-4 minutes) and then flip to second side. Grill to desired level of doneness (about 3-5 minutes for medium). 5. Butter the buns and crisp them on the grill or under your broiler. Add a tablespoon of blue cheese to each top bun. Assemble burgers and top each patty with plenty of caramelized onions and pickled radishes. Yield: 6 servings Recipe by The Adventure Bite Recipe found on DudaFresh.com/recipes 23

GOLF CART REGULATIONS IN VIERA

Golf carts operating within Viera must comply with Chapter 316, Florida Statutes and Chapter 106, Ordinances of Brevard County. Generally, golf carts may be used on neighborhood streets within Viera; golf carts are not allowed on roads having a posted speed limit over 30 miles per hour. In addition, golf carts may be used on sidewalks designated

as Multi-Use Sidewalks shared by pedestrians, non-motorized conveyances and golf carts. Such designated sidewalks will typically be adjacent to Currently, golf cart registration is not required in Brevard County or Viera.

Golf carts shall not be used from sunset to sunrise or during periods of rain, smoke or fog unless equipped with:

Golf carts are prohibited on: • • • •

Wickham Road Pineda Causeway Viera Boulevard Murrell Road

• • • •

Stadium Parkway Lake Andrew Drive Tavistock Drive Judge Fran Jamieson Way

• • • •

Functioning headlights Brake lights Turn signals Windshield

Golf Carts are allowed on the adjacent sidewalk if designated a Multi-Use Sidewalk by special signage Multi-Use Sidewalk

Golf cart must be equipped with: Rearview mirror Reliable steering

SPEED LIMIT

If operator is unlicensed golf cart must have horn

Multi-Use Sidewalks have a speed limit of 10 mph or less

Working brakes

Safe tires Red warning reflectors on both the front and rear of the cart

Golf carts operating on a designated Multi-Use Sidewalk may only cross a major road or highway at a signalized intersection or a designated pedestrian crosswalk

Golf cart operator must be at least 14 years old

Multi-Use Sidewalk

Follow all traffic laws and regulations applicable to motorized vehicles

Passengers are limited to the number of seats and must be seated in the position intended

GOLF CART SAFETY IN VIERA

safety fundamentals that should be followed by all golf cart operators, particularly when sharing sidewalks with other users. Operators should be courteous and yield to pedestrians and persons on non-motorized conveyances and always move to the right side and pass on the left. When approaching from behind, Operators should use

a horn or other audible signal to avoid surprise. Young children should wear a safety helmet to avoid injury from falling out of or being ejected from the cart. Children under the age of 5 should not be transported in a golf cart unless secured in a federally approved child restraint seat or carrier attached to the cart by a properly fastened seat (safety) belt.

Use extreme caution in crowded areas and during inclement weather Do NOT park in any location other than in a designated vehicle parking space

Slow down when approaching pedestrians, other vehicles, curves or intersections

Use caution when crossing roads and driveways Do NOT race or joy-ride • Remain seated while cart is in motion • Keep arms and legs inside the cart • Never allow anyone to sit in the driver’s or a passenger’s lap Do NOT operate a golf cart if under the influence of alcohol or other substance

operated off of a homeowner’s property and golf operating a golf cart is punishable by a citation

subject to all DUI laws and penalties, including “open container” laws. Homeowner insurance policies typically do not cover golf carts

liability if involved in an accident. Golf cart liability insurance is available from most insurance companies and should be obtained by golf cart owners and operators.

For more information regarding the operation of golf carts, Viera residents may contact the Brevard County Sheriff’s Office, West Precinct at 321-633-2123.

BIKE & PARK SAFETY IN VIERA

Reminders can be very helpful and when it comes to summer safety it is important for everyone to keep a careful eye out for anyone on a bike, in a crosswalk, driving a golf cart, visiting a local park, or playing in a pool. Several years ago, we compiled the Golf Cart Safety graphic for our new residents with some very useful information. This new Bike and Park Safety graphic also contains some very important safety procedures. Please share the information with others, discuss with your family and even tear ® out and hang in your garage next to the Protect yourself from UV rays: equipment. SLIP on a shirt

We have also provided some additional links and tips for sun protection. The American Cancer Society has a great new way to help you remember to limit yourself from UV exposure and the new catchphrase is “Slip! Slop! Slap!® And Wrap!” We wish you all the fun this time of year brings and we hope you have a wonderful and safe summer.

“Slip! Slop! Slap! & Wrap!”

SLOP on sunscreen SLAP on a hat WRAP on sunglasses to protect the eyes and skin around them

Go with the flow of traffic Follow the signs and traffic signals

Ride with caution Stay clear of parked cars and the door zone

Watch for pedestrians crossing

Stop behind the crosswalk at the stop bar Be visible at night with white front lights and red rear lights and reflectors

Keep a distance of at least 3 feet from a bicyclist when passing

PARK & POOL RULES • Parks open dawn to dusk • NO glass containers • NO alcohol • Park reservations must be made about 6-8 weeks prior to event and require a deposit • Signs are posted at each pavilion for pool safety procedures

Additional safety information: PoolSafely.gov/ SafeKids.org/safetytips CDC.gov/family/kids/summer/index.htm Cancer.org/healthy/be-safe-in-sun.html Facebook.com/SCTPO

• Signs are posted at each dog park for safety procedures • Supervision of children is strongly recommended

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HOW TO

PICKLEBPALAY LL

POSITION OF PLAYERS AT

HE GAME OF PICKLEBALL CONTINUES TO GROW NATIONWIDE AND WITH ALL THE NEW COURTS AVAILABLE IN VIERA WE THOUGHT THAT A QUICK LESSON ON HOW IT DIFFERS FROM TENNIS MIGHT BE A GOOD IDEA. IT IS A GAME THAT CAN BE PLAYED WITH TWO PEOPLE WHO CAN TECHNICALLY MAINTAIN THEIR SOCIAL DISTANCING REQUIREMENT IF YOU ABIDE BY THE RULES. THE NON-VOLLEY ZONE OR KITCHEN RULE IS 14 FEET (7 FEET ON EACH SIDE OF THE NET).

POSITION OFVOLLEYING PLAYERS AT NET WHEN NET WHEN VOLLEYING

NON-VOLLEY

ZONE

Here’s a quick list of the most common committed faults with the ball: • Does not clear the net • Is hit out of bounds • Is volleyed from the non-volley zone • Touches any part of non-volley zone on the serve (including the line) • Is volleyed before a bounce has occurred on each side To learn more visit USAPA.org or Pickleball.com

The size of the court is similar to a badminton court at 20’ x 44’. The ball is served diagonally (similar to tennis) starting with the right-hand service-square. Points are only scored by the side that serves the ball. Pickleballs are designed as a perforated polymer ball with 26-40 round holes with versions for indoor and outdoor courts. Paddles are usually made of a wood or composite material but most players say to start with a composite paddle. The serve is underhand and the server must keep both feet behind the back line when serving to their opponent. The service is made diagonally and must clear the non-volley zone. To volley means to hit the ball in the air without first letting it bounce. Only one serve attempt is allowed unless it touches the net. You also must keep your feet behind the line or you must give up your turn. The receiver can return the serve within any area of the server’s court. Players will keep serving similar to tennis until you play to 11 points. There is no deuce or love in the scoring vernacular. It is also not a fast hitting game and as a beginner it is more important to focus on getting the ball over the net with both feet in the right place. So go outside, find a court and play a new game that provides the distance we all must practice and the fun we all need.

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Catchitect

of Viera

IX A CAREER IN ARCHITECTURE WITH A LOVE FOR THE FELINE SPECIES AND YOU HAVE MARIO ARBORE, THE VIERA “CATCHITECT” WHO DESIGNS KITTY HABITATS FOR THE LIKES OF SINGER AND SONGWRITER BILLY JOEL AND RADIO PERSONALITY HOWARD STERN.

Six years ago, while on hiatus between projects, Arbore turned his attention to cat condos at the suggestion of his cat-loving aunt, who also lives in Viera. With his aunt’s felines, plus three cats of his own, Arbore already enjoyed a built-in test panel to give a paw of approval to the cat and people-pleasing designs of his new company, Square Paws, which specializes in custom indoor and outdoor “cabitats” for discerning felines. Square Paws’ headquarters began modestly enough inside Arbore’s garage in Capron Trace. Primarily through wordof-mouth and social media, the company has blossomed, necessitating a move to a dedicated workshop in West Melbourne. Arbore thinks outside the litter box when developing unique designs that range from a feline fantasy of a giant tuna can cat house to a “catbernet” scratching post in the shape of a giant wine glass. Commercial commissions focus on cat cafes around Florida. For the uninitiated, a cat café is not where cats go to have their latte, but rather a place where humans can enjoy their macchiatos while watching adoptable cats do their little tiger thing. “It’s a full-blown café where you can also pay to enter an air-lock cat room (used as a controlled environment), to interact with the cats, which usually come from local shelters,” explained Arbore. “If you like one of the cats, you can adopt it.” 31

For a café at South Beach, Arbore selected a seashore theme that includes a lifeguard station so kitties can play “Baywatch.” He is currently working on the golf-themed Catty Shack café in Ft. Myers, as well as at a St. Augustine café that features cat-climbable replicas of landmarks from San Juan, Puerto Rico, the owner’s hometown. Last March, Arbore enjoyed a career high when Beth Stern, wife of radio and television personality Howard, called him for help with a project. “The Sterns are big-time cat lovers who have fostered more than a thousand cats,” said Arbore. The couple wanted to surprise friend Billy Joel with cat adoption rooms named in his honor at the new $12 million Bianca’s Furry Friends Feline Adoption Center at North Shore Animal League America. The New Yorkbased shelter is the world’s largest no-kill and adoption organization. Prospective cat parents visiting state-of-theart Bianca’s Furry Friends can interact with adoptable kitties roaming free in several cat rooms. “A mutual friend in Florida told me about Mario and when I saw his work, I knew I wanted him for this passion project of mine,” said Beth Stern. The Sterns wanted to design a space that reflected the unique personality of Joel. “Beth wanted a knock-your-socks-off design,” said Arbore. He delivered on the request with a “Piano Man” room that incorporates a wall-mounted piano where the cats can play while humans can try their musical skills on the functioning electronic keyboard. “We wanted to make as congenial a place as if you were in your own living room,” said Arbore. The second room bows to Joel’s roots with a New Yorkstate-of-mind theme that includes kitty-friendly replicas of the Empire State building, Yankee Stadium and even a Big Apple subway car. “What he created in the two Billy Joel rooms surpassed my wildest expectations,” said Stern. “Only the felines in the rooms are happier than me.” The Sterns additionally commissioned Arbore for cabitats for their own felines. “Mario’s cat condos are wonderful and a huge hit with all our kittens and cats,” said Stern. Arbore’s catchitectural projects also include outdoor kitty habitats, such as the Japanese cat garden he fashioned for Melbourne residents Michelle and Tim Sanders. A river, a bridge, a tea house and even the Torii gates traditionally found in Shinto temples are part of the design, as is a custom Kanji symbol for heaven, which doubles as a cat shelf and illustrates the happiness the Sanders’ kitties must feel as they laze in the serene and graceful space. “Every cat deserves a catio,” said Michele Sanders. Arbore has not traded human-intended architecture for architecture for cats. In fact, he enjoys pursuing both disciplines, although he admits he is partial to one. “I have two full-time jobs, but Square Paws is my passion,” he said. For more, see squarepaws.com.

“IT’S A FULL-BLOWN CAFÉ WHERE YOU CAN ALSO PAY TO ENTER AN AIR-LOCK CAT ROOM TO INTERACT WITH THE CATS, WHICH USUALLY COME FROM LOCAL SHELTERS. IF YOU LIKE ONE OF THE CATS, YOU CAN ADOPT IT.” MARIO ARBORE, OWNER SQUARE PAWS

Viera Trails Menu

The Reserve at Adelaide

Featured Trail

Adelaide

Summer Lakes

The Lakes at Adelaide

BRIDGE

URBAN FUN TRAIL ON TAVISTOCK DRIVE Estimated distance 5.14m DOCK

Tea Tree Park

The Preserve at Adelaide

Sonoma ST AD IU

Colfax Landing

PA RK

Charolais Estates

W AY

Stadium Villas

Future Development

Ravencliffe Future Development

VIERA BLVD Future Development Future Development

EXIT 193

Future Development

DRIV

Future Church

E Proposed

E DR EW D R I V P rop osed Exte n si on L A K E A N

ed E

E n VI xte n si o

VD BL

A DA

Future Development

Viera VA Outpatient Clinic

Proposed

As you wind your way now south through the tree- and fence-lined r pos road along Tavistock Drive for 3.65 miles, you may see families enjoying the local parks in the connected areas. Turn left onto Judge Fran Jamieson Way and then make a quick left onto Breslay Drive. Another quick right will take you to the trail that follows along Stadium Parkway for the remainder 1.32 miles back to the starting point. The incline by Viera High School will test your fitness level along with the winding sidewalk next to USSSA Stadium Complex where you may hear the umpire yell, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Strike three!â&#x20AC;? Future Development

Future Development

HENNESSY PLACE

P OR

P o

ONATE LN

In part 4 of our 6 part series on trails, we have included a local course that can be run slower based on the rise in humidity this time of year. The urban description within the name of this trail will provide you with visuals that can be distracting so pay extra caution to all posted signs. We start this trail at the Publix shopping center at the corner of Viera Blvd. and Stadium Parkway heading north to a left turn at Tavistock Drive.

The Park at Adelaide

Proposed Middle School

Future Corporate Office Park Future Development Future Development

Viera Regional Park

FELLOWSHIP DR Proposed Presbyterian Church

Viera Charter School

Future Development

Artisan at Viera Apartments

Expansion Viera Charter School

Proposed Extension

Modern Duran

Heritage Isle Active Adult Community

METFIELD DRIVE Future Development

Future Development

Ce P

Proposed

Park

Practice Range & 9-Hole Short Course

Duran Development Center

Playground & Dog Park

CE N RODINA DR

Future Development

Fairway Lakes At Duran

Future

The Pearl of Viera Apartments BANDINI WAY

Viera Town Center

ALTANO WAY

Future Development

T ER AVE

Future Development

Centre Pointe Apartments

E DE AV NNA

OR RHONDA AUSTILL, LIVING IN VIERA IS ALL ABOUT LOCATION, LOCATION, LOCATION. RHONDA AND HUSBAND MIKE MOVED TO LOREN COVE TO BE WITHIN WALKING DISTANCE OF THEIR GRANDCHILDREN, LEO (8) AND MAX (6), AT THE HOME OF HER DAUGHTER JANNY AND SON-IN-LAW DUSTIN IN TRASONA COVE.

“Our lives revolve around grandchildren, and we love to be able to see them several times a week and attend their events at school,” said Austill, who teaches ESOL(English to Speakers of Other Languages) at Creel Elementary School in Melbourne. “To be just 9/10 of a mile from them is amazing.” Rhonda taught at Ralph Williams Elementary for 12 years before transferring eight years ago to Creel, a Title I school that encompasses some of Melbourne’s most impoverished neighborhoods. “It was time for the next challenge,” she said. Part of the challenge involves helping build a sorely needed new playground at Creel. “The ancient playground there is so old it may have to be closed in the next few 36

years,” she said. “I am super passionate about building that playground.” Austill is assisting Creel parents in raising funds for the new facility and during the pandemic she and Mike also delivered plenty of food to help the families survive. “I don’t know how the parents do it,” said Austill. “Most of them have two jobs just to make ends meet.” She feels blessed to be living in Viera, where even walking to her grandsons’ home becomes a pleasure. “There are so many great pathways to get to their house,” she said. “I go different routes and never get bored.” Austill is also a big fan of the new state-of-the-art Addison Village Clubhouse. “Our daughter meets us there with the kids,” she said. When the urge to eat-out strikes, Rhonda and Mike have plenty of favorites, including El Leoncito, Bonefish Grill, Pizza Gallery & Grill, Culver’s Restaurant, Olive Tree Greek Grill and LongHorn Steakhouse. Seeing Max and Leo jump at Urban Air Adventure Park and taking in a movie at AMC Avenue 16 are also favorite activities, as is visiting Brevard Zoo. “We have so many amenities so close to our family,” she said. “That’s the gift Viera gives to us.”

Photograph by: Rhonda Austill

Why I Love Viera!

R. STEVEN HICKS JOKES THAT HE IS THE GUY WHO "TURNS THE LIGHTS OUT" FOR VIERA HIGH SCHOOL’S AWARD-WINNING ODYSSEY OF THE MIND TEAMS.

Actually, Hicks is instrumental in keeping the enthusiastic students on course during their elaborate projects, and his guidance helped both teams snag spots in the 2020 Odyssey of the Mind World Finals. One Viera High School team finished ninth in the world in the category of networking, while another placed 50th in classics. “To finish ninth in any world competition is an amazing feat, to do so under COVID-19 conditions is nothing short of spectacular,” said Hicks. “The team that finished fiftieth was in a larger group of competitors and I consider that placement equally as impressive. I am so proud of both teams!” Hicks’ videotaping of the teams’ presentation during the regional match proved extremely fortuitous, since the videos were used for judging state and national competitions after the pandemic nixed in-person appearances. A teacher at Viera High’s Academy of Communication, Art and Design, Hicks introduces freshmen and sophomores to programs such as Photoshop and Adobe Illustrator. A friend’s daughter asked him to coach Odyssey of the Mind soon after he joined the faculty two years ago; he jumped at the opportunity. The 3,000-square-feet of state-of-the-art lab/classroom space that is Hicks’ domain at the high school provides plenty of elbow room for

tweaking OM projects. When he and his wife, Dina, moved to Viera 10 years ago, it was the beginning of a love affair with the area. His home at Viera’s Fairway Lakes by Duran Golf Club is within walking distance of the high school, which sons Alex and Chris attend. The highly creative Hicks served as senior editor/ publisher for Space Coast Living magazine and provided marketing and branding for local restaurants Meg O’Malley’s, Hemingway’s and Long Doggers. The latter holds a special place in Hicks’ heart. “I helped to open the Viera Long Doggers,” he said. “Our son Chris works there and we know all the servers. It’s like family to us.” Viera’s Thai Hana and El Leoncito are also favorite hangouts for eating. Camera in hand, Hicks often explores nearby Viera Wetlands, and he is a frequent visitor to another large--although albeit more civilized---wide open space in the community. “With two boys, I am often at Viera Regional Park,” he said.

Photographs by: Dr. Steven Hicks

Why I Love Viera!

SUMMER ACTIVITIES STEM INITIATIVES 1. L3 Harris Technologies: “Tech in 10": an edutainment series including topics from robots to rocket safety Youtube.com 2. Kiwico.com: Fun and enriching science & art projects to inspire young innovators LEARNING 1. Life-long learning: TheGreatCoursesPlus.com offers courses from economics to food & wine 2. Piano: PlaygroundSessions.com offers at home piano training

‘OLD SCHOOL’ ACTIVITIES 1. ‘Pen Pal’ Project: Handwrite letters or notes and send to someone special or make a new friend 2. 'Summer Memories' album: Get those photos off the phone and computer and make a keepsake photo album 3. Backyard Picnic and Games: Weekly theme: start with the 4th of July 4. Camping In Your Backyard Pitch a tent, have a cookout, play some games, look at the stars and make s’mores 5. Design Playhouses and Forts Use cardboard boxes to design playhouses and forts

GO ON A SAFARI 1. Lion Country Safari: LionCountrySafari.com 2. Wild Florida Safari Park: WildFloridaAirboats.com/drive-thru-safari-park/

SUMMER CAMPS 1. Brevard Zoo: Zoom-A-Zoo Virtual Camp Crew BrevardZoo.org 2. CODE NINJAS: Coding Classes, STEM Workshops, Robotics CodeNinjas.com/fl-viera 3. Ron Jon Surf School: Surf Camp RonJonSurfSchool.com/ 4. Calema Windsurfing & Watersports: Windsurfing, Sailing, Kayaking and SUP (Stand-Up Paddling) Calema.com 5. CraftingEducation Academy: Summer Camp Programs craftingeducation.org 6. The Henegar: Feller Summer Theatre Camps Henegar.org

7. Brevard County Parks & Recreation Summer Camps: BrevardParks.com 8. Gathering Table Cooking Classes: hands-on cooking sprinkled with kitchen safety, etiquette and fun TheGatheringTableInfo@gmail.com

DEVELOPER Letter

TODD POKRYWA, PRESIDENT

T IS SUMMER IN VIERA AND OPPORTUNITIES ABOUND FOR OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES THROUGHOUT THE COMMUNITY. IT IS ALSO THAT SEASON WHEN WE LOOK FORWARD TO THE GREAT AMERICAN CELEBRATION FIREWORKS DISPLAY PLANNED FOR JULY 4TH. WHILE SPENDING TIME EXPLORING VIERA, PLEASE TAKE A MOMENT TO OBSERVE THE PROGRESS BEING MADE HERE IN ONE OF THE TOP-RATED MASTER PLANNED COMMUNITIES IN THE COUNTRY THAT WE ARE BLESSED TO CALL HOME.

This is a great time of year to frequent and enjoy Viera’s impressive community amenities. The Addison Village Club has reopened to full capacity for members and license holders offering a wide variety of programs. The award winning Duran Golf Club is open to the public and Tradewinds Restaurant has resumed food and beverage operations with a new West Indies lunch menu and expanded events such as Friday Night Out. The Viera Town Center continues to grow with a further developed roadway network. The Home2 Suites by Hilton is scheduled to open during late summer, The Pearl of Viera luxury multi-family apartments will rise vertically during the remainder of the year, and plans continue to evolve for the mix of uses to follow in this important central gathering place for the entire Viera community.

The extension of Lake Andrew Drive from its current terminus behind Viera High School, northward to Viera Boulevard, is nearing completion, which will pave the way for the mixed-use hub in Borrows West located in the southwest quadrant of Viera Boulevard and I-95. Meanwhile, construction of Lake Andrew Drive south of Wickham Road to connect to the Pineda Interchange is well underway; this improvement is planned for completion early next year and will open the window to planned commercial uses and additional Viera neighborhoods with quicker access to our beautiful beaches! Economic growth in our market related to commercial space and defense-contracting industries remains strong. Aerion Supersonic announced a $300 million campus on approximately 60 acres north of the Orlando Melbourne International Airport. This new neighbor comes with approximately 675 new high-paying jobs. If history is any indicator, this new stakeholder’s presence on the Space Coast will lead to additional business growth. Viera is ideally situated in the center of Brevard County and is a prime location for employees of major employers throughout the Space Coast to find a home with unrivaled lifestyle offerings. Whether you are walking, biking, or riding in your golf cart on the many miles of trails winding throughout Viera, there is always progress to witness and celebrate as our community grows. Although the 4th of July celebration may be more low-key this year than those past, it is still apropos for us to celebrate the independence, freedoms and quality of life we all enjoy here in Viera.

"WHETHER YOU ARE WALKING, BIKING, OR RIDING IN YOUR GOLF CART ON THE MANY OF MILES OF TRAILS WINDING THROUGHOUT VIERA, THERE IS ALWAYS PROGRESS TO WITNESS AND CELEBRATE AS OUR COMMUNITY GROWS. " 40

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SATURDAY JULY 4TH Look to the east of USSSA Space Coast Complex to view the spectacular fireworks display promptly at 9:00pm (weather permitting) or view the fireworks live on our Facebook page.

T EN

2 0 2

V E E

U AT

SATURDAY SEPTEMBER 5TH 10am to 12pm Viera Town Center Park 2853 Rodina Drive Join us at the live, in-person event to coincide with the rescheduled 146th Kentucky Derby. All pets welcome to enter the hat contest!

SATURDAY NOVEMBER 28TH

HOLI DAY PAR A DE 2020

We’re looking forward to the holidays! Bring your family and enjoy the lights and sounds during the 8th annual Light Up Viera Holiday Parade. It’s a community tradition that you won’t want to miss.

For updates and more information on all these events, visit vieracommunityinstitute.com. Updates will also be provided on the Viera Community Institute Facebook page as we get closer to the events. VieraCommunityInstitute.com

VieraCommunityInstitute

VieraVision