Merritt Island Now April 2015 by Merritt Island Now

Your #1 Community Source

for

Everything Merritt Island April 2015

Competition Cheer Champions Find New Home on Merritt Island

Home of

www.merrittislandnow.com

º1 kÌßA ØkÌ yÌ ykÌ ÄÌâ ÏÌYk kPAÎ »

APRIL 25 First Baptist Church th

Merritt Island

7:00 pm Tickets will be available March 15. Go to our website for more information Sponsored by the Alternative Pregnancy Center celebrating 25 years serving our community.

/«kY A Ì ØkÄÎÌ/«kA kÀ

PAM TEBOW

To join the Brevard for Life team go to brevardforlife.com 2

Merritt Island Now • March 2015

April 2015

Volume 1, Issue 2 8

Historic Indianola Cemetery

Retirement Lifestyle Options

Championship Cheer

MICS’s Stem Program

Edgewood’s Fire Dancer

MIHS presents The Wizard of Oz

Permanent Makeup Benefits

Hobb’s Free Kids Vitamin Program

Life After High School

Onsite Aviaries Help Seniors

April Fishing Report

21 Boating Education and Excursions

Home Equity Options

Contributing Writers

In Every Issue

Merritt Island Moose Lodge

Lou Colombo................... 4

Jessica Beal................... 17

Letter from Publisher...............4

MIRA Grant Program

Diana Fasanella............... 8

Heather Rehberg........... 17

Celebrations..........................6

Eliminate Negative Air

Diana Fasanella............. 10

Diana Fasanella............. 18

HOA Pros and Cons

Debbie Williams............. 11

Capt. Alex Gorichky....... 20

Diana Fasanella............. 12

Sandy Schoonmaker...... 21

Ingrid Hall....................... 13

Sherry Roberts................ 25

Feature Article......................18

Melody Wolf................... 14

Diana Fasanella............. 26

Dining Guide........................22

Santina DeMartini.......... 14

Tina Cartagena............. 29

Recent Home Sales..............32

Cheryl Welford............... 16

Pat Padrick..................... 30

On the Cover

Publisher: ILMIdeals, Inc.

Calendar of Events................7 Islander of the Month...........10

Reference Directory.............35

Graphic Design Provided By:

Magazine President: Lou Colombo Editor: Diana Fasanella Art Director: Amanda Jentz Staff Photographer: Paul Cooper

www.PIPBrevard.com • (321) 452-2800 275 Magnolia Ave. Ste. 2 • Merritt Island, FL 32952

Advertising Sales: Lou Colombo lou@merrittislandnow.com • (321) 453-4121 Community Relations: Julie Colombo Several sports photos submitted courtesy of Cosmic Capture Production

Coastal Elite Cheer, Dance and Gymnastics see story on page 12. 2

Merritt Island Now • April 2015

Skin Rejuvenation • Botox • PRP juvedeRm • ChemiCal PeelS haiR • nailS • maSSage • BRidal PaCkageS PRofeSSional make-uP foR SPeCial eventS

hydRoPePtide & 24k gold faCialS

Welcome our new hair stylist Wendy Bostrom! Specializing in color correction, Wendy welcomes new customers.

1205 n. CouRtenay Pkwy meRRitt iSland

321-301-4711 www.lumineSS-SPa.Com

WEIGHT LOSS PROGRAMS MEDICALLY SUPERVISED PROGRAMS FOR EVERY AGE PERSONAL TRAINING & FITNESS MEDICAL & PREVENTIVE CARE DIET & NUTRITION HORMONAL TESTING COACHING ON HEALTHY LIFESTYLE EDUCATIONAL SEMINARS

GET TONED! JOIN THE CLASS:

GET YOUR BEACH BODY!

TRX • ZUMBA • POWER YOGA • KICK MY ABS POWER LIFT • ATHLETIC DEVELOPMENT TRAINING (FOR AGES 13-18)

1205 N. COURTENAY PKWY., MERRITT ISLAND ACROSS FROM THE MERRIT ISLAND HIGH SCHOOL

321-301-4717

Letter from the Publisher

Lou and Julie Colombo founded the I Love My Island Merritt Island, FL facebook page along with www. MerrittIslandNow. com website.

Hi Island Neighbors, I would like to start by saying ‘thank you’ to our community for the overwhelming and positive response to the first issue of Merritt Island Now. So many people, with so much to share, have contacted us; I hope we can keep up with the flow of great ideas and information being submitted. Our vision for this publication is to celebrate our Island lifestyle by focusing on all that is positive and uplifting. Included in the wave of suggestions were concerns about informing residents of more serious topics that could have a direct impact on Merritt Island. After careful consideration, we think it is our responsibility to report and inform residents on these topics as they arise. In coming issues, we are planning a short series of articles addressing the proposed freight train slated to run from Port Canaveral through north Merritt Island. There is a lot of information floating around and, with the All Aboard Florida campaign in full swing, it seems confusing. As I understand it, these are two different projects. We are working hard to gather the facts and bring them to you in a timely manner. I hope you enjoy this issue of Merritt Island Now. If there is anything you believe might make this a better community magazine, please feel free to contact us at lou@merrittislandnow.com. Sincerely, Lou Colombo Publisher

Unfortunately, I need to announce the passing of one of my fellow members of the MIHS Quarterback Club. We recently lost a wonderful Merritt Island Resident who was one of the greatest supporters of our Community and Merritt Island Mustang Sports. Joe Parlapiano passed away on Saturday, March 14th. Joe had only just turned fifty and was in apparent good health so his passing was a great shock and a tragedy. To all that knew him, Joe will be greatly missed. Please keep Joe’s wife, Teresa, and his children, Nina, Gigi and Vincenzo in your thoughts and prayers during this challenging time. An account has been set up at Launch Federal Credit Union for his children. The account name is “Parlapiano Children’s Benefit Fund”. Joe Parlapiano

Serendipity HAIR SALON 2275 N. Courtenay Pkwy, Ste. 9, Merritt Island

Full Service Hair Salon Cutting and Coloring including highlights and balayage services

Keratin Treatments Perming Services Specializing in: Weddings, Homecomings, Proms and Formal Occasions

Full-Time Specialist offering: Facial Services, Manicures, Spa Pedicures, and Head to Toe Body Waxing CALL TO SET UP YOUR NEXT APPOINTMENT

321-459-0904 4

Merritt Island Now • April 2015

SERVING THE SPACE COAST FOR OVER 30 YEARS

Comprehensive and Compassionate Care

Mark S. Callenberger, DO, FAOAO x

321-784-0127 www.KABRAN.com

x x

Lic# CAC057862

KEEP YOUR FAMILY COOL

Board Certified Orthopedic Surgery Fellow of the American Osteopathic Academy of Orthopedics Board Certification Examiner Clinical Instructor for Medical and Physician Assistant Schools General Orthopedics

Specializing in: x Total Knee/Hip/ Shoulder Replacement x Hip Fractures, Sports and Work Injuries, x Rotator Cuff Repair, Carpal Tunnel Release...

321-305-4931 Proud Sponsor of MIHS Sports

7 DAYS A WEEK

205 N Banana River Drive, Suite 103 Merritt Island, FL 32952

HONEST

•

PROFESSIONAL

•

AFFORDABLE

Most Insurances Accepted www.callenbergerorthopedics.com

of Merritt Island, FL Gail Warren Denise Moore Brandy Moore Call the Team TODAY!

No Obligations Policy Review and Quote!

(321) 459-2137

SIA.MerrittIsland@gmail.com 517 N. Courtenay Pkwy • Merritt Island FL 32953

AUTO • COMMERCIAL • HOME OWNER/RENTAL • MOBILE HOME• LIFE • MARINE Merritt Island Now • April 2015

Celebrations

Happy Birthday

Happy 90th Birthday Mabel K. Sumpter April 3rd

Melody Maine April 3rd

Tami Brannock April 4th

Happy Sweet 16th Santina DeMartini April 5th

Pat Suit April 5th

Keri Schechinger April 9th

Kelly Lyerly April 16th

Happy 8th Birthday Jacob Waddle April 17th

Happy 31st Birthday Darlene Montano April 20th

Nicholas Marotta April 21st

Michael Marotta April 21st

Briana Plasencia April 24th

Robert New April 24th

Happy 7th Birthday Elisha Larsen April 24th

Steven Galiszewski April 24th

Clifton Windsor April 27th

Madison Perrone April 29th

Rosalie Outlaw April 30th

Happy Anniversary

Happy 33rd Anniversary Ken & April Ruppert April 10th 6

Merritt Island Now â&#x20AC;˘ April 2015

Happy 17th Anniversary Derek & Stacy Laferriere April 18th

Happy 13th Anniversary April 20th Happy Birthday Jason April 25th

Happy 60th Anniversary Frank & Ruby Priest April 23rd

Happy 20th Anniversary Lou & Julie Colombo April 22nd

*Please submit all celabration requests on our website: www.MerrittIslandNow.com

April Calendar of Events April 1st connect!kids Bunny Hop: (10 a.m.) at The Merritt Square Mall will take place in the Macy’s Courtyard by the Bunny Station. There will be an egg hunt throughout the mall followed by other fun activities and giveaways for the adults! This event is geared toward children under age 13.

April 1st - 4th The Easter Bunny: at Merritt Square Mall in the Macy’s

April 17th Movie in the Park & Food Trucks: (5 p.m. to 10 p.m.)

Riverfront Park. Entertainment begins at 5 p.m. and movie starts at 8 p.m.. Remember to bring your lawn chair and blanket.

April 24th - 26th The Wizard of OZ: MIHS Spring Musical at the MIHS

Courtyard.

Auditorium. Show times - April 24th 7 p.m., April 25th 2 p.m. and 7 p.m., April 26th 2 p.m. Tickets $10

April 3rd - 5th The Sundance Ranch Easter Surfing Festival:

April 25th - 27th Annual Great Optimist Fishout: (8 a.m to 2 p.m.)

at Lori Wilson Park in Cocoa Beach. Beach volleyball, Southeastern Dog Surfing Competition, Florida State Paddle board Championship, Easter Egg Hunt and all kinds of Surfing Competitions.

April 4th Easter Eggstravaganza: (noon to 2 p.m.) at Merritt

Island Presbyterian Church, All are welcome to attend and play games, prizes, face painting, food and more. Admission is Free and Easter Egg Hunt starts at 1:30 p.m.

April 4th MIHS Project Graduation Bingo/Silent Auction: (6 p.m. -10 p.m.) at The Merritt Island Moose Lodge.

April 5th Easter Sunrise Service: (6:45 a.m) at Riverfront Park, Cocoa.

April 5th Easter Sunrise Service: (6:45 a.m) at Lori Wilson Park,

Cocoa Beach hosted by Calvary Chapel Merritt Island.

April 9th Spring Senior Expo: at The Merritt Square Mall in the

Port Canaveral Terminal 3, This event is a family oriented outing for young people, ages 5 to 16, to enter a catch and release fishing contest which offers cash prizes for First, Second and Third places in four age categories. Contact Bud Campbell for more info (321) 431-2210 Free Event

April 25th Brevard for Life: (7 p.m. to 9 p.m.) at The First Baptist

Church of Merritt Island. The Alternative Pregnancy Center is celebrating 25 years of service to our community having helped thousands of women facing crisis pregnancy issues. Our celebration event is meant to bring all of Brevard County together to stand for the value of life! Pam Tebow will be the honored guest speaker. Free Event. For more info contact Vickie Davis (321) 454-9853

April 25th Safe Boating Course: (9 a.m to noon) Canaveral Cocoa Beach Sail & Power Squadron teaches public boating courses at 910 Mullet Rd., Cape Canaveral. Visit www.cbsps.com for more information.

April 25th 4th Annual Expedition Run 5K &10K: (8 a.m) at Ritch

Macy’s courtyard.

Grisson Wetlands, Viera. This Run is sponsored by East Coast Christian Center & ECCC, Viera. Register online at www.eccc.us/5k

April 11th Relay for Life Merritt Island: (noon to 12 a.m) at

Coming Up… May 2nd AIDS Orphans 5K Mud Run and

Jefferson Middle School. The American Cancer Society Relay For Life is a life-changing event that gives everyone in communities across the globe a chance to celebrate the lives of people who have battled cancer, remember loved ones lost, and fight back against the disease.

April 17th ShrimpFeast 2015: (5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.) Join the festivities at the Seaside Picnic Pavilion in the US Coast Guard Station, Grouper Road, Port Canaveral, music by the Beach Bums. For more info visit www. propellerclubcanaveral.com

Family Open House (8 a.m to 3 p.m.) Make a DIFFERENCE and run for an ORPHAN on our 5K course which has 30 challenging obstacles going through lots of mud, swamp, and water. For more information and registration visit mudrun.teenmissions.org or contact Shonn Foy at (321) 453-0350 Brevard County Schools Calendar for April April 3rd: Teacher & Student Holiday Cafeteria account information: www.mypaymentplus.com School District Website: www.brevard.k12.fl.us

Merritt Island Now • April 2015

Community

Merritt Island Pioneers Rest in Peace at Indianola BY DIANA FASANELLA Its actual established date is vague; its Merritt Island location obscure. Most people who travel west on SR 528 toward Orlando pass its splendor of vestiges and do not even know it’s there. Diana Fasanella is a native Merritt But those who forever are Islander, Huffington laid to rest in the Indianola Post blogger; Pioneer Cemetery radiate and editor and columnist, formally Merritt Island’s history with with Gannett/USA enduring existence among Today newspapers. the statuesque oak trees, laden with Spanish moss, and bougainvillea vines. There are more than 287 recorded interments in the cemetery; some are unidentified and dates of death are unknown. But most, with names such as Blyth, Field, Williams, Nisbet, Fortenberry, Norword, and Crisafulli, echo the history of the Island and the lives of its early settlers.

photo courtesy of Diana Fasanella

Merritt Island Now • April 2015

photo courtesy of Diana Fasanella

“It’s a fascinating and beautiful place,” said Sue NisbetLawrence, president of the Indianola Pioneer Cemetery Board, adding that ancestors on both her mother’s and father’s side are buried in the cemetery. The tranquil cemetery was established most likely around 1860 after several unidentified bodies washed ashore on Merritt Island and a plot was needed in which to bury them, according Nisbet-Lawrence. “It has been speculated that the bodies were from a shipwreck or possibly victims of the Civil War,” Nisbet-Lawrence said. “That’s when the Sanderling Blyth family donated a piece of their homesteaded land to bury them.” The Blyth family also is interred in the cemetery, including Nanny Blyth who was the first white woman not of Indian descent to be born on Merritt Island, Nisbet-Lawrence said. The oldest known grave in the cemetery is that of John Moss Field who was born on Sept. 1, 1809 and died on Dec. 1, 1891. He was a Macon volunteer who fought in the Indian War in Florida as an Army corporal under Capt. Seymore in 1835. His headstone is cracked and weather worn, but its epitaph clearly readable. Other plots, some with numerous family interments, reflect sentiments carved in headstones for perpetuity such as John Crisafulli “The Grapefruit King”, leaving no doubt that the Crisafullies, so long ago, planted their legacies in the rich Merritt Island soil. “This lovely place is a part of our history, our lives,” said NisbetLawrence who is worried that burial ground might be difficult to find for the next generation of descendants. “Because of limited space, there are no longer available plots in the cemetery.” However, Nisbet-Lawrence said the cemetery board has voted to allow cremains to be dusted there and memorial plaques erected on the surrounding wall. For more information, call Sue Nisbet-Lawrence at 321-431-7639.

M2039R Worldwide Headquarters 1932 Wynnton Road, Columbus, GA 31999 Aflac agents are independent agents and are not employees of Aflac.

Your LOCAL Transmission Expert and Full Service Auto Center!!

(321) 452-8906

Business Hours: Monday - Friday 8:00am - 5:30pm

3530 N. Courtenay Pkwy., Suite 101 • Merritt Island, FL 32953 Merritt Island Now • April 2015

Community

Islander of the Month

What It’s All About: Giving Back to Community BY DIANA FASANELLA Marcus Herman believes in giving back. Lifelong Merritt Island resident and owner of Triangle Auto and Ray’s Tire Service, Herman wears a lot of hats when he gives back. He is vice president of Central Brevard Soccer Club, which is one of the largest Diana Fasanella is a native Merritt youth programs in the county that has Islander, Huffington organized teams for almost every age Post blogger; group from pre-school to high school. He and editor and columnist, formally voluntarily serves on the board of the Merritt with Gannett/USA Island Redevelopment Agency and strives Today newspapers. to educate Islanders about the benefits of the organization. But most of all, Herman loves to donate his time and money by helping children recognize their potential by celebrating their achievements in big and little ways … or any way he can. “Volunteering is an important part of what our community is about,” Herman said. “By supporting and recognizing our children’s good deeds, we’re teaching them how to develop good moral character and how to be successful.” Not only does Herman donate space in the parking lot of his shop for school club fundraisers like car washes, he works with local school officials to organizes, fund and sponsor recognition breakfasts that honor children for their personal, athletic or scholastic achievements. “We want to make sure we say ‘Attagirl’ or ‘Attaboy’, said Herman, who also celebrates students with visual congratulations on his huge LED digital sign on the very busy corner of SR 520 and Courtenay Parkway. “My wife and I also put together goodie bags filled with gift certificates to Dunkin’ Donuts, chips, candy, Teddy bears …. whatever makes them feel special.” At Stevenson’s Elementary, it’s Good Citizen of the Month; at Edgewood Jr./Sr. High, it’s Student of the Month; at Merritt Island High, it’s outstanding Player of the Game. Every student who excels or shows good intentions is acknowledged by Herman for their effort. Herman attributes his drive to give back to his own experiences growing up on the Island. “I remember what it meant to me when we (as student athletes) were given jackets or a special dinner,” said Herman who played sports as a teenager at Merritt Island High School. “We enjoyed the privileges and thought it was cool.” Herman said, because he and his teammates were young, they may not at the time appreciated that 10

Merritt Island Now • April 2015

someone paid for those privileges. “I hope these children now will come to recognize that there are people stepping up to help them get ahead,” he said. “It’s not only important to teach students to believe in their community, but it’s important for the community to be supportive and be involved.” For Herman, who started his professional career as a gas pumper at the original site of Triangle Auto on N. Sykes Creek Parkway, receiving numerous awards from schools and community organizations for his selfless service to the youth of the Merritt Island has been heartfelt. “It’s a good feeling to support family. I’m the guy that’s here. Tomorrow, it’s still going to be me. I feel blessed … privileged,” he said. “And I’m going to continue to do what I’m doing for a long time.” photo courtesy of Diana Fasanella

Islander of the Month

Community

Be Sure to Research Retirement Lifestyle Options BY DEBBIE WILLIAMS When you take a look at retirement lifestyle choices, be sure to research all of your options. Start by breaking down your expenses to see what you can afford. Then, consider the cost of home ownership and the upkeep and expenses such as water, sewer, Debbie Williams garbage, heating/cooling, electricity, is the marketing director for vehicle maintenance, gasoline, independent living insurance, food and preparation at Courtenay Springs Village (including dining out), telephone, cable since relocating to TV and Internet access. Ask yourself: Florida from Seattle, Washington in 2011. what are your current health and daily care needs, and what might your future needs look like? Plan to visit the community with a friend or family member and list any extra services the community provides such as housekeeping, laundry, transportation, outings and activities, healthcare needs, etc. Look at various sized units, and if you are super prepared, bring along a tape measure.

We Do All the Work You Have All the Fun Call For Your FREE QUOTE

321-338-5342

How does the community feel? Home-like, warm and inviting? Can you see yourself living there? Give yourself ample time to list questions and set realistic expectations. Common questions are: • What if I can’t sell my house? • Will you take me to my doctor? • Do you offer therapy services? • What happens if there is an emergency? • Can I bring my dog? • What kinds of activities do you have? • What if I don’t like it? Attend an event or activity within the community and ask your potential neighbors what they like about living there. Ask to sample the food! Build a relationship with a trusted staff member from the community who can help educate you about the lifestyle that you are considering.

Licensed & Insured

Live the Intra-coastal Lifestyle! 55+ RESORT LIFESTYLE NO ENTRANCE FEE

Discuss the various levels of care and services that may be appropriate for you. Levels of care include: • Independent living • Assisted living • Skilled nursing • Memory care • Hospice care Learn about their organization and mission statement. At some point in life, you or your loved one may need assistance in your daily lives. Taking the time to research and educate yourself will help you make the most realistic transition for your future.

Where longevity of staff and a caring environment go hand in hand

321-452-1233

1200 S. Courtenay Parkway, Merritt Island Visit courtenayspringsvillage.org

ACTIVE COMMUNITY IN A TROPICAL SETTING A Place to Laugh ... A Place to Refresh ... A Place to Make Friends ... A Place to Have Fun! Merritt Island Now • April 2015

School & Sports

A Cheering Spirit Keeps Youngsters and Adults Focused BY DIANA FASANELLA A.J. Lyle has something to cheer about. Lyle, co-owner, with Coach Josh Seaton, of Coastal Elite Cheer Dance and Gymnastics, knows exactly what it takes to make champions out of young Diana Fasanella is a native Merritt tumblers and stunt artists at Islander, Huffington their gym on Merritt Island. Post blogger; and editor and Lyle’s and Seaton’s All columnist, formally Star cheering team, made with Gannett/USA Today newspapers. up of 21 participants ages 14 to 35, captured 14th place in the nation at a recent competition held in Dallas, a goal of which anyone would be proud, he said. “It was very impressive,” Lyle said about his team that “went up against some of the “greatest gyms in America, and (at Level 5), we were in a very difficult division.” A native Merritt Islander, Lyle said bringing his gym to 3400 N. Courtenay Parkway on the Island where he grew up was a dream come true. It’s his passion, he said, to help these young athletes take away from the training good sportsmanship and teamwork. Preparing for this latest competition was a yearlong commitment for participants, and placing in Texas against so many big-name programs was quite an accomplishment, he said. “The first day we thought we didn’t do well” until the team got its scores that exceeded most other programs’ in stunt difficulty, he said. “That was huge and gave us a boost for the second day (of competition) to correct errors.” Once the team performed its routine the second day, Lyle said

Merritt Island Now • April 2015

the crowd’s enthusiasm made them feel like “a million bucks,” and they knew they did well when they came off the floor. Lyle, who has been involved off and on with cheering in the Merritt Island school system since fourth grade, said competitive cheering is a sport that takes well-trained individuals who have good dancing, jumping, tumbling, and stunting abilities. “It takes athletes with a lot of skill,” he said to place as a team in an international sports competition. Traveling to and from the competitions also takes money, but the gym helps to reduce out-of-pocket expenses for parents and participants by holding a series of fundraisers in the community such as car washes, bucket drops and raffles. “We try to lessen costs as much as we can,” he said, adding that one of the most important things that he would like to see his trainees take away from cheering is the fun of traveling. “I want them to experience all that competitive cheering is about, and traveling and meeting new people is a big part of it,” he said. “It’s so much bigger than just Central Florida or all of Florida for that matter.” Beside sportsmanship and teamwork, the programs Lyle and Seaton offer help their students with time management and how to be responsible, he said. “There’s a lot of camaraderie that helps them become well-rounded individuals,” Lyle said. “It’s a huge part, and I want to make sure they are getting the experiences they should out of it.” For more information about All Star cheering, call the gym at 321-505-1002.

School & Sports

STEM Program Enhances MI Christian School Curriculum BY INGRID HALL

A few years ago when the buzz about science, technology, engineering and math became known as STEM, Merritt Island Christian School Superintendent Dr. Nanci Dettra was presented with the idea of bringing a STEM program to the school. Realizing this was something that would enhance an already strong MICS Ingrid Hall is the assistant to the math and science program, she immediately superintendent brought this idea before her Leadership at Merritt Island Christian School Team. Knowing the goal is always to do and is presently in what is best for MICS students, Dettra had her 19th year at diploma or enroll in STEM courses as electives. MICS. full support from her team, and in May of Dettra knows the importance of offering a strong STEM 2011 the MICS STEM Program was born. program, not only because of the opportunity to equip students for It did not take long for things to fall into place for the new success in college, but also because of the location of the school. program. MICS already had the “Living on the Space Coast and realizing necessary math and science courses “Living on the Space Coast and how STEM is so closely linked to global in place that would fit into the STEM competitiveness, MICS desired to equip our realizing how STEM is so closely tracks and only needed to add two students to succeed in our highly technological linked to global competitiveness, engineering courses. society,” Dettra said. MICS desired to equip our Dettra soon received an offer Presently, MICS has 29 students in students to succeed in our from Delta Pilot and FAA Designated grades 9 through 12 who are enrolled in the Pilot Examiner Darrell Gordon to highly technological society.” – STEM program and will proudly graduate the instruct an aeronautical engineering Merritt Island Christian School first three students with a STEM diploma this track. Upon completion of the track, Superintendent Dr. Nanci Dettra May. students successfully fulfill the In addition to the STEM diploma, MICS requirements for the ground school also offers Traditional, College Preparatory Honors, and Fine Arts segment required to become an airline pilot. diplomas, all of which require 28 credits to graduate, versus the 26 MICS alumnus Brad Smith of Guardian Manufacturing, Inc., in credits required by Brevard County and the 24 credits required by Cocoa presented a track for technological engineering, complete the state of Florida. with a 3D printer. Also, Guardian Manufacturing President Chuck Smith donated everything needed to complete the MICS STEM laboratory. This generous donation provided computers with everything needed for both STEM tracks, including flight simulator programs. “Guardian’s contribution to the MICS STEM program is an investment in our community to promote science and engineering in our youth,” Smith said. “The U.S. is losing its position as a global leader in science and engineering. It is our hope that by introducing students to STEM at an early age, we can give them a better understanding of STEM and develop a passion that will motivate them to pursue a career in STEM.” To participate in the MICS STEM program, students must meet specific academic requirements based on their GPA and standardized test scores. There is an application process, and students may choose to pursue a STEM Merritt Island Now • April 2015

School & Sports

Edgewood Jr./Sr. High School

Edgewood Senior on Fire to Perfect Knife Dancing BY MELODY WOLF

Spinning around a knife with blazing fire on either side while hundreds of curious strangers watch may sound a bit intimidating. But, to Noah Birch, a senior at Edgewood Jr./Sr. High School on Merritt Island, spinning a flaming knife is merely a hobby as well as a way to make a few extra bucks on the side. Birch participates in an activity known as “fire knife dancing,” which is a simple way of saying he performs tricks with a stick containing two pointy ends on either side while the ends are in flames. Halau, also known as Hula School, Melody Wolf is editor-in-chief introduced Birch to this over-the-top hobby. of The Edge Birch has attended his Halau for nearly five years now, he said. “I do shows magazine at Edgewood Jr./Sr. all the time, though not as much as I’d like to,” Birch said. High School where Birch has been hired to perform for various local events. It takes guts to put she is a senior. himself in danger, he said, but it takes more guts to do so in front of hundreds of people. “One of the biggest crowds I’ve performed in front of was for a private party, and it was pushing 1,000,” Birch said. “Talk about nerves.” Though the crowd of friends and strangers may put Birch under a lot of pressure, it is important for him to remain attentive and engaged at all times when handling fire, he said. “Factors like wind direction, fuel and wick can mean danger, or be completely fine,” Birch said. “Precautions that I take are judging my stage and where the closest people are. Then, I check wind direction and make sure I’m using a safe amount of fuel.” Fire knife dancing also has given Birch a chance to set boundaries in his day-to-day life as well as find inner strength to do things he thought he could never do. “There are things that I’ve come to recognize as my limits, things I will and won’t do with my blade,” Birch said. “But I’m working on bending my limits as I get better. I’ve learned hard work, determination and guts. ”Improvement is just around the corner for this fire knife dancer. “I’ll better myself by practicing every day,” Birch said. “A dancer from Sea World took interest in me and is going to start working with me to do two knives and work on progressing me to his level.”

Merritt Island High School

‘Wizard of Oz’ to be Performed by MIHS Theatre Arts Department BY SANTINA DEMARTINI The Merritt Island High School Theatre Arts Department is proud to present the classical musical, The Wizard of Oz. This beloved show will be performed April 24th at 7 p.m., April 25th at 2 and 7 p.m., and April 26th at 2 p.m. General admission ticket price is $10.00. They can be ordered online at www.MIHStheatrearts.com or purchased at the ticket window one hour before the show. Come join Dorothy, the Scarecrow, the Tin Man, and the Cowardly Lion as they travel through the twists and turns of Dorothy’s imagination. In the past, MIHS has produced musicals such as Peter Pan, and Beauty Santina DeMartini is a sophomore and the Beast. The Wizard of Oz promises to be just as spectacular and filled at MIHS. She with fun surprises for audiences of all ages. It surely will be one you do not is a collegiate student attending want to miss! EFSC majoring In conjunction with The Viera Studio for the Performing Arts, more than in journalism and foreign language. 60 students from the high school and 12 from elementary schools around the county make up the cast and crew. MIHS senior Abby Conover is cast to play Dorothy. “Being a part of the theater program at MIHS has truly been the best part of my high school experience,” she said. “This program has so many talented people in it. They have become my second family, and the fact that I was able to get the lead, my senior year, is truly a blessing.” Conover added that her drama teacher, Jeanora Duprey, “is wonderful and has always gone out of her way to ensure all of our successes, I love her to death.” MIHS junior Frances Jarusiewics is cast to play the role of Tin Man. “Because it was my first audition for play at MIHS, I was very nervous, and my expectations were not set high,” he said. “I expected to be a flying monkey or an Ozian, but I really love singing so I figured I could try out for a lead. I am still in shock that I got the part of the Tin Man. I am very thankful for Duprey, for putting the trust in me to be a lead. I am very excited for what’s ahead.” 14

Merritt Island Now • April 2015

Health & Wellness

Permanent Makeup Offers Varied Benefits BY CHERYL WELFORD You can choose a lash enhancement, which is the implantation of pigment between the lashes and just barely above. This is for the client who never wears makeup and wants the allusion of thicker lashes. You also can choose a thin to thick line, upper or lower eyeliner. Eyebrows: Beautifully shaped eyebrows enhance the eyes and draw attention to cheek bones. They are like a lovely frame enhancing the beauty of a painting! Anyone who wants to restore their brows or reshape their brows will love how this procedure as it gives the eyes a lift! We can create eyebrows on a blank canvas for those with alopecia, trichotillomania or clients undergoing chemo treatments. When you come back for your yearly touchup, you can even change the color of your brows as you age. Lips: It is the perfect solution for women who want to wake up every day with a naturallooking lip color or liner that does not bleed. The goal is to achieve an enhancement of their own color, such as when they were younger. There are a variety of options to enhance your lips. We suggest a natural looking enhancement or tint, which does not look like bright lipstick. That way you always can add more color if you desire. This artistry can enhance thin lips, adjust asymmetry and can help clients who have had surgery for cleft lips and accident scars. After this procedure, you only need lip gloss or Chap Stick. Permanent Cosmetics can address certain medical conditions such as: • Visual impairment, unsteady hands resulting from dexterity problems, arthritis, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s or other degenerative diseases • Alopecia (absence of hair), hypothyroidism or chemotherapy treatments OutlawPottery.com or other conditions • Vision problems that affect makeup Award-winning potters application (for instance, LASIK patients with 3475 N Cocoa Blvd/US-1 their improved distance vision sometimes Cocoa, FL 32926 experience difficulty with close vision when (Just north of SR 528 in the green Al’s Trophy Shop complex) applying makeup) or wear contact lenses • Cleft lip 321-292-0762 • Allergies related to cosmetics Find us on Facebook & Twitter • Vitilago (absence of pigment), sustained burns, or scars SUPPLIES: Clay, • Areola pigmentation after breast Glaze, Tools, Pottery reconstruction Wheels & Kilns If you are considering permanent REPAIRS: Kiln & makeup, be sure to check referrals, ask Wheel Repairs by friends and have confidence in your choice of Florida Kiln Doctor permanent makeup artists.

Just imagine if you could wake up with your makeup already on, go throughout your busy day without constantly checking and reapplying, increase your confidence, save time, enjoy around the clock beauty and accentuate your facial features. If this sounds good to you, then you could benefit from Permanent Cosmetics. It Cheryl Welford is a professional is the ideal solution for women of all ages permanent who want to look their best and enhance cosmetic tattoo artist and their image. specializes in Permanent makeup is very safe when makeup tattooing. applied by a well-trained technician. Most permanent makeup is done with iron oxide pigments. These are nontoxic to tissue, nonirritating and long lasting. The chance of developing an allergic reaction to these pigments is very remote. Iron oxide pigments are nonmagnetic. It is a myth that a client cannot have an MRI. You can! Eyes: Permanent eyeliner can enhance sparse lashes or give more definition to light or faded lashes. Because it doesn’t smear, it is ideal for athletes, contact lens wearers, women who are plagued by makeup that always smudges, and especially for those who have a visual impairment or unsteady hands due to a medical condition.

OutLaw PotterY

School, Studio, Gallery, Supply & Kiln Repair Shop - Create - Play Weekly Wheel-Throwing Pottery Classes for Adults

Jason & Rosalie Outlaw

2-Hour Play in the Clay private workshops for individuals, couples, families, small groups Private Wheel-Throwing & Hand-Building Pottery Lessons Group Programs/Parties Paint Your Own Pottery

Get Down & Dirty with Outlaw Pottery! 16

Merritt Island Now • April 2015

Health & Wellness

Hobbs Kicks Off Free Kids Vitamin Program

Life After High School: Four Lessons Teens Need for the Real World

BY JESSICA BEAL, PHARMD

BY HEATHER REHBERG, LMHC

Hobbs Pharmacy is fulfilling its mission to give back to the community with a free vitamin program for children. A recent study by the American Academy of Pediatrics described vitamin deficiency as a problem with children, especially Vitamin D. As a result of that study, as well as a desire to provide service Jessica Beal is to the community, Hobbs Pharmacy has a pharmacist at Hobbs Pharmacy established the Healthy Kids Free Vitamin located at 133 Program. North Banana River Drive, Merritt The American Academy of Pediatrics Island. now suggests 400 units of Vitamin D per day from infancy to adolescence. Humans build up Vitamin D from exposure to sunlight, diet and supplements. Vitamin D deficiency is common in children and adults. With busy schedules and picky eaters, it can be difficult for parents to ensure that children are getting the right amount of vitamins and minerals from their meals. To enroll their children ages 5 through 12 in the vitamin club program, a parent or guardian must go to the pharmacy to fill out an enrollment form. Upon completion, a 30-day bottle of great tasting chewable vitamins will be given to each eligible child. Each month, the parent or guardian will return to the pharmacy to receive the next month’s supply of vitamins, free! It’s just that easy! Vitamins and supplements are only one of the areas of expertise of our community pharmacists. If you have any questions related to your health needs, we would love to talk with you. We are your community pharmacy and your resource for health information. From diabetes to wound care, we have specialized services to meet the needs of the residents of Merritt Island and beyond. We started that way more than 50 years ago and plan on remaining that way. Our goal is to help local families stay healthy. Healthy families create a healthier community.

Your teens are preparing for graduation and a life outside of high school hallways and tardy bells. For them, it means freedom. For you, it probably means stress and panic. Is your teen ready for the real world? Below are five important lessons they need for success. • Being resourceful Heather Rehberg Teens today are masters at Internet is a licensed mental health searches, but they should be able to think counselor with critically about who, when, and how to ask Alliant Counseling Services on Merritt for help. Whether it’s a financial or health Island. matter, your teen should be able to obtain and analyze the information they need to make healthy, positive decisions. • Being emotionally Intelligent The ability to relate to and work with others, and handle conflict, is often more important than basic job skills. Any boss could find a mass of applicants with the right training and education, but those bosses are looking for the “right” person. This has more to do with personal chemistry than a degree. • Being mindful of small decisions Teens have a tendency to live in the moment and to be impulsive about decisions. A small decision made today might impact life in a greater degree at a future date. Encourage them to think through decisions to see potential benefits and consequences. • Being you The ability to be who you are is a gift. Inspire your teens to be themselves, to grow as individuals, and to build on their own strengths. The ability to be confident is a success of its own. Heather Rehberg is a licensed mental health counselor with Alliant Counseling Services on Merritt Island and works with individuals, couples and families. She has been a resident for five years and loves watching the dolphins in the river.

YEARS OF SERVICE

“The Pharmacy that Cares!” 133 N Banana River Dr., Merritt Island - (321) 452-0010 Compounding - Hormone Replacement & Vet - In-store US Postal Office Mark Hobbs, CRPh - Eric Russo, PharmD - Jessica Beal, PharmD - Lee Tibbitts, RPh

FREE Kids Multivitamin for Kids age 5-12 with coupon

Call about

FREE

Community Room Use

FREE Delivery to Merritt Island

Merritt Island Now • April 2015

Feature BY DIANA FASANELLA

Onsite Aviaries Help Health and pet behavior modification expert, Peters has been “training humans on behalf of animals for over 25 years,” so branching out into animal therapy with her rescue birds was natural for her. The birds Peters brings to the center’s aviaries are all adoptable rescues, she said, and since she and her staff have been renovating the aviaries there, the adoption rate has climbed to 100 percent. “Every bird (parakeets, parrots and cockatiels) that we have put at the center has been adopted,” usually by family members of patients or visitors, Peters said. But what also is important are the calming effects the birds have on residents, who sometimes watch their antics for hours. “I feel so peaceful when looking at them,” A. Grace Littlefield said. When Littlefield first came to the center, she said, at first, she thought they were stuffed. The 102-year-old resident added that she was quite surprised when all of a sudden they started moving. “I thought they looked so real, and they were!” Littlefield said. “It’s so nice and restful watching them … nature has come inside.” Resident Council President Sharon Soechtig agrees with Littlefield and says she finds it “peaceful” watching the birds. “When I talk to them, they sometimes make noises back,” said Soechtig, who believes animals are drawn to her. “I love all the animals that come here.” Peters believes the aviaries are not only a great way to “expand the adoption opportunity,” but also “a great way to entertain people and engage the residents in conversation.” “I really get a kick out of them because they so enjoy the birds being there. They love watching and talking to the birds, and can’t wait to see which birds we bring in when we come to maintain the cages,” she said. Peters added that she is planning to build bigger cages to showcase her larger rescue birds, like her blue and gold macaws. “Right now we need donations for wood, hinges, a misting system, tarps, and plastic roofing,” she said about the new outdoor aviary that will be painted with a tropical theme. “And, we need volunteers who have the construction knowledge to help us build it.” Even though taking care of the birds can be exhausting at times, Peters said she is “too passionate” to give it up. “It’s not what I do, it’s who I am,” she said. Pet Priorities is a three-fold company that includes pet sitting, pet training, and, as a 501 (c) (3) nonprofit organization, a dog and parrot rescue. For more information to donate or to adopt a rescued parrot, call Sally Peters at Pet Priorities 321-289-1738 or email Sharon Soechtig sally@petpriorities.com

Robin Heron knows that a dose of a few feathered friends can improve the quality of life for just about anyone. As the activities director at The Health Center of Merritt Island, Heron sees firsthand the mental and physical benefits that come from watching the birds at the center’s two aviaries, filled with parakeets, Diana Fasanella finches and parrots. is a native Merritt Islander, Huffington “There is nothing like music and pet Post blogger; therapy” for residents and visitors alike, she and editor and columnist, formally said. “The health benefits produced from live with Gannett/USA interaction with the birds is phenomenal.” Today newspapers. The center on Crockett Boulevard is a 180-bed, skilled nursing facility for rehab and extended-care patients of all ages. All of the residents enjoy the birds, but Heron said, those who are cognitively impaired seem to “really, really relate to the birds.” “The beautiful colors and singing bring back memories of their youth when they had pets,” Heron said about patients, who often go daily to watch the birds. Many family members also bring their loved ones to the aviaries just to sit, relax and spend time together. “It’s very stimulating for them,” Heron said, “and Sally (Peters) displays the birds just beautifully.” Peters, owner of Pet Priorities, lends her birding expertise to help maintain the aviaries at the facility. A Merritt Island resident

A. Grace Littlefield 18

Merritt Island Now • April 2015

Center Residents’ Spirits Fly

photos courtesy of Coops Captures Photography

321.872.8012 6141 N. Courtenay Pkwy., Suite C.

www.atoasttoallthings.com Kimberly Spurlock - President & Owner

Toast to all Things is not only our name, it’s what we believe. Living in those moments where you appreciate where you are, what you see and hear, who you’re with, the smells and tastes of what you are eating and drinking. It’s that appreciation that makes you raise a glass and smile. We enjoy creating those moments with healthy cooking and gourmet foods that deserve appreciation.

and garlic cilantro; Naturally Flavored Olive Oils such as black truffle, white truffle, and a naturally flavored butter substitute. We offer Balsamic Vinegars in traditional flavors as well as a variety of unique flavors such as apricot, blackberry ginger, raspberry, strawberry, and vanilla fig. We also import a range of delectable sauces, spices, teas, spreads, and stuffed olives.

e are proud to offer you the finest Extra Virgin Olive Oil from around the world. Stop in and try a sample of the Infused Olive Oils with flavors such as basil, lemon pepper and rosemary; Fused Olive Oils with Tuscan herb, basil lemongrass,

top in for a taste! - We have a collection of gift Sboxes and customizable gift baskets as well!

Merritt Island Now • April 2015

Capt. Alex with a Cobia

Lifestyle

Schools of Bait Fish Lure Redfish as Summer Rolls In BY CAPT. ALEX GORICHKY April is here and spring is in full swing. Our winter that was barely a winter will be a thing of the past. Lagoons: Look for the schools of bait fish like pinfish, finger mullet, glass minnows, and whitebaits to explode in Capt. Alex Gorichky is a lifelong Merritt the shallows as we roll into Island resident and summer. Most of the redfish owner/operator of LocalLinesCharters. and trout will begin to find worth com. in actively feeding on these baits. Redfish still will hunt and tail on a shrimp or crab year round, but spring is when they start to really smash the bait schools. Early mornings with walk-the-dog style topwater lures on mullet filled flats will produce some of the most explosive strikes in fishing. Seatrout are tailormade for feeding on the surface with an up-slung mouth and camouflage to hide in the grass. This violent outburst seatrout-call feeding has a tendency to send the fish, and your plug, hurling through the air – not always landing close enough for the seatrout to come back for a second, third, or fourth hit. Unless the sting of hooks is felt, a seatrout will continue to hit a well-worked lure all the way to the kayak and then smash it again as you lift it from the water. Though, with the trout’s tendency to lay in wait, if they don’t fallow, they might be in the same spot. This goes the same if you see an explosion in the distance. Work your topwater lures at varying speeds until you dial in the bite, and as the sun climbs, switch to a saltwater assassin paddle tail on a light jig head. Mullet of all sizes and other life should be present or search for a new section of the lagoon. Long casts far from a slow-moving kayak will get hit by the biggest and most weary “gator” trout. Offshore: Spring gives us a more seasonal fish in the migratory cobia that swim within yards of our beaches. These large, brown fish resemble a shark, but are much more sought after. Cobia fish can top the 80-pound range, but average 25 pounds in the spring run. Being an open-water species of fish, they can be found just about anywhere along the coast. Some great beaches are Melbourne, Patrick Air Force Base, the mid number Cocoa Beach streets, around the Cocoa Beach Pier, Jetty Park/Buoy line at Port Canaveral and especially Playalinda Beach. Cobia readily will fall for a bright large bucktail jig with a plastic trailer, large live baits, large shrimp, live or plastic, and at times, nothing you have in your box. Sighting free swimmers on the surface is a good way to find them, but also look for them to be hugging under turtles, manta rays, debris, weeds and bait pods. Use 15 to 25 pound gear and let your jig sink under any target. You might not even see the one well below. Have a medium size rod ready with a live shrimp for the ever present triple tail. 20

Merritt Island Now • April 2015

Conservation: Cargo Rail plan for Port Canaveral (cargo only, no passenger) rail plan as it stands does not benefit us Islanders enough. We are risking a very important body of water for this. Stop by http://StopPortCanaveralRailExtension.com/ and take 15 seconds to help!

SPACE COAST

R IVE

R TOURS, INC. “Get Naturefied”

Glide along the Barge Canal where the Dolphins, Manatees, Alligators and Birds play. • See Merritt Island from • USCG Inspected and

a new perspective.

• Perfect for out of town

guests.

• Wheel Chair Accessible • Free Drink & Snacks • On-Board Restroom • Departs from Kelly

Park.

Certified Vessel

• Merritt Island family

owned and operated for 13 years.

• Tour the Banana River,

Canaveral Locks and Port Canaveral.

• Join us for launches,

boat parades and bioluminescent tours.

$34 Adults $30 Seniors 65+ $25 Kids 3-12 Kids 3 and under FREE Groups of 20 or more $28 per person

$3 OFF ALL ADULT TICKETS

RESERVATIONS REQUIRED, PLEASE CALL

321-652-1052 www.spacecoastrivertours.com

Lifestyle

Squadron Offers Boating Education and Excursions BY SANDY SCHOONMAKER A map of Merritt Island displays a labyrinth of canals behind a great majority of the residents. This community is one of Brevard County’s most popular home sites for the avid boater, and their needs have been served since 1967 by the Cocoa Beach Sail and Power Squadron (CBSPS). Contrary to this organization’s Sandy Schoonmaker name, the 164 members of this public is the squadron boating education group reside in education officer at Cocoa Beach numerous residential areas of Central Sail and Power Brevard County with a great number Squadron. living on Merritt Island where they store boats on docks behind their homes. CBSPS is a squadron of the United States Power Squadrons that celebrated its 100th anniversary in 2014. With thousands of members nationwide, it is the nation’s largest boating organization promoting safe boating through education, vessel safety checks and community outreach. The ABC III public boating course is one of the groups’ most popular educational programs. Taught four times a year at a minimal cost, the course meets the requirements for obtaining a Florida State Safe Boating Education ID. All boaters born after Jan. 1, 1988 must carry this ID when operating a boat. Regardless of age, all boaters who successfully complete the course receive this ID card, which most insurance companies will honor by awarding a 10-percent discount on the annual premium. Another popular service to community boaters is a vessel safety inspection. CBSPS inspectors can be seen at Kelly Park and other local boat ramps offering this free service. Boaters also can request an inspector to come to their home dock for an inspection. The few minutes it takes to go over the boat’s safety equipment with the inspector may save the boater a hefty fine if they are found deficient when boarded by Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation or the Coast Guard. Boats with all the required safety equipment are awarded a sticker to be displayed. There is no penalty for failure to have adequate equipment, but the boater is encouraged to rectify the problem. Both of these public services can be accessed through the CBPSP website at www.cbsps.org. Listed are dates for the classes with online signups. There also is a list of inspectors who the boaters may contact to arrange an inspection. Other educational opportunities are available through

CBSPS. Most are offered to the public at a nonmember rate. The range of topics includes navigation classes, engine maintenance, sail, electrical systems, weather and many more. Since all classes are taught by knowledgeable volunteers, there are limited offerings each year. These also can be viewed on the website.

The organization is not all work and no play. Each month there are boating events planned with a variety of destinations. One month it may be a trip to a spoil island, maybe one of those squadron members helped clean during a countywide cleanup project. Or, it could be boat trip to a local restaurant where the non-boaters can join the fun. A cruise up the “grand canal” with a stop at Samson’s Island for a picnic is another popular boating venture. Each month a flotilla of boats, flying the squadron’s burgee, can be seen as they gather to have fun on the water. Not all members of CBSPS own boats. Many are looking for education before purchasing one. Others have retired their boats, but continue to share their expertise with other boaters. To meet the needs of all boaters, CBSPS also plans landbased activities, such as a “Meet the Bridge Picnic” at Kiwanis Park, a fancy dinner-dance at holiday time, a trip to the planetarium to socialize and view the stars, and an annual Blessing of the Fleet at Lee Wenner Park. Cars travelling along Sykes Creek Road may have seen a sign indicating that CBSPS is responsible for cleaning that stretch of road for the Keep Brevard Beautiful program. This particular road was chosen since it leads to the Brevard Veterans Memorial Center where CBSPS holds their monthly meetings on the first Tuesday of the month. The public is welcome to attend and get to know all about the organization. Anyone interested in joining this group, please contact the organization at www.cbsps.org. Merritt Island Now • April 2015

Merritt Island Dining Guide Casual and Upscale Dine-In Restaurants CUISINE RESTAURANT Italian Alfredo's Paradiso See 217 Crockett Blvd. Our AD 321-453-6119 American Applebee's 100 N. Sykes Creek Pkwy. 321-455-9898 Bagel/Sandwich Shop Bagel World Victoria Square 1450 N. Courtenay Pkwy. 321-452-0737 Bagel/Sandwich Shop Bagel Word & Deli 137 N. Banana River Drive 321-452-3007 Italian Basil Pizza & Pasta 727 N. Courtenay Pkwy. 321-338-4333 American Beef 'O'Brady's 1450 N. Courtenay Pkwy. 321-455-6665 Italian Bizzarro's 325 E. Merritt Island Cswy 321-453-2610 Seafood Bonefish Grill 795 E. Merritt Island Cswy. 321-453-3011 Italian Bruno's Pizzeria 117 W. Merritt Ave. 321-453-7200 Italian Carrabba's Italian Grill 60 Palmetto Ave. 321-453-7045 Family Diner Causeway Diner 3712 N. Courtenay Pkwy. 321-454-9898 American Chilli's Grill & Bar 530 E. Merritt Island Cswy. 321-454-4738 Family Diner Cozy Corner Café 2425 N. Courtenay Pkwy. 321-452-0305 Family Diner Debbie's Diner 118 E. Merritt Island Cswy. 321-459-3209 American Denny's 75 E. Merritt Island Cswy. 321-453-3050 Mexican El Tucan S 225 N. Sykes Creek Pkwy. Oeuer AD 321-453-7501 Sandwiches Firehouse Subs 125 Merritt Island Cswy. 321-449-8818 Café & Deli Gina's Café & Deli 135 S. Courtenay Pkwy. 321-452-8828 American Hooter's 125 N. Sykes Creek Pkwy. 321-449-0752 Asian American Buffet 22Ichiban MerrittBuffet Island Now • April 2015 735 N. Courtenay Pkwy. 321-453-1117

BREAKFAST no

LUNCH yes

DINNER yes

SUNDAY no

SPIRITS beer wine

yes

full bar

yes

none

yes

none

yes

beer wine

yes

full bar

yes

beer wine

Sat only

yes

full bar

yes

none

yes

full bar

yes

Thr/ Fri

yes

none

yes

full bar

yes

none

yes

none

yes

none

yes

full bar

yes

none

yes

none

yes

full bar

yes

none

Seafood no Sat only yes yes full bar Bonefish Grill 795 E. Merritt Island Cswy. 321-453-3011 Italian no yes yes yes none Bruno's Pizzeria 117 W. Merritt Ave. 321-453-7200 Italian no yes yes yes full bar Carrabba's Italian Grill 60 Palmetto Ave. 321-453-7045 Family Diner yes yes Thr/ Fri yes none Causeway Diner 3712 N. Courtenay Pkwy. Autentico Ristorante Ristorante 321-454-9898 Pizzeria & Panineria American no yes yes yes full bar Chilli's Grill & Bar 530 E. Merritt Island Cswy. 321-454-4738 Family yes yes no yes none Cozy Corner Café MDiner ay 5 Family owned and Operated since 1988 2425 N. Courtenay Pkwy. th! Voted Best in Brevard 2005, 2006,2013 and 2014 321-452-0305 Mon-Fri DFamily Diner yes yesLunch Buffetno 11am -2pmno none Debbie's Diner rink Spec Serving Dinner 5pm 10pm Mon - Fri i a ls & G 118 E. Merritt Island Cswy. iveaw 4pm - 10 Sat ays 321-459-3209 American yes yes yes Closed Sunyes none Denny's 75 E. Merritt Island Cswy. 321-453-3050 Mexican no yes yes no full bar El Tucan 225 N. Sykes Creek Pkwy. 321-453-7501 courses Sandwiches no yes your purchase yes of 2 mainyes none Firehouse Subs 125Voted Merritt Island Cswy. Mexican Restaurant Best 321-449-8818 Visit us at www.alfredoparadiso.com on the Island 2012 - 2013 - 2014 Café & Deli yes yes no no none Gina's Café & Deli 225 N. Sykes 135 S. Courtenay Pkwy.Creek Pkwy - 321-453-7501 Located at 217 Crockett Blvd., Merritt Island 321-452-8828www.eltucanrestaurant.com American no yes yes yes full bar Hooter's 125 N. Sykes Creek Pkwy. CUISINE BREAKFAST LUNCH DINNER SUNDAY SPIRITS RESTAURANT 321-449-0752 Italian no yes yes no beer wine Alfredo's Paradiso Asian American Buffet no yes yes yes none Ichiban Buffet 217 N. Crockett Blvd.Pkwy. 735 Courtenay 321-453-6119 321-453-1117 American no yes yes yes full bar Applebee's American yes yes yes yes none Island Gecko Grill 100 N. Sykes Creek Pkwy. 773 N. Courtenay Pkwy. 321-455-9898 321-3014479 Bagel/Sandwich yes yes no none Bagel World Victoria Square Polish Shop yes yes clsdno Sat no none Island Tiki Grill 1450 N. Courtenay Pkwy. & Sun 1850 E. Merritt Island Cswy. 321-452-0737 321-454-9464 Bagel/Sandwich yes yes no yes none Bagel Word & DeliBar & Grill Seafood Shop no yes yes yes full bar Island Waterfront 137 N. River Drive 1891 E.Banana Merritt Island Cswy 321-452-3007 321-806-3661 Italian no yes yes no beer wine wine Basil Pizza & Pasta Italian no yes yes yes beer Kelsey's Pizzeria 727 N. Courtenay Pkwy. 1850 N. Courtenay Pkwy. 321-338-4333 321-735-4810 American no yes yes yes full wine bar Beef 'O'Brady's Casual Gourmet no yes yes no beer Latitude 28 1450 N. Courtenay Pkwy. 2137 North Courtenay Parkway 321-455-6665 321-305-4924 Italian no yes yes yes beer wine Bizzarro's Steakhouse American no yes yes yes full bar LongHorn's 325 E. E. Merritt Merritt Island Island Cswy Cswy 770 321-453-2610 321-456-5559 Seafood no Sat only yes yes full bar bar Bonefish Grill Seafood no yes yes yes full Molly's Seafood 795 E. Merritt Island Cswy. 1580 East Merritt Island Causeway 321-453-3011 321) 453-1288 Italian no yes yes yes none Bruno's Pizzeria Seafood no yes yes clsd Sun none Mrs. Apples Crab Shack 117 West W. Merritt Ave. & Mon 580 Merritt Island Causeway 321-453-7200 (321) 459-3759 Italian no yes yes yes full bar bar Carrabba's Italian Grill Seafood no yes yes yes full Nautical Spirits 60 Palmetto Ave. Drive 2700 Harbortown 321-453-7045 (321) 452-5090 Family Diner yes yes Thr/ yes none Causeway Diner Italian no yes yesFri yes full bar Olive Garden 3712 N. Courtenay Pkwy. Merritt Island Now • April 2015 23 205 East Merritt Island Causeway 321-454-9898 (321) 459-0306

321-453-6119

Com Cinc e Celeb o wi rate th U S!

$5 Off

580 West Merritt Island Causeway (321) 459-3759 Seafood Nautical Spirits 2700 Harbortown Drive CUISINE RESTAURANT (321) 452-5090 Italian Alfredo's Paradiso Italian Olive Garden 217 East Crockett Blvd. 205 Merritt Island Causeway 321-453-6119 (321) 459-0306 American Applebee's American Outback 100 Merritt N. Sykes 777 Is. Creek Cwy Pkwy. 321-455-9898 (321) 454-4450 Bagel/Sandwich Bagel World Sushi Shop Pacific Rim Victoria Square 1450 N. Courtenay Pkwy. 300 North Courtenay Parkway 321-452-0737 (321) 305-4902 Bagel/Sandwich BagelCompany Word & Deli Italian Shop Pizza 137 North N. Banana River Drive 868 Banana River Drive 321-452-3007 321) 455-6515 Italian BasilLobster Pizza & Pasta Seafood Red 727 East N. Courtenay Pkwy. 215 Merritt Island Causeway 321-338-4333 321) 453-3520 American Beef 'O'Brady's American Ruby Tuesdays 1450 N. Courtenay Pkwy. 777 East Merritt Causeway 321-455-6665 (321) 453-6340 Italian Bizzarro's American Shuttles 325 E. Merritt Island Cswy 6100 North Courtenay Parkway 321-453-2610 (321) 305-4143 Seafood Bonefish Grill BBQ Sonny's 795 North E. Merritt Island Cswy. 310 Courtenay Parkway 321-453-3011 321-449-9102 Italian Bruno's Pizzeria Thai Sumo Monkey 117 North W. Merritt Ave. Parkway 925 Courtenay 321-453-7200 321-453-3123 Italian Carrabba's American TGI Friday'sItalian Grill 60 Palmetto Ave. Causeway 785 Merritt Island 321-453-7045 321-452-8071 Family Diner Causeway Diner Breakfast The Donut Shop 3712 N. Courtenay Pkwy. 480 North Courtenay Pkwy 321-454-9898 321-459-1074 American Chilli's Grill Mexican Tijuana Flats& Bar 530East E. Merritt 76 MerrittIsland IslandCswy. Csway 321-454-4738 321-453-1881 Family Diner Diner Cozy Corner Family Umpa's DinerCafé 2425 North N. Courtenay Pkwy. 1115 Courtenay Pkway 321-452-0305 321-454-3422 Family Diner Debbie's Diner Greek/American Victoria's Family Restaurant 118 E. Merritt Island Cswy. 370 North Courtenay Pkwy 321-459-3209 321-459-1656 American Denny's Sushi Wabi Sabi 75 E. Merritt Island Cswy. 455 North Courtenay Pkwy 321-453-3050 321-452-0507 Mexican El Tucan 225 N. Sykes Creek Pkwy. 321-453-7501 Sandwiches Firehouse Subs 125 Merritt Island Cswy. 321-449-8818 Café & Deli Gina's Café & Deli 135 S. Courtenay Pkwy. 321-452-8828 American Hooter's 125 N. Sykes Creek Pkwy. 321-449-0752 Asian American Buffet Ichiban Buffet 735 N. Courtenay Pkwy. 321-453-1117 American Island Gecko Grill 773 N. Courtenay Pkwy. 24 Merritt Island Now • April 2015 321-3014479 Polish Island Tiki Grill

& Mon no

yes

full bar

BREAKFAST no no

LUNCH yes yes

DINNER yes

SUNDAY no yes

SPIRITS beer wine full bar

no no

yes yes

fullbar bar full

yes no

yes yes

no yes

none beer wine

yes no

yes yes

no yes

yes yes

none none

no no

yes yes

no yes

beer wine full bar

no no

yes yes

full bar bar full

no no

yes yes

yes no

beer wine wine beer

no no

Sat only yes

yes yes

full wine bar beer

no no

yes yes

yes no

none wine

no no

yes yes

full bar bar full

yes yes

Thr/ noFri

yes yes

none none

yes yes

full wine bar beer

yes yes

no no

yes yes

none none

yes yes

no yes Thr, Fri only

no yes

none beer wine

yes no

yes yes

none beer wine

yes

full bar

Remember to supportnoyour yes Merritt Island area businesses. yes yes

yes

none

yes

full bar

yes

none

yes

none

yes

clsd Sat

none

Visit our local online business directory for no all your products and services needs.

www.MerrittIslandNow.com

Business & Real Estate

Using the Equity in Your Home BY SHERRY ROBERTS Spring fever has struck. If you’re like a lot of people, you may have a long list of home improvement projects you’ve been waiting to start. Maybe you need a new roof, or new air conditioning. Is your kitchen or bathroom outdated? Or, does a pool sound like what the doctor ordered? Sherry Roberts is If you own your home and have equity a Launch Federal built up, then you can use that equity to help Credit Union mortgage processor, pay for those projects. NMLS#1211025, and Several positive economic conditions a long time Merritt Island resident. have happened in Brevard to give residents a reason feel more comfortable about spending some extra money on home projects. Brevard’s unemployment rate has decreased significantly since 2010. Also, according to the website, Zillow, Brevard County home values have gone up 10.7 percent over the past year, and Zillow predicts they will rise 3.3 percent within the next year. Now may be the time to start those home projects and use the equity in your home to help pay for them, and there are two ways you can borrow from your home’s equity. A home equity loan lets you borrow a lump sum and pay it back over a fixed term at a fixed interest rate (like a mortgage or car loan). A home equity line of credit (HELOC) works more like a credit card. It makes a certain amount of credit available on an asneeded basis for a limited term, such as five or 10 years, followed

by a repayment period of up to 20 years. Its interest rate changes with the market. A home equity loan makes sense if you need a large amount all at once for a specific project. A HELOC might make more sense if you need to borrow smaller amounts over a longer period. So, if you have spring fever, you may want to let your home help pay for its improvements. Your home is your biggest investment. Let it work for you. Enjoy your home improvements,

relax in your new kitchen or pool, and say “Ahhhhh.”

Summer Fun Let the equity in your home help pay for your summer projects.

Advertise with us!

Ask about our HELOCs and Home Equity Loans. Open to everyone who lives, works, or worships in Brevard and Volusia County.

If you are reading this, so are your potential customers.

Apply online at www.launchfcu.com

455-9400  415 Fortenberry Road Behind Merritt Square Mall!

One-time $5 fee and minimum deposit of $25 required to open account. Loans require credit approval and a savings account. The rate you pay is based on credit history and term. FEDERALLY INSURED BY THE NCUA.

go beyond

call 321-453-4121 for more information Merritt Island Now • April 2015

Business & Real Estate

Merritt Island Moose Lodge Seeks New Members BY DIANA FASANELLA It’s probably the best kept secret on Merritt Island. With 20,000 square feet of space for nothing but fun, the Merritt Island Moose Lodge #2073 is ready to dazzle anyone who has a hankering to be entertained with various activities such as darts, shuffle board, line dancing, pool tournaments and Diana Fasanella is a native Merritt dinner shows, or just relax. Islander, Huffington “Or you can just sit at the bar and do Post blogger; and editor and nothing,” said lodge Jr. Gov. Chris Pedone, columnist, formally who has been a member for 10 years. “We with Gannett/USA are all about showcasing what we offer Today newspapers. locally (for Islanders).” Pedone, who volunteers to help out at the lodge, said its administrators are focusing on getting out the word that the lodge has a lot to entice area residents of all ages.

“It’s our primary goal,” he said about increasing the lodge’s membership. As well as a “wonderful, safe environment for members to engage in different activities,” Pedone said the lodge sports numerous pool tables, a fully stocked bar, a huge banquet room with a real dance floor, and three kitchens that produce delicious food daily. And, for a nominal price of $15 to $20, members and their guests can enjoy a great Friday night out with a venue featuring different bands or spectacular dinner shows. “The food on the buffet (for the dinner shows) is fantastic,” he said, adding that yearly memberships at the lodge are $60 for men and $35 for women, plus an initiation fee of $20. While there is much to do at the lodge, Administrator Everett Giles said membership is not all about fun and games, but also about giving back to the community. “The Moose are well-known for giving 26

Merritt Island Now • April 2015

back,” he said. “We make donations to North Merritt Island Little League, the Veterans Center, Eagle Scouts, Pop Warner, Habitat for Humanity, and give out scholarships to students at Merritt Island and Edgewood Jr./Sr. high schools. And, we donate the use of our banquet room for their proms or other events.” In addition, the Moose Lodge conducts fundraisers for community and national groups and sponsors charities such as Mooseheart Child City and School, a 1,000-acre residential city outside Chicago for children and teens who are in need. “Our lodge has four children from this area at Mooseheart,” Giles said. “There also is Moosehaven,” a continuing care retirement community (in Orange Park) for Moose Lodge members. The 72-acre “City of Contentment” south of Jacksonville has been the home to Loyal Order of Moose members since 1922 and offers independent living for seniors 65 and older. “It’s great being a member. You can do as little or as much as you want,” Giles said. “But, if you get involved, you’ll develop a love and sense of respect for the Moose.” The Merritt Island lodge has made great strides and has come a long way to help and support the community, Pedone said. “The rewards and gratification (of volunteering) far exceed any aggravation,” he said. “I’m very proud to do it and be a part of this organization.” For more information on how to become a Loyal Order of the Moose member, contact the lodge at 321-452-9061.

Start Your New Career Today! Health Training Institute

of Merritt Island

CLASSES FORMING NOW!!!

The Health Training Institute is now accepting applications for Nurse’s aide, Phlebotomy and Massage Therapy!

Professional

•

Honest

•

Fair

Locally Owned & Operated

•

Motorized, completely retractable screens. Hidden to be there only when you need them!

Reduce Energy Costs Allow Air In | Keep Bugs Out

| |

Reduce UV Rays Professional Installation

We also offer retractable screen doors and fixed panel screens. Call for a free estimate! www.BlueWaterScreens.com

321-231-2610

Call us to make your appointment...

321-305-6182 *** 321-305-5945 www.healthtraininginstitute.net admin@htimi.net 255 Parnell Street, Merritt Island 32953

$150 off

$250 off

ENTIRE PURCHASE of 3 Units

ENTIRE PURCHASE of 5 Units

Must Present Coupon Expires 5/16/15

$25 off GIFT CARD

when you refer a friend who purchases Must Present Coupon Expires 5/16/15

205 Magnolia Avenue Merritt Island, FL 32952 321.454.9853

alternativepregnancycenter.com

Providing Help, Hope & Positive Alternatives for PregnancyV FREE AND TOTALLY CONFIDENTIAL

pregnancy tests peer counseling parenting classes baby boutique

ÌØÄÌAÄÌâkÌYk kPAÎkÌÖ{ÌåkAÀÄÌ Ì ØÀÌY Ø Îå

April 25

7:00pm

â ÏÌ/«kY A Ì ØkÄÎ

Pam Tebow

ÄlÌ ØÀÌAcÌ ÌÏkÌ Ä ckÌyÀ ÎÌY ßkÀ Merritt Island Now • April 2015

Business & Real Estate

MIRA: Commercial Facade Grant Improvement Program The Merritt Island Redevelopment Agency sponsors a Commercial Faรงade Improvement Program to aide property owners in the redevelopment agency area. The grant funding is based on 50 percent of the eligible project cost up to $15,000. The goal of the Commercial Faรงade Grant Improvement Program is to aesthetically beautify the Merritt Island redevelopment area by assisting commercial property owners to fund physical redevelopment improvements to their existing properties that will have a positive visual impact on the community, reducing blight thereby making citizens feel safer and motivating them to utilize businesses within the Redevelopment Area. For more information, please call MIRA at 321-454-6610. Completed Projects

BEFORE

Hayes Meats

AFTER

BEFORE

Hobbs Pharmacy

AFTER

BEFORE

Pacific Rim

AFTER

Merritt Island Now โ ข April 2015

Mold Professionals Eliminate Negative Air BY TINA CARTAGENA Did you know that 1 square inch can contain more than 65 million mold spores? Microbial growth has the potential to cause a myriad of health problems, so what do you do when you believe that you have mold in your home? In any mold situation, you need to find what Tina Cartagena is is contributing to the problem. Mold always is a mold specialist related to water, so your search will always with PuroClean begin with the use of professional moisture Emergency Disaster Restoration. meters and an expert eye. After the mold professional has done his assessment, he or she should advise you to consult with an indoor air quality specialist. The specialist is equipped to provide a mold sampling, which will determine mold spore levels and also the type of mold in your home. The mold sampling will provide the mold remediation company with the protocol that will be needed to remediate the property thoroughly. The mold remediation company will return to begin professional cleaning. They will remove or clean all organic material affected by mold and set up professional grade equipment that will clean and eliminate negative air from the home. Air ducts also will be cleaned. At the conclusion of remediation, the indoor air quality specialist will return and run a clearance test. If remediation is successful, you will have a negative mold test, which indicate the levels of mold are reasonable. All guidelines that are followed are set by the EPA.

Merritt Island Now â&#x20AC;˘ April 2015

Business & Real Estate

A Note of Caution About HOAs BY PAT PADRICK The number of Americans living in common-interest communities — those governed by either a homeowners association, condo board, or cooperative — has grown from 1 percent in 1970 to 24 percent in 2014, according to the Foundation for Community Association Research. Now, comprising 20 percent of the national housing stock, community associations Pat Padrick is a Florida native and a are a growing share of the residential real real estate agent with estate market. Re/Max Solutions with more than 20 Some homeowners will enjoy having yrs. of residential a governing body that instills harmony in a and commercial real estate experience. neighborhood by regulating its appearance and use for everyone’s comfort, but many homeowners have little understanding of the rights and responsibilities they are buying into when they purchase in these communities. This leads them down the road of dissatisfaction and disillusionment with the HOA concept in general. Many owners do not recognize that the benefits of shared ownership involve relinquishing some of the independence of sole ownership. That’s the root of so many of the HOA horror stories we’ve all heard, as owners normally do not realize that submission to the will of their new community is accomplished by the automatic application of covenants running with the residence. HOA living is not suited for those unwilling to cooperate with the community. The most caustic critics of HOAs in general actually are opposed to the concept of joint ownership. This is a completely unrealistic position, particularly as society continues to urbanize and affordable land is increasingly scarce. Truly, persons who want a home that is their castle and theirs alone should not live in HOAs. HOAs operate under governing documents such as recorded covenants, bylaws, and operating rules. Although they can greatly affect one’s experience with their property, many owners in HOA communities consider the documents unimportant, treating them as if they were an appliance owner’s manual to review only after buying and beginning to use the product. Governing documents may limit leasing, pets, parking, type of flooring, garage usage, or a myriad of other aspects of the residence. Oftentimes, HOA homebuyers don’t know exactly what they are acquiring. Most assume attached housing are condominiums and detached are planned development lots, but these generalizations are not always accurate. Although the answer is easily found in either the subdivision map or the covenants, homes can be bought or sold for years without the owners ever learning what type of housing in which they are living. Years ago, an HOA more than 20 years old at the time was sued by two homeowners who claimed the association converted their attached “townhouse” homes from condominiums to planned development lots, despite the fact that the original covenants clearly identified the HOA as a planned development. The case was quickly thrown out by the judge. Another point of confusion arises from the failure of owners to comprehend the concept of exclusive-use common areas. 30

Merritt Island Now • April 2015

Balconies, patios, and porches are frequently believed to be areas where the HOA has no authority to govern its use. But in condominiums, these areas usually are exclusive-use common areas; that is, they are controlled by the HOA, but used by the individual owner. The financial health of an HOA community also impacts owners. To keep monthly assessments low, some HOA boards will not accumulate sufficient funds in a reserve account to offset ongoing deterioration of common elements in the property, such as roofs, paint, paving, common area pools and playgrounds, and gated entrances. Poorly funded HOAs will need major special assessments or bank loans when big building components need replacement. Competent appraisals may not reveal the true value of the HOA property because appraisers are not required to examine the HOA reserve fund. Logic dictates that residences in a poorly funded HOA will be worth less than the well-funded association across the street, but normal market valuations will not reflect that important economic reality. None of this is to say that buying in an HOA community is a bad deal. But, to ensure that every owner gets the most out of their HOA, they must be educated about them. That starts with questions for a knowledgeable and trusted real estate professional.

Licensed

Insured

Commercial

Residential

Landscape Design Services Landscape Maintenance All Types of Tree Work Merritt Island Resident serving our community for 15 years Consultations are always FREE!

www.marlowelandscaping.com

Eric Marlowe 321-455-1613

If You’re Leaving Your Employer, Do You Know Your 401(k) Options? At Edward Jones, we can explain options for your 401(k), including leaving the money in your former employer’s plan, moving it to your new employer’s plan, rolling it over to an Individual Retirement Account (IRA) or cashing out the account subject to tax consequences. We can help you review your options so that you can select the one that’s best for you. If you decide to roll it over to an Edward Jones IRA, we can help.

To learn more, call or visit your financial advisor today.

Joe DelBene

www.edwardjones.com

Member SIPC

Financial Advisor .

270 N Sykes Creek Parkway Ste 102 Merritt Island, FL 32953 321-452-2532 IRT-1948D-A-AD

Merritt Island Now • April 2015

Business & Real Estate

MERRITT ISLAND HOMES SOLD IN FEBRUARY ADDRESS

SUBDIVISION

BDRMS

BATHS

LVG SQ FT

POOL

460 Bella Capri Drive

Bella Capri

2271

yes

1979

$146,000

1555 N Banana River Drive

Canaveral

1367

2014

$189,900

1465 Morgan Drive

Caribbean Isles

1462

1966

$111,000

1445 Morgan Drive

Caribbean Isles

1512

yes

1966

$162,000

4610 Annette Court

Citrus River Groves

2489

yes

lake/pond

1985

$315,000

393 Jeremy Court

Citrus River Groves

2208

lake/pond

2012

$340,000

725 Avacado Drive

Croton River Estates

3129

yes

1982

$320,000

Diana Shores

1504

yes

canal

1969

$285,000

1345 Plum Avenue

Floral Park

1516

canal

1966

$167,000

818 Hampton Way

Hampton Homes

1466

1959

$67,100

195 Needle Boulevard

Hampton Homes

1.5

1066

yes

1959

$71,100

112 1st Street

Hampton Homes

1008

1959

$88,500

340 Sabal Avenue

Hampton Homes

1140

1961

$129,000

320 Riverside Avenue

Hampton Homes

1660

canal

1967

$209,900

535 Needle Boulevard

Hampton Homes

1772

canal

1966

$220,000

66 Hurwood Avenue

Hibiscus Park

1092

yes

1955

$44,000

4811 Honeymoon Hill

Honeymoon Hill

5955

yes

Banana Rvr

2004

$1,300,000

4655 Comanche

Indian Bay Estates

2042

lake/pond

1991

$237,000

500 Apache Trail

Indian Bay Estates

3.5

3264

yes

canal

1991

$572,500

555 Banana Boulevard

Island Beach

1272

yes

1988

$187,000

1577 Stafford Avenue

Island Crossings

2057

yes

1996

$264,500

Merritt Lakes Estates

1292

yes

1955

$139,600

480 E Hall Road

none

2697

2003

$305,000

195 E Hall Road

none

2.5

2289

yes

2005

$335,000

2440 Raintree Lake Circle

Raintree by the Lake

1284

yes

1984

$178,000

2880 Raintree Lake Circle

Raintree by the Lake

1812

lake/pond

1983

$184,900

2275 Bentley Street

Ridge Manor Estates

1598

yes

1967

$78,750

791 Spanish Cay Drive

River Grove on the Trail

2.5

2118

yes

2003

$305,000

1740 E Central Avenue

Riviera Isles

2153

canal

1968

$289,000

2975 Savannahs Trail

Savannahs

2556

1993

$230,000

Sunset Lakes

1902

lake/pond

2000

$215,000

205 Sykes Creek Loop

Sykes Cove

2236

yes

1994

$280,000

417 Via Palermo Court

The Villa At Indian River

1045

1977

$55,000

Twin Rivers

3.5

2928

yes

1993

$389,900

2225 Sykes Creek Drive

Villa de Palmas

1571

yes

1986

$240,000

2465 San Lorenzo Court

Villa de Palmas

2074

yes

1966

$262,000

220 Malaga Court

Villa De Palmas

2688

canal

1985

$350,000

880 Brookstone Drive

Watermill

2.5

2630

yes

1990

$313,500

245 Florida Boulevard

Waterway Manor

2005

canal

1968

$355,000

515 Diana Boulevard

285 Le Jeune Drive

863 Killarney Court

1105 Rebecca Drive

WTRFRNT YR BUILT SOLD PRICE

*Public records sales data provided by Cheryl D’Cruz of C21 Ocean Realty (see ad on next page) 32

Merritt Island Now • April 2015

Crucial Questions Every Homeowner Must Answer Before Taking The First Step Towards Selling A Home. Today’s real estate market is a continually changing environment. No two transactions are the same. If you don’t know what to watch out for there can be pitfalls and missed opportunities. A successful real estate transaction starts with a sound plan. If you are considering selling a home in the Merritt Island area and need help with your sound plan, please give me a call. I offer a no cost, no obligation pre-market planning session. We will discuss and answer the seven questions so you can take the right steps to successfully selling your home.

Oh, by the way... if you know of someone who would appreciate the level of service I provide, please call me with their name and number. I’ll be happy to follow up and take great care of them.

Cheryl D’Cruz Call or Text (806) 778-1171

H2O HOMES

Office: (321) 323-1212 | 4333 N. Atlantic Ave., Cocoa Beach floridah2ohomes@gmail.com | www.happyhousehunting.com

WOW! FACTOR floors

1-DAY GARAGE FLOOR INSTALLATION • Will not peel or tire track

ut our Ask us abeocrack concret ir! repa

• Easy cleaning

Call us today for your FREE estimat e!

(321) 567-3543

www.LiquidFloorsUSA.com

Merritt Island Now magazine is being published 10 issues per year, direct mailed to approximately 16,000 Merritt Island homes. All rights reserved © Copyright 2015 The material in this magazine has been prepared and is copyrighted by ILMIdeals, Inc. The material is for information purposes only. The material is not guaranteed to be correct, complete, or up-to-date. Information provided by or cited by third parties does not necessarily reflect the opinions of endorsements of Merritt Island Now (ILMIdeals, Inc.). 34

Merritt Island Now • April 2015

MERRITT ISLAND AREA CONTACTS

Reference

State Government

Senior and Caregiver Resource Center inside the Merritt Square Mall Bipolar and Al-anon and Al-ateen Support Groups...... (321) 452-4080 280 E Merritt Avenue (Faith Lutheran Church)

Brevard County Government Elected and Appointed Officials

Cape Canaveral Hospital................................................. (321) 799-7111 701 West Cocoa Beach Causeway • Cocoa Beach, FL Wuesthoff Medical Center............................................... (321) 636-2211 110 Longwood Avenue • Rockledge, FL

Governor Rick Scott........................................................ (850) 488-7146 Senator Thad Altman....................................................... (321) 868-2132 Representative Steve Crisafulli....................................... (321) 449-5111

Commissioner Robin Fisher - District 1........................ (321) 264-6750 Commissioner Jim Barfield - District 2 (MI)................. (321) 454-6601 Commissioner Trudie Infanini - District 3.................... (321) 952-6300 Commissioner Curt Smith - District 4........................... (321) 633-2040 Commissioner Andy Anerson - District 5..................... (321) 253-6611

Superintendent of Schools

Dr. Brian Binggeli............................................... (321) 633-1000 ext 402 School Board Ms. Misty Belford - District 1......................................... (321) 591-9387 Mr. John Craig (MI) - District 2...................................... (321) 271-9705 Ms. Amy Kneessy - District 3......................................... (321) 779-5034 Ms. Karen Henderson - District 4................................... (321) 631-5905 Mr. Andy Ziegler - District 5.......................................... (321) 821-0510

Brevard County Government Resources

Animal Control................................................................ (321) 633-2024 Building, Permits, Business Licenses.............................. (321) 633-2072 Engineering Office (Traffic Signals)............................... (321) 637-5437 Environmental Health..................................................... (321) 633-2100 Jury Phone........................................................................ (321) 637-6559 Justice Center................................................................... (321) 637-2000 Planning & Zoning.......................................................... (321) 633-2070 Housing & Human Services............................................ (321) 633-2007 Sheriffs Office (non emergency)..................................... (321) 633-7162 Voter Registration............................................................ (321) 633-2124 Code Enforcement........................................................... (321) 633-2086 Occupational Licensing................................................... (321) 264-6935 Tax Collector - www.brevardtaxcollector.com............... (321) 264-6930 Merritt Island Post Office................................................ (321) 453-1479 Public Library on Merritt Island..................................... (321) 455-1369 Department of Health..................................................... (321) 454-7111

Children and Family Resources

FL Department of Children and Family Central Region.(321) 634-3600 Brevard CARES (prevent child abuse)........................... (321) 632-2737 Brevard CARES Crisis Hotline....................................... (888) 227-3709 Brevard County Boys and Girls...................................... (321) 301-4484 Florida Domestic Violence Hotline................................ (800) 500-1119 Family Counseling Center.............................................. (321) 632-5792 Circles of Care.................................................................. (321) 722-5200 Women’s Center............................................................... (321) 242-3110 Alcoholic’s Anonymous................................................... (321) 724-2247 Help Line 24 hour............................................................ (321) 632-6688 Rape Hotline.................................................................... (321) 784-4357 Sharing Center................................................................. (321) 631-0306 Alternative Pregnancy Center......................................... (321) 454-9853 Serene Harbor Domestic Violence Center..................... (321) 726-8282 Crisis Hotline................................................................... (800) 962-2873 Sundance Ranch Christian Counseling.......................... (321) 305-5946 Poison Control................................................................. (800) 222-1222 Emergency Veterinary Clinic.......................................... (321) 725-5365

Support Groups

The Sunflower House....................................................... (321) 452-4341

Hospitals

Kid Activities

Parks and Recreation....................................................... (321) 633-1874 www.brevardcounty.us/ParksRecreation/Home Hockey - The Space Coast Iceplex................................... (321) 504-7500 YMCA............................................................................... (321) 433-7770 Lacrosse - www.merrittislandlax.com............................ (321) 454-4943 Football - Pop Warner..................................................... (321) 591-6282 www.eteamz.com/merrittislandpopwarner Football - County - www.merrittislandmustangs.net.... (321) 458-4160 Soccer - Central Brevard Soccer..................................... (321) 394-5083 www.centralbrevardsoccer.org Volleyball - Cape Coast Volleyball................................. (321) 639-3800 www.capecoastvolleyball.com Cheerleading - County.................................................... (321) 458-4159 Cheerleading - Competition Coastal Elite..................... (321) 505-1002 Softball - Merritt Island Lassie League........................... (321) 626-8040 www.milassieleague.com Baseball - North Merritt Island Little League................ (321) 543-6215 www.misllbaseball@yahoo.com Flag Football - Brevard.................................................... (321) 452-3105 www.brevardflagfootball.com Calema Windsurfing and Watersports........................... (321) 453-3223 www.calema.com Merritt Island Swim School ISR Master Instructor Infant and Up............................. (321) 698-5840 Drum Lessons - Paula Taylor.......................................... (321) 537-6426 Upward Basketball........................................................... (321) 453-2146 US Naval Sea Cadets - The Courageous Division.......... (321) 951-0432 ......................................................................................or (321) 631-0440 Y-Indian Guides.............................................. www.canaveralnation.net Girl Scouts of Citrus Council.......................................... (407) 896-4475 Boy Scouts........................................................................ (407) 889-4403 Paintball, Skate, DMX - Brevard Extreme Sports ......... (321) 454-7777 Unlimited Kickboxing..................................................... (321) 368-9307 Marta’s Legacy Dance Studio.......................................... (321) 453-6277 Dussich Dance Studio...................................................... (321) 452-2046 Brevard Shotokan Karate................................................ (321) 323-9480 Ross Karate....................................................................... (321) 698-7957 Space Coast Martial Arts................................................. (321) 452-7229 Shorin-Ryu Karate........................................................... (321) 459-3000 Lauts Music...................................................................... (321) 453-6424 classes in keyboard, home organ, acoustic piano, acoustic and electric guitar, and voice.

Utilities

Florida Power and Light....................(800) 226-3545 or (321) 723-7795 Brighthouse.........................................................(866) 309-EASY (3279) Waste Management.......................................................... (321) 636-6894 DirecTV............................................................................ (888) 430-2654 AT&T................................................................................ (888) 757-6500 Florida City Gas Company...............................................(888) 352 5325 Merritt Island Now • April 2015

Reference City Of Cocoa Water Dept.............................................. (321) 433-8400 Call Before You Dig ............................................................................811

Public Schools

Brevard County Public Schools Main Office..... (321) 633-1000 ext 500 2700 Judge Fran Jamieson Way • Viera, Florida 32940 Ethics Hotline .................................................... (321) 633-1000 ext 170 Audubon Elementary...................................................... (321) 452-2085 1201 North Banana River Drive Tropical Elementary........................................................ (321) 454-1080 885 South Courtenay Parkway Stevenson Elementary School......................................... (321) 454-3550 1450 Martin Blvd Mila Elementary School.................................................. (321) 454-1070 288 W Merritt Avenue Lewis Carroll Elementary School................................... (321) 452-1234 1 Skyline Blvd Jefferson Middle School.................................................. (321) 453-5154 1275 South Courtenay Parkway Edgewood Junior Senior High School............................ (321) 454-1030 180 East Merritt Avenue Merritt Island High School............................................. (321) 454-1000 100 East Mustang Way Florida Virtual School ................................................... (407) 513-3587 Brevard Virtual ............................................................... (321) 633-3660

Private Schools

Merritt Island Christian School ..................................... (321) 453-2710 140 Magnolia Avenue Divine Mercy Catholic Academy.................................... (321) 452-0263 1940 North Courtenay Parkway Ambassador Christian Academy.................................... (321) 305-6931 175 Cone Road Brevard Private Academy................................................ (321) 459-3466 508 South Plumosa Alpha Learning................................................................ (321) 453-7077 3700 North Courtenay Parkway Suite 102 Puzzle Box Academy....................................................... (321) 345-0861 is a private school serving children (currently ages 2 through 2nd Grade) impacted by Autism and other developmental delays such as ADD/ ADHD

Business Organizations

Cocoa Beach Regional Chamber of Commerce............. (321) 459-2200 Merritt Island Rotary Club............................................. (321) 223-4362 BNI Beeliners................................................................... (321) 690-2328 BNI Profiteers.................................................................. (321) 536-5973

Merritt Island Charitable Organizations and Food Banks

My Island Thrift Store........................................(321) 473-3355 (I Love My Island, Inc. non-profit) (Proceeds support the MI Community, Free Donation pick up available)

245 Crockett Blvd Molly Mutt—Thrift Store................................................ (321) 459-1525 (supports Central Brevard Humane Society Adoption Center located at 155 Pioneer Road (321) 636-3343 ext 214) 2525 North Courtenay Parkway SPCA-Thrift Store............................................................ (321) 704-8480 (supports the adoption center(321) 453-5323 at the Merritt Square Mall) A+ Thrift Shop (supports Merritt Island Schools)......... (321) 453-4338 95 South Plumosa Street 36

Merritt Island Now • April 2015

Pet Priorities Exotic Bird Rescue.................................... (321) 289-1738 House of Hope Ministry.................................................. (321) 453-0318 (Food Bank, Clothing, Bicycles, Showers) Every Monday including Holidays beginning at 630am-1030am 330 Magnolia Avenue Grace United Methodist Church Food Pantry............... (321) 452-2420 Merritt Island Residents only Thursdays 9-noon and 1-3:30pm 65 Needle Boulevard Quarterly Country Store and Children’s Clothes Closet East Coast Christian Center Food Pantry...................... (321) 452-1060 670 North Courtenay Parkway Open Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday 10am-1pm Open Thursday Evenings 6pm-8pm

Local Clubs

The Moose Lodge............................................................. (321) 452-8383 3150 North Courtenay Parkway The Elks Lodge................................................................. (321) 452-2650 1520 Sykes Creek Parkway Fraternal Order of Eagles................................................ (321) 452-4258 1050 North Courtenay Parkway ABATE of Florida Brevard County Chapter.................. (321) 636-9720 241 Peachtree Street Cocoa

Political Organizations

Brevard Republican Executive Committee.................... (321) 254-0073 Brevard Democratic Executive Committee................... (321) 327-7947

Community of Faith

East Coast Christian Center............................................ (321) 452-1060 680 North Courtenay Parkway First Baptist Church of Merritt Island............................ (321) 453-2144 140 Magnolia Avenue Calvary Chapel Merritt Island........................................ (321) 453-6779 3500 North Courtenay Parkway Grace United Methodist Church.................................... (321) 452-2420 65 Needle Boulevard Georgiana United Methodist Church............................. (321) 452-7523 3925 South Tropical Trail Lighthouse Christian Church......................................... (321) 452-1012 1250 North Banana River Drive Island Community Church............................................. (321) 453-4656 1000 North Banana River Drive Mi Church........................................................................ (321) 747-0658 170 North Courtenay Parkway North Courtenay Church of Christ................................ (321) 452-8822 2455 North Courtenay Parkway Divine Mercy Catholic Church....................................... (321) 452-5955 1940 North Courtenay Parkway River of Life Assembly of God........................................ (321) 452-6990 1890 North Courtenay Parkway St Luke Episcopal Church............................................... (321) 452-5260 5555 North Tropical Trail North Merritt Island United Methodist Church............ (321) 452-7180 6355 North Courtenay Parkway Merritt Island Presbyterian Church............................... (321) 453-1640 600 South Tropical Trail Grace Lutheran Church................................................... (321) 986-9689 5455 North Courtenay Parkway Unity of Merritt Island.................................................... (321) 452-2625 4725 North Courtenay Parkway

*Please e-mail lou@merrittislandnow.com if any information needs to be updated or to add a resource. Information believed to be accurate but not warranted.

LET AN AGENT WHO KNOWS GUIDE YOU.

Your "Go To Realtor" for your Real Estate Solutions

Patricia Padrick Re/Max Solutions

321.431.0004 www.GoPadrick.com

Pat@GoPadrick.com

Michelle Daignault-Ives

John Daignault

Barry & Christine Daignault– Taylor

Daignault Realty,Inc. www.HomeInTheSun.com

Katie Adkins

Jack Lyerly

Leon McDaniel

Barbara Becker

Isil Nevins

Chuck Bennett

Roseann Nicol

Eric Budukiewicz

Diane Peterson

Doug Carson

Your Brevard Real Estate Resource Since 1971!

Tim Causby

Brenda Drabyk

Caroline Rowe

• Waterfront Specialists

• Investment Purchases

• Corporate Relocations

• 1031 Exchanges

• New Construction

• First Time Home Buyers

• Existing Home Sales

• Bank Owned / REOs

• Townhomes & Condos

• Vacant Land

• Full Service Property Management / Rentals

Liz Hahn

Gina Schwantz

Sandy Southwell

(321) 453-2151

215 N. Courtenay Pkwy., Merritt Island Laura Speigner

Terri Johnson

Margie Kahl

Marc Leichtling

Linda Louden

Sharon Weber

Dorothy Towell