Viera Voice-June 2022

I'm a garlic girl in a garlic world

Streak continues, Page 8

Pages 32

School honors beloved teacher Page 12

Lots of laughs return to Duran page 31

vieravoice.com

June 2022

Vol. 16 Issue 5

Viera goes Country page 23 Page 23

Night to remember Pageant contestant raises awareness about mental health pages 4 and 5

Stories, photos, pages 14 and 15

Miss Viera shares hope VIERA VOICE 7350 Shoppes Dr., Suite 102 Viera, FL 32940

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Creative couple look forward to raising their son in Suntree

BY WENDY SCHEURING Caleb and April Ashley are graphic artists who met as students at Central Virginia Community College in Lynchburg, Virginia.

Today, they relish the small-town feel of Suntree where they can raise a family and live close to where they each work.

Their relationship first began as classmates, then they were friends for five years before they became a couple.

April Ashley is originally from Maine. Caleb is from Virginia. To escape the cold winters, Ashley’s parents decided to move to Florida.

Caleb and April also liked the idea of living in a warmer climate, so they joined her parents in Palm Bay. The couple married in September

“Viera/Suntree is a family friendly area and we are happy to live here and raise our son here.”

—April Ashley

2021 and moved to Suntree three months later.

They expected a son in late May and were not only excited about his arrival but also that Suntree will be the place where he gets to grow up. They anticipate that

he will enjoy going to the Brevard Zoo and be a lover of animals, just like they are.

The small hometown feel of the Suntree/Viera area and living close to work is especially attractive to the two.

Caleb Ashley works as a marketing coordinator for Carroll Distributing Company, a family-owned and operated business in Brevard County since 1960.

It is in the beer, wine and spirits distribution industry.

He creates promotional designs for the company’s accounts, including a wide variety of signs, banners, large advertising and card stock for store shelves.

April Ashley also works as a graphic designer for a social media marketing company. She specializes in creating graphics and brand design for local businesses and their social media platforms.

While both Caleb and April enjoy working in the graphic arts during the day, they also continue expressing their artistic talents in their free time, just in a different way. They enjoy having paint night dates together. But they don’t have to leave home. They transform their kitchen into a makeshift art studio, where they can paint the night away with acrylics and oils on canvas.

“We do this about once a month. We pick a theme and go from there,” Caleb Ashley said.

Featured Family

VIERA VOICE Jill Blue

Caleb and April Ashley met as graphic arts students at Central Virginia Community College in Lynchburg, Virginia.

“That way we can see our different interpretations,” April Ashley said. “It’s nice to create something from scratch that’s meaningful.”

In her spare time, April Ashley continues designing for friends and family on her state-of-the-art computer, which was customized and tailored especially

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for her by Caleb, who is a computer-building hobbyist.

April’s computer is not only powerful, it is also pretty.

Caleb painted it her favorite color, teal, and decorated it with colorful lights.

In the evenings, the couple enjoys going on walks, exploring area parks and eating out at local

restaurants.

“Viera/Suntree is a family friendly area and we are happy to live here and raise our son here,” April Ashley said. “We are still getting to know the area and are looking forward to exploring it more with our son.” V V

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Viera Voice | June 2022

3

Miss Viera USA hopes to use spotlight to inspire others dealing with mental issues

BY MIKE GAFFEY

Volume 16, Issue 5 ©2022 Bluewater Creative Group, Inc. All rights reserved Bluewater Creative Group 321-242-1235 7350 Shoppes Dr. Suite 102 Viera, FL 32940 media@bluewatercreativegroup.com

Publisher Bluewater Creative Group, Inc. Managing Editor Jill Blue Assignment Editor R. Norman Moody Office Manager Sylvia Montes Copy Editor Jeff Navin Sports Writer/SportsBlog Carl Kotala Art Department Jorjann MEANS Blake VIERA Maureen Reeder

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Writers/Reporters NETWORKING GROUP Ernest Arico Brenda Eggert Brader Mike Gaffey Nanette Hebdige Betty Porter Wendy Scheuring Maria Sonnenberg VIERA MEANS BUSINESS NETWORKING GROUP

Jones entered her first pageant at age 12, but dropped the idea to follow her dream of becoming a veterinarian. Meanwhile, Jones’ parents thought her frequent outbursts as a middle schooler were temper tantrums.

“I hated middle school,” Jones said. “I used to cry because I wasn’t aware of what was happening to me.”

When Miss Viera USA Briona Jones took the stage last month during the Miss Florida USA pageant in Coral Springs, she spoke passionately about her mission to end the stigma placed on those living with mental illness.

It’s a topic Jones knows all too well, because the 25-year-old Eastern Florida State College sophomore “A lot of people suffers from general anxiety think I'm crazy disorder, bipolar type 2 disorder and panic disorder, when they conditions that led to a hear what I'm suicide attempt in 2014.

Yet despite her challenges, diagnosed with Jones has found success as a and what I'm beauty pageant contestant and a model and is pursuing doing, but that’s a psychology degree. She exactly why I hopes to inspire others facing the same obstacles to do it …” pursue their own dreams.

“A lot of people think I'm — Briona Jones crazy when they hear what I'm diagnosed with and After being diagnosed what I'm doing, but that’s with general anxiety exactly why I do it and I disorder in 2014, Jones VIERA MEANS think that putting myself graduated from Flanagan in those stressors isBUSINESS what High School in Pembroke NETWORKING GROUP strengthens me,” said Jones, Pines the following year.

Her mother, Dona, an who was invited to throw out the ceremonial first pitch instructional assistant at Viera High School, invited before an April 28 baseball her to move to Melbourne game between Viera High and attend EFSC. School and East River High While in Melbourne, Jones School, a game won by the received an email from Miss Hawks 7-3.

Florida USA, inviting her to A Miami native and the compete. youngest of three children, VIERA MEANS BUSINESS NETWORKING GROUP

VIERA VOICE Mike Gaffey

Briona Jones, Miss Viera USA, competed May 27 to 29 in the Miss Florida USA Pageant in Coral Springs. Jones and her mother Dona, right, attended Viera High School’s April 28 baseball game against East River, in which she threw out the ceremonial first pitch.

VIERA VOICE Mike Gaffey

Briona Jones high-fives Viera High School assistant baseball coach Anthony Martinez after throwing out the first pitch.

“They talked about what they stood for, how they are fully behind platforms and taking your passions and putting a stage (under it)

Congratulations Victoria ~ Class of 2022

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Viera Voice | June 2022

and spotlight on it,” Jones said. “And with my diagnosis in 2017 of panic disorder, I was going through so much that I thought this is a really good opportunity to kind of shine some light on what's happening with me and hopefully help other people as well.”

Competing in 2019 as Miss Melbourne, Jones finished in the top 15 and was signed by a modeling agency.

“The first pageant was a whirlwind of emotions from start to finish,” she said. “But I can say it was amazing because I learned so much about myself and about my power and strength.

Pageants really challenge someone with mental conditions.”

In 2020, Jones competed as Miss Brevard County.

Although she didn’t place, she learned more about what needed to be done in the mental health community.

After being chosen from about 300 young women as Miss Viera, Jones competed in the Miss Florida USA pageant May 27 through 29.

Contestants competed in formal wear and swimsuit events and described their platform during a threeminute interview. The

MISS VIERA

continued to page 5

vieravoice.com

MISS VIERA

continued from page 4

winner advanced to the Miss USA pageant, where the winner will move on to compete for the title of Miss Universe.

“As Miss Viera this year, I feel like I'm coming in as a force to be reckoned with,” Jones said.

“Because regardless of what the outcome is at the end of day — winning, not winning, placing, not placing — my main goal is to get VIERA VOICE Courtesy of mental health out Briona Jones there.”

Miss Viera USA Briona Jones Today, Jones wants to bring awareness to treats her mental health issues. conditions with medication and visits a psychiatrist and psychologist, who also inspired her to pursue a career as a psychologist.

Dona Jones said her daughter is passionate about representing Viera after having met with VHS students to discuss mental health issues.

“She fell in love with them and so that’s why she wanted the title for Miss Viera,” Dona Jones said.

“Don't be afraid to talk about it,” Briona Jones said. “The sooner you talk the sooner you start getting answers and start understanding.”

To sponsor Jones, go to missfloridausa.com/ sponsor and type in Briona Jones Miss Viera USA. Donations under $50 can be sent to $grandsgigi via Cash App. V V

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p u p SPORTSWra

Iron sharpens iron … Viera’s Mills, Gillins push each other to get better

BY CARL KOTALA

have started to attract the attention of college programs.

Gillins, a 6-foot, 175-pound receiver, received an offer from the University of Pittsburgh last month. Mills (5-11, 180) has offers from Navy, Army and recently picked one up from USF. “I think it’s always good to have guys, especially at the wide receiver and corner spot, that push each other every day at practice,” Viera coach Shane Staples said. “They’re both looking for offers and you have coaches come out and watch them.

“I think it brings out the best in them, and not only that, the guys around them are looking at them competing. It’s good to have them battle it out daily.”

And, of course, it wouldn’t be a competition if a few barbs weren’t being thrown each other’s way.

“We talk trash to each other,” Gillins said. “There are times when he beat me in a rep and I beat him in a couple of reps. We’re always competing. It’s great.”

The positions they play would normally make them natural rivals.

Wide receiver vs. cornerback.

But Viera High School rising seniors Quincy Gillins and Cameron Mills are actually good friends who are pushing each other to become better football players.

And sometimes, oftentimes, that extends beyond the confines of a regular practice.

“We go to the field and just compete against each other,” Gillins said. “We want to make each other better. It’s a big year for us, our senior year.

We want to do all we can do to make it better for us and the team. “… We’re always putting in a lot of extra work outside of school. There’s never a time when we’re chillin’ too much.

We’re always competing and working outside of school.”

Mills and Gillins will both play big roles for the Hawks next season, and both

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Both players got their start elsewhere before coming to Viera. Gillins is from Gainesville and moved here before last season. Mills grew up in Georgia, came to Viera when he was in the eighth grade and moved back to Georgia before finally settling in with the Hawks.

Their junior years saw them both make impacts with Gillins catching 29 passes for 597 yards and a team-high six touchdowns. Mills played cornerback and stepped in when Viera needed help at running back and ran for 406 yards and four touchdowns on 54 carries.

It’s likely Mills will see time at running back again next season, which helps prove something Staples said about both players — they’re good leaders, hard workers and flat out, just football players.

“They’re going to do anything it takes (to help us win),” Staples said. “Both of them will play both ways if they can. They’ll do everything — special teams.

They’re all-around football

VIERA VOICE Carl Kotala

Viera High's Quincy Gillins, left, and Cameron Mills like to push each other to get better every day, whether it's on the football practice field or putting in extra work. The rising seniors have been drawing the interest of college scouts.

players. It’s good for this team to have these guys here, pushing these other guys.”

Gillins, in fact, might be a big help to Mills this offseason. The receiver said his biggest strength is going up to fight for the ball and come down with it. Mills would like to improve his ability to battle for 50/50 balls.

“I really need to work on jumping,” Mills said. “I’m good with sticking (with the receiver) and everything else, it’s just working on when the ball is in the air, how to make the play better. I know I can do it because (I do) the high jump. I just need to put that

FOOTBALL

continued to page 23

Duran thrilled to bring in Turner as new head golf professional

BY CARL KOTALA Duran Golf Club’s new head professional is certainly no stranger to Brevard County.

In fact, he’s about as home grown as it gets.

Jeff Turner, who grew up in Melbourne and went to school at Melbourne Central Catholic, has been working at local golf courses since 1994.

He took over as the new head pro at Duran three months ago.

“It’s more of what I’m used to,” the 55-year-old Turner said when asked why Duran was a good fit for him.

“I was at Viera (East) for close to 15 years. Being at a busy public golf course is more of what I’ve done in the past.”

After starting his career at Viera East, Turner spent four years at the U.S. 1 Golf Center, had a brief stint at Manatee Cove on Patrick Air Force Base and spent the last eight years at Rockledge Country Club before coming to Duran.

“I was thrilled when we were able to bring on Jeff Turner as our new head golf professional,” Duran general manager Jeff Von Eschen wrote in an email. “With his years of golf experience in

VIERA VOICE Carl Kotala

Jeff Turner, who has been working at Brevard County golf courses since 1994, is the new head professional at Duran Golf Club. Turner takes over for Matt Morrison, who is now at Moon Golf.

Brevard County, he will bring a new level of professionalism and customer service to Duran.”

While Turner has done some restructuring of the club’s tournament schedule, he doesn’t plan to make any major changes.

“I’m not a come in and take over and do things my way (kind of person),” Turner said.

“I like to see what’s working, keep those things in place and make adjustments in the places that need adjustments.”

Besides, Turner believes

Duran offers local golfers a unique taste of everything they could want and more.

“The strengths? Definitely the staff that they’ve got in place,” he said. “It’s a great golf course. I think it’s the only true championship golf course in the area. You stretch out the back tees and it can be a real test.

“I think the location is a big strength. It’s a growing area.

The facility itself, the way it’s designed is a huge strength.

Having the Par 3 … it’s a unique brand here.” VV

vieravoice.com

VSLL announces 2022 Little League All-Star baseball, softball rosters

BY CARL KOTALA Nothing says summer is here like the sounds of kids playing baseball and softball.

And once again, it should be a fun summer.

After another successful regular season, the Viera Suntree Little League has announced its All-Star rosters for the upcoming tournament season to be played against other Brevard County programs.

All District 2 baseball and softball tournament games are scheduled to be played at Max K. Rodes Park in West Melbourne. The action begins this month with the sectional and state tournaments to be played in July at various locations around Florida.

Here’s a list of the VSLL AllStar teams for 2022: SOFTBALL 8-10 All-Stars (District 2 tournament begins June 17) Jordynn Angier; Isla Clark; Jessalyn Jordan; Klara Latham; Cara Main; Morgan McNulty; Victoria Olson; Rachel Paul; Malorie Reilly; Colette Richardson; Bella Smith; Serafinna Worden and Shea Young.

Manager: Dan Smith

Majors (District 2 tournament begins June 17) Gracen Baker; Lydia Dexter; Allison Drake; Camryn Glennon; Evangeline Martin; Camila McKenzie; Evelyn Peirce; Caleigh Schmoll; Olivia Smith; Arianna Vega; Alexandra Zgonc.

Manager: Kevin Vega Juniors (District 2 tournament begins June 17) Sienna Adams; Isabella Barrera; Lindsey Daly; Harlowe Doolittle; Sara Fentress; Aleecia Johnson; Addyson Maxwell; Kaitlyn Peedin; Molly Peters; Sophie Reilly; Haley Rogers and Valentinna Worden.

Manager: Mike Worden

BASEBALL 8-10 (District 2 tournament begins June 17) Dominic Cerqua; Cooper Combs; Liam Ireland; Bryce Martin; Owen McMullin; Orion Miller; Blake Minarik; Grady Nowells; Owen Roszkowiak; Noah Scott; Mike Stuker; Brody Thomas and Lorenzo Vega.

Manager: Matt Scott

Juniors (District 2 tournament begins June 25) Zak Al-Arashi; Kian Crockett; Nick Cunningham; VIERA VOICE Carl Kotala Luca Bongiovi; Nathan Little League All-Star baseball and softball is back. The Viera Suntree Burrus; Dominic Deligato; Little League will have seven teams competing this summer. District 2 Kayden Dougherty; Derek tournament play begins this month.

Galluzzi; Brady Jensen; Brady Kearns; Kamryn Lee; Thomas Lunsford; Joshua Manager: Kevin Stoner Potts; Owen Stacharczyk; McFarlin; Luca McKenzie; Brody Vogel; Blaine Connor Purvis; Kaden Stoner; Majors (District Werkeiser.

Trace Tomas; Justin Virsik and tournament begins June 24) Manager: Nick Galluzzi Ryan Walker.

Bronson Chodachek; Rogan V V

9-11 (District tournament begins June 17) Brayden Duquette; Jaxon Hayes; Jensen Jones; Dylan

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Viera Voice | June 2022

7

Viera Charter cheerleading team wins seventh consecutive national championship

BY WENDY SCHEURING

The Viera Charter School cheerleading team has won so many banners that the school gym has barely any more space on the walls to hang them.

The team’s seventh consecutive national win took place April 24 at the Cheerleading Grand Nationals at Rosen Shingle Creek Center in Orlando. More than 400 teams participated.

The team scored 94.6 out of a possible 100 points.

“We have been undefeated for the past seven years. We have never lost,” said Coach Rita Webster-Jordan, who has coached the team from its beginning.

“Winning the cheer competition was a dream come true. It was our

VIERA VOICE Wendy Scheuring

Viera Charter School has never lost, winning its seventh consecutive championship recently at the Cheerleading Grand Nationals in Orlando.

reward for working so hard throughout the school year.

I am grateful for my coaches and their belief in us to accomplish great things as

a team. Go Panthers,” sixthgrader Jayde McCray said.

For their efforts, the 16girl cheer team — composed of students in grades 6 to

8, wearing blue and white cheer uniforms — received a studded championship ring with a sparkling pink stone in the center.

“We had the big word in cheer,” said Jordan, who coached alongside assistant cheer coach and seventhgrade Civics Teacher Cris Smith this year, “which is ‘zero deductions.’”

“The girls work really hard,” added Webster-Jordan, who brings her collegiate cheerleading experience to the team. “The secret is clean and tight. We are very clean as far as the presentation goes, the dance section, the cheering, the stunting and tumbling. I’m very meticulous about being on time.”

The team scored a perfect 10 on timing.

Webster-Jordan describes herself as a 62 year old who is 25 years old at heart. She currently teaches second grade at Viera Charter School. She has been teaching at Viera Charter School for the past seven years of her 23-year teaching career.

The cheerleading team begins training in August.

They cheer for the volleyball team in September, the basketball team in October and for flag football in the spring.

Then in January, the team begins practicing for the competition that takes place in the spring.

Webster-Jordan attributes the team’s success to a “good relationship” with Freedom Athletics in Melbourne.

“Every year, we use the gym. I do the choreography and hire an assistant tumbling coach to help choose the stunts and clean things up that need to be perfected,” Webster-Jordan said. “The girls spend one day per week practicing at Freedom Athletics and one day per week at the Viera Charter School gym.”

“The past three years with my fellow Panthers has been an amazing experience,” eighth-grader Leah Potter said. “Friendship, accountability, bonding and teamwork have built us to be the best we can be.” VV

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INSIDE THE ROPES

Dickerson, Kopliner tops in VEMA club event

BY DAVID HORST

Club Championship top five First Place: Ben Dickerson As the season was winding Second: Jim Kopliner down, it also was winding Third: Robbie Rosenberger up with the final Viera East Fourth: Dale Hopper Men's Golf Association competition to determine the Fifth: Al Foppiano club champion.

The VEMA Club The club champion is determined during two days Champion-Challenger of competition using the First: Jack Webb gross score. Other events use Second: Paul Winter the handicap to determine Third: Bob Gustavson the rankings.

Fourth: Bruce Schwanda Jim Kopliner, who trailed Fifth: Arthur Marsan Ben Dickerson by 13 strokes, shot 66 in the final round to New officers for the 2022 finish three strokes behind. board of directors: The 66 was one of the best President: Al Foppiano rounds in VEMA history.

Vice president: Marc Brown New and existing Secretary: Bob Gustavson members were elected or re-elected to the board of Treasurer: Glenn Tarsha directors.

VV

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Viera Voice | June 2022

VELGA Niners wrap up golf season, elect new officers SPECIAL TO VIERA VOICE The VELGA Niners ladies’ nine-hole league at Viera East Golf Club finished its 20212022 season with a luncheon April 28 at The Twisted Birch Sports Bar & Grill.

Laurie Thomas was the low gross champion and Julia LaRoche was the low net champion during the VELGA Niners championship tournament held April 6 and 13.

In Flight 1, Andrea Karlin was first net and Winnie Hillier was second net.

In Flight 2, Nancy Farley was first net and Linda Cross

was second net.

In Flight 3, Linda Opaciuch was first net and Bev Boyd was second net.

In Flight 4, Charlotte Auriemma was first net and Betty Clark was second net.

Boyd also was recognized for her hole-in-one on No. 4 during league play on Dec. 1.

New officers for the 20222023 season were installed.

Kathy Shiffrin was named president, Linda Cross was named vice president, Bev Boyd was named secretary and Leslie McElhinney was named treasurer.

A special gift was presented to Carol Langston,

who had been president for the past three years.

The Niners’ new season will begin Oct. 4 with a Welcome Back Luncheon and a Pink Ball Scramble on Oct. 5 in honor of Breast Cancer Awareness month.

Fun games and events are planned for next year, as well as open play and mini tournaments. All skill levels will have plenty of events.

League information is provided on the bulletin board in the Viera East Golf Club’s women’s locker room.

VV

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VIERA VOICE Courtesy of Viera East Golf Club Linda Cross, left, Kathy Shiffrin, Bev Boyd and Leslie McElhinney will be the officers for the VELGA Niners during the 2022-2023 season.

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SCHOOL

Two area students awarded prestigious PEO STAR scholarships

BY WENDY SCHEURING

Sophia Bailly was in the middle of a hair appointment getting ready for prom when she received the notification of being awarded the PEO Star Scholarship.

“I don’t like to push things to the side so I opened it and my hairdresser and I were celebrating.” said the senior at West Shore Junior/Senior High School.

Priya Gutta, a senior at Holy Trinity Episcopal Academy, said that at first the notification felt random.

“I wasn’t sure when I was going to find out,” she said.

“Obviously, I feel joy and happiness.”

Bailly and Gutta were each awarded prestigious PEO STAR Scholarships.

Trish Logo, the PEO Projects Chair for scholarships, grants and loans, said the scholarships are very competitive.

“This scholarship is difficult to get,” she said. “You have to be invited to apply.

“Its merit-based excellence in leadership, academics, extracurricular activities, community service and potential for future success.

It’s not just good grades. They have to have that something extra. They have this motivation within that drives them to succeed.”

The non-renewable $2,500 PEO (Philanthropic Educational Organization) STAR (Scholastic Talent Accomplishment Recognition) scholarship is for exceptional high school senior women who will be attending an accredited postsecondary educational institution in the United States or Canada.

“We decide who we are going to nominate and PEO decides who gets the scholarships,” said Kyle Phillips, the PEO EM Chapter point of contact. “Each chapter is allowed to have one nomination.”

Bailly, who is the editor-

VIERA VOICE Courtesy of Sophia Bailly

Sophia Bailly will major in journalism at the University of Florida.

in-chief of The Roar, the West Shore Junior/Senior High School newspaper, will be attending the University of Florida in the fall, majoring in journalism.

“When I was younger, I

“This scholarship is difficult to get.

You have to be invited to apply.”

AI (Artificial Intelligence) and machine learning. I discovered my enjoyment for it when I took AP computer science in ninth

VIERA VOICE Courtesy of Priya Gutta

Priya Gutta will study computer science and business administration at the University of Michigan.

and 10th grades. They have been my favorite classes so far. I’m also interested in entrepreneurship, to start my own company. That is a goal

I have.”

For more information about the PEO STAR scholarship, go to PEO.org.

VV

— Trish Logo

liked making up fictional stories. It was my escape from the rest of the world,” she said. “In ninth grade, I enrolled in journalism and fell in love with the concept of the truth and reality and what was going on in the world and have been passionate about it ever since.

“I have been interested in the art of political story and foreign affairs and conflict overseas. It would be neat to live in the (Washington) D.C. area or a northern state capital like Albany (New York) or Boston.”

Gutta has decided to attend her parents’ alma mater, the University of Michigan, in the fall with a dual major in computer science and business administration.

“It feels like a full circle,” Priya said. “The most interesting areas are

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Viera Voice | June 2022

11

School News Viera High School dedicates media center to Dr. David J. Mumford

BY CARL KOTALA Viera High School English teacher David Mumford impacted more young lives than he ever really knew.

The legacy he created over 14 years at the school, and over the course of a 40-year teaching career, will forever be carried on by his students, by his three children … and by the school’s media center, which now bears his name.

Viera held a ceremony last month to announce the dedication of the Dr. David J. Mumford Media Center in honor of the teacher, who died May 24, 2021 after a battle with cancer.

“I thought it was really fantastic,” Mumford’s 24-year-old daughter, Jacquie said. “My dad, his whole thing was making a difference with his students. That was his passion. That’s what he loved.

He loved reading. He loved writing. He loved teaching. I think it’s a wonderful way to commemorate him.”

Viera High principal Sarah Robinson, who helped push for the center to be renamed after Mumford, said the impression the teacher made on his students and the school’s staff was clear.

“Dr. Mumford challenged students and was able to get them to connect with literature and books in a way that inspired them,” Robinson

12

Viera High School honored a popular English teacher when it renamed its Media Center to the Dr. David J. Mumford Media Center.

wrote in an email. “Being a published author, he often times cultivated a love for reading within his students.

“At the start of the 20202021 school year, many staff were fearful about returning to work in a global pandemic. Dr. Mumford, while undergoing cancer

Viera Voice | June 2022

treatments, returned to work and worked tirelessly.

Daily, we had to push him in a wheelchair to his classroom so that he could get there each morning, but that never deterred his positive outlook or his ability to communicate with his students.

“His tireless dedication

to his students, even in his final months of life continue to astound me and showcase the true character of the man that he is.”

The last time Robinson spoke with Mumford in person, he mentioned the possibility of naming the media center after him

VIERA VOICE Jill Blue

“because he always wanted to know that he had an impact somewhere.”

Robinson said she shared the request with the staff, students, parents and the community and all of the

DEDICATION

continued to page 13

vieravoice.com

Viera High School getting new classroom building

BY ERNEST ARICO Construction is set to begin in January 2023 for a new stand-alone building addition to Viera High School.

The approximately 20,000-square-foot building will be located in the area presently occupied by several portable classrooms.

David Lindemann, the director of planning and project management for Brevard Public Schools, said the total construction costs (which includes furniture and other additions) will be $10 million to $11 million.

“Viera High School is one of the district’s largest enrollments,” Lindemann said. “We need to meet the growing demand of the school.”

W&J Construction, located at 1005 Viera Blvd. in Rockledge, was selected as the design-build team leader for the VHS addition.

Other companies working on the project include JTK Architecture, MK

DEDICATION

continued from page 12

responses were positive.

Mumford’s son, Daniel, wrote a note to the Brevard School Board in December to tell them what kind of person his father was.

“He never knew the impact he was causing on students’ lives. Obviously, he was very impactful … his name is up on that building now.”

— Rosana Mumford

“I consider myself the luckiest kid on earth to grow up with somebody that I could look up to and be inspired by every day,” Daniel Mumford wrote. “As much as I looked up to my dad, I like to think he looked up to us just as much.

“My dad lived each day to the fullest and there was never a time when I didn’t catch him with a smile on.

His energy was contagious amongst all of us, and his smile would light up the room wherever he’d go.”

Marianne Mumford Poma said the best story her father ever wrote was actually the one he lived and that he became “a hero of his own story clothed in a cape of bravery” through his fight with cancer.

He was a hero to his children and his wife, and

vieravoice.com

VIERA VOICE Courtesy of W&J Construction

This is a rendering of an addition to Viera High School that should be completed by the start of the school year in August 2024.

Structural Engineering and Construction Engineering Group.

Construction should be completed by the start of the school year in August 2024, Lindemann said.

The new addition will

he treated every student “like his own, with the same confidence in them for their future that he had for his own three kids. He would light up when a student would tell him about something they accomplished or when they came to him for help or guidance. “… His students could tell he genuinely cared. I still have old high-school peers telling me how much they loved my dad and this is almost 15 years later. He helped students not only find their way through reading Shakespeare, but he helped them find their courage, their confidence and their smiles.”

After the Brevard School Board approved the name change, the Mumford family received a photo of the media center with David Mumford’s name on it. His wife, Rosana, was moved to tears.

“I guess every teacher, every professor, every educator has a doubt that what they’re doing really matters because you don’t know the result,” Rosana Mumford said. “You plant a tree and you move out of the country and you don’t know if that tree took over.

“That’s how Dave felt.

He taught college for years.

He taught overseas, on four different continents. He never knew the impact he was causing on students’ lives. Obviously, he was very impactful … his name is up on that building now.

“I wish he could be here to see that.” V V

consist of eight classrooms, three science/career and technical skills labs and classroom space for a Career and Technical Education (CTE) carpentry class, the choir program and the Brevard Learners Achieving

Successful Transition (BLAST) program. The building will meet Enhance Hurricane Protection Areas (EHPA) standards and will function as a school classroom space and as an emergency shelter.

Lindemann said the portable classrooms will remain on campus during construction.

For more information about the project, check out W&J Construction’s website at wjconstruction.com. V V

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Viera High School Class of 2022 celebrates before the storm PHOTOS BY ADAM PALUMBO

SPECIAL TO VIERA VOICE Viera High School Principal Sarah Robinson handed out the last diploma for the Class of 2022 as thunder roared in the distance and rain began to fall shortly thereafter on the football field.

Taylor Swift’s “22,” the class song, played as the Class of 2022 Commencement came to an end.

The principal’s scholars were well represented during the ceremony for a school that does not choose a valedictorian or salutatorian.

After “Pomp and Circumstance” was played during the processional, Robinson gave the welcome address.

Elle Lazare, a principal’s scholar, gave the introduction for the presentation of colors. Viera High School’s JROTC performed the presentation of colors.

Jasmine Camacho, another principal’s scholar, gave the introduction for the National Anthem, which was sung by the Viera High School chorus.

Principal’s scholars Hannah Carpenter and Braden Urso gave the invocation and moment of silence, respectively.

Dawson Leary, another principal’s scholar, introduced the distinguished guests — Matt Susin, the school board vice chairman for District 4; Mark Mullins, the superintendent of Brevard Public Schools; Curt Smith, the Brevard County commissioner for District 4; Lena Wiebelt, the director for secondary leading and learning in Brevard Public Schools; and Morana Goldfarb of Eastern Florida State College.

Olivia Peters, a principal’s scholar, gave the recognition of retirees, and Erek Dibbern, a principal’s scholar, introduced the class officers.

Dibbern was the president of the senior class, Ryan Devito was the vice president, Kayla Hinderliter was the class secretary, Alyssa Buccieri was the class treasurer and Jaydin Gentile was the class historian.

Brinli Pond and Robbie Naberhaus, both principal’s scholars, were the class speakers.

Sunflower was the class flower, and the school’s colors were forest green and Vegas gold.

The other principal’s scholars were: Alyssa Armstrong, Kayla Beigh, Jonah Draves, Nikolas Gonzalez, Nuha Haque, Megan Hattrup, Tessa Jacob, Shane Layman, Ryan Luciani, Tyler Mahovlich, Halley Palleti, Kayla Pederquist, Dennis Roscoe, Maya Sallade, Felipe Schmidt, Joseph Shipman, Ana Maria Tea, Molly Walsh and Taylor Weiss. V V

14

Viera Voice | June 2022

vieravoice.com

Gutta, Perez lead way for 91 Class of 2022 Holy Trinity graduates PHOTOS BY ADAM PALUMBO

SPECIAL TO VIERA VOICE Holy Trinity Episcopal Academy’s 20th graduating class — the Class of 2022 — held its commencement exercise May 14 at Kelly Stadium on the school’s campus. Ninety-one students received diplomas.

Priya Gutta, the school’s valedictorian, gave the valedictory address. She was introduced by Laila Cohen, the captain of the girls basketball team.

Brandon Perez, the school’s salutatorian, gave the salutatorian address. He was introduced by Alexander Spies, the captain of the boys swim team.

Raleigh Sims, a 2012 Holy Trinity graduate, gave the commencement address. He was introduced by Wil Bell, the captain of the boys soccer team.

Marco Calderon played “The Minstrel Boy” on the bagpipes for the faculty processional.

Pianist Melanie Marteney played “Pomp and Circumstance” for the student processional.

Trip McHenry was the crucifer and the flag bearers were Ronald Fernandez-Ramnath (spirit kite), William Whipple (United States flag), Zack Gunderson (Episcopal flag) and Roman Carlson (HTEA banner).

Melissa Euziere, the head of the HTEA Junior High School, gave the invocation.

George Widmer, the president of the French Honor Society, gave the welcome address.

Isabella Muniz, the treasurer of the National Honors Society, read Romans 12:1-21.

Eric Parnell, the captain of the boys basketball team, gave the peace award presentation.

Karis Assam, Sydney Brito, Abigail Edds, Grace Price, Briana Ramnath and Mary Stallard sang “A Million Dreams.”

Dr. Katherine M. Cobb, the president of the school, conferred the diplomas. The Rev. Porter C. Taylor gave the benediction.

Taylor Swift’s “22,’’ the class song, was played for the graduate recessional. V V

vieravoice.com

Viera Voice | June 2022

15

MOAACC honors appointees to military academies, ROTC scholarship recipients SPECIAL TO VIERA VOICE Military Officers Association of America Cape Canaveral chapter members, at its monthly luncheon May 17, honored 23 Brevard County students who received appointments to military academies or ROTC scholarships at a college or university.

These students went through a rigorous selection process and represent the top performing students in Brevard County. During the program, each student received a personalized letter of congratulations from MOAACC President Kenneth Lowe and a MOAACC challenge coin in recognition of their achievement. V V The students honored and their schools included: Honoree School Paige Sladecek Bayside High School Karla DeLeon Cocoa High School Sebastian Widick Cocoa Beach High School Haley Neal Eau Gallie High School Ramsey Grace Barrows Home schooled Larry Edgecombe Holy Trinity Episcopal Academy Patrick Faherty Melbourne High School Leah Bishop Merritt Island High School Kylie McGuire Merritt Island High School

VIERA VOICE Courtesy of MOAACC

Students from several schools in Brevard County were honored by MOAACC for their academic achievements.

Peyton Caskey Allison Deptula Bridger Koby Bruno Goodwin Blair Watson Marlee Smith Leigh-Anne Duran

Merritt Island High School Merritt Island High School Merritt Island High School Merritt Island High School Merritt Island High School Satellite High School Satellite High School

Savannah Ogeltree Robert Naberhaus Luke Carter Jaydin Gentile Jeremy Kruel Jah-ire Urtarte Brooklyn Stellato

Space Coast High School Viera High School Viera High School Viera High School Viera High School Viera High School West Shore High School

Viera TV students take home three All-Florida Awards at FSPA Conference

BY CARL KOTALA The event was so fancy, with slices of chocolate cake dotting every table at the Wyndham Orlando Resort, that three Viera High School seniors couldn’t help but be impressed.

“It felt like being at the Oscars,” Cooper Gluskin said.

It was actually the Florida Scholastic Press Association Conference, a three-day event where Viera’s Dawson Leary and Ryan Bieringer walked away with some of the top prizes.

Bieringer won an AllFlorida award for Academics/ Organization Photography for three photos taken at the Viera Hawkthon, a charity event put on by the Viera

SGA to raise money for the Orlando Health Arnold Palmer Hospital.

Leary took home two All-Florida awards, one for a Quick Turn Short Film he produced and directed — which featured Gaskin and Bieringer as actors — and for a Quick Turn Cooking Challenge.

All three students were part of the Viera High TV program taught by Michael Szabo.

“I was personally proud with my work,” Bieringer said. “Originally, I didn’t want to actually go to the event, but Dawson convinced me to go.

So, I went and I took photos and I submitted those and I just happened to win. I was glad I took the opportunity.”

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Viera Voice | June 2022

VIERA VOICE Carl Kotala

Viera High School seniors Cooper Gluskin, left, Dawson Leary and Ryan Bieringer hold up the certificates they received at the Florida Scholastic Press Association Conference that took place in Orlando. They received AllFlorida recognition in three categories.

Gluskin, who won a Best of the Best award two years ago for special effects photography, thought Leary’s short film should have also won a Best of the Best award.

Leary, meanwhile, credited all the people who helped him put together the project.

“I honestly wasn’t really surprised (to win an AllFlorida award) because everybody that was involved was so motivated to work on the projects and they all contributed something different and something interesting,” Leary said.

“We partnered up with the theater program for my short film and we got a bunch of thespian actors to be our actors in the short film. They did an amazing job. They helped to carry the story through and really bring the short film to the level that it was.

“I also got so many great tips on editing and such

great teaching from Ms. (Liz) Sivco, our previous TV teacher. She really helped give us that foundation to make everything we did this year possible.”

Under the quick turnaround format, students had from Sunday night to Friday night to film, edit and submit their projects.

“It was a horror short film called ‘In the Fog,’” Leary said. “An invisible monster infiltrates the school and everyone is caught blindsided.

It’s the story of a couple of kids basically trying to escape from the monster.

“It was inspired by ‘Stranger Things’ with all the characters. Each one had a different personality. It was really funny and exciting.”

For the cooking video competition, the prompt was lemon, so Leary made lemon butter scones.

All three students plan to continue studying their

passion in college.

Leary is set to attend the University of Florida and major in digital media production. Bieringer will finish up his AA degree at Eastern Florida State College and then look to transfer, possibly to UCF, to pursue a degree in media production and management. Gluskin plans to enlist in the military after graduating and then go to college for mass communications or possibly major in law.

The three seniors, who are longtime friends, will carry a lot of memories with them from their days of going to Viera High School together.

Being at the FSPA conference will be one of them.

“It was amazing,” Bieringer said. “We all got to dress up.

It was a formal event. They announced awards and people would walk up on the stage … it was amazing; a great atmosphere.” V V

vieravoice.com

Holy Trinity debate team records another banner year

BY BETTY PORTER The Holy Trinity Debate Team has won the 2022 Panther District Debate Sweepstakes Award, making it the No. 1 debate team in an eight-county district ranging from Gainesville to Melbourne.

In addition, two of the debate team members, Faz Zaidi (team vice-captain who has been on the debate team since it began seven years ago) and Jose Montalvo (team secretary and a member for the past four years), were recently designated Academic All Americans by the National Speech and Debate Association (NSDA).

These two student competitors join Brianna Ramnath, a senior, who served as the team captain for the past three years and was the first Holy Trinity student to receive this award last year.

These three students became the only Speech and Debate Academic All Americans in Brevard County and represent the top 1% of speech and debate competitors nationally.

Dr. Rick Ramnath started the Holy Trinity Debate Team seven years ago and has been its volunteer parent coach ever since.

“I was a competitive high school policy debater who won numerous tournaments in Florida. Speech and debate gave me so many intangible benefits that I still use to this day. Whether it's communicating with patients and other physicians, or giving presentations to large groups, the skills I learned as a high school debater have served me well.

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“To provide my daughters the same access to such an enriching activity, I decided to start a team at Holy Trinity seven years ago. With the backing of the administration, we were able to recruit some eager students and have grown the team to 25 active members. We meet once a week after school to practice and prepare for 20 to 30 tournaments year round.”

Ramnath said.

Brianna Ramnath said that being a part of the Holy Trinity team has given her so many skills and experiences that she will take with her beyond high school.

“I've become much more confident performing in front of a crowd, and my writing skills have greatly improved,” she said. “But more importantly, I have found a new family in our team, whom I hope to have led well during my years as captain. I plan on attending either the University of Florida or Cornell University, and I would definitely be open to joining their speech and debate teams.”

Rick Ramnath’s younger daughter Brooke, a 10th grader, and Reha Patel, a ninth grader, are the team’s national tournament champions.

Ramnath and Patel also are two of the four state champions on the team. The others are Austen Richardson, a seventh grader, and Cal Johnson, a ninth grader.

“The time I spent on the speech and debate team has been very rewarding,” Brooke Ramnath said. “I used to get very nervous having to give presentations in class or in front of a group. After many

VIERA VOICE Betty Porter

Soham Shah, back left, (ninth grade), Fefe Montalvo (11th grade, secretary), Brooke Ramnath (10th grade), Athena Tian, front left, (10th grade), Brianna Ramnath (12th grade, captain), Reha Patel (ninth grade), Braxton Lanois (12th grade), Faz Zaidi (12th grade) and Coach Rick Ramnath celebrate the team's success.

years on the speech and debate team, I now have more confidence when I have to speak in front of a group.”

Rick Ramnath said that becoming proficient at speech and debate requires an extraordinary commitment to preparing cases and arguments if you are a debater or practicing performing if you are acting or giving a speech.

“These skills then get tested and perfected over the course of an entire year of tournaments, often two or three per month,” he said.

The team competes at several Orlando area tournaments and at national tournaments at universities such as Yale, Harvard, the University of Pennsylvania, Duke and the University of Florida.

“These away tournaments are a great way to see college

campuses and to meet other students from far and wide,” Ramnath said.

“The rigor of tournaments teach students how to comport themselves in a professional manner, how to be punctual to each of their rounds, and how to display respectful behavior to their fellow competitors and judges.

Speech and debate offers other numerous benefits to students such as confidence when speaking publicly, improved analytical skills, knowledge of current events, and good listening, notetaking, organizational skills and a strong work ethic, which pays off in dividends when these students move on to college and beyond,” Ramnath said.

“Our team motto is "Find your voice … and use it!"

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that needs addressing. Each year, the team engages in a fundraiser to help others in need. This year, we held a fundraiser for the Ukrainian refugees and raised $6,400 that will be sent to several charities, including UNICEF and the World Central Kitchen.

“The greatest satisfaction for me is witnessing the growth in confidence, maturity and public speaking skills in these incredible young people, who I know are destined to accomplish great things in life and become great contributors to society,” Ramnath said.

Holy Trinity debate teams have earned 32 qualifier spots for the National Championships, 15 qualifier spots for the State Varsity Championship and 100 first-place finishes at local tournaments. V V

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Lack of seagrass continues to plague Indian River Lagoon

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water. That stimulates more algae growth, which dies, and the cycle continues. Of course, From the the algae also makes the water Brevard Indian River cloudy, cutting sun to the Lagoon Coalition seagrass and causing more to die, decay and liberate nutrients.

Algae is a natural part Restoring the natural of the IRL. Unfortunately, seagrass base in the lagoon nutrients (nitrogen and is a challenge. The Save Our phosphorous) have been Indian River Lagoon half-cent added that fertilize algae trust fund was organized growth for decades. Initially, to tackle the problem with wastewater plants dumped a primary emphasis on directly into the IRL. Now, reducing the nutrients in the nutrients are added from water. Doing this should slow septic units, storm water and algae growth, help clear the other sources. water and encourage seagrass Around 2011, it reached a growth. tipping point. The nutrients Questions remain though. during the past 50 years, For example, is there temperature and other factors enough seagrass seed stock appear to have led to seagrass in the IRL to restore the fields decline and algae blooms. even with improved water?

Now we face an algae Scientific teams are currently bloom cycle. When seagrass looking at this and other questions. We’ll keep you or algae dies, it settles at posted. VV the bottom, is digested by For more, check out microorganisms, and releases HelpTheLagoon.org. its nutrients back into the

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You’ve probably heard it said, “most of our seagrass is gone.” Maybe you’ve been on the water and seen the problem — bare sand or the bottom covered by a reddish algae, but not luxurious fields of waving green seagrass.

What does this mean?

What caused it? What can be done?

Fields of seagrass used to be the foundation of the Indian River Lagoon’s ecosystem. It provided homes for the small fish, crabs and clams. It generated oxygen to keep the fish alive and provided food for the manatees and other creatures.

Its loss means real trouble for the IRL. The cover is missing for the small animals, the food is gone for the manatees and the oxygen is less stable for the fish. And, because algae forms the new ecosystem foundation, the lagoon is stuck in a destructive cycle.

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19

p o o c BUSINESSS

The Yogi Bar opens in East Viera

BY WENDY SCHEURING

The Space Coast’s Leading Chamber for Top Business Leaders

Yoga helps with stressrelief and relaxation, according to Krysten Zacher, the owner of The Yogi Bar in East Viera.

She has been doing yoga for the past decade and became a certified instructor.

Originally from California, Zacher relocated to Brevard County to work in the aerospace industry. After stressful days at work, yoga helped her cope and relax.

Last year, she decided to leave the corporate world and venture into a new realm, one of entrepreneurship.

The Yogi Bar offers a plethora of yoga classes in the Vinyasa tradition — even one on Mondays geared to children, from mobile toddlers to age 5.

In addition to yoga, there is also a spa, which offers detoxification and rejuvenation of the skin, as well as waxing and tinting.

Anyone is welcome to stop by and try a drop-in class.

“We cater to all levels,” Zacher said. “From beginning to advanced.”

There is only one rule, “to be happy,” she said.

Wearing comfortable attire, but no shoes in the yoga room, adds to the experience. Yoga props, such as blocks, bolsters and straps, are on hand to help with extension of movement and reach.

The 60-minute classes focus on breathing and the graceful transition from one yoga position to the next.

“I feel it’s like a graceful dance,” Zacher said, “but it’s definitely yoga.”

Do you suffer from: • • • • • • •

20

Viera Voice | June 2022

“A slow flow is really mindful of breathing. Power flows are heated classes that are more upbeat, that use stronger movements,” Zacher said of the various course offerings.

Power flow is not to be confused with hot yoga.

“It’s more about internal body heat,” Zacher said. “But you are definitely working up a sweat. You feel like you are getting a workout.”

The Yogi Bar hosts a happy hour every Friday, with discounted express facials from 4 to 6 p.m. A reduced drop-in yoga class rate or BOGO is available for the 6 p.m. class on Friday.

“We are trying to create an environment for the wellbeing of each person, from an emotional and physical point of view. We are here to support,” Zacher said.

The Yogi Bar also holds

VIERA VOICE Jill Blue

Krysten Zacher owns The Yogi Bar.

Poses for Causes classes in which participants are not charged for a class but are asked to make a donation to a worthy cause. The next Poses for Causes will be at 2 p.m. June 18. All donations will be donated to Brevard Women's Center.

The Yogi Bar is at 1706 Berglund Lane, Suite 102.

For information go to theyogibarstudio.com or call 321-294-7040. V V

Viera Heart and Vascular Clinic

Varicose veins Leg heaviness Lower leg ulcers Aching or cramping Leg or ankle swelling Itching or burning Restless legs

Call for your free consultation

VIERA VOICE Jill Blue

Instructors Spencer Roberts, left, and Michelle Biello practice poses.

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New twists to fitness add privacy and entertainment

BY BRENDA EGGERT BRADER Two new fitness facilities have opened in the area.

They both have unique qualities.

Concierge Fitness Want privacy when exercising? There is a site for fitness enthusiasts who can book private space online with all the benefits of a fullstocked gymnasium. That place is Concierge Fitness at 563 Barton Blvd., Suite 7 in Rockledge.It is owned by Bo and Megan Smith.

“Once we opened, it grew like crazy.

Now I have a constant client base …”

—Bo Smith

“I wanted to open my own gym as I had been training friends for free who wanted help or my advice,” trainer and owner Bo Smith said. “When my brothers suggested I get paid to do it as a trainer, I took the exam and passed.” .

Concierge Fitness evolved

from a private place for Smith to train clients to where fitness trainers can rent the space for their clients to have a place where they don’t have to go to a house or into garages. They come to a location where everything is there — equipment, TV and music, security cameras and a welllighted parking lot.

What is unique is registering online for private door codes allows individuals access to private time alone in the location behind a locked door. All amenities are available for booking for 45 minutes to an hour or longer by going to conciergefitness.com. On the computer or phone, click on scheduling time and pay and you are the only one there at that time. Every name has its own door code.

“We have a wellmaintained clean gym with new equipment in a high-end setting. Once we opened, it grew like crazy.

Now, I have a constant client base, usually 20 clients per week on multiple sessions.”

RockBox Fitness Fitness combining

VIERA VOICE Jill Blue

Concierge Fitness in Rockledge has state-of-the-art equipment. Bo and Megan Smith are the owners.

boxing, kickboxing and functional training in a high-energy environment where fight club meets night club will open in July in Rockledge.

“Instead of dancing, you are working out with the music and lights in the same atmosphere as a nightclub.”

participants to those who break through another plateau, no matter the journey, coaches provide help while all have a fun-filled workout in a euphoric atmosphere.

Instead of dancing, you are working out with the music and lights in the same atmosphere as a nightclub.”

To explore RockBox, check out rockboxfitness. com. Vl V

—Yves Lamothe

VIERA VOICE Courtesy of Yves Lamothe

Owner Yves Lamothe stands in front of RockBox, a combination fight club and nightclub that will open in July.

“RockBox is designed to keep members motivated with high-end sound systems and color-adaptive lighting that changes to cue workout intensity,” owner Yves Lamothe said about opening the franchise, with two also planned in Orlando.

“Every workout, from group fitness to personal training, is designed to focus on an individual’s improvement and selfesteem while increasing strength and agility.

“For me, I love fitness and have trained hundreds of people in Brevard County and had virtual clients. From already fit

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Business Scoop

Postal Connections now open in Viera

BY MIKE GAFFEY Postal Connections, one of the nation’s premier providers of retail packaging, shipping and mail receiving and an iSOLD IT on eBay sales support platform, is now open at Viera is at 8530 N. Wickham Road, Suite 112, in front of the Walmart Supercenter.

Owners Bhavin and Shraddha Patel will operate the franchise, which recently opened. The married couple’s service center is the first in Brevard County.

“My service center provides so many

conveniences and friendly care for local residents and businesses with time-saving, personalized attention to meet their personal and professional needs,” Bhavin Patel said.

“Whether to utilize our pack and ship services, e-commerce drop-offs and pickups, or use a private mailbox to operate a business, Postal Connections is a one-stop shop to meet your needs and we offer choices of carriers and the Post Office.”

Melbourne’s Postal Connections service center offers printing, notary services, passport photos, VIERA VOICE Mike Gaffey

Bhavin and Shraddha Patel own and operate Postal Connections at Viera at 8530 N. Wickham Road, Suite 112, in front of the Walmart Supercenter.

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fax sending and receiving, digital fingerprinting, lamination and binding, shredding services and virtual mailbox service with email notification when mail arrives.

The location also will feature iSOLD It, an online sales support service for people who want to turn items into cash. The service offers free expert advice on pricing and online retail strategies.

With iSOLD It, no fees are due until an item sells and the listing is good for 30 days. If the item doesn’t sell, there is no charge and customers can either pick up

Great home & auto rates for any budget.

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their item, relist it or have it donated to charity.

As owner, Bhavin Patel brings valuable industry experience to his service center. He most recently worked as a manager for a shipping and receiving store in Melbourne. Shraddha Patel has held customer service roles for many years.

Together, they will oversee day-to-day operations and look forward to greeting and serving the community.

Postal Connections/ iSOLD It will offer a virtual mailbox service with email notification to customers when mail arrives. Customers located anywhere can then decide if mail should be held, opened and scanned to send them or discarded.

Bhavin and Shraddha are the perfect people to carry out our operating values,” said Fred Morache, the COO of Postal Connections.

Today’s e-commerce brings us wonderful products at affordable prices, yet people appear to be starved for customized services when tasks are time consuming or they simply want someone else to do it.”

The retail business model is awarding franchise opportunities to qualified individuals who share the company’s commitment to owner/operator involvement in the business and who will be dedicated to superior customer service.

The Viera location will be open seven days a week from 8 a.m. to 6:30 p.m.

Monday through Friday; 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday; and 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sunday.

The franchise eventually will provide customers with keys for 24-hour access, Bhavin Patel said.

For more information, check out postalconnections.

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Viera Voice | June 2022

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Viera resident brings country music to Space Coast Stadium

BY ERNEST ARICO Mike McCarty loves Florida.

In fact, he loves Florida and Brevard County so much he decided to make the Viera area his home for the past 17 years.

Originally from Chicago, McCarty is the concert coordinator for MTI Concerts, a division of MTI which is a technology company with offices across the country.

The company’s vision is to bring the music, the venue, the technology and the performers together to produce an everlasting memory for the event.

They work directly with the artists to produce a successful event or concert and offer clients full production promotion, ticketing, catering as well as production services.

On Saturday, June 11, MCI Concerts is bringing country music back to Brevard when it will hold the Viera Country Fest at the 11,000seat USSSA Space Coast Stadium in Viera.

Tickets are now on sale for a limited time for $20.

Several stadium skyboxes that open out to the concert also are available to purchase. Concessions will be available, including a full suite of beverages.

Concert goers must be 21 to consume alcoholic beverages.

Doors open at 4:30 p.m. with concourse bands (main concourse – Kevin Moynihan; left concourse – Ryan Joyce, and right concourse – Griffin Sinclair) playing from 5 to 6 p.m.

At 6 p.m., Cliff Dorsey will open on the main stage followed by the Adam Duss Experience.

“I’m really excited about this Country Fest,” said the 58-year-old Viera resident.

“Space Coast Stadium is the perfect venue for this kind of event.”

This is the second event MTI Concerts has held at USSSA Space Coast Stadium.

On Feb. 5, the company held its first trial run concert with the Rock Fest. It is planning another Rock Fest for 2023.

“I like the Space Coast Stadium facility because it’s

VIERA VOICE MTI Concerts

Cliff Dorsey will perform on the main stage at 6 p.m. June 11 during Viera Country Fest at USSSA Space Coast Stadium in Viera.

“The nice thing about Florida is that you can do concerts all year round — inside and outside.

We hope we can do more concerts this summer.”

— Mike McCarty

not in the middle of the field and you don’t have to bring in portable bathrooms and other things,” he said. “It’s a great facility. Everything is there and it’s a smaller crowd. I prefer smaller venues.”

McCarty said he decided to move to Florida after he heard some very good things about Brevard and the Viera area.

“The nice thing about Florida is that you can do concerts all year round — inside and outside,” he said.

“We hope we can do more concerts this summer.”

McCarty tried to use Space Coast Stadium for concerts several years ago, but the Washington Nationals (then using the facility for spring training baseball) refused.

“We tried to get into the stadium many years ago and we’ve had many long, long discussions about using that facility,” McCarty said.

“I’m happy we’re allowed to use it now.”

As a child and young adult, McCarty said he

was always into music and bands, and attended many concerts and venues.

However, he believed he could do a better job in building a better concert atmosphere.

“I hated to have to stand in line to go watch a concert,” he explained. “I believe I can do this better, and I think one of the ways is to offer venues to smaller crowds.”

McCarty also said he likes to select up-andcoming talent for his concerts. “We like to start small and build from there,” he said. “The performers for this Country Fest may not be well known, but I think in a couple of years they will become country music stars. This is a brand new festival and we will be expanding it year after year.”

For more information about MTI Concerts, go to mticoncerts.com, the Viera Country Fest by calling 321-622-3309 or by checking out vieracountryfest.com. V V

For the latest news, go to vieravoice.com vieravoice.com

FOOTBALL

continued from page 6

(skill) set in with all the rest and I’ll be 100 percent.”

Mills has been playing cornerback since seventh grade.

“I like defensive back because when you know you can stop your receiver, that’s just a good feeling,” he said.

“Cornerback is really the hardest position on the field.

When you know you know how to shift around and stop plays, it’s a good feeling.”

The Hawks will have to rely on a lot of younger players next season, but Mills thinks Viera will be a good team.

“I believe in them,” he said.

“They’ve got heart.”

Meanwhile, Gillins and Mills will be trying to make the best use of an old adage: iron sharpens iron.

“I’m always working,” Gillins said. “I want to be great.” V V

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Business Scoop

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Viera Voice | June 2022

LIC. & INS. 18-AL-CT-00011 vieravoice.com

Viera Voice presents

PEOPLE ON THE MOVE

AHA

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OUR MISSION

is to get to know and understand your needs, wants and long-term goals

We want to help you develop, implement, and monitor a strategy that’s designed to address your individual situation.

We understand the challenges families face today.

From managing debt to saving for college to retirement, these personal finance challenges can be overwhelming. Our commitment is to utilize all of our resources to help you pursue your goals.

Alicia Bowers

Alicia Bowers is now a member of the team of real estate professionals at Dale Sorensen Real Estate.

“We are all very excited Alicia has decided to join our company and look forward to many years of success for her,” said Gary Scenti, a managing Broker for DSRE Brevard. “She is a great addition to our team of professional associates in Brevard.”

A licensed Florida real estate agent, Bowers was born and raised in Brevard County and is passionate about showing off her hometown to newcomers.

Bowers loves spending time with her family fishing, boating, hunting, traveling and enjoying Brevard’s beautiful weather and beaches. V V

Kathy Cole

Hunter Parviainen

Kathy Cole is the new store manager for J. Vanover & Co. Furniture at 2251 Town Center Blvd., Suite 125 in Viera. Cole, a longtime Brevard County resident, was an assistant manager at a clothing retailer in Viera before coming to J. Vanover about three months ago.

Cole was hired at the furniture store in anticipation of the opening of another J. Vanover & Co. Furniture store on U.S. 192 in West Melbourne.

The store, now under construction, is expected to open in December or January.

Cole’s spare time is spent with her many friends. V V

NOW LEASING

Hunter Parviainen joins The Viera Company as administrative assistant to the Vice President of Community Management & Communications Eva Rey. He also will provide support to the Community Management & Communications team.

Parviainen graduated from Viera High School and earned a bachelor’s degree in Media and Communications Studies from Florida State University.

Parviainen has many favorite spots in Viera but his top two are the Ritch Grissom Memorial Wetlands and the River Lakes Conservation Area. V V

We believe in thinking “out of the box” and we are not afraid to challenge conventional wisdom in our approach to investing and seeking to preserve wealth. All of our energy, commitment, and efforts are focused on you, the client, and your satisfaction.

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For the latest news go to vieravoice.com

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25

Business Scoop VIE R A

VIERA MEANS

SS E IN

ANS BU E S M

BUSINESS Photos by Jill Blue

VIERA MEANS

VMB Breakfast and Venue Sponsor: Alex Davenport, Andy Vanover, Joanie Vanover and Kathy Cole of J. Vanover Co. Furniture.

N

BUSINESS For an invitation to the June 9 VMB meeting, call 321-242-1235.

NEW CUSTOMERS

GET

E

TW

P

The May Viera Means Business networking group meeting was held May 12 at J. Vanover Co. Furniture. The Viera Means Business networking group meets at 8 a.m. the second Thursday of each month at member business locations.

OR

KIN G G

RO

U

Guest speaker: Dr. Kaitlin Donovan of Sundance Dentistry

Guest speaker: Joshua Patro of Wawa

1 DAY FREE OFFER EXPIRES 6/30/2022

The May VMB was held at J. Vanover & Co. Furniture.

Joshua Patro, Cheryl Clark

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Erin Olsen Zapata, Liz Wingeroth

Kathy Sorrell, Jenn Lee and Jeanne Whitman

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Viera Voice | June 2022

Block Party Virtual Embroidery Event

Virtual Online Event - June 24, 2022 12:00 pm - 1:30 pm EST Achieve perfect points, square corners and dazzling diamonds by piecing in the hoop with an embroidery machine.

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USSSA Pride

Professional Softball

Hottest ticket this summer JULY

JUNE June 14, 15, 16 & 17 Shawnee, Kansas SMSD/Urban Youth Pride vs Alliance/Vipers

June 26 • Pride vs Team Florida Space Coast Complex Military Night

June 22 • Vipers vs Pride Space Coast Complex Daddy Daughter Night

June 27 • Vipers vs Team Florida Space Coast Complex

June 23 • Pride vs Team Florida Space Coast Complex

June 28 • Vipers vs Pride Space Coast Complex

June 24 • Vipers vs Team Florida Space Coast Complex June 25 • Vipers vs Pride Space Coast Complex

USSSA STADIUM

June 29 • Pride vs Team Florida Space Coast Complex LGBTQ June 30 • Vipers vs Team Florida Space Coast Complex

VIERA

COUNTRY 5 FEST PM

July 5 Montgomery, Alabama Vipers vs Pride July 6 Montgomery, Alabama Vipers vs Pride July 7 • Vipers vs Pride Montgomery, Alabama July 13, 14 & 15 Evansville, Indiana Evansville Minor League Pride vs Vipers

July 21 • Peoria, Illinios Lousiville Slugger Complex Pride vs Vipers Pediatric Cancer Night July 22, 23 • Peoria, Illinios Lousiville Slugger Complex Pride vs Vipers

AUGUST

Aug. 1 • Vipers vs Pride Space Coast Complex Angels for Autism Aug. 2 • Pride vs Team Florida Space Coast Complex

Aug. 3 • Vipers vs Team Florida Space Coast Complex

July 25, 26, 27 Indianapolis, Indiana Vipers vs Alliance/Pride

Aug 4. • Vipers vs Pride Space Coast Complex Aug 5. • Pride vs Team Florida Space Coast Complex Aug. 6 • Viera Space Coast Complex Vipers vs Team Florida

Home games 7 pm Tickets $10

July 17, 18 & 19 Kansas City SMSD/Urban Youth Pride vs Alliance

USSSA Space Coast Complex

5800 Stadium Drive, Viera For tickets, go to usssaspacecoast.com

June 11J • 5 p.m.

www.vieracountryfest.com om

VIERA

COUNTRY FEST

hole year since we have been able to bring you a ncert.

ear, we are bringing Viera Country Fest ™ to in Viera, FL, 5 p.m. Saturday June 11, 2022

:30 p.m.

Vieracountryfest.com J

To kick off the year, we are bringing ickets $20 Viera Country FestTM to USSSA Stadium in Viera. ear of theDoors fest, open and we hope to Early grow purchase it bigger tickets and $20 at 4:30 p.m. is the firstfor year all of thethe fest, details. and we hope to grow it bigger and better each year. r. See ourThis website

Sports Complex and Event Venue 5800 Stadium Parkway, Viera

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Viera Voice | June 2022

27

s t n e v &E

EATING OUT ENJOY OUR DINING PAGE

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Melbourne, 321-285-6724

JUNE 3

Friday Night Summer BBQ Dinner 5:30 - 7:30 p.m.

Barbecue dinner and live entertainment by Janice & Rene. $14 per person.

Wickham Park Senior Center 2785 Leisure Way Melbourne, 321-255-4494

EGAD’s First Friday Art Walk 5:30 - 8:30 p.m.

Live music throughout the district, sips and snacks, meet and greets with the artists.

Eau Gallie Arts District 1423. Highland Ave. Melbourne, 321-622-4223

First United Methodist Church 206 S. Hopkins Ave. Titusville, 321-269-7631

Friday Fest – Cape Canaveral 6 - 10 p.m.

Food vendors and an assortment of novelty and craft sellers.

Taylor and Poinsettia Avenues Cape Canaveral, 321-868-1226

JUNE 4

Summer Bash 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Water slides, music and games for the whole family.

Community Band of Brevard Concert 3 - 5 p.m.

Merritt Island High School Auditorium 100 Mustang Way Merritt Island, 321-338-6210 Boniface Hiers Charity Car and Truck Show 11 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Open to all cars and trucks of every year, make and model.

There will be music, a 50/50 drawing, food, awards, raffles and vendors. Registration is $20 per vehicle from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Awards at 2 p.m. Proceeds will go to a local person battling cancer.

Boniface Hiers Chevrolet 800 South Harbor City Blvd.

Melbourne, 321-948-7553

Our enticing Kava drinks provide a soothing, relaxing effect for your mind, body and soul.

JUNE 7

First Tuesday Fishing Seminar 6 - 7 p.m.

The area's finest guides, committed captains and social celebrity anglers will gather for one hour to talk about fishing.

7954 N Wickham Rd #115, Melbourne

island-root.com 321-914-0914

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Viera Voice | June 2022

GPBSC, Name that Tune and Ice Cream Social 2 - 6 p.m.

A fun-filled afternoon with ice cream and good music from the 50s, 60s, and 70s.

Team of three to compete in the Name That Tune game.

Greater Palm Bay Senior Center 1275 Culver Dr. NE Palm Bay, 321-724-1338

JUNE 5

Enjoy the tradition of the South Pacific

Buy 1 KAVA Get 1 KAVA Free

Bottoms Up Beer Run 6 p.m.

The Bottoms Up Beer Run (BUBR) is a fun 4K that combines running (or walking) with home brew along the way.

Wickham Park Community Center 2815 Leisure Way, Room #3 Melbourne,

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Cocoa Beach 321-267-0009

JUNE 8

JUNE 11

MMB Pops! A Not-in-thePark Picnic Concert 6:30 p.m.

Bring your dinner and enjoy Alex Kauffman. He will be in Brevard's Brightest Stars as an alto saxophone soloist.

Melbourne Auditorium 625 E. Hibiscus Blvd.

Melbourne, 321-724-0555

JUNE 10

Florida State Ocean Regatta 8 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Breakfast Sandwich

• • • •

“Where Friends are Family”

Flick-N-Float Movie in the Park 6 - 10:30 p.m.

“Encanto.”

Cost to swim is $4 per person and tubes are provided.

McLarty Park 790 Barton Blvd., Rockledge 321-633-1874 "Sunset Social" Studios of Cocoa Beach Fundraiser 5:30 - 8:30 p.m.

Enjoy a fun-filled evening with food, entertainment, duck derby, a silent art auction, art demonstrations and a raffle.

Beachside Hotel & Suites 3701 N. Atlantic Ave.

The two-day event is limited to 150 paddlers.

Four lanes straight out and back totaling a half mile.

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www.vieragolf.com Viera Voice | June 2022

29

Celebrating

SUNDAY

MONDAY

TUESDAY

WEDNESDAY

Happy Father's Day 1

National Go Barefoot Day Military Appreciation Night

5 – 8 p.m.

All active duty military and those who have honorably served, along with immediate family are invited to join us.

Chick-fil-A-North Viera 2955 Viera Blvd.

Viera, 321-636-3535

2

THURSDAY

3

FRIDAY

National Rotisserie Chicken Day Rebelution Good Vibes Sweat Life a Mother Summer Tour 2022 9:30 a.m.

Stroller exercises Viera Regional Community Center 2300 Judge Fran Jamieson Way Viera, 386-341-6779

5 – 10:30 p.m.

Steel Pulse, DENM and DJ Mackle Cocoa Riverfront Park Riveredge Drive Cocoa, 321-433-8800

Viera Park Market

Viera Regional Community Center 2300 Judge Fran Jamieson Way Viera

5

6

7

8

9

10

6 – 8 p.m.

Night hike includes animal encounter, zoo excursion, activities and games.

Brevard Zoo 8225 N. Wickham Road Viera, 321-254-9453

Music, games, T-shirts and mini concert on Friday.

East Coast Christian Center 6103 Stadium Parkway Viera, 321-216-7804

Get up close and personal with some of the area's finest guides, committed captains and social celebrity anglers for one hour of educational and entertaining talk about fishing.

Boaters Exchange 2145 U.S. 1 Rockledge, 321-638-0090

4 p.m.

10% of all sales donated to GRG with flyer.

Walk-Ons 8550 Napolo Drive Viera, 321-631-7776

Racquets supplied.

Squash Space Coast 665 North Singleton Ave. Titusville, 321-450-4741

10 – 11 a.m.

Prepare for before, during and after the storm.

One Senior Place 8085 Spyglass Hill Road Viera, 321-751-6771

14

15

Family Night Hike at the Brevard Zoo

Pentecost Celebration

5 – 8 p.m.

Dinner, dancing and chili cookoff. Event is free.

Christ Episcopal Church 190 Interlachen Road Melbourne, 321-259-5810

National Chocolate National Donald National Best Ice Cream Day Duck Day Friends Day First Tuesday Walk-On's Grandparent's Introduction to Playing Squash Fishing Seminar Raising Grandchildren 5 – 6 p.m.

9 a.m. – 4 p.m. June 6 to 10 6 – 7 p.m.

Spirit Night National Yo-Yo Day BSYO Summer Strings Camp

Leadership and Mentoring Skills

3 p.m.

Improve leadership and mentoring skills.

CareerSource Brevard 295 Barnes Blvd Rockledge, 321-504-7600

12

13

10 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Viera High School 6103 Stadium Parkway Viera, 201-658-2004

Noon Learn more about upcoming day trips and travel opportunities.

Lunch is provided for registered attendees.

RSVP required.

One Senior Place 8085 Spyglass Hill Road Viera, 321-751-6711

National Peanut Butter Cookie Day Space Coast Cars Senior Day Trips & Travel and Coffee Lunch & Learn

Space Coast Comic Con

10 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Holiday Inn Viera 8298 N. Wickham Road Viera spacecoastcomiccon.com

19

Juneteenth

Coastal Auto Rally and Show – Cocoa Village Concourse 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Historic Cocoa Village 434 Delannoy Ave. Cocoa, 321-615-1944

20

American Eagle Day Artistic Expressions-BPS Summer Camp

June 20 to 24 Students are going to create multiple sculpture projects. This will include cardboard, plaster, and wood. For kids in middle or high school.

Rockledge High School 220 Rockledge Ave. Rockledge, 321-633-1000

26

27

1 – 4 p.m.

Presentation on Touch of Grey Rescue and how to help our mission.

DoubleTree Suites by Hilton Hotel Melbourne Beach Oceanfront 1665 N. State Road A1A Melbourne Beach 321-723-4222

June 27 to July 1 9 a.m. – noon Preschool and elementary.

Theme: Making Waves: What you do today can change the world around you.

Church at Viera 9005 N. Wickham Road Viera, 321-259-3454

Army Birthday

Viera Voice | June 2022

6 – 8 p.m.

MMB Pops! A Not-in-the- Thursdays Casual quilting group. Not Park Picnic Concert an educational class.

6:30 p.m.

South Mainland Melbourne Auditorium Public Library 625 E. Hibiscus Blvd.

Melbourne, 321-724-0555 7921 Ron Beatty Blvd.

Micco, 772-664-4066

16

Thirsty 3rd Thursday World Elder Abuse 5 p.m.

Awareness Day (WEAAD) 5 – 8 p.m.

Live music, snacks, drinks.

Be our guest for dinner and Community Info Fair Dine & Dance

Flick-N-Float Movie in the Park

6 – 10:30 p.m.

"Encanto." Cost to swim $4. Tubes provided.

McLarty Park 790 Barton Blvd.

Rockledge, 321-633-1874

17

Stand Up for Change Comedy Night

5:30 p.m.

The Avenue Viera live musical entertainment, 9 a.m. – noon Benefit for Brevard's Central Park then join us on the dance children and families Awareness Day (WEAAD) 2261 Town Center Ave. floor. in need. is recognized in June every Viera, 321-634-5390 Shell Harbor Space Coast Association year. Proceeds perpetuate Retirement Community of Realtors the event for next year. All Lunch and Learn 2855 Murrell Road 2950 Pineda Plaza Way money raised will comply 11:30 a.m.

Palm Shores Rockledge, 321-265-6875 with the Florida Department Lunch and discussion on of Elder Affairs’s Title VII Empowering Choices. RSVP 321-242-2211 programs.

Shell Harbor Wickham Park Senior Center Retirement Community 2785 Leisure Way 2855 Murrell Road Melbourne, 321-253-4430 Rockledge, 321-265-6875

21

22

23

Certified Elder Law Attorney.

Registration required.

One Senior Place 8085 Spyglass Hill Road Viera, 321-751-6771

902 Jordan Blass Drive Suntree, 321-255-4404

11 a.m.

Eau Gallie Yacht Club 100 Datura Drive Indian Harbour Beach 321-726-8282

National Onion First Day Rings Day of Summer Medicaid Planning Seminar Suntree/Viera Book Club Serene Harbor's Pearl 10 – 11 a.m.

10 – 11:30 a.m.

Anniversary and Awards William A. Johnson, Board Suntree Viera Library Luncheon

Comedy Night at Duran

5 – 7 p.m.

Viera Regional Business headliner Frankie Paul and featuring Chris Robinson.

Duran Golf Club Stadium Parkway Viera, 321-724-5400

28

One-On-One Tech Help

10 a.m.

Wednesdays Sign up for a 30-minute appointment for assistance with your computer or phone. Cost is $5.

Cocoa Beach Public Library 550 North Brevard Ave. Cocoa Beach 321-868-1104

29

National PTSD Chocolate Awareness Day Pudding Day Touch of Grey Volunteer Church at Viera Viera Resident Orientation Wednesday Night Viera 6 – 8 p.m. RSVP. Open House Summer Blast Wetlands Run

30

Quilters

Hurricane Preparedness: Practices for Staying Safe

Developed to inform new residents about community.

Addison Village Club 8150 Stadium Parkway Viera, 321-777-7575

Coin Talk

6 – 7:45 p.m.

Open forum to share and learn about numismatics.

Suntree/Viera Library 902 Jordan Blass Drive Suntree, 321-323-9126

5:45 – 7 p.m.

Distance options to run or walk. SCR will have some hydration. SCR members will earn the Viera Wetlands sticker for their efforts. Arrive early to sign the club waiver.

Viera Wetlands 10001 Wickham Road Viera, info@ spacecoastrunners.org

Space Coast Wine Guild Interclub Wine Competition

7 p.m.

DRS Community Center 1089 S. Patrick Drive spacecoastwineguild.com

4

SATURDAY

National Hug Your Cat Day Bottoms Up Beer Run

6 p.m.

The Bottoms Up Beer Run (BUBR) is a fun 4K that combines running (or walking) with home brew along the way.

Wickham Park Community Center 2815 Leisure Way, Room #3 Melbourne 321-608-7490

11

Maxwell James Oskam Foundation Tournament for a Cure

11:30 a.m. – 8 p.m.

Raising funds for children fighting pediatric cancer.

Suntree Country Club 300 Country Club Drive Suntree

Viera Country Fest

5 – 9 p.m.

Join us for some great country music.

USSSA Stadium 5800 Stadium Parkway Viera, 321-482-3605

18

National Go Fishing Day

Rainbow Run 5K

7:30 – 8:30 a.m.

A fun and family-oriented 5K within a great and proud community.

Wickham Park Regional Pavilion 2500 Parkway Drive Melbourne

Juneteenth

11 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Celebrating Excellence, Freedom and Legacy.

Cocoa Riverfront Park 41 Riveredge Blvd.

Cocoa, 321-639-3500

24

25

5 – 9 p.m.

"Ghostbusters Afterlife" Wickham Park 2500 Parkway Drive Melbourne, 321-633-0046

Sundays Learn strategies, teamwork.

Central Brevard Public Library 308 Forrest Ave. Cocoa, 321-633-1792

Take Your Dog to Work Day Chess Club Meeting Cars Under the Stars: 1 – 4 p.m.

Movie in the Park

MMB presents Jitterbug June Dance

7 – 10 p.m.

Melbourne Auditorium 625 E. Hibiscus Blvd.

Melbourne, 321-724-0555

America the Beautiful Concert

7 – 9 p.m.

Scott Center Auditorium at Holy Trinity 5625 Holy Trinity Drive Suntree, 855-252-7276

30

National Bomb Pop Day Estate Planning Seminar

10 – 11 a.m.

William A. Johnson, Board Certified Elder Law Attorney.

Registration required.

One Senior Place 8085 Spyglass Hill Road Viera, 321-751-6771

vieravoice.com

Comedy Night returns June 21 to Duran Golf Club

BY ERNEST ARICO If you’re interested in a night of laughter, then plan on going to the Duran Golf Club on Tuesday, June 21 for Comedy Night.

The Melbourne Regional Chamber of Commerce and the Viera Regional Business Alliance (VRBA) will host the event with team champion sponsors Caliber Home Loans, the Nate Jomaa mortgage team and Jett Title.

The event features nationally known comedian Frankie Paul.

Paul, who has toured professionally since 1990, brings a unique knack for taking a typically unnoticeable situation and turning it into new levels of hysterics. He hits on a vast array of today’s topics as well as everyday craziness like marriage, family and common human stupidity.

Joining Paul will be comedian Chris Robinson.

Robinson is one of the premier comics working in Canada. He made a name for himself with multiple appearances at the world famous Just For Laughs Comedy Festival in Montreal as well as becoming Sirius XM’s Top Comic in 2016,

winning $25,000.

VRBA chairman Arty Pagan said the success of last year’s Comedy Night prompted a return performance June 21.

“We’re doing several events to bring business people to the Viera, Suntree and Rockledge area,” Pagan said. “This Comedy Night was well attended last year and is a great way to meet people, make connections and do some networking.”

Tickets for the 5 to 7 p.m. event are $20 for chamber partners and $30 for nonchamber partners. Tickets will be capped at 100 people.

Drinks will be sponsored by Juniper Landscaping.

“There’s not a real chamber of commerce presence in Viera,” Pagan said. “We appreciate the work that the Melbourne Regional Chamber of Commerce and its council does for supporting events that fill that gap.”

Pagan said if you’re a Viera, Suntree or Rockledge business and are interested in joining the Melbourne Regional Chamber of Commerce and the VRBA, check out melbourneregionalchamber. com/viera-regional-businessalliance. VV

VIERA VOICE photos

Comedians Chris Robinson, left, and Frankie Paul will perform June 21 as Comedy Night returns to Duran.

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31

BY NANETTE HEBDIGE

CHICKEN WITH 40 GARLIC CLOVES

Why not 10 or 20? Don’t be skeptical — it’s an amazingly easy recipe. A luxe Provençale dish, nutmeg and garlic scented, one that’ll win you a standing ovation. It calls for tarragon, but thyme can be a substitute. Squeeze the cloves on top of toasted baguette slices and mop the sauce. One word: Nirvana..

8 bone-in chicken thighs with skin 40 whole garlic cloves unpeeled ½ cup dry vermouth or white wine 5 parsley sprigs 1 cup rough chopped onion 3 ribs of celery cut into large chunks 2/3 cup of olive oil 1 TSP dried tarragon Grated nutmeg PREHEAT OVEN TO 375 degrees Wash and dry chicken well.

Salt/pepper lightly.

In an oven safe casserole, add onion, celery, parsley and tarragon. Place thighs on top and add the oil and wine. Sprinkle salt/pepper and grated nutmeg liberally. Tuck cloves around chicken. Cover with foil and the lid — bake for 90 minutes.

Serve with crusty French bread.

32

Viera Voice | June 2022

I’m a garlic girl in a garlic world I fall under the garlic lover denomination.

There aren’t enough accolades that I can bestow this aromatic bulb; I just glorify it and fight for every cooked clove!

Everything might be better with butter, but it’s way better with garlic. Some garlic aficionados go as far as saying, life isn’t worth living without it and then there are some pedantic folks that avoid it like that plague.

There’s nothing quite as incomparable as the tantalizing aroma that emanates from fried garlic. For me, it’s like Chanel No 5.

No doubt, it’s the original gangster of food.

It’s been around for more than 3,000 years and there are recorded texts from ancient Egypt, China, Rome and Babylonia, where it was used for medicinal as well as culinary purposes. Even King Tut had garlic cloves accompanying him on his journey into the afterlife.

Garlic is at times misunderstood and not given proper praises, because honestly, it’s the quintessential flavoring accounting for that subliminal, umami factor in almost every single

GARLIC

continued to page 33

vieravoice.com

GARLIC

continued from page 32

Summer Cocktail

dish around the world.

It has the most phenomenally beneficial properties. Every medical journal explains and confirms the astonishing benefits of garlic. It boosts the immune system, works as an anti-inflammatory agent, improves heart health and has antibacterial qualities. It even combats the sniffles of the common cold.

When you approach this jewel from a culinary standpoint, some dishes wouldn’t have become

Summerlin — Jungle Bird

BY THE PANTRY RAT

It’s easy to think of all summer drinks being overly sweet — but that doesn’t have to be the case.

The Summerlin, also known as the Jungle Bird, welcomed visitors to the Kuala Lumpur Hilton in the 1970s. The drink took a few decades to gain popularity, but now many old-fashioned cocktails are making a groovy comeback.

The rum is the star here, but fresh lime and pineapple juice are a must. The magic happens with the touch of bitterness the Campari adds — so don’t omit that. The pineapple juice takes it over the top.

legendary icons in the global culinary arena.

Exclude garlic from a particular recipe and it’s lost all its depth of flavor and lost authenticity.

Garlic is part of the Allium family, which includes onions, shallots, leeks, and chives and each bulb yields around 10 to 12 cloves. Roasting it provides that nutty, creamy, and velvety mellow flavor.

Poaching it softens out its pungency. Sautéing it releases its oils, yielding that amazing aroma and raw, such as in salad dressings, hummus and aioli takes things to an epic level.

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So please, don’t debase this small but mighty hero in the kitchen or shy away from it — you have no idea what you’re missing. Even if you’re fanatical about bad breath, I have news for you.

It’s been hiding in every single bite of pizza, Chinese take-out, Mexican taco and the biggest shocker — it's one of the main ingredients of Caesar's salads.

And although Stoker’s Dracula may have been fictional, in Eastern European folklore, garlic has been used to ward off evil spirits for centuries.

Garlic is truly a glorious contender all around. V V

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Popular Crumbl is the new cookie in town

Viera Voice's sister paper Senior Life is celebrating its

25th Anniversary VOLUM

E 24

ck

Shuttersto

MAY 20

22

ISSUE 12

mysenio

OF FLOR IDA

rlife.com

Skydivin g senior s, page 8

VIERA VOICE Sylvia Montes

Crumbl Cookies is here. The newest Crumbl bakery, owned

by Shae Malachowoski, will hold its grand opening June 3 at The Avenue Viera.

Since its start three years ago, Crumbl has grown to more than 300 bakeries in 36 states. Crumbl Cookies are made in an open concept kitchen, which allows customers to see the cookie-making process.

vieravoice.com

The Conva of 600 m ir SM-65A Atlas, iles and w or as 75 feet Atlas A, was the , 10 inches first full-sc al long and 10 feet in e prototype of the diameter.

At Stories, pa las missile, which SENI first flew ges 3 and on June 11 OR LIFE Courtesy 4. of , 1957. Th e Atlas A John Hilliard had a rang e

Viera Voice | June 2022 Early la unches de Sp

33

SENIOR News

Local author’s book urges seniors to eat right and exercise

BY BETTY PORTER

Merritt Island resident Spyder Johnson has selfpublished a book that takes on an entertaining way of learning to eat right and get fit.

With his lighthearted book, which came out March 30, he hopes to capture seniors by weaving a web of suggestions on how to achieve optimal health and happiness.

Available through Amazon and E-Book, the 465-page paperback entitled “Let’s Eat Right & Exercise: An Entertaining Senior Fitness Guide” is filled with ideas on nutrition and strong on fitness tips to help boomers in their 50s, 60s and 70s become

healthy and fit.

“It’s better to take a slow, steady approach and methodically plow through exercise tasks and nutritional goals,” said the 65-year-old Johnson. “I like to think of it as senior fitness that makes sense,” His advice on nutrition is to stay away from processed foods entirely, opt for protein and avoid fatty meats. Egg whites, he said, are “the purest form of natural protein that there is.” Avoid sugar and have salt in moderation. Fresh vegetables and fruits should be a staple.

He said quick weight-loss gimmicks are not the best weight loss for the long haul.

Solution, Puzzle page 18

Solution, Puzzle page 18

VIERA VOICE Jill Blue

Spyder Johnson displays his book "Let's Eat Right & Exercise."

He urges his readers to pick a date, perhaps a birthday, and on that day make a commitment to eat healthy for one year and know that there will be a big difference when that date rolls around again.

He offers tips on how to tackle the one-year challenge such as packing a cooler with good, nutritious food so that it is always available each day and especially when traveling.

Johnson, a certified personal trainer and nutrition guru, grew up in Asheboro, North Carolina and attended East Carolina University. He earned a bachelor’s degree in business administration. He has traveled

extensively, including Thailand and Eastern Europe.

While his real name is Jamie R. Johnson, he took the pen name of Spyder Johnson for this book to honor his best and lifelong friend who passed away three years ago.

“Since my childhood days my best friend and a small group of eight or nine friends whom I played sandlot football with dubbed me Spyder after a famous football player in the day named Carl (Spider) Lockhart. The nickname stuck and close friends still call me Spyder after more than 50 years have gone by,” Johnson said.

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Viera Voice | June 2022

He has written five books previously, all fictional and most with conspiracy characters. “So this book is completely different although it encompasses some fiction through the fictional character who is full of himself, namely Zarkoff Zucchini who spouts off words of encouragement such as “Come on geezers, you can do it!”

Johnson uses a heavy dose of humor throughout the book to make it lighthearted while at the same time providing important information for helping seniors transform their lives.

“I get bored when it’s all serious, so I hope readers find these characters entertaining,” he said. They sport funny quips such as “Fit Geezers are Happy Geezers” and are visually depicted.

Eight artists from around the world created the 57 illustrations in the book. “It was a total pleasure working with and being surrounded by such talent, creativity and professionalism” Johnson said.

His advice: “Make health and fitness a priority and remember, it’s you who is the decider — not societal molders and shapers. Focus on what’s important. Cut away the clutter, be yourself and get the last laugh.”

Johnson said: “Through exercise we can bring back some of the youthful elasticity.

I’m really into the flexibility component at our geezed-up age. Sometimes, we wake up stiff as boards.”

As a general exercise plan, Johnson said the concept is simple. Make yourself do some cardio activity that gets the blood flowing and strengthen your muscles with some light resistance training. For those who want to lose weight, the aerobic sector of your routine is very important. That’s what really speeds up your metabolism and eventually sheds the pounds.

Reviewers have complimented Johnson on the fact he teaches readers mindsetturning points that produce results.

For information, check out Let’s Eat Right & Exercise: An Entertaining Senior Fitness Guide: Johnson, Spyder: 9780989921107: Amazon. com: Books SpyderJohnson. com. SL

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Veteran garners another medal in his collection of awards

BY MARIA SONNENBERG Carmen Nizzi-Santiago smiles when she sees husband Juan Santiago walking around with the medals he has received for exemplary military service.

“He sounds like he is wearing a cowbell,” NizziSantiago said jokingly.

Retired Army Sgt. First Class Santiago sounds even louder these days, now that he has added the Order of St. Michael to a collection that includes the Order of St. Maurice from the National Infantry Association and two Purple Hearts, not to mention being one of only three Brevard residents to be inducted into the Florida Veterans’ Hall of Fame.

Santiago received his latest kudos in April.

The Order of St. Michael, awarded by the Army Aviation Association of America, recognizes individuals who have contributed significantly to the promotion of Army aviation.

Santiago’s award celebrates his service during the Vietnam War, when he was gunner aboard

helicopters and served as crew chief on the spirited fixed-wing, two-engine U-21 planes in support of the CIA and other special operations.

“He sounds like he is wearing a cowbell.”

– Carmen NizziSantiago

“My husband was in Vietnam for a total of five years, but he spent the last two-and-a-half in aviation,” Nizzi-Santiago said.

Part of Santiago’s job involved ascertaining that some very valuable top brass traveled safely.

“I flew with Gen. Westmoreland and Gen. Abrams,” Santiago said.

Gen. William Westmoreland was commander of United States forces during the Vietnam War period of 1964 to 1968.

General Creighton Abrams Jr. commanded military operations in Vietnam from 1968 to 1972.

The Order of St. Michael is named after the archangel who wages war

against evil. The iconic image of St. Michael slaying the dragon is emblazoned in the award to exemplify the bravery of the recipient.

Santiago not only served Army aviation with valor and distinction, but his military service also included significant contributions to the infantry, earning him the Order of St. Maurice. The namesake for the award was a Roman functionary who refused the order for his Theban Legion to kill innocent civilians and to offer pagan sacrifices. He, along with his troops, were executed.

Santiago, a resident of Indian River Colony Club, was part of the 2019 Florida Veterans’ Hall of Fame. At the time, he was the second veteran from Brevard to receive the honor.

A native of Puerto Rico, the 81-year-old Santiago served in the Army for 22 years. VV

VIERA VOICE Jill Blue

Retired Army Sgt. First Class Juan Santiago added an award to the many he has received during his military career.

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Space Coast Ophthalmology opens new surgery center in Titusville

BY ERNEST ARICO Space Coast Ophthalmology has opened a new state-of-the-art surgery center adjacent to its Titusville office.

The center is located at 1832 Garden St. in Titusville. Space Coast Ophthalmology also operates an office at 2328 Medico Lane in Viera.

Valerie Clark, the director of business development for the company, said the new surgery center in Titusville conducted its first surgery May 5.

Clark said the center is about 5,000 square feet, roughly half of the building’s 10,000 square footage.

Clark added the center has two operating rooms, three pre-op rooms and a large recovery room.

“The center can handle between 15 to 20 surgeries a day,” Clark said.

Practice owner Dr. Nicholas Pefkaros said in an email he’s excited about the new surgery center.

“Eye surgery is a high anxiety phrase to hear as a patient. Medicine today has the capabilities and technology to make the process pleasant with excellent results,” he said. “We built this surgery center to bring those capabilities to our community. The experience our patients will have during the preoperative, surgical and post-operative process will be unlike anything available in our area. We had a vision of what was possible and made it a reality.”

Pefkaros is a board certified member of the American Academy of Ophthalmology. He specializes in general ophthalmology, as well as cataract, LASIK and glaucoma surgery.

He has a special interest in medical retina treatments for diabetes and macular degeneration.

Some of the procedures and surgeries that are available at the Titusville center include:

VIERA VOICE Jill Blue

Dr. Nicholas Pefkaros, right, and Dr. Staci Walters celebrate the opening of the new surgery center at a May open house. Dr. Bernadette Woods also works at the facility.

VIERA VOICE Jill Blue

Space Coast Ophthalmology's new state-of-the-art surgery center is located in Titusville.

Celebrate Life.

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Cataract surgery: A cataract is a clouding of the lens of the eye; cataract surgery is performed to improve vision by replacing the clouded lens with an artificial one.

Cataracts affect millions of people in the United States each year. Most cataracts are the result of aging, though some form as a result of genetic factors, disease or injury.

Cataract surgery is common and considered safe and effective.

Eyelid surgery: Blepharoplasty (Eyelid surgery) is a plastic surgery procedure for correcting sagging or drooping eyelids. The eyelid, because its skin is much thinner than that in other parts of the face, is often one of the first facial areas to exhibit signs of aging. Eyelids that sag or droop can affect peripheral vision, making daily activities such as driving more difficult. Blepharoplasty could become necessary when various factors, which include aging, sun damage, smoking and obesity, cause the muscles and tissue that support the eyelids to weaken.

The center is open from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Wednesday, and 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Thursday and Friday.

For more information, call 321-267-0008 or check out spacecoastophthalmology.com or call 321-701-8000. SL

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Vendor at veterans reunion makes gifts that elicit smiles, tears

BY MIKE GAFFEY As he worked at the G Fam Customz tent at the Florida Vietnam and All Veterans Annual Reunion at Wickham Park, Vinny Gordon, 12, wore a white T-shirt customized with a 53-year-old photo of his bare-chested grandfather, James Gordon. It was taken while Gordon, of West Melbourne, was serving in Vietnam.

“We’re here to represent him and try to sell everything for Vietnam veterans and local campers,” said Vinny, who was accompanied by his 9-year-old sister Marissa and other members of the familyrun business.

VIERA VOICE Mike Gaffey

Each year, vendors sell a variety of items at the Florida Vietnam and All Veterans Reunion at Wickham Park.

The Gordon patriarch died in November of Agent Orange-related cancers, Vinny said of the herbicide used to eliminate forest cover during the war.

G Fam Customz was one of numerous vendors at the 34th annual veterans reunion, which was held May 5 through 8. The

business makes personalized gifts, including the shirt emblazoned with the photo of Vinny Gordon’s late grandfather.

“We can customize and can personalize anything,” Vinny said. “We can do T-shirts, mugs, license plates.

We can take a picture from your camera that you can

send to us and we can press it out for you on anything.”

Vinny’s grandmother Sharon Gordon said her U.S. Army veteran husband served in Pleiku, Vietnam for 15 months in 1968 and 1969.

“He came home in April of 1969. We got married in July of 1969. I was his pen pal.”

Vendors at the free reunion offered a variety of military-related merchandise from stickers to personalized wooden flag cases.

Christopher Rivera, a Gordon family friend for more than 25 years, said G Fam Customz’s goal is to help veterans and the local community. He joked that his unofficial nephew Vinny is

already a successful 35-yearold master salesman in the form of a 12-year-old boy.

“Hey, it’s worth it just to come see Vinny,” Rivera said with a laugh as Vinny pitched products to a passerby. “We bring fun, we bring excitement and we bring thoughtful gifts into the household. That’s so important. It’s not the money you spend, it’s the thought you put behind it.

And that’s what makes us so unique. We want to deliver a product that will make you tear up, a product that will make you smile.”

For more information, go to GFamCustomz.com. SL

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Having fun

da iers of Flori Buffalo Sold VIERA VOICE Jill Blue

Jalisa George is all smiles as she enjoys the Christian Fun Fest hosted by Bless Indeed.

Christian Fun Fest rocked the stadium

BY JORJANN BLAKE PHOTOS BY JILL BLUE

Christian Fun Fest held May 14 was a joyous fun-filled day of sharing and praise music.

Anjanette Wicks, program founder and director of Bless Indeed, planned the family-friendly music festival. The event supported Success Indeed, a pilot project that helps students find practical ways to succeed if they choose not to attend college.

Bless Indeed, LLC and Success Indeed Foundation have partnered to help students identify their gifts, tal-

Andre Johnson and Shamar Washington

ents, passions and strengths to develop vocational and life skills that will lead to a successful career.

The event included vendors, pony rides, a petting zoo and a variety of performers sharing Christian music.

Jermaine Clentscale won the music performance contest. Shamar Washington, a graduate of Space Coast Junior/Senior High School, was a guest speaker. Washington was surprised to receive three separate scholarships.

Wicks was pleased with the event and looks forward to planning next year's Christian Fun Fest in the spring of 2023. VV

Impressive venue.

Niko and Tangi Combs

Flo Logan

Biancallove and her backu p dancers.

Gary Wash White

Jamalia Scott

Jermaine Clentscale

Vendors

Studio D dancers groove to the music.

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