Viera Vision | Where you live affects how you live

VISION ISSUE 3

WHERE & HOW WE LIVE

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SMART HOMES

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5 STAR CARE

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VIERA VISION • VOLUME 11 • ISSUE 3

table of

CONTENTS

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WHERE YOU LIVE AFFECTS HOW YOU LIVE

18 GOLF CART REGULATIONS

FAMILY OF COMPANIES

20 BUSINESSES

In Viera Tijuana Flats Bean Sprout

Duran Golf Club

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21 WHY I LOVE VIERA

A SMART HOUSE

Sean Gregory

12 SPORTS THIS FALL

23 CALENDAR OF EVENTS

14 HEALTHCARE 5 Star Care in Viera

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16 DISCOVERING MORE: Ideas to meet, mingle and make new friends

November/December

24 CLOSING LETTER Stephen Johnson

17 EDUCATION The All American Flag Act

CONTRIBUTORS PUBLISHER

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

The Viera Company with SCB Marketing

Stephanie Byrd, Stephanie Hatchett, Emily King, Lauren Maleski, Adeline Morgan, Carmen Vastola

Articles and advertisements printed in Viera

THE VIERA COMPANY Tracy Duda Chapman | CEO Stephen Johnson | President Lauri Duda | VP of Marketing Stephanie Byrd | Marketing Manager

SCB MARKETING Josh Field | Co-founder / President Jeff Piersall | Co-founder / CEO

CREATIVE DIRECTOR Stephanie Byrd EDITORIAL Donna Duda, Susan Howard

Viera Vision is the official publication of

GRAPHIC DESIGN

Vision do not necessarily reflect the opinions of

SCB Marketing

the publisher. The Viera Company, Viera Realty, Inc., SCB Marketing, Space Coast Business, LLC,

PHOTOGRAPHY

Evolve Design Group, and Viera Vision assume

Stephanie Byrd, Cathy Heinz, Andrea Shaffer, Carmen Vastola

no liability for the content and shall not be held

ADVERTISING

© 2015. All rights reserved. Any reproduction, in

Mark Calvert

PRODUCTION/DISTRIBUTION Emily King, Keaton Senti

THE VIERA COMPANY 7380 Murrell Road, Suite 201 Viera, FL 32940 P: (321) 242-1200

liable for any errors or omissions.

whole or in part, is prohibited without written permission from the publishers.

Additional copy location and information: The Viera Discovery Center 7350 Shoppes Dr., Viera, Florida 32940 P: (321) 253-2800

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/VieraVision

Tracy Duda Chapman is chief executive officer of The Viera Company and General Counsel of A. Duda & Sons, Inc.

Welcome Friends It is fall again – a time when we welcome back our northern visitors, eager to soak up the warm Florida sun, and we watch summer fade and our days become shorter. These seasonal changes also bring with them opportunities to enjoy many fall activities.

So what’s your passion during the fall season?

I love college football (“Roll Tide Roll”) and I enjoy sharing in all of the upcoming holiday festivities like Thanksgiving feasts, Christmas giving and New Year celebrations. Do you like the arts? This time of year, the fine arts scene is alive with performances. Are you a sports enthusiast? On any given weekend, you can catch a game of football, soccer, lacrosse or basketball, and running events are a regular occurrence.

Maybe you have a giving heart. The fall season also brings with it charity events that provide our local philanthropic organizations a much needed boost in funding.

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If you’re still not sure, this issue of “Viera Vision” should provide you with the inspiration you need.

You can start by checking out our Calendar of Events on page 23 or reading Sports this Fall on page 12. Our Discover More series, on page 16, has some helpful tips on making new friends and meeting people. Finally, learn how Where you Live Affects How you Live in our cover story on page 3.

Whatever your passion, I am sure you will find Viera and our surrounding area is full of opportunities. I encourage you to get out there and enjoy this beautiful fall weather with your friends and family.

Sincerely,

WHERE YOU LIVE AFFECTS HOW YOU LIVE On any given day the coastal breeze will move through the oldest known oak tree in the town of Viera. The warm sunshine greets the golfers on the fairways while the local children ride their bikes to school. A businessman greets his client and a doctor picks up a quick coffee at a local shop on the way to her practice as Sandhill cranes fly overhead. At the local playground a grandmother enjoys watching her first grandchild climb and swing. How do you measure these moments and their effect on personal well-being? continued on next page >>>

WHERE YOU LIVE AFFECTS HOW YOU LIVE Where you live affects how you live, and in the region of East Central Florida residents live connected to these moments affecting how they live in several ways. If you are a cyclist, you have access to hundreds of miles of Florida trails and connected roads within communities providing scenic views.

If you are a nature photographer, you can capture the rarest of birds as they stop at the local wetlands before making their way farther south for the winter. If you enjoy clubs, you can connect with a group of like-minded volunteers sharing a collective purpose and mission.

The effects of a thriving region can create lasting changes in a community and the residents within. One of these is a sense of general well-being. How do we measure this locally?

Exploring and sharing new adventures is part of the way of life in Florida. For many, the warmer climate has created a life outdoors that may answer the question: “How does the ‘where’ affect the ‘how’?”

Climate and Geography If shoveling snow isn’t your thing, the local climate might be just what you need. With an average 244 days per year of

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sunshine and an average yearly high of 82 degrees, outdoor recreation is ample and year-round in Viera. Combined with annual rainfall of approximately 54.5 inches, the climate is ideal for flourishing wetlands and vibrant birdwatching.

Additionally, with the Atlantic Ocean and Indian River Lagoon close by, residents can enjoy leisurely beach trips, kayaking, saltwater fishing, and the opportunity to work in specialized coastal industries. Everything that makes outdoor living in Florida a unique and special experience is located within just several miles.

Lifestyle and Family Complete with its own performing arts center, outdoor concert venues, a symphony orchestra, and a growing local art scene, the area in and surrounding Viera has developed a diverse cultural identity where all varieties of art and expression can thrive. With home building on the rise, additional businesses are expected to open that will cater to interests such as fashion, cuisine, and leisure activities. The cultural scene in and around Viera shows no signs of slowing down and will continue to grow to meet the needs of new and existing residents alike.

For young families, Viera offers an ideal mix of amenities to keep parents and kids physically and mentally fit. With top rated schools, advanced healthcare facilities, and team sports activities to name a few, Viera’s resources are idyllic for living and promoting healthy lifestyles. Local businesses such as The Viera Company, Health First, Community Credit Union, and Viera Pizza also demonstrate a strong commitment to families by investing in the Brevard Schools Foundation, helping to ensure A-grade educational opportunities are available for all students.

Relationship with the Community Feeling a strong sense of commitment to one’s community is important when choosing a place to live. Viera offers a wide array of community activities for residents to get involved with to bolster personal motivation and inspiration.

Take residents David and Maureen Saylor, for instance.

The couple relocated to Viera six years ago from California.

They reside in the active adult community of Heritage Isle and, according to David, they are very happy with their decision.

“We just love it here,” he says. “Everything is new and fresh and it is not crowded.”

David found his special place in the Viera community at the Brevard Zoo. He began volunteering there at the behest of his wife, where his initial work took place in the zoo’s renowned aviary sanctuary.

“I never thought about volunteering at the zoo, but have always had an interest in birds,” he explains. “That’s where it began.”

David quickly began putting his amateur photography skills to work and now serves as the zoo’s unofficial photographer.

Having been a photographer his whole life, he revels at the opportunity to take photos of special events at the zoo, where he also serves as a team captain on Mondays. David loves what he does and enjoys all of the new and interesting people he gets to meet.

“It’s just plain fun,” he says.

The Brevard Zoo is just one of several opportunities for community involvement. There are a number of ways to volunteer time and give back to the community while also supporting individual goals and interests. >>>

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Retirement and Travel According to Livable.com, approximately 75 percent of retirees are entertaining the thought of moving to a different home during their golden years. Today’s retiring generation has a lot to consider before making such a big decision.

Factors such as location, amenities, finances, community connection, accessibility for travel, and healthcare all play a big role. With several active adult communities, Viera has taken these factors into consideration when developing options that meet all needs and lifestyles.

“Life really is what you make it and where you choose to live can make all the difference...

Viera is an ideal location for all ages and lifestyles.”

A particularly unique factor for Viera is its central location for travel. With Melbourne International Airport only a few miles away and Orlando International Airport an easy 45 minute drive, there is no shortage of national and international travel opportunities for local residents. If air travel isn’t ideal, a 30-minute drive northeast leads to Port Canaveral, where multiple cruise liners and destinations await. Road trips up and down the East Coast are also possible thanks to the convenient location of Interstate 95, which runs through 15 states from Florida to Maine.

Life really is what you make it and where you choose to live can make all the difference. It affects your physical and mental health, overall well-being, and quality of life.

The importance of making an informed choice when purchasing a home cannot be overstated. Whether you are relocating for career or family or are entering a new chapter in your life, Viera is an ideal location for all ages and lifestyles. Build and embrace the life you truly want.

Viera can be the foundation. •

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DURAN GOLF CLUB Duran Golf Club celebrated its 10 year anniversary this past summer. During this short history, Duran has not only become recognized as the top rated golf facility on the Space Coast, but an organization that has a reputation for giving back to the community.

Duran Golf Club values local community involvement and is actively involved in numerous ways, assisting charities to raise hundreds of thousands of dollars annually. “Our players, employees, members and guests have all enthusiastically embraced our philanthropic commitment, extending our efforts to give to our county’s most deserving organizations.

We donate to at least 200 charities a year, working to make a difference with various organizations and non-profits,” notes David Tomczak, General Manager of Duran Golf Club.

Home course to both Florida Tech and Viera High School’s men’s and ladies’ golf teams, Duran Golf Club is invested in junior golf programs and growing the game of golf. It offers the young adults a top notch course to practice the game and gain the confidence to move on to major tournaments.

In May 2016, Duran will host the National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA) Division I Men’s Golf National Championship, where the top qualifying NJCAA Division I Men’s Golf student-athletes from across the nation will come to Viera to participate in this prestigious event.

“Duran employs some of the nation’s top-rated PGA Golf Professionals, allowing residents and guests to learn and improve their game at our Golf Academy year round,” states Tomczak.

Duran is currently working towards certification from the Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary Program. The certification entails numerous achievements in environmental planning, wildlife management, integrated pest management, water conservation, and water quality management. Being good stewards of the land is very important to the staff at Duran.

Named “Best Public Golf Course” and ranked in the Top 50 in the country for its practice range, Duran Golf Club defines “Great Golfing Experience” to those who live for golf.

ABOVE: Melbourne Chamber Golf Marathon hosted at Duran that raised over $30,000 for local charities.

BELOW: The award winning World Class Development Center with Justin Blazer, one of the nation’s top-rated PGA Golf Professionals

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A

Smart House

Imagine pulling out your smartphone on the way home from an evening out and turning on preset controls for lighting inside your home while turning off your security system from the front seat of your car. What about setting the AC after a long day on the golf course from the comfort of your cart on the 18th green? Smart technology, including enhanced appliances and hubs that connect components of your home to smartphone applications, make all of this possible. Home automation, smart home design, and green

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technology are all just inside your front door and manageable from just about anywhere in the world.

The authorized builders in Viera all bring expertise, quality, customization, and the latest in technological advancements to their individual home designs. Intelligent design that is customizable to each unique household while integrating earth-friendly materials is second nature to these builders.

Utilizing technology such as “Insteon” and applications available on smartphones like “WeMo” and “SmartThings” allow residents

to control their homes from the touch of a button.

There are many more options for consumers to choose from with regards to home automation.

Joe Nelson of Connected Technology, who works with Joyal Homes on smart designs, notes that buyers are enjoying their smart home design because of convenience and simplicity. “They can walk into the home and simply press a button on the iPad to turn off the alarm system, turn on the entertainment system,

raise the shades, and adjust the temperature and lights,” says Nelson. Devices that are connected to a hub for whatever smart system being used can be controlled simply and seamlessly via cell phones or a computer. Smart home design, according to Nelson, is built around the client and their lifestyle, giving buyers options for how much or how little they want to include.

Tom Davis of Christopher Burton Homes knows the importance of home automation because of the ease and comfort it can provide homeowners.

Buyers can literally set up their homes however they choose and control everything from one area in the home or anywhere in the world. The homeowner decides how much, or how little, they want to be able to remotely control. If lighting is of primary concern, TCP Light Systems has a product called “Connected” that allows consumers to control their lights from their phones using specialized lighting kits and a tablet or smartphone. Lights can be dimmed or brightened, even turned on or off, at a predetermined time.

Davis recommends that clients have their homes installed with structured wiring, a blanket term that covers many wiring types connected within the home that allow for various signals such as telephone, audio, and video along with Internet and cable to be distributed throughout the house without all the visible wires. This offers homeowners a multitude of services such as digital cable and satellite, computer networking, and

security during the pre-construction phase. Having the wiring in place allows for automated systems throughout the entire home to be used when, and if, the buyer chooses to do so.

Of course wiring can be added afterwards but this comes at additional costs so it just makes sense to do it while the home is being built. If homeowners want to include wireless technology it is never too late to incorporate it into their homes.

Anyone with a smartphone can purchase the aforementioned programs to control appliances, light switches and dimmers, thermostats, and more.

For Viera Builders, energy efficiency is the number one concern of their customers.

The use of radiant heat barriers, for example, can save homeowners up to 10 percent in energy costs according to Energy.gov. Materials that reflect radiant heat are what constitute these barriers and they limit heat gains translating into savings for homeowners.

Installing air conditioning units with a higher Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) and using tankless water heaters are other ways to save. Foregoing single pane or double paned windows for Energy STARR rated windows, like those made of low-e glass, can block out 70 percent of heat gains and keep you cool in the summer heat.

The advancements in smart home technology in recent years have allowed for greener living with exceptional ease and the residents of Viera are taking full advantage of this.

Young families and seniors alike can keep an eye on their homes with indoor and outdoor cameras that also serve as an added layer of security. Refrigerators that notify you via text message if there is a malfunction or oven ranges equipped with a wireless Internet connection, allowing you to control it from anywhere, are just some of the smart appliances on the market today. Joe Nelson says, “The operation of various systems are simple and intuitive and you don’t need training every time you want to turn on the TV.” Residents splitting their time between Viera and other locations can take comfort in technology that can alert them to conditions within their homes and account for changes. For example, “The Nest” offers a thermostat that

“The advancements in smart home technology in recent years have allowed for greener living with exceptional ease and the residents of Viera are taking full advantage of this.”

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aligns itself to the cooling patterns of its owners. When no one is home, it accounts for that by turning itself down or off. This innovative product responds to commands via cellphone, allowing homeowners to control their thermostat from far away. “The Birdi: Smart Air Monitor” assesses the quality of air in the home and will signal the associated cellphone when the presence of smoke is detected or toxic levels of carbon monoxide are present, even when no one is at home. Intelligent designs like these give part-time residents peace of mind, reduce energy consumption, and increase savings.

For busy families and seniors on the move, the “FortrezZ Wireless Z-Wave” water valve lets you know if any appliances or areas susceptible to leaking have gone awry and automatically shuts off connected valves. This product comes with a power adaptor for a valve included in the kit, and a monitoring device.

If water is detected you are alerted and can address the issue before it becomes a huge problem.

Viera is on the cutting edge no matter where you look, and the advancements in technology and clean living are no exception.

Approved builders for Viera always place an emphasis on listening to their clients and exceeding their expectations in all areas of the home design process. Their commitment to smarter living utilizing environmentally sound technology blends seamlessly with the exquisite architecture Viera residents have come to love so much. •

ASK THE BUILDER Make your home a smart home and ask these builders about the items featured in this article.

Joyal Homes joyal-homes.com

• Connected Technology (iPad) • Home Theatre Integration

Christopher Burton Homes burtonhomes.com

• TCP Light Systems • Structured Wiring

Viera Builders vierabuilders.com

• Tankless Water Heaters • Low-E Glass • Seasonal Energy Efficient Ratio (SEER)

Additional Smart Home Technology:

The Nest nest.com The Birdi getbirdi.com FortrezZ Wireless fortrezz.com 11

SPORTS

THIS FALL

his fall, sports teams across Viera will step onto hot, grassy fields and shiny courts to face their rival team for the season. For coaches, the main goal is always to perform better than the previous season.

However, some coaches, like Space Coast United Soccer Club’s director of coaching, Scott Armstrong, are starting the season with a new team. Armstrong’s U18 boys team won the state championship last season and graduated, and his girls team went to the quarterfinals. This season he is coaching the boys U15 team and again the girls U17 team.

“My goals are very consistent; to develop a fun but safe learning environment, and with our competitive teams, to compete on the state and national level,” said Armstrong.

“With my U15 team, one of our goals is to learn how to train properly,” and for all his athletes, “to represent themselves well when they are being scouted.”

For other sports like lacrosse, fall isn’t the main season.

However, many club teams play year-round. “The fall season

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is fun because it’s more laid back. We play on a smaller field so the players are more active in the game,” said Greg Cole, vice president of the Viera Suntree Lacrosse Club. “Our fall programs started last year to keep the kids who are serious about lacrosse playing year-round and to help them from losing their skills. It’s also our way of introducing kids who are new to the sport.” Although more relaxed in the fall, there are still goals to achieve. For Cole, it’s growing the lacrosse program. “Last year we had about 100 kids from Viera and Suntree in the program; this year we’re looking to grow that by 20 percent,” said Cole. “The tournaments that we do in the summer are for more experienced players; the U13 Venom won the Sunshine State League and the Summer Faceoff this year and qualified for IMG Nationals Lacrosse Tournament.”

For Viera Suntree Little League 11/12 All-Stars Team Manager Damien McDermott, the season isn’t over. “We are getting ready to head to Tallahassee this season to compete in the Florida state tournament,” said McDermott.

“The players usually have to buy into the system and do their ‘baseball homework,’ which often results in a better overall team at the end of the season,” McDermott said.

Along with goals to push through state and advance to the southeast region competition in Georgia, McDermott has different goals in mind and a different idea of success.

“My goal as a Little League coach is to make sure that each player improves from when they first step on the field at the beginning of the season until the regular season ends.

Each player comes in with a different skill set, and if you can improve that set of skills by the time the season is over, then I consider that a success!”

The largest sport of the fall, football, starts right away with training beginning later in the summer. “Our goals this season are to play a very competitive schedule and to continue to grow as a program. Our goal every season is to be the district champion. We want to continue that tradition and advance in the playoffs as far as we can,” said Chris Gallagher, athletic

director at Viera High School. “For the most part, our fall sports kickoff is going to be pretty successful. Both our golf teams are going to be really successful; our cross-country team won Districts for the first time last year, and our volleyball team is going to be one of the top three teams in the area.” He continued, “Of the eight competing teams, about five of our teams will be very competitive in the Cape Coast Conference, state and tournament play.”

Although winning is exciting for both coaches and players, coaches look forward to more than just the big win. “The number one thing I’m looking forward to is completing our paths and goals,” said Armstrong, “There is no better job than coaching and seeing kids break performance barriers. I enjoy watching a team become a team.”

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health

Health First’s Community Hospital President Bill Calhoun (from left), credits the leadership team of Kimberly Cribb, Vice President, Nursing, Health First’s Viera Hospital; Deborah Angerami, COO; Dianna Green, Director, Operations; and Dr. Timothy Laird for Health First’s Viera Hospital’s elite rating for patient experience.

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5 STAR

CARE IN VIERA Sixty eight percent of Health First hospital patients are admitted through the emergency room. These individuals may be sick and scared, and certainly did not expect to be there. Knowing that their hometown hospital carries a 5 star rating for customer service and patient experience can help set their minds at ease, knowing they will receive an excellent patient experience from the moment they step into the facility.

Health First’s Viera Hospital is the only 5 star hospital in Brevard County and Central Florida. This prestigious rating is reserved for the highest performing hospitals, as reported in the Hospital Consumer Assessment of Healthcare Providers and Systems (HCAHPS) survey. The survey covers important topics such as how well doctors and nurses communicate with patients, how responsive hospital staff are to patient needs, how clean and quiet hospital environments are and how well patients are prepared for post-hospital settings.

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) evaluated 3,500 hospitals using the one-to-five star rating system for patient experience in an effort to make it easier for consumers to choose a hospital and understand the quality of care it delivers. While Health First’s Viera Hospital was the only hospital to receive the 5 star rating, other Health First facilities scored high marks as well. Health First’s Cape Canaveral Hospital and Health First’s Palm Bay Hospital received 4 stars, and Health First’s Holmes Regional Medical Center, the county’s only Level II trauma center, received 3 stars.

“Health First’s Viera Hospital is the only 5 star hospital in Brevard County and Central Florida.”

For the physicians and staff of Viera Hospital, the rating means, “Efforts to improve communications and deliver the right care at the right time in the right place are paying off,” says Viera Hospital COO Deborah Angerami. “We spend a lot of time talking with patients and their families to identify what resonates most with them.

Then we work to emulate those behaviors and deliver the best possible Health First’s Viera Hospital COO Deborah Angerami experience,” she says.

“We’ve learned that often it is small behaviors like sitting down when you speak with patients and asking them if there’s anything else you can answer for them before you leave the room that have the biggest impact on how our patients feel about their experience with us.

We treat our patients the same way we would expect our loved ones to be treated. Every member of the Health First Viera team is responsible for being kind and compassionate while going beyond.”

The patient experience star rating helps customers make an informed choice when selecting a hospital for their care. “Being a patient in a hospital can be stressful,” says Angerami. “Our goal is to help ease that anxiety. We do that by making sure we communicate with patients and their families, answering their questions and keeping them informed every step of the way. We want them to have the best possible experience from admission to discharge.”

Every member of Health First’s Viera Hospital staff is committed to providing a 5star level of service. “That culture is instituted every day and with every new hire,” says Angerami.

“They believe what we believe – that the patient comes first.”

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DISCOVERING MORE: Ideas to meet, mingle and make new friends One of the more enjoyable things about moving to a new home is the opportunity to discover new places and form new friendships. It’s easy to rediscover the art of meeting socially instead of simply observing people through social media. I would like to offer these ideas in response to many inquiries from our potential homebuyers, who are asking, “How can we meet new people in a new area?

What opportunities do Brevard County and Viera offer their newest residents to mix and mingle?”

We have many resources available for you at the Viera Discovery Center that offer more details about the following suggestions: • Attend charitable events: Brevard County has a number and variety of service organizations that welcome and appreciate the participation of area residents • Volunteer: A list of volunteer opportunities is available in The Boomer Guide, published by Bluewater Creative Group • Participate in recreational activities at the regional parks: The Viera Regional Community Park Center offers a wide variety of activities that make it easy to meet people with similar interests. See what they offer at www.brevardcounty. us/ParksRecreation/South/Viera/Activities • Community gathering places, like Central Park in The Avenue Viera, offer a wide variety of events along with a chance to get out and meet your neighbors. Check out their events schedule at www.shoptheavenue.com/viera • Join a Club: The Boomer Guide is a valuable resource for finding a club or organization to join. A supplement to Senior Life of Florida, both publications offer many ways to socialize while participating in a fun activity. You can stick with something familiar or venture out and try something new. Home brew, anyone? Yeah, there’s a club for that! Find your favorite at www.vieravoice.com/SeniorLife/Clubs-and-Organizations/ And whether you’re out walking your dog along one of Viera’s many pet-friendly trails, taking pictures at our wetlands, or enjoying a delicious meal at one of our many restaurants, opportunities abound for finding a new buddy!

Information gathered from Boomer Guide and Your Adventure Destination, Florida’s Space Coast

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Carmen Vastola

by Carmen Vastola

education

ALL AMERICAN

The

Flag Act

It all began in a classroom at Viera High School in 2012. The idea started with the students of American history teacher Matthew Susin. “In the beginning of the school year, I always ask them ‘what do you want to do to make an impact?’” After some discussion, the class decided they would write a bill about the American flag. “This bill was about kids learning how a bill becomes law and making an impact,” said Susin.

In 2013, Florida State Representative Ritch Workman first proposed the bill, which stated, “When the state, a county, or a municipality acquires a United States flag or a state flag for public use, the flag must be made in the United States from articles, materials, or supplies, all of which are grown, produced, and manufactured in the United States.”

“Our ideals as a nation are wrapped into that flag,” said Susin. “Those ideals were founded here and put into that flag. To let other countries produce our flag, I think is wrong.” The bill later died in committee because it introduced a second-degree misdemeanor charge for violators of the bill, which appeared too overreaching to lawmakers.

The cost of producing flags overseas is an estimated $3.6 million annually. Although those opposed to the bill argued it interfered with free market, Susin said, “The profit of manufacturing in the United States is less than that in China, so the cost has gone down.”

The bill was proposed again in 2014, this time

by Representative John Cortes and without the misdemeanor charge. “The most prolific moment, a night with three days left in session, there was a lot of discrepancy between House and Senate. The House sponsor called me and said the bill was dying,” said Susin. The bill garnered support quickly as supporters

spread the word. A letter was sent and, “in 18 hours the bill was up to special order.” Susin said, “At the end of last session, lawmakers said this was one of the top five worst bills and attacked legislators for filing it.

The next year it was the opposite. When the veterans got on board, people got in line.” On March 7, 2015, the bill passed into law. Susin wasn’t shocked by all the twists and turns, ups and downs, but he was shocked by another aspect. “Nobody said ‘Great job’ to the kids.

These kids were so passionate; they worked so hard and fought for three years,” he said. “There were kids that I taught seven years ago in law school in Tallahassee working in support of this bill.” Despite that, the work of Tim Thomas, a retired Army lieutenant colonel and Viera High JROTC instructor and many of his students, Susin said, “I knew the kids would push through,” and the bill would pass. “There has never been a movement with students to get a law passed in government while coordinating with government.”

The lesson Susin prepared for class that day taught more than just government and lawmaking; it taught the students about perseverance, their ability to make an impact and, said Susin, “How a grass roots movement can make change in them and around them.” His work shows the dedication teachers have in the Viera community to educating students on curriculum and life lessons.

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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

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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

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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

• Re • Ke • Ne dr

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.

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business

Get a New in

Taste of What’s Viera

Tijuana Flats 7181 Lake Andrew Drive

Tijuana Flats, known for its made-to-order, fresh, TexMex fare and vibrant wall art recently opened near The Avenue. “With the Viera area experiencing tremendous

growth, both in residential and retail sectors, we are confident that Tijuana Flats will be a great fit and complement to the community,” said Brad Kaemmer, Chief Executive Officer for Tijuana Flats.

A lively restaurant that’s energetic and fun, Tijuana Flats offers guests a great time with a great atmosphere, as well as tasty food. Guests can sample any of the 15 different hot sauces from the hot sauce bar; and enjoy the wall mural, a staple at all Tijuana Flats but personalized to each location. In Viera, the local mural depicts a zip liner running from wild animals at the Brevard Zoo. For more information, visit tijuanaflats.com.

Bean Sprout Asian Cuisine & Sushi Bar 221 Town Center Avenue Bean Sprout is proud to bring a new authentic Asian cuisine and culture to Viera. Family owned and operated, Bean Sprout invites diners into their “home” to share a meal. Enjoy classic recipes with a modern twist, be it Thai, Korean, Vietnamese or fresh sushi. The finest ingredients are personally sourced and dishes are hand prepared to ensure perfection.

If Thai is what you crave, try the traditional Pad Thai or be more adventurous with the Beef Salad. If Korean is more your taste, their long-marinated Korean BBQ using traditional flavors will quickly make you understand why this is becoming one of the most popular foods around. Or if you’re seeking a healthy, delicious and flavorful bowl of goodness, try the Vietnamese Pho, a favorite that will have you returning time and time again. The Bean Sprout menu offers a mix of the best Asia has to offer in one convenient location.

For more information, visit beansproutviera.com.

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WHY I LOVE VIERA Sean Gregory | Wyndham Resident Collaborative is a term used in many articles describing Sean Gregory’s business style. The president of Health First’s Holmes Regional Medical Center oversees business development initiatives, revenue planning, various healthcare strategies and physician relations to keep a 514-bed tertiary hospital running smoothly.

He does it all in a very personal, grassroots, groundlevel management style. He feels the people around him make the work rewarding and fulfilling because he can see on a daily basis the role they each play in the healthcare of thousands of local residents every year. “We are always working toward better care and, when we reduce costs and keep it affordable while maintaining our quality of care in all areas, all the scores rise. It becomes a continual reinforcement in the patient experience and keeps the brand strong.”

Sean moved to Viera three years ago with his wife, Amy, and their three children, Max, Campbell and Brooks. Amy volunteers at school and is very busy with the three young Gregorys. She worked as an occupational therapist before tackling her current workload. The children attend Viera Charter School and they were really excited telling Sean about their first day back in class. Max and Campbell are pros, but it was son Brooks who experienced the real first day of his scholastic career. During our interview, Sean shared a photo of Brooks with a large smile telling his dad he was having a great time. “Brooks gave me a thumbs-up that he rocked his first day of kindergarten,” Sean said.

The family rented a local home while building a home in Wyndham and they enjoy the connected life Viera has to offer. Golf cart use in the community allows them to drop off the kids at school, go shopping, take the kids to soccer practice and dance class, attend church and enjoy local restaurants.

Sean described the community as “easy to plug into” and the overall “connectivity allowing for a way of life” he wants for his family.

“My wife and I wanted to build a new home versus renovating or building near the beach,” he said. “The overall design of the community allows for our family to connect to the simplest of things.” Sean says the entire family enjoys going to the Viera wetlands to look for alligators. On weekends, Sean enjoys paddle boarding and spending special moments with his family. He says being able to enjoy the area’s natural surroundings is an example of how Viera is “planned well for a way of life. It is just a nice place to live.”

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Special Thanks Thank you to our wonderful Viera community residents and partners for their gracious support of the 2015 Light Up Viera Holiday Parade.

The parade continues to be successful because of the continued efforts made by all the wonderful groups that have joined us to volunteer. We want to thank you if you have signed up to volunteer or participate on any level. You each help us make the “Moments of Magic” happen for Light Up Viera.

SPACE COAST

STADIUM Light Up the Night Sponsors: The Viera Company • Health First • Space Coast Stadium

Battle of the Bands Sponsor:

Sleigh Bell Sponsors:

Media Sponsor:

Evolve Design Group

SCB Marketing Ron Norris

iHeartMedia

Float Sponsors: Viera Builders Viera Realty A Duda & Sons Lexus of Melbourne

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Barkingham Palace Fairway Management Viera Voice Tropic-Care

The Avenue Viera Viera Charter School Brand Storage

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FUN FOR ALL Guided Nature Hike: Enchanted Forest Sanctuary Date: November 21st Location: 444 Columbia Ave. | Titusville

Upcoming Events

Light Up Viera Parade Date: November 28th Location: Start Point | Space Coast Stadium

THEATER “Chitty Chitty Bang Bang” Date: November 20th – December 6th Location: Cocoa Village Playhouse

ACTIVE EVENTS Space Coast Marathon & Half Marathon Date: November 29th Location: Cocoa Riverfront Park

Jingle Bell 2 Miler Date: December 19th Location: Satellite Beach Library

UNIQUE FALL FINDS Smash Golf Date: Ongoing Location: Par 3 | Duran Development Center

Oyster Mat Making Date: First Wednesday of each month until December 2nd Location: Riverwalk Nature Center

FOOTBALL

Saturday, Nove When: rade Start: 6pmmber 28 Pa Fireworks: 8pm Marvel at our spectacular light displays from custom holiday-themed floats, the festive sounds of marching bands and Santa atop his sleigh, as the Light Up Viera Holiday Parade winds through the streets of Viera.

After the parade, we invite you to visit Space Coast Stadium to sip on hot chocolate, enjoy a photo opportunity with Santa, outdoor games on the baseball field, and holiday crafts on the concourse with a holiday-themed fireworks display to end the evening.

Viera Hawks Playoff Games Date: TBD Location: Contact school for location

FIT Panthers vs. West Georgia Wolves Date: November 7th Location: FIT Stadium

UCF Knights vs. USF Bulls Date: November 27th Location: UCF Arena

Listen to the holiday sounds from local high school bands and VOTE for your favorite in the Battle of the Bands contest. The winner will be awarded $1,500 for their school band program, a traveling trophy and bragging rights for the year!

LightUpViera.com

#LightUpViera

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VIERA UPDATE

BREVARD COUNTY’S A Note From Stephen Johnson President, The Viera Company

POSITIVE

ECONOMIC INDICATORS

STRENGTHEN

VIERA’S APPEAL Our cover story on page 3 reflects on the notion that where you live affects how you live. As important as the master planned features built into Viera are to its quality of life, from the variety of homes, quality schools, abundance of shopping and restaurants, recreational amenities and more, the many attractive attributes of Brevard County add to Viera’s appeal.

Over and above the many natural attributes of the Space Coast such as the sunshine and beaches, the local economy plays a critical role in our ability to enjoy our surroundings and prosper.

While most of us don’t keep track of statistics, the numbers do offer proof of any general feeling we may have about the area’s economy. We at The Viera Company can sense that the economy here is improving based on the uptick of home sales in our community. According to the Economic Development Commission of Florida’s Space Coast, there has indeed been an increase over the last year of 14.2 percent in the number of single family homes sold in the county. The EDC considers this a “sustained” growth in home sales.

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Many of the homes in Viera and in the county are being purchased by those employed by companies who have either recently moved to Brevard County or have expanded their operations here.

The county is experiencing a “slow but consistent upward employment trend since 2011,” says the EDC. Currently in Viera about 10,000 jobs have already been created by the community’s nearly 300 businesses — or about one job for every Viera household. With locations coming online that are ideally suited for larger, corporate office development, such as at the new interchange planned for I-95 and Viera Boulevard, we at The Viera Company hope to continue contributing to that trend, further strengthening Viera’s appeal as a place to live well.

Sincerely,

YOUR PICTURE

OF HEALTH. ROBOTIC SURGERY.

When it comes to surgical care, we believe that less is more.

Through Robotic Surgery, Health First physicians use micro-sized instruments to treat a wide range of conditions with minor incisions and minimal impact to the body, leading to a shorter hospital stay and quicker recovery.

For a physician referral call toll-free 855.372.4020.

HFrobotics.org