Viera Voice, August 2026

Horses listen — read to one page 5 Viera's Duke ready for big season page 8

Dreams take flight page 14

Vol. 18 Issue 7

Read Viera news anytime at vieravoice.com

AUGUST 2026

SURFER

Here's to a Great Year!

CHAMPION

VIERA VOICE Jill Blue

Viera siblings, Xavier Acosta, 14, Zoey, 9, and Urijah, 12, are getting ready for the new school year.

Making safety cool for school

BY CHRIS BONANNO

VIERA VOICE Courtesy of Melissa Bennett

Madison Bennett is thriving in longboard surfing.

Story, page 6.

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

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It is a fun time when students get to see classmates they might not have seen since their long summer break, but safety is the priority. It’s time to prepare for

page 16

SCHOOL

Continued on page 33

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Suntree-Viera area fits family’s lifestyle, careers

BY CHRIS BONANNO The Candle family of Suntree clearly has a lot to be happy about.

The family — Ciara Candle and her husband, Dr. Craig Candle, along with their 8-year-old daughter Cianna, 6-yearold Cienna and 1-year-old Celestia — has lived in the area for almost nine years.

They previously lived in Youngstown, Ohio.

“We were just looking to be in Florida,” Ciara said.

“We wanted warmer weather (and) no more snow. And there was a recruiter who reached out to him for Health First and we checked it out and we fell in love.”

Craig is an internal medicine physician who initially started as a hospitalist — an in-patient physician who works exclusively in a hospital — at Cape Canaveral Hospital.

He then went to Viera Hospital and is now a physician advisor at all four Health First hospitals in Brevard County.

“It was a decision I made early, in high school,” Craig said. “I wanted to be a doctor and nobody was going to tell me anything different. So that was my big life goal.”

Ciara is a nurse practitioner who has started her own business called Bespoke Body, which she described as a virtual health

and wellness company.

“I do medical weight loss, hormone replacement therapy and also concierge skin care,” Ciara said.

Ciara is also the reigning Mrs. Viera 2026.

“It was really cool,” she said. “I saw it advertised online. I wanted to do a Mrs. pageant for a long time and I applied for Mrs. Viera and was granted the title.

I was able to compete for Mrs. Brevard County. It’s a service-based pageant which means there’s no swimsuit. It’s based on interviews and your platform and an evening gown portion. My platform was helping women with confidence through wellness, just in all different seasons of life.”

For his part, when Craig isn’t working, one of his favorite activities is restoring a 2009 Hummer H2 vehicle.

“My dad had a body shop, still does in Ohio,” Craig said. “I grew up around cars, working on cars and I really like woodworking, too. Just fixing things, that’s really it, and I’ve really always loved the old Hummers.”

The family engages in a number of fun activities both in the Viera-Suntree area and outside of it. Ciara noted that the family enjoys staycations.

They recently stayed beachside in Brevard County, at Walt Disney World, and

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Ciara and Craig Candle and their children, 8-year-old Cianna, 6-year-old Cienna and 1-year-old Celestia, have settled into the Space Coast lifestyle and are enjoying the warm weather and the beach.

have a trip planned to Las Vegas in the near future.

The family also has two Papillon dogs — Coco, who is 9 years old, and Dolce, who is 4.

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Faith is also an important component of who the Candle family is, with Ciara noting that she is really involved with Ascension Catholic School in Melbourne.

“We’ve been so happy,”

said Ciara, regarding Ascension. “… Our parish is St. John (the Evangelist Catholic Community) in Viera. We love everyone there. So, I feel like, yeah, we’ve really built our life here now.” VV

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Viera Voice August 2026

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Volume 18, Issue 6 ©2026 Bluewater Creative Group, Inc. All rights reserved Bluewater Creative Group 321-242-1235 7350 Shoppes Drive Suite 102 Viera, FL 32940

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Office Manager Sylvia Montes Design/Photography Jorjann Blake Copy Editors Hillard Grossman Jeff Navin VIERA MEANS

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VIERA VOICE is not liable for errors or omissions in editorial, advertorial or advertising materials. Distribution of this newspaper does not constitute an endorsement of products or services herein.

Reproduction or use without permission, of editorial or graphic content in any manner is prohibited.

BY SUE DeWERFF

29 in multiple divisions at the Great Park Ice Arena in Three Space Coast Irvine, California.

Hurricanes Theater on Ice Both the Open and teams, which competed Juvenile teams won bronze in California in the 2026 medals, and the adult MEANS National Theater on IceVIERAFrozen Hurricanes won BUSINESS Competition, set out with pewter (fourth place) after NETWORKING GROUP ambitious visions and were completing two individual respectfully rewarded. programs — a free-skate The Open, Juvenile and and choreographic exercise.

Adult teams, all from Space Cheryl Smith and her Coast Iceplex, were among daughters, Tara Birch a record 103 teams from and Ashley Johansson (all across the nation which coaches), were part of the competed June 24 through 22-member adult team ages

19 to 69.

“This was the first year that U.S. Figure Skating offered two adult categories, and the Frozen Hurricanes team competed in the Open, a more difficult division,” Smith said.

An inaugural coach since the Rockledge rink opened in 1977, Smith was one of three moms who skated with their children on this team.

“My sister, Tara, and I have been skating since the first TOI team was formed, back in 2005. It was such a new VIERA MEANS BUSINESS NETWORKING GROUP and exciting experience for us to be a part of this team, ANS BU both as coaches E S M and as skaters.

Working alongside our mom and skating with her made it even N E more special,” U TW Join us for a Senior Appreciation Event and OR RO KIN G G Johansson said.

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Managing Editor Jill Blue

VIERA VOICE Courtesy of Cheryl Smith and Tara Birch

Coach T.J. Nyman, left, Katie Nyman, the director of Theater on Ice, and the Selkies team from Space Coast Iceplex show off the medals they won at the 2026 National Theater on Ice Competition.

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overseas to international competitions, this journey across the country with their families and their own young children (four children between them, ranging in age from 3 years to 10 months) was something they both described as challenging, but agreed would be cherished memories.

“We had a big vision for our program’s finale, a massive pyramid designed to hide 18 skaters below. I am grateful that the entire team trusted this idea and that we were able to achieve it.”

Katie Nyman, the director of the Theater on Ice Program that began 21 years ago, said she couldn’t be prouder of the coaches and skaters who represented these teams.

“Our Open team placed first out of 17 teams in the free skate. The Selkies, as they were called because of this themed freeskate performance, were

ICE SKATING

Continued on page 34

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vieravoice.com

Stable Stories, horses help young readers build confidence VIERA VOICE Courtesy of Harmony Farms

BY LILLIAN NGUYEN Young readers will discover the joy of reading with the help of Harmony Farms’ nine therapy horses and two miniature horses, Cupid and Ziti.

Reading out loud can be intimidating for young readers, so Harmony Farms is inviting children to take part in its unique new program called Stable Stories.

The program is primarily designed for students in first and second grade, but all ages are welcome.

“It’s a great opportunity to help kids learn to love reading,” Donna Manfredi said. “It’s also a good way for kids to learn about horses.”

Manfredi explains that students will get a hands-on learning experience with the horses before and after the reading session that will be tailored to their level and reading skills.

“Depending on what the kids know, we’ll be talking about what horses are used for, the parts of a horse, what they eat,” she said.

“We will pick topics based on what the kids already know; so maybe we’ll make a correlation like, ‘What does your dog eat?’ and ‘What do you think horses eat?’ That kind of exchange.”

During the instruction period, participants will be able to pet and brush the horses. Then, students will have the space to read freely with their new horse companion. If the reader is uncomfortable in the horse’s presence, they

Young children build courage by reading to horses at Harmony Farms.

in the same reading level, the second child is $35. Sessions will start in September.

Harmony Farms in Cocoa is a nonprofit organization that uses horse riding therapy to help children and adults with certain physical and cognitive challenges.

VV are welcome to read from outside the stall.

There’s no worries, though; Cupid and Ziti’s big ears make them into natural listeners. They’ll encourage their little guests’ fluency, reading comprehension and overall confidence — and the best part is, they don’t mind hearing the same stories over and over again.

All of the horses are used to interacting with children.

Harmony Farms used research from a study conducted by the University of California (UC) that shows that the nonjudgmental presence of an animal creates a comforting reading environment in which children can feel more relaxed about reading.

Stable Stories was developed with the guidance of Kristen Dembroski, a language arts teacher, reading specialist and national board certified teacher.

The one-hour session is $50 per student. If a family has additional children

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Viera Voice August 2026

5

p U p a r SPORTS W Surfing trophies pile up for Viera High graduate

BY HILLARD GROSSMAN "She's got style, she's got grace, she's a winner."

Recent Viera High School graduate Madison Bennett likely has never spun a Tom Jones record on the home stereo system. But those lyrics from his early ’70s hit, “She's a Lady,” offer a perfect description of her surfing prowess.

Bennett recently competed at the famed Huntington Beach Pier in California, bringing home the National Scholastic Surfing Association's Explorer Women's Longboard National Championship trophy, adding to her rapidly expanding collection of awards.

“They are all piling up in a little corner,” she said, jokingly, knowing full well the national title tops them all.

Hoisted on the shoulders of two good friends, Bennett said she's getting comfortable with the familiar, but sometimes precarious, celebratory chair rides reserved for surfing champions.

“I’m always a little nervous,” she said, giggling, “but I have a good group of people around me.’’

VIERA VOICE Courtesy of Melissa Bennett

Madison Bennett, a 2026 graduate of Viera High School, recently won the National Scholastic Surfing Association's Explorer Women's Long Board National Championship in Huntington Beach, California.

Shy and sweet is how most people describe Bennett, who just turned 18, but she's been a shark in the water when it comes to her competitive level.

That not only was evidenced when she defeated Hawaii's Peata Lee Hubin 11.17-6.40 in the NSSA final, but also earlier this spring when she put together scores of a near-perfect 9.00 and 7.50 to dominate the East Coast Regional at New Smyrna Beach.

“The crowd was slightly a little intimidating (at Huntington Beach),” she said, “but (as the event went on),

you kind of get used to it and then it feels more natural.”

At 5-foot-7 and a demure 115 pounds, lugging her tealcolored 9-foot-2, 15-pound surfboard from the car isn’t the easiest walk to the beach, but she has embraced it.

“I used to (compete in) shortboarding, but as I got older, I was aging out of (my divisions), so one of the guys on the beach suggested I try longboarding, and I've really enjoyed it,” said Bennett, who has applied a new twist to an old-school sport that has survived the golden age of “Gidget.”

She began surfing at age 5 after being born

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Viera Voice August 2026

her daily business as a Brevard County Ocean Rescue lifeguard.

"She trains and practices really hard, and she's motivated," said Holland, who carved his Hall of Fame legacy on a shortboard but yet once "dabbled" in the World Longboard Championships in Malibu. “The great thing about surfing is that size doesn't mean a whole lot. It's not really about power; it's all about performance maneuvers.”

Riding the Ricky Retro 2 board shaped by Carroll, who patterned the original design for 2019 world champion Justin Quintal, a former Satellite Beach kid now living in Jacksonville, Bennett has impressed the judges with her board-riding skills and "toes on the nose expertise."

She'll never forget VIERA VOICE Courtesy of NSSA Madison Bennett enjoys the celebratory the day she finally stopped tipping over chair ride after winning the national championship. her longboard when she finally executed her in Melbourne. Then, the first Hang 10 maneuver family moved south to during a practice session at Jupiter, where her longboard Port Canaveral's Jetty Park. connections began with “I was so excited; I was Groundswell Surf Shop (still running to tell everyone one of her sponsors) and what I had just done,” she then moved back to Suntree said. four years ago.

Now, one of her favorite With former Association maneuvers is Hanging 5 of Surfing Professionals and swinging the other standout Todd Holland, the foot back around while co-owner of the School of holding onto the nose, as Surf in Cocoa Beach, as her well as performing stylish coach and East Coast Surfing crossovers with her feet.

Hall of Fame board shaper As they say, longboarding Ricky Carroll of Ricky Carroll is more about movement Surf in Rockledge, Bennett is on the board instead of stoked about her future. movement of the board.

“When I first started, there At Huntington, the waves was a small group (of girls) were 4 to 6 feet, so if the doing this, but it’s been waves were overhead, “I'd gradually increasing,” she have to turtle roll or just said. ditch it,” she said, still unable "It's nice to have more to duck dive with such a long people my age.” surfboard.

Her popularity is A self-proclaimed “big growing, too, with more Star Wars nerd,” Maddie, an than 1,200 followers on only child, treasures the her Instagram page. And, time she spends with her she just added another family; her dog Milo; and a sponsor, Sisstrevolution guinea pig named Pumpkin. (which sponsors World Surf “They get along,” she said.

League stars Lakey Peterson She has yet to choose a and Sawyer Lindblad), to college but would like to complement Dakine Surf get a nursing degree and, of and Smith Optics. course, a victory in a World Last October, Bennett Championship Tour surfing claimed her first National event.

Kidney Foundation Labor Asked if she'd prefer to Day pro title, winning the try any other sport, Bennett Women's Longboard division quickly replied: “I will at the Cocoa Beach Pier, always rather be surfing.” where she often conducts VV

vieravoice.com

Hawks aren’t fazed by road-heavy schedule

BY CARL KOTALA The Viera High School football team will face a challenging schedule this season — on several different fronts.

With seven of their 11 games on the road, including the Kickoff Classic on Aug. 14 at South Lake and a September trip to Massachusetts, the Hawks are going to be spending a lot of time away from home.

They’re also going to be facing some top-notch wide receivers.

But that’s all OK with Viera coach Tony Gulla.

“Our kids, they don’t mind. I haven’t sensed a big difference,” Gulla said when asked about playing on the road versus at home.

“In the last couple of years,

vieravoice.com

VIERA VOICE Courtesy of Meghan Kramer

The Viera Hawks have an all-time record of 102-102. The 2026 schedule will be challenging, with six regularseason road games (seven overall), but they have the talent to get it done.

I think we’ve played better on the road.”

After playing at South Lake, Viera will kick off its regular season at Rockledge in what should be a big game,

particularly after the Hawks beat the Raiders last season.

A trip to Sebastian River follows before Viera plays its first home game of the season on Sept. 4 against

Heritage, which is back on the schedule for the first time since 2023.

“They’re one of the top teams in Brevard again this year, so getting them back

gives us a little tougher schedule than we had last year,” Gulla said of Heritage.

A road game at Lyman on Sept. 10 will be Viera’s Class 5A, District 5 opener.

Following their bye, the Hawks will head to West Roxbury, Massachusetts, for a game against Catholic Memorial, which USA Today has ranked No. 14 in the East Region in its preseason poll.

“They’re definitely the No. 1 team in Massachusetts,” Gulla said. “But it’s good for us. The trip’s going to be good for the kids. It will be a really good experience.

“The toughest part of our schedule is when we get back.

We’ve got to play Melbourne.

That’s a big district game.

VIERA FOOTBALL

Continued on page 20

Viera Voice August 2026

7

Where’s Duke? Opponents will have to find Viera’s talented Butler

BY CARL KOTALA Opposing football defenses playing the Viera Hawks this season are going to be forced to play a gamewithin-the-game kind of strategy if they don’t want to get burned.

That game is called, “Where’s Waldo?”

Or, in this case, “Where’s Duke?”

Viera senior Duke Butler is coming off a junior season in which he became only the second Hawk in program history to rush for more than 1,000 yards (1,051).

This year, the question won’t be, can he do it again?

It will be, where is the recent Naval Academy commit going to line up?

“He’s a special kid,” Hawks coach Tony Gulla said of Butler. “He’s been working out at quarterback. He’s been working out at running back. And he’s been working

VIERA VOICE Courtesy of Meghan Kramer

Duke Butler became only the second player in Viera High history to rush for 1,000 yards last season. This year, the senior and Navy commit could line up at quarterback, running back or slot receiver.

a little bit at slot receiver.

“He’s going to be all over the place. He’s really going to

step up and take over where (last year’s quarterback) Eric (Nelson) left off. It might

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not always be at quarterback, but he’ll definitely be on the field somewhere.

“He’s the guy we want to have the ball in his hands the majority of the time.”

That’s fine with Butler, who is eager to take on an even bigger role than he had last season, his first at Viera.

“We’ll see what ends up happening,” he said. “Of course, I just want to help the offense the best I can; be the primary target.

Whatever coach (Gulla) wants, really.”

Butler’s rise from a freshman who only got one carry and then played safety as a sophomore at Holy Trinity to a Division I recruit at Viera is a case study in how hard work and a welltimed growth spurt can pay off.

“I was really small,” Butler said. “I probably came to high school at 125 pounds.

My sophomore year, I was probably 150. I played safety at Holy Trinity. Then, when I transferred before winter break, I got up to 185 for spring ball. And, then, by the fall, I got up to 195.”

Spending time at ubrZati helped, too. Butler started lifting more weights, worked on his speed and agility, and started eating better. From his freshman year to his junior season, he grew from 5-foot-7 to 6-1.

He now checks in at 205 pounds. Talk about a transformation.

“I’d say that’s where a lot of the success came from. …

It’s a pretty funny story, how fast it changed,” he said.

Showing excellent speed, vision and running with determination, Butler was a star for the Hawks.

He achieved something only Bryce Norton could do as a Viera sophomore quarterback in 2018 — rushing for more than 1,000

yards.

“That was pretty cool,” Butler said. “The O-line helped a lot. Our scheme helped a lot.”

No Viera player has rushed for 1,000 yards in back-to-back seasons, so Butler has a chance to do something special this season. He’s put in the work to do just that.

“I took all the workouts I did last year and looked at what can I do better,” he said.

“What can I change in my strength routine? What can I change in my speed, agility and recovery? I tried to take what I did last year and get better at every aspect that I can.”

All that hard work led to Butler getting recruited not only by Navy, but the Army and Air Force academies, too. In the end, he decided to become a Midshipman after developing a bond with running backs coach Tommy Laurendine and meeting head coach Brian Newberry.

“He’s going to be all over the place. ... It might not always be at quarterback, but he’ll definitely be on the field somewhere.”

— Coach Tony Gulla

“I visited all three (academies),” Butler said.

“They all were beautiful and super nice. It was definitely a really hard decision. I talked to a lot of people from all three.

“There were a couple of things (that stood out). It felt right. It felt like the right option. Right now, they’re the most successful team, which had something to do with it.”

With Butler, sophomore transfer quarterback/ slot receiver Jamaal Crittendon and an improved sophomore running back Derek Schmadeke — not to mention a strong, veteran offensive line led by Army commit Coby Wallace — Viera has a chance to make this a memorable season.

Butler was particularly encouraged by the way Viera played in its spring jamboree against South Lake and St. Cloud.

“If we can play like that — we’ve got to make sure we’re studying film and doing the little things — I think we can be really good,” he said. “… We’ve got good talent. We just need to make sure we’re working hard.” VV

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9

FHSAA’S new Open Division impacts playoff matchups in 11 sports

BY CARL KOTALA The Florida High School Athletic Association’s postseason is going to have a new look this season.

And while that could lead to some incredible matchups among the state’s elite teams, the ripple effects could be intriguing and impactful for everyone else as well.

Along with the traditional class-level playoffs, the FHSAA will now feature an Open Division in 11 different sports that will include the top eight ranked teams in the state, regardless of classification.

The sports involved are: football; girls volleyball; boys and girls basketball; boys and girls soccer; baseball; softball; flag football; and boys and girls lacrosse.

Football will rely on MaxPreps rankings with the top eight teams selected following the end of the regular season. All other sports will be based on FHSAA Power Rankings

by MaxPreps at the end of district tournaments.

Where the ripple effect comes in is that, with the top eight teams now out of their respective classifications, it could open things up for the

VIERA VOICE Courtesy of Chandler Moreno

The Holy Trinity boys soccer team has been to three straight state final fours.

rest of the field and help create new state champions, which is always exciting.

“I do like it. However, it took some time for the concept to grow on me,” Viera High School Athletic Director Cheryl Draves said.

“After playing in the 2015 state championship football game against St. Thomas Aquinas, I've always felt a need for a change to classifications that aren't in the same boat as the St. Thomas’ of the state.

“The Open Division does just that. It rewards teams that have consistently proven themselves against the best competition throughout the season. It separates the state’s elite teams, while still allowing more schools a realistic opportunity to compete for a state

VIERA VOICE Courtesy of Meghan Roberts

The Viera High girls soccer team could make things interesting with the FHSAA's new open division.

championship within their classification. ... It enables everyone to get a chance at greatness.”

That 2015 St. Thomas Aquinas team, by the way, had seven sons of former professional athletes, including Nick Bosa, Michael Irvin II and Asante Samuel Jr. Would Viera have won a state championship that year against a different opponent?

Who knows?

But it sure would have been interesting to see how it all played out.

Of course, this is not to say Viera or Holy Trinity don’t have teams that could compete for a spot in the Open Division.

Viera girls soccer lost only one senior from last year’s team that went to the Class 6A state semifinals and

should be a contender again.

In the 2015-2016 season, the Hawks faced a St. Thomas Aquinas team that was No. 1 in the nation in the state semifinals and won 1-0 on their way to their first of two state titles and the No. 1 national ranking.

Holy Trinity may be a smaller school, but could fit into the mix as well. The Tigers return everyone from last year’s girls basketball state runner-up and should be strong again.

Holy Trinity’s boys soccer team won its first state championship last season and has now appeared in two consecutive state title games and three straight semifinals.

“I think it’s a great idea for the teams who are constantly thrashing teams throughout

the entire regional tournament and into the state semifinals,” Holy Trinity boys soccer coach Adrian Moreno wrote in a text message. “The thing I don’t like is, if you happen to have a fantastic regular season and become No. 8 in the state, you get yanked out to play against bigger schools that have larger pools of players to choose from.

“It eliminates teams on a magical run from potentially winning a first-ever championship.

“I think the second time we went to states and lost in the semifinal to Tampa Prep, Tampa Prep would have been pulled out, so things may have been different for us that year. In 2025, I think we may have been almost yanked out to the Open Division. This past year, we went into the regional tournament at No. 21.

“Overall, for the bigger powerhouse schools, this will be great for them. But for smaller schools like HT, it would be a problem going into the Open Division just because we don’t have large pools of players to pull from, so there’s a potential talent drop-off when playing against some of the bigger schools.” VV

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Yochim’s energy fuels Holy Trinity volleyball’s success

BY CARL KOTALA Holy Trinity rising senior Taylor Yochim brings a lot to the volleyball court.

Talent. Versatility.

Leadership. And energy.

Lots and lots of energy.

“Taylor Yochim bounces around the Holy Trinity gym like a human exclamation point, all long limbs and personality,” Tigers coach Kylie Kutzner wrote in an email.

“She is full of energy, lightness and humor. She has the ability to make everyone laugh, which is needed in tough moments. Some may think this lends itself to an unserious athlete, but that couldn’t be further from reality.

“Taylor is a highly competitive middle attacker with a whip of an arm, a solid block and an IQ that reveals how long she’s been playing.

Coming off a strong junior season, where she tied for first in hitting percentage in the county (.385), her senior season is looking to be her best yet. She is a huge asset for any team she’s a part of and will be someone we count on to end games with a bang.”

Yochim, whose older sister, Olivia, was also a standout player for the Tigers, said she thinks bringing energy makes things more fun on the court. She also enjoys playing with her teammates.

It was after watching Olivia play that Taylor said she switched her sports from soccer to volleyball.

She loves the competitiveness, the chance to prove doubters wrong and to make new friends.

Though she has played in all three hitting spots during the club season, she’s been used exclusively as a middle for the Tigers, who have won 12 of the past 13 district championships.

Still, that versatility of being able to play all the hitting positions gives her

Courtesy of Gracin Borboroglu

Taylor Yochim

some versatility that can help out, particularly on the defensive end, because she has a pretty good idea of what to expect.

“I feel like it makes me a more versatile player because a lot of people can either do just one or the other,” she said. “And I think it makes me a smarter player because I know what the other side is doing on offense.”

As far as competitiveness goes, Yochim said she likes to challenge herself on the court to help push herself to be better. That can mean setting a goal for how many kills she wants to get in a set.

“I think I perform much better under pressure,” she said.

At 5-foot-10, Yochim is not the biggest player in the middle, which can lead some teams to underestimate her.

Knowing that, it only gives her extra motivation. It also usually ends up working out in her favor.

“Middles are usually bigger players, so when I come on the court, I don’t feel very intimidating,” Yochim said. “But then my skill level speaks for itself.”

On both sides of the coin.

Yochim finished second on the Tigers with 24 total blocks last season and was also second on the team with 198 kills on that .385 hitting percentage.

Hoping to play in college,

VIERA VOICE Courtesy of Stella Dawson

Holy Trinity rising senior Taylor Yochim is known for bringing energy and personality to the volleyball court.

She is looking forward to helping lead what will be a younger Tigers team this season.

she has already been to three different volleyball camps this summer.

But, come this fall, Yochim’s full focus will be on not just helping the Tigers bring home another district title, but also making a deep run in the playoffs just like last year’s team, which reached the regional final.

While this year’s team will be different, of course, Yochim is looking forward to taking on more responsibility and leadership to help the Tigers reach their goals.

“We’re definitely going to have a younger team and I’m really excited to help them grow, especially since I’ll be a

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impressive,” Kutzner wrote.

“Her camaraderie with the younger generation of players is also extremely valuable and something that I view as a particular strength of Taylor’s. Being able to make younger players feel welcome and comfortable is important when it comes to team chemistry, which will be necessary this season.

“Coaching Taylor has been a joy and getting to know her as a young woman has been an even greater joy. She will be a huge part of any success we have this season and we look forward to her leadership on and off the court.” VV

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senior this year,” Yochim said.

“A lot of the JV girls will be coming up onto our team. “… I’m not worried about our talent or skill level. The only thing that’s going to be different is that it’s going to be a younger team. Last year, most of our starters were juniors and seniors. This year, we have three seniors and then it will be a lot of the JV players.”

Despite their youth, the Tigers — and Yochim — should be a team to follow again in Brevard County this season.

“She is a fun player to watch, a middle attacker (whose) combination of strength and speed is always

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Viera Voice August 2026

13

Incoming EFSC freshman and former Hawk wins big junior golf tourney

BY CARL KOTALA Vlad Alexander Bercea has been on a hot streak this summer.

The 2026 Viera High graduate and soon-tobe Eastern Florida State College freshman golfer won his third tournament of the year last month at the North Florida Junior PGA Championship (NFPGA) at The Country Club in Winter Haven.

Bercea shot 66 and 69 during the two-day event to finish 9-under par and win by three strokes.

By winning the tournament, Bercea qualified for the National Junior PGA Championship, which was set to begin July 28 in Frisco, Texas.

He also earned a spot in December’s NXXT Faldo North American Championship in Bowling Green, Florida.

“It’s up there with one of my bigger wins that I’ve had in my career,” Bercea said after winning the NFPGA title.

“I’m excited. I get to play now in probably the secondbest junior golf tournament in the country. That’s pretty exciting. It’s super cool, honestly.”

After winning the Florida Junior Tour’s Sun ’N Lake Open and a Florida Open qualifier earlier this year, Bercea got off to a hot start at the NFPGA tournament.

He was 5-under after the first five holes, something he had done a number of times

VIERA VOICE Courtesy of Vlad Alexander Bercea

Vlad Alexander Bercea, right, won the North Florida Junior PGA Championship at The Country Club in Winter Haven.

in practice, but never in an

official tournament.

“You’re right in the thick of it right away, so you’re playing a little bit more from ahead,” he said of his fast start. “You’re more in control from that position.”

Though he birdied the second, third and fifth holes during that stretch, the eyeopener of the round came on the 507-yard fourth hole, which is a par five.

After hitting a nice drive, Bercea hit a four-iron around a tree that went roughly 235 yards and set up a long putt for an eagle.

“I took advantage of an easier hole, I would say. I hit it right in the middle of the green and made a 30-footer,” Bercea said. “That was nice.

Definitely a bonus.”

Bercea, who helped

Viera win the first boys golf state title in school history in November 2024, said he believes the best parts of his game are his mental approach, his mid-iron play and his putting.

All of that will be on full display this fall as he enters EFSC and tries to help the Titans get back to the national tournament. His ultimate goal is to turn pro someday.

“We’ll see what comes about,” he said. “I’m just trying to play as good as I can and the rest will take care of itself. It’s not really too big of a stress.

“I mean, eventually, I’ll get to tee it up at professional events. What matters is how good you can get by the time you turn professional.” VV

Dreams realized for former Viera High baseball stars as MLB comes calling

BY CARL KOTALA

The call.

There’s nothing like it.

Dreams realized. All those years of hard work paying off and, in some ways, just beginning at the same time.

For former Viera High baseball players Alex Sosa and Camden Wicker, this year’s Major League Baseball Draft was everything they had been waiting for.

“It was surreal,” Sosa said after being drafted by the Athletics with the eighth pick of the sixth round, No. 172 overall, out of the

hearing my name (and seeing it) come up on screen, it was an awesome experience. It was honestly a dream that I’ve had since I was about 4 years old, playing this game for as long as possible and playing in the MLB. “Draft day made it one step closer. I’m excited.”

Wicker, who was VIERA VOICE Courtesy of Miami Baseball the ace of the UCF Alex Sosa signed his first professional pitching staff this past baseball contract on July 20 as his sister season, did not get to Oliva, left, mother Christina and father hear his name called Pete looked on. in this year’s draft. But University of Miami.

15 to 20 minutes after “Being with my family, it ended, the Baltimore

Sosa, a catcher, is the secondhighest pick from Viera. He signed his professional contract on July 20. Wicker was expected to sign a few days later.

A 6-foot-7, 210-pound righthander, Wicker began his college career at Wofford before transferring to UCF after his freshman year. He throws in the low 90s, topping out at 96, with a cutter, VIERA VOICE Courtesy of UCF Baseball curveball and his out Camden Wicker became the seventh pitch, a changeup. In 16 former Hawk to sign a professional starts, he went 5-3 with a baseball contract.

4.16 ERA and was secondOrioles phoned and wanted team All-Big 12. to bring him in as an Though he could have undrafted free agent. gone back to UCF for his “I was just super excited,” senior season and perhaps Wicker said. “I was saying gotten drafted next year, he all along, all I needed was decided he didn’t want to an opportunity, and they wait. gave me a shot, which I’m “Obviously, there was (a super happy for. I couldn’t thought about going back) be more excited to get as the draft was going on,” working with them.”

Wicker said. “But my first Sosa and Wicker are and foremost goal is to play the sixth and seventh professional baseball. I was Viera High players to get a given the opportunity, so chance to play professional I wasn’t going to turn that baseball, with a run of down.

Hawks coming the past “That’s been my goal for a three years. while. Making it happen was Pitcher David McKay a very big step for me. I’m was the first when he glad I got that opportunity.” was selected in the 14th One of Wicker’s first round by Kansas City in goals is to get bigger and 2016. Outfielder Christian stronger, which could help Robinson was taken by in several ways, including Atlanta in the 15th round in increasing his velocity.

2021.

“I know they’re very good Pitcher Dylan Jordan with pitching development went to the Los Angeles and, for me, a guy that just Angels in the fifth round wants to get better and in 2024 and catcher Alan filling out my frame, I’m Espinal was drafted by super excited to work with Colorado in the 11th round them because I know they that same year. Last year, do a great job with that,” it was Edian Espinal, who was selected by Detroit as a catcher in the 10th round.

Continued on page 16

VIERA BASEBALL

14

Viera Voice August 2026

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Viera's McPherson officially joins Penn's 2026 track class

BY DERRICK TOUBA Viera High School senior Jayden McPherson is officially part of the University of Pennsylvania's incoming track and field class.

Penn's Director of Track and Field/Cross Country, Steve Dolan, announced the addition of McPherson and 10 other student-athletes to the men's 2026 recruiting class, one of the deepest groups the program has landed in recent years.

McPherson arrives at Penn as one of the fastest sprinters in the group, with personal bests of 10.42 seconds in the 100 meters and 20.96 in the 200. Those marks earned him four-star and top-100 national rankings among 2026 sprinters nationwide, along with 2025 MileSplit All-National recognition.

As a junior, he swept the 100, 200 and 400 at the Class 4A, District 7 meet and anchored Viera's second-place 400 relay (4x100) relay team. He carries a 4.3 GPA and served as a team captain for the Hawks. He chose Penn over other schools such as Harvard and Cornell.

"Penn stood out mainly because of how I felt while I was visiting," McPherson said. "Out of the other schools I visited such as Harvard and Cornell, the environment and team at Penn made me feel most at home."

Balancing that speed with a strong academic record hasn't come by accident. McPherson credits his father, who has also served as his coach, as the driving force behind both.

"For me, it means that I am doing what I need to," he said. "For someone like me, I know how rare being academically and athletically gifted can be. I plan to make the most out of what I was given. My biggest influence has definitely been my father. He's my coach, my provider, and he's always been by my side from the start. Having someone that wants the best for you and is willing to grow obsessed with what you're passionate about means more than words can say."

McPherson's senior season came with its share of setbacks, and he wasn't able to add to his

VIERA BASEBALL

Continued from page 14

16

Viera Voice August 2026

Wicker said of the Orioles.

Sosa, who is 6-1 and 205 pounds, led Miami with 18 home runs and 71 RBI. He tied for the team lead with a .671 slugging percentage and was second with a 1.119 OPS. He was voted secondteam All-ACC. As a high school senior, he turned down teams wanting to draft him because he wanted to experience playing college baseball.

“I definitely regret nothing. I had an awesome college experience,” he said. “I went to Omaha (for the

VIERA VOICE Courtesy of Jayden McPherson's family

Former Viera High track standout Jayden McPherson will be one of the top sprinters as a freshman at the University of Pennsylvania this coming school year.

personal-best times the way he had hoped. Still, he's choosing to use that adversity as fuel heading into his move to Philadelphia this fall.

"I am aiming to bring back the trajectory I had," McPherson said.

"My senior season was rough and didn't go as I had hoped, but I know I can still do great things. I have a lot left in the tank and I want to show it. I want to leave my mark."

McPherson also spoke about what the commitment means for his hometown program and the Space Coast track community that watched him develop.

"It feels great to represent," he said. "Bringing attention to not just the school but the hidden talents it has to offer is always an honor."

Now, looking ahead to Philadelphia, McPherson said he's ready for what's next.

"I'm feeling better, and I'm ready to come back stronger," he said.

VV College Baseball World Series). I pretty much did everything every college kid dreams of. I had an awesome first two years at NC State and an amazing year at Miami.

“It was awesome to return home and be around family again. It was everything I dreamed of. I’m definitely super glad that I made that decision back when I was a 17, 18-year-old kid.”

Now, it’s time to get used to the professional lifestyle, stay healthy, have fun and start grinding.

“This is my dream,” Sosa said. “I’m super excited to go out there and put in the work. I want to improve everything. I just want to get better every day.” VV

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VSLL 10U Gold All-Star baseball team goes 2-1 at state tournament

BY CARL KOTALA This will always go down as the summer members of the Viera Suntree Little League 10U Gold All-Star baseball team and their families didn’t want to see come to an end.

“The experience was awesome,” Manager Alex Waycaster said after returning from the state tournament in St. Augustine, where the team went 2-1. “… You’re just kind of sad it’s over. But you wouldn’t trade it for anything.”

Playing in a pool that included three of the top four teams in the tournament, Viera Suntree’s only loss came in its opener against eventual state champion Niceville. After that 15-5 defeat, the Gold defeated Dunedin 12-7 and North Naples 6-2.

Viera Suntree, Dunedin and North Naples all finished 2-1 in pool play, but Niceville advanced to the state title game because it had given up the fewest runs in the three games played.

“I felt like we were well prepared,” Waycaster said.

Max Stewart got the start for Viera Suntree against North Naples and also threw four strong innings, striking out three and walking one.

Waycaster broke that one open with a two-run double.

Wyatt Huffman caught every inning in all three games and finished with four RBI, tying for the VIERA VOICE Courtesy of Michelle Huffman team lead with It was quite a summer for the Viera Suntree Little League 10U Gold All-Star baseball Waycaster team, which was the first VSLL 10U baseball team to qualify for the state tournament and Matthew in 15 years.

Rogers. Gaffney “We didn’t see anything that who allowed just one earned and Rogers was surprising. We ran into run while striking out six in both had triples. a buzzsaw of a team on four innings.

Jacob Allen had an that first night. I could tell Viera Suntree also got a incredible stat line, going watching them warm up that double from Crew Schaefer, 6 for 6 (1.000) and scoring they were really good.” a double from Kane Blanc five runs in three games.

After dropping that first and two doubles from Lucas Cure had a hit and game, the Gold came back Waycaster. The big hit, scored a run on Waycaster’s to face Dunedin and scored though, was a three-run double against North Naples. a big win thanks to some triple by Braxton Gaffney Drake Brewer walked four timely hitting and a strong that broke a tie game and times in the tournament and start from Xander Waycaster, put the Gold up for good. led the Gold in walks for the

summer with nine.

Sydney Spicochi played great defense in the outfield, making several big catches during the two wins. Wake Dibble walked and scored against both Dunedin and North Naples.

Blanc reached base multiple times in all three games and in addition to his double against Dunedin, Schaefer came on to get the final outs against North Naples.

Alex Waycaster said he wanted to thank the parents, the community and everyone else who got behind the team on its incredible run.

“We hadn’t sent a team to states in 15 years in this age division,” he said. “To go up there and know you were (so close to) winning the whole thing is pretty cool. I think it gives the kids a lot of motivation and a lot to look forward to heading into this fall and then spring when we crank it back up again. “… We definitely hope we made the community proud and put us back on the map as a league to be reckoned with in the future.” VV

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Viera Voice August 2026

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Hurricane Ready

In each issue through November

NEWS & TIPS RESOURCES

Hurricane Prep Rally draws hundreds for valuable resources

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Because we’ve seen these What you might have storms impact areas well to missed from our The Viera Voice and Senior our north, so what makes us Hurricane Prep Rally Life Hurricane Prep Rally think that we’re going to be Video presentations brought out hundreds of able to avoid these one day?,” from our experts area residents to St. John said Ulrich to a crowd at the the Evangelist Catholic event. “Now hopefully we do Community eager to prepare not see that in our collective for storms. lifetimes because you can The second annual imagine what that would do Hurricane Prep Rally held to our community as a whole.

July 17 included a host of But understand that though community partners and we get these bigger storms John Scott exhibitors who shared less frequently, there’s valuable information on absolutely nothing stopping important storm-related us from getting one of them topics such as emergency here.” responses, post-storm Brevard County planning, what to do with Emergency Management pets and shelters among Director John Scott talked to VIERA VOICE photo www.redhat.studio many other topics. residents about preparing for Experts shared resources and tips during the Viera Voice/Senior Life Will Ulrich Hurricane Prep Rally.

An example of the hurricanes. important information that William Scheiner, the contractors, and about those event. could be found at the event State Attorney for the 18th asking for payment before “It’s a way for me to warn came from Health First, Judicial Circuit, which work is done. people about things and get it which was the presenting includes Brevard and Scheiner said the to them in an atmosphere that sponsor of the event. There, Seminole counties, warned Hurricane Prep Rally was a is safe, that is free and that representatives from the residents about hurricane great opportunity to inform is reliable, because they’re company informed residents contracting scams and told William Scheiner everyone. getting it face-to-face,” he about how they could take them about prosecuting the “It’s an opportunity for said. “There’s not a risk of AI. care of medication needs. offenders. people to get their messages There’s not a risk of phishing Watch these videos at “When the governor issues He warned against out there,” said Scheiner, scams or any of those kinds of a state of emergency, the myseniorlife.com different types of scams, following his remarks on the things.” VV fact that they can refill their out-of-town unlicensed prescriptions early,” said Jose Hernandez, the pharmacy See how a Reverse Mortgage manager with Health First, can Improve your Income!

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VIERA FOOTBALL

Continued from page 7

We’ve got to play Oviedo and they’ve already been picked to win the district. And then Merritt Island’s already No. 1 or No. 2 in the county. It will get us ready.”

Sandwiched in between the Melbourne (away), Oviedo (home) and Merritt Island (home, season finale) games are contests against Lake Howell (away) and East River (home).

As for the receivers Viera will face, Rockledge has a rising star in Matt

Solution, page 34

Ford, while Oviedo’s Jordan Donahoo (Ohio State) and Catholic Memorial’s Ramar Thomas (Boston College) are committed to Division I schools.

Fortunately for Viera, the secondary will be the strength of its defense.

“We’ve got plenty of returning starters back there with Dimitri Jean and Yanni Jean and Daniel Jolly and Paul Hanna,” Gulla said. “I feel comfortable with those kids.”

Viera is coming off a 7-5 season that included a trip to the regional semifinals. VV

ACROSS

DOWN

1. Shoot the breeze 4. Between all and none 8. Patriotic symbol 12. Long time 13. Computer operator 14. Scarce 15. Elmer, to Bugs 16. Rancor 17. Years back 18. Beginning 20. Crosses with loops 21. Amounted (to) 23. Confute 25. Susan’s “All My Children” role 27. Accomplished 28. Qualifiers 31. Associated 33. Laugh 35. Not be up-to-date 36. Catch some rays 38. Patty Hearst’s name in the S.L.A. 39. Court wear 41. Hand holder 42. Bargain-basement 45. Bathroom cleaner?

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54. Miss-named?

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1. Roam (about) 2. Gone by 3. Flattering 4. Temps 5. Basket material 6. Liquefied 7. Poetic conjunction 8. Weather map area 9. Limp (hair) 10. Roguish 11. Turns right 19. Adam’s apple spot 20. Sit in on 21. Lockup 22. Soprano’s song, maybe 24. Sweeping 26. Fable writer 28. Setting fire to 29. Dart 30. Backside 32. Add the audio 34. Up for it 37. Astronomer’s sighting 39. Irritates 40. Indian music-maker 42. Skin problem 43. Headlight?

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Viera Voice August 2026

vieravoice.com

s w e SCHOOLN

Youth law camp gives students insight into the judicial system

BY LILLIAN NGUYEN

Circuit Judge Samuel Bookhardt III was excited to kick off the 18th Judicial Court’s summer youth law program at the Harry T. and Harriette V. Moore Justice Center in Viera.

He met Monday, July 13 with the students on their first day of camp in Courtroom 3-A. While he kickstarted the program four years ago, Judge Bookhardt is far from the only circuit judge involved. He explained that all of the other judges are playing a big part in one way or another, including financially. The judges diligently reviewed their dockets to find ageappropriate cases that would be of interest to the students.

During the weeklong program, the students learned from live court proceedings and from question-and-answer sessions with court judges and attorneys.

On July 17, the final day, the students put their new knowledge to the test with a mock trial. The highly interactive exercise had the students taking on the roles of prosecutors, defense attorneys, witnesses and defendants.

While the students

VIERA VOICE Courtesy of 18th Judicial Circuit

Sarah Goodrich sat in the judge’s chair as she was excited for the start of the summer youth law program.

were coached before the mock trial, Sarah Goodrich, 18, made sure to study beforehand by reading the Constitution and legal handbooks. This was her first time experiencing the legal world and she looked forward to the mock trial.

She signed up for the youth law camp after learning about it from her mother.

“A family friend had already done this program before,” she said. “So she was really excited to tell me 2026 EDITION • N0.

OURCE SPACE COAST RES

about it. When I told her that I was going into law, she thought that it would be a good idea for me to really get into this — and I agree.”

Goodrich recently graduated from high school and intends to continue her education to pursue a career in either corporate law or international law.

She attributes her career choice to her father.

“He was the one that really wanted me to go into a different career,” she said. “He really urged me to explore other opportunities besides engineering, medicine and teaching.”

For more information about the Youth Law Camp, email publicinformation@ flcourts18.org. VV

It’s all inside the

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BACK TO SCHOOL AUGUST 2026

VIERA/SUNTREE

R BY NUMBER O L O C 2

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4

7

4

6

7

2

7

4 9

3

6

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Viera Voice August 2026

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MOAACC awards 12 $7,000 college scholarships

BY CHRIS BONANNO Twelve college students received a big boost toward their college expenses, thanks to local veterans.

The 12, who are students at schools around the country, each received a $7,000 scholarship from the Military Officers Association of America Cape Canaveral chapter (MOAACC). They received the awards during the 43rd annual scholarship luncheon at the Indian River Colony Club in Viera.

To be eligible, students had to have completed their sophomore year of college. They also must be a descendant or ward of someone on active duty or who served in the U.S. military or is a descendant or ward of a current member of MOAACC. The 12 students who were awarded scholarships at the July 21 luncheon were: • Clayton Boyer, College of William & Mary • Isabel Cheng, University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine • John J. Clagnaz, Florida State University • Skye Crocker, University of Colorado, Boulder

VIERA VOICE Chris Bonanno

MOAACC awarded scholarships of $7,000 each to 12 college students during its 43rd annual scholarship luncheon.

• Austin DesJardin, Saint Louis University • Oliver Hoybach, Florida State University • Ashley Livingston, Kennesaw State University • Jacob McKee, University of South Florida • Casandra Ramirez, Tulane University School of Medicine • Megan Schlak, Regent University School of Law • Daniel Welsh, Burrell College of Health Sciences; and • Lori-Anne Wright, Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University Ramirez, who said she is interested in becoming

either an emergency medicine physician or

Get the

Smile

an orthopedic surgeon, graduated from Viera High School as part of its Class of 2021.

“I grew up with my dad in the military, just watching him and just the sacrifices that he made for our country and our family. So, to receive this scholarship from this organization, just means so much,” said Ramirez, who previously attended the University of Florida, where she studied applied physiology and kinesiology and minored in geography.

Ramirez said, “Regardless of what specialty I go into, I hope

to be able to just continue serving underprivileged patients who don’t receive the kind of access to care that a lot of us receive.”

Cheng is about to enter her second year of veterinary school. She grew up in Melbourne and graduated from West Shore Junior/Senior High School in 2021.

“Med school has been really expensive just because I have to take loans out and all this other stuff I never had to do in my undergrad. It’s like a

SCHOLARSHIPS

Continued on page 27

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Neighbors oppose proposed townhome project in Suntree

BY MIKE GAFFEY An 82-unit townhome subdivision proposed on undeveloped land north of Waelti Drive in Suntree is facing opposition from residents in nearby communities.

Manav Mandir Hindu Temple, at 7400 Waelti Drive, wants its 17.12-acre wooded parcel north of the temple rezoned from AgriculturalResidential to Single Family Attached Residential, according to Brevard County records. The Brevard County Planning & Zoning Board is scheduled to review the request in mid-September, said Joyce Wilden, a resident of The Forest of Suntree.

The landlocked property is adjacent to more than 300 households in The Villas at Suntree, The Forest of Suntree and Sunrise at Suntree communities to the west, and Florida East Coast Railway tracks to the east.

According to an aerial map rendering of the project, the high-density development would include a 7,500-square-

based Scheer Engineering LLC is listed as the project’s contractor.

“By rezoning to RA-2-6 (SingleFamily Attached Residential), the project is ensured to include a single-family product, which is consistent with development adjacent to the site and VIERA VOICE Courtesy of Brevard County Planning and Zoning surrounding area,” This is a rendering of a proposed subdivision on undeveloped land north of Waelti Drive in Suntree. according to the rezoning foot clubhouse; a park; a application’s stormwater pond created by description. draining and reconfiguring Project opponents fear the existing four-acre, manthat the subdivision will made Waelti Lake; and a destroy a longstanding new stormwater pond on wildlife habitat; create the subdivision's northern drainage, flooding and border. Satellite Beachaquifer problems; remove

trees that help muffle train noise; pose a danger to pedestrians, children and pets; damage roadways; and increase neighborhood traffic.

“My biggest issue is about all of the wildlife and the incredible biodiversity that's nourished by this lake that's been here for 40 years, and it’s going to be destroyed,” said Wilden, the creator of Save Waelti Lake, a Facebook page with more than 210 members. “We’re just heartbroken.”

Wilden and her husband, Jeff Thompson, also created a petition opposing the project that has gotten nearly 1,300 signatures at Change.org.

The landowners are seeking a density that's nearly 14 times the current permitted density for the property, Wilden said.

Realtor Diana Jabbour, a Forest of Suntree resident since 2006, fears the new community could hurt property values and increase taxes and insurance costs.

“Are people going to move, and are we going to have a diminishing neighborhood?” she asked. “And who's going to buy their house if that development is there?”

Manav Mandir spokesman Landon Scheer, the principal engineer with Scheer Engineering, said, “We are genuinely trying to design a development that minimizes impacts on the surrounding neighborhoods while recognizing that the property owner has the legal right to develop their property.”

Scheer said the proposed subdivision would have a lower density than surrounding communities and would be situated as far away from its neighbors as possible.

Landowners also have dropped a plan for a main access road to the new community through the Villas of Suntree at Linwood Way, he added. Instead, vehicles would be routed though temple property to Waelti Drive.

“I don't think the request is as extreme as the community is making it out to be,” Scheer said.

“We're proposing to do a residential community next to a residential community.

I understand the concern of the residents because it's new and sometimes new can be scary.”

Scheer noted that any development will be required to comply with all applicable planning, zoning, engineering, environmental, stormwater and traffic regulations before it can receive approval.

If the planning board recommends the rezoning, then the Brevard County Commission is set to review the project no earlier than Oct.1, Wilden said.

On July 16, about a dozen project opponents gathered for a rain-shortened signholding event at Waelti Drive and Wickham Road.

“I think we had a good turnout,” Wilden said.

“This is something that's just really close to a lot of people's hearts. We felt kind of blindsided by the project.”

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p o o c S BUSINESS

Residence Inn by Marriott begins rising in Viera

BY MIKE GAFFEY A 121-room Residence Inn by Marriott all-suite hotel coming to Viera is expected to open in February 2028.

Construction began July 6 on Residence Inn

by Marriott Viera Town Center at 6553 Bandini Way, according to Arielle Fox, the dual director of sales for Home2 Suites by Hilton Melbourne Viera and Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Melbourne Viera Town Center.

The five-story, 94,495-square-foot hotel will rise in the heart of Viera, just east of Urban Prime Marketplace & Restaurant and across the street from Lakeside Social, a new waterfront community gathering place.

“We are pleased to introduce the Residence Inn to the Viera area,” said Diane Mayer, the vice president and Global Brand Leader of Residence Inn at Marriott International.

“When on the road for an extended period, our guests need space to spread out, maintain their life’s pace and restore their energy to keep a healthy balance and routine while traveling. This new hotel offers a seamless blend of modern style and

VIERA VOICE Steve Hollinger

Residence Inn by Marriott, an all-suite hotel, is under construction and it will be near Urban Prime.

functionality that allows them to settle in and thrive.”

Specifically designed for extended stays of five nights or more, Residence Inn offers studio, VIERA VOICE Courtesy of Residence Inn by Marriott one-bedroom This is a depiction of Residence Inn by Marriott Viera Town Center, a five-story, 121and tworoom all-suite hotel under construction at 6553 Bandini Way in Viera. bedroom suites for business and features a fully equipped coffeemaker, microwave leisure travelers. Each suite kitchen with a cooktop, oven and residential-sized

appliances.

Guests will enjoy a complimentary hot breakfast every morning, with customizable breakfast items ranging from hot sandwiches with various toppings to build-yourown bowls with favorite ingredients.

The pet-friendly hotel also will offer grocery delivery service, complimentary Wi-Fi, a 24-hour onsite food and beverage market, and an onsite guest laundry room.

Guests can unwind outdoors with dining areas and lounge seating by fire pits. Other amenities include a business center, swimming pool, fitness center and a top-floor bar offering views of Viera.

The hotel will employ more than 30 people, Fox said. It will operate as a Marriott franchise, owned and managed by Sycamore Investments Group in Johns Creek, Georgia.

Melbourne-based BSE Consultants is the project’s contractor, according to Brevard County records.

The Viera hotel will be Marriott’s third Residence Inn along the Space Coast.

The other two are at 1430 S. Babcock St. in Melbourne and 8959 Astronaut Blvd. in Cape Canaveral. VV

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Viera Voice August 2026

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VIERA VOICE Lillian Nguyen

The building that will house Pepe's Cantina is currently undergoing renovation and is expected to open later this month.

Pepe’s Cantina set to bring unique Mexican fare to Suntree/Viera

BY DEBRA BRYANT The team at Pepe’s Cantina is getting ready to bring delicious food and fun to your table if you're a Mexican cuisine lover.

With signature dishes such as risotto de la casa (risotto topped with slow-cooked braised beef, queso, pickled red onions and cilantro) or Hawaiian Korean fried chicken with pineapple chunks, sesame seeds and jalapeños, your tastebuds will tingle in no time.

Pepe’s Cantina first opened in 2015 and is the invention of entrepreneurs Frank Chavez and Stuart Kirban. The restaurant features modern Mexican fare that includes craft margaritas and tableside-prepared guacamole. The franchise now has seven locations with four new ones coming soon, including the Suntree/Viera area.

“Pepe’s Cantina focuses on excellent service, good vibes, great music and a promise that you’ll love every bite,” said Jose Chavez, who is Frank’s brother and the Chief Operating Officer.

The franchise owners of the new Suntree/Viera location are Luisiana Rodriguez and Alejandro Diaz.

Luisiana and Alejandro recently moved from Orlando to Brevard County with their two children, who love to watch rockets soar.

“We wanted to be a part of the growing community and invest in a local business,” Diaz said. “After some research, we were impressed with the Pepe’s Cantina business concept, plus we’ve always enjoyed

SCHOLARSHIPS

Continued from page 23

different level of financial strain, so it’s just been such a blessing,” Cheng said of receiving the scholarship.

MOAACC has been awarding scholarships for 43 years. It has awarded more than $1.15 million.

“That’s a great vision that people had in 1984 when they went out and found this need and decided to raise

vieravoice.com

dining at the Orlando location, so we decided to open one here in Viera.”

Rodriguez said Pepe’s Cantina is unlike other Mexican restaurants.

“Pepe’s is not a traditional Mexican restaurant,” she said. “We offer a menu with a great variety of unique dishes focusing on tacos, salads, fajitas, chimichangas, tequila and Mexican daiquiris.”

The restaurant also features its own white tequila — Amor Tequila Blanco — and its own beer — Sol y Amigos Mexican-Style Lager — made for Pepe's Cantina by Bowigens Beer Company.

“Pepe’s Cantina’s smooth atmosphere and unique cocktail offerings, like our Coconut Love and Jalapeño Amor Margaritas, make it an unforgettable experience, and Margarita Mondays are the perfect time to try them,” Diaz said.

On Taco Tuesdays, taco choices include Angus steak, birria (slowcooked braised beef), mahi-mahi and octopus.

Those who bring a friend to Friendly Fridays and buy one Paleta-Rita (a one-of-a-kind fresh margarita served with lime and a mint-flavored popsicle) get one free Amor Tequila shot.

The location of the coming Pepe's Cantina restaurant previously housed several restaurants, including Mi Jalisco and Crispers.

Currently undergoing renovations, Pepe’s Cantina’s new address is 7700 N. Wickham Road in Suntree. A celebratory opening is coming in late August. VV this money, all by personal gifts, so there’s no other money coming in except what people decide to give for this special need,” said Donald Hagen, the president of MOACC’s scholarship board. “And I don’t know any other scholarship that’s set up for juniors and above in college when you really need money for lots of different things like your car, your phone, whatever, your computer and this helps them, but the competition is just incredible.” VV

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AUGUST SUNDAY SUNDAY

2

National Sisters Day

9

National Women's Day

MONDAY MONDAY

3

National Watermelon Day

TUESDAY TUESDAY

4

National Coast Guard Day

WEDNESDAY THURSDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY

5

6

National Root Beer Float Day

Back to School Judicial Candidate Forum Mini Movers Art Party Kids Night Back-to-School Car Show 6 p.m.

10 - 11 a.m.

6 - 8 p.m.

Ice Cream Social 8 - 11 a.m.

Forum to ask questions Children explore rhythm, Face painting, balloon 2 p.m.

Car show and school of the judicial candidates sound and movement. twisting and free crafts. For grandparents and supply drive. for Brevard County.

Suntree/Viera Library Pizza Gallery grandkids.

Ford’s Garage Includes Circuit Judge 902 Jordan Blass Drive 2250 Town Center Ave. One Senior Place 5480 Lake Andrew Drive race and County Court Suntree Viera, 321-633-0397 8085 Spyglass Hill Road Viera Judge races.

321-255-4404 Viera, 321-751-6771 321-405-3673 Commission Chamber Viera Run Club Baby & Kids Building C Early Bird Trivia 7 p.m.

Writers Critique Group Consignment Event 2725 Judge Fran 4 - 6 p.m.

2.25 miles, all welcome. 10 a.m. - 1 p.m.

Noon Jamieson Way Free to play.

2853 Rodina Drive Advice and guidance.

Holiday Inn Viera Viera Pizza Gallery Viera, Facebook.com/ Suntree/Viera Library 8298 N. Wickham Road lwv-spacecoast.org 2250 Town Center Ave. vierarunclub 902 Jordan Blass Drive Viera, 321-255-0077 Viera, 321-633-0397 Suntree, 321-255-4404

10

National Spoil Your Dog Day

South Brevard Coin Club Brevard Investment Coin Show Group 9:30 a.m. - 3 p.m.

11 a.m. - 1 p.m.

AZAN Shriners Center Friendly discussions 1591 E. Eau Gallie Blvd. about stock market Melbourne southbrevardcoinclub.org investments.

Suntree/Viera Library Back-to-School Blessing 902 Jordan Blass Drive Suntree, 321-255-4404 9 a.m.

A special blessing for students and educators.

St. John the Evangelist 5655 Stadium Parkway Viera, 321-637-9650

First day of school

16

Walking Around Larry L. Schultz Park 5 - 7:30 p.m.

Hosted by the Walkers of Rockledge.

Larry Schultz Park 2560 S. Fiske Blvd.

Rockledge Facebook.com/ WalkersofRockledge

23

National Cuban Sandwich Day

30

National Beach Day

Chess Club 1 - 4 p.m.

Chess lessons and competition.

Cocoa Library 308 Forrest Ave. Cocoa 321-633-1792

Chess Club 1 - 4 p.m.

Chess lessons and competition.

Cocoa Library 308 Forrest Ave. Cocoa 321-633-1792

30

17

National Nonprofit Day

Cookie Classes 6:30 - 8:30 p.m.

Decorate back-to-school cookies.

Pizza Gallery 2250 Town Center Ave. Viera 321-259-2897

24

National Waffle Day

11

Space Coast Survivors 5 p.m.

Educational speaker series. How Lifestyle Medicine Principles Can Support Breast Cancer Survivors.

Total Wine & More 2302 Harnett Drive Viera spacecoastsurvivors.org

18

National Ice Cream Pie Day

12

World Elephant Day

19

National Aviation Day

Story Time and Crafts 11 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.

A classic tale and beloved characters read aloud.

Books-A-Million 2251 Town Center Ave. Viera 321-504-6236

13

Lefthanders Day

25

Scottish Country Dancing Painting with Pearl 6:30 - 9:30 p.m.

10 a.m. - noon Springs of Suntree Cocoa Library 8300 Holiday Springs Rd. 308 Forrest Ave. Suntree Cocoa, 321-633-1792 321-427-3587 Trivia Tuesday Viera Chess Club 6 p.m.

7 - 9 p.m.

Put your knowledge to Publix at Addison Center the test.

7655 Stadium Parkway Hook & Eagle Tavern Viera, 616-881-1094 2300 Clubhouse Drive Viera, 321-639-3487

26

National Dog Day

A Tribute to the Great Crooners 3:30 p.m.

Celebrate the songs of Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, Bobby Darin and other crooners.

RSVP by Aug. 21.

Shell Harbor 2855 Murrell Road Rockledge

Purple Heart National Day of Day Service Commuy

Summer Fun and Fashion Show 1 p.m.

Fashion show benefiting the AVET Project and Riley’s Rescue.

RISE Viera 8353 Auterra Drive Viera 321-604-1429 Free Home Depot Workshop 9 a.m.

Build a rocket game.

Home Depot 2075 Viera Blvd.

Rockledge 321-416-0220

SATURDAY SATURDAY

8

National Pickleball Day

Pack to the Future Back Viera East Market to School Supply Drive 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.

4 - 7 p.m. • Supply drive Woodside Park and summer party.

1705 Crane Creek Blvd.

Forester Center Viera, Facebook/ 960 Cogswell St. VEfarmersmarket Rockledge 321-221-7540 Beach Blanket Bingo 5 - 7 p.m.

Silent Disco Music, bingo, lights, 1 - 3 p.m. snacks and refreshments.

Dance party, all ages.

RSVP Suntree/Viera Library RISE Viera 902 Jordan Blass Drive 8353 Auterra Drive Suntree, 321-255-4404 Viera, 609-207-8984

14

National Spirit of '45 Day

15

Bricks and Minifigs: An Evening with Kami Landscapes & Legends Garcia & Gabriel Picolo 7 p.m.

Teen Thursday 6 p.m.

Space Coast 3 - 6 p.m.

Beat the heat and build Book signing “Creators Symphony Orchestra of Teen Titans” Scott Center something epic. No Books-a-Million Holy Trinity Drive registration required — 2251 Town Center Ave. 5625 Suntree, 855-252-7276 just bring your creativity. Viera, 321-504-6236 Bricks and Minifigs Bourbon, Cars & Cigars 7640 N. Wickham Road Earth Club 7 - 10 p.m.

Suntree 3 - 4 p.m.

Women’s Center of Plant radishes/learn Brevard fundraiser 321-241-6406 farming.

Lexus of Melbourne Suntree/Viera Library 6927 Bromley Drive 902 Jordan Blass Drive Viera, 321-343-6253 321-255-4404

20

National Radio Day Bricks and Minifigs: Third Thursday at the Restore Our Shores 6 - 7 p.m.

Kid Wednesday Avenue Viera Learn about the new Cape 3 - 6 p.m.

5 - 8 p.m.

Canaveral aquarium.

Beat the heat and build Live music in Central Suntree/Viera Library something epic. No Park.

902 Jordan Blass Drive The Avenue Viera Suntree, 321-255-4404 registration required — just bring your 2261 Town Center Ave. Viera Estate Planning Seminar creativity.

Bricks and Minifigs 321-634-5390 10 a.m.

7640 N. Wickham Road William A. Johnson.

One Senior Place Suntree 8085 Spyglass Hill Road 321-241-6406 Viera, 321-751-6771 PRIMARY ELECTIONS National Heroes Day

7

FRIDAY FRIDAY

1

27

National Burger Day

21

National Senior Citizens Day

Lucky Goat Run Club 6:30 a.m.

Run/walk to Borrows West Park Lucky Goat Coffee 2105 Viera Blvd.

Viera, 321-208-7225 Second annual Bourbon Raffle 3 - 9 p.m.

Promise in Brevard.

Urban Prime 2431 Metfield Drive Viera, 321-722-7400

28

22

National Take Your Cat to the Vet Day Tai Chi Class with Sifu Brad 9:30 - 10:30 a.m.

For all skill levels and age groups.

Suntree/Viera Library 902 Jordan Blass Drive Suntree 321-255-4404

29

Tailgate 2 Miler Rockets and Satellites, Designer Purse/Gift 7 a.m.

Oh My! Card Bingo The Avenue Viera 3:30 - 5 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

Learn about rockets, Walk to end Alzheimer's 2261 Town Center Ave. space and the Nancy Space Coast Memories Viera, runsignup.com Grace Roman Space Matters Team Fifth Saturday Telescope from the NASA Springs of Suntree Double Dance Launch Services.

Club House 2 - 5 p.m., 7 - 10 p.m.

Suntree/Viera Library 8300 Holiday Springs Presented by the Space Coast Contra Dance 902 Jordan Blass Drive Road, Suntree Municipal Building Suntree, 321-255-4404 act.alz.org 11 Orange Ave. Rockledge spacecoastcontra.org

31

Bone Builders 9:30 - 11 a.m.

308 Forrest Ave. Cocoa, 321-633-1792 Monday Fun Run/Walk 6 p.m.

2-mile run, jog or walk.

Pizza Gallery 2250 Town Center Ave. Viera, 321-633-0397

Viera Voice August 2026

Sassy Saturdays — Viera East Golf Club vieravoice.com

Viera Discovery Center works to introduce Viera to newcomers

BY KAYDENCE BATES For anyone considering moving to Viera, the first stop should be the Viera Discovery Center.

For more than 15 years, the Viera Discovery Center has served as Viera's welcome center, bringing residents together, introducing newcomers to the community and sharing the vision that has made Viera what it is today.

The Viera Discovery Center, which has been in other locations in its 15 years of existence, is now at The Avenue Viera.

Its purpose is to educate visitors about the area's neighborhoods, schools, parks, businesses and longterm vision. More than just an information center, it has become an important part of how Viera tells its story.

“Our hope is visitors will want to purchase a new home in Viera and become part of our community,” said Tom Frerick, an ambassador at the center. “We encourage them to explore the model homes while also learning about our local businesses through our dining guides,

events.

The Viera Discovery Center is undergoing updates with the addition of interactive touchscreen displays. It allows guests to explore neighborhoods, local attractions, schools, businesses and amenities.

Historical displays recognize the Duda family's

role in transforming the land from a working cattle ranch into a thoughtfully planned community.

As Viera continues to grow, the Viera Discovery Center remains the community's front door — welcoming newcomers, preserving its history and helping visitors envision a future here. VV

Celeb rating our t h year i n busi ness!

26

Private Lessons Private Private Lessons Lessons • Piano • Voice • Violin • Piano • Piano • Voice • Voice • Violin • Violin • Flute • Harp • Guitar • Ukulele Harp•• Guitar • Ukulele ••Harp Ukulele

VIERA VOICE Lillian Nguyen

Teresa McMenamy, a lead ambassador at the Viera Discovery Center, demonstrates the use of interactive screens that offer valuable information about Viera.

new technology and by answering their questions.”

The Viera Discovery Center can help newcomers explore real estate opportunities and find the right place to call home. The center introduces visitors

to Viera while connecting them with neighborhoods and housing options. It also highlights the lifestyle Viera offers through its outdoor recreation, nature preserves, shopping, dining, healthcare, education and community

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31

City of Rockledge plans new public safety training center

BY DEBRA BRYANT The City of Rockledge aims to give its public safety employees the added resources and training they need to better serve the community.

Renewed plans are underway for the development of a Public Safety Regional Training Center to be located at the corner of Murrell Road and Commerce Court.

The city council recently approved the funds for the pre-design of the facility that will serve both its police and fire personnel.

“The new Public Safety Regional Training Center will be an all inclusive, state-of-the-art law enforcement, emergency medical and firefighting training center, which will be a robust training facility with modern technology,” the Rockledge City Manager Brenda Fettrow said.

“Rockledge just acquired its first ladder truck, and we are excited the new facility will have a three-story training tower for ladder, hose and rescue work.”

All public safety personnel are trained at Fire Station 37, in addition

to ongoing on-the-job training. The city has 125 public safety employees — 56 police officers and 41 firefighting personnel.

“Our current training facility is outdated and our training programs are limited,” said Chris Crawford, the Public Safety director and Police Chief.

Fire Chief Jim Wilson also has concerns.

“We currently don’t have live fire training, even though we have live fire training instructors. With the fire and emergency services being the first responders to all types of incidents, complex and skilled training is a must.

The new training tower and fire training structure will be wonderful additions,” Wilson said.

In addition to the three-story training tower, the new facility will have a confined space rescue simulator, vehicle fire simulator, vehicle extrication pad and a classroom. It will feature a multi-level, self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) confidence maze that is an enclosed, highly confined structural prop used by fire departments and

VIERA VOICE Jill Blue

Rockledge public safety personnel currently train at Station 37. A new Public Safety Regional Training Center is in the pre-design stages.

rescue teams to simulate zero visibility, high-stress environments. It will also have a vehicle Class A burn building, which is a specialized fire training structure engineered for

firefighters to conduct livefire drills using ordinary combustible materials such as wood and paper.

“We also plan to share our new Regional Training Center with other police

and fire agencies in Brevard County,” Fettrow said.

The Fire Station 37 M.W. “Bill” Weinberg Fire Station is located at 3500 Murrell Road, Rockledge. VV

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Viera Voice August 2026

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Viera East operations manager job suits ex-dental assistant to a tee

BY MIKE GAFFEY Lacee Gelardo-Mirto had been working as a dental assistant for several years when her parents told her that Viera East Golf Club was looking for a new operations manager.

“I enjoyed dentistry, but I was working toward my bachelor’s degree in business and human resources, so I knew I wanted to transition into a role that aligns more closely with that,” she said.

Today, more than two years after Gelardo-Mirto landed the position, the 27-year-old California native and Palm Bay resident said she enjoys her job so much

VIERA VOICE Jill Blue

A career change for Lacee Gelardo-Mirto provides enjoyment in learning new things in her Viera East operations manager role.

that she wants to make it her career.

“I love everything about the golf course,” she said. “I

love learning new things about the industry and the business aspect of it all. It's just a great team here.”

On any given day, Gelardo-Mirto can be handling administrative or human resources duties, helping with inventory, supporting restaurant and golf operations, or “just jumping in wherever I’m needed,” she said.

“I'm the operations manager, but people who are in the golf industry know that we all wear a lot of hats,” she said. “I work closely with our general manager, Jim Moller, to keep operations running smoothly and ensure a great experience for both our

guests and employees.”

A golfer visiting Viera East can expect great food and service, Gelardo-Mirto said. “The cart staff in the barn, they're great," she added. “They're very attentive. They grab your bags from you and make sure you’re taken care of from the moment you arrive. More than anything, everyone here is treated like family, and I think that shows in the level of customer service our team provides.”

Gelardo-Mirto moved to Brevard County five years ago after having visited the Space Coast many times with her parents, who live in Viera’s Ashton subdivision

and are Viera East members.

“My family and I would come here during the summertime,” she said. “And I decided that I wanted to make Brevard County my home.”

She and her husband, Michel, hope to move to the growing Viera area, where the couple have taken up golf as a new hobby and play at Viera East Golf Course.

“I’ve taken lessons from our head professional,” she said. “I would say my game is a lot better than it was eight months ago when he gave me my first lesson. I finally got a 92. That's my lowest score. But I'm trying to break 90. That's my next goal for myself.” VV

what my strengths and weaknesses were,” Meeks said. “First Watch definitely shaped the manager that I am today.”

Meeks plans slight revisions to Hook & Eagle’s menu, but he will keep the tavern’s signature burgers, wings, and chicken and waffles. He’s also dropping weekly meal specials for seasonal specials.

“I think the tavern has a pretty good atmosphere and they already have a solid customer base, so I don't really want to change anything too much now,” he said. “Right now, we're just focusing on elevating the food presentation and just

elevating the food that we have because the food’s already pretty good.”

Meeks also finds time to take on the challenge of Viera East’s 18-hole championship golf course.

“Every once in a while, I'll get out here and play,” he said. “I'm not the best golfer, but I get out there and I try.”

Tavern hours are 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday and 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday and Monday.

The kitchen opens at 11 a.m.

Monday through Saturday and 9 a.m. Sunday.

For more information, check out hookandeagle. com/ or call 321-639-3487.

VV

Food and beverage manager happy to be part of Viera East Golf Club

BY MIKE GAFFEY

Ajaye Meeks knew he had come to the right place when he interviewed for the position of food and beverage manager at Viera East Golf Club.

“It just seemed like it's very promising and I liked the atmosphere and I wanted to be part of the team,” said Meeks, 31, who was hired April 29.

Working at the Hook & Eagle Tavern in Viera East’s clubhouse at 2300 Clubhouse Drive, the Palm Bay resident and father of two sons, 1 year old and 3 years old, now has a heaping helping of tasks on his plate.

SCHOOL SAFETY

Continued from page 1

to practice your route ahead of time,” said Abby Hemenway, the public information and outreach manager for Space Coast TPO. “Don’t wait until the first day of school. We want to make sure that those students are prepared.”

The SCTPO offers a checklist of items that students who are walking or riding a bicycle to school should have. The list includes high-visibility backpacks or vests, bike lights (with white in the front and red in the back) and reflective clothing or reflective armbands.

“Visibility is key, especially in the fall season when we see that time change when it’s really dark in the early mornings,” Hemenway said. “So one thing that I always tell parents or kiddos — and you’ll see this a lot when we’re out in the community

vieravoice.com

“I’m responsible for everything that is food and beverage, such as alcohol orders, truck orders, inventory, scheduling the staff and helping plan events for the golf course,” said the Illinois native, who moved to Florida in 2014.

A worker in the food and beverage industry since he was 16, Meeks worked at Pig Floyd’s Urban Barbakoa in Orlando before coming to Brevard County and gaining managerial experience while working for more than three years at First Watch locations in Melbourne, Viera, Merritt Island and Vero Beach, he said.

“First Watch taught me a — being safe and seen is such a big thing,” Do whatever is necessary to be seen.

“We want to make sure that those students are prepared.”

— Abby Hemenway

“If we can’t see you, we need to make sure that we set you up for success and that you’re being safe and seen out on the streets.

What does that look like? It can be something as simple as a small reflecting key chain on their backpack as they’re walking or they put it on their jacket. I’m a big fan of the safety lights.

They’re so frequent now.”

Other recommended items on the checklist include a helmet, closed-toe shoes and a water bottle.

VIERA VOICE Jill Blue

Ajaye Meeks, the new food and beverage manager at Viera East Golf Club, is a native of Illinois.

lot about being a manager and, honestly, a lot about just myself in general, like “Eyes up, ears on is one thing that I always say to students when we’re on our roadway, when we’re using our bicycle or when we’re walking to school,” Hemenway said.

She also offered advice that was applicable to those who both ride bicycles and e-bikes.

“I would suggest, for e-bike safety similar to general bicycle safety, (that) is doing your ABC check on your bike ahead of time.

That’s checking your air, your brakes and your chain,” she said.

Similarly, there is also an onus on those driving vehicles to be mindful of students traveling to schools. Tips that the SCTPO offers include slowing down and obeying school zone speed limits, obeying crossing guard instructions and avoiding being distracted in school zones, with such things as eating or using cell phones.

VV

VIERA VOICE Jill Blue

The construction of the newest Health First AdventHealth Centra Care in Brevard County is expected to open in the next few months.

Centra Care Viera coming soon to the area SPECIAL TO VIERA VOICE Health First AdventHealth plans to open Centra Care Viera later this year at 5390 Murrell Road in Viera.

The walk-in clinic will accept most major health insurance providers. It likely will be open from 8 a.m. to 8

p.m. Monday through Friday and from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Saturday and Sunday.

Centra Care Viera will treat urgent or nonlife-threatening medical conditions for adults and children from allergy care to X-rays. Imaging, lab tests and common medications will available at the site. VV

Viera Voice August 2026

33

s w e N SENIOR

Enjoy summer sun in moderation, take precaution against UV effects

BY R. NORMAN MOODY

Chris Laird is a man for the outdoors.

Whether it is enjoying the beach, surf fishing, bicycling or hiking the Linear Trail in Viera, he cherishes his time outdoors.

“I am out every chance I get,” said Laird, who lives in Suntree. “I am fishing, hunting, bicycling or walking the trails.”

Staying safe from the effects of the summer sun is always a concern, so Laird, like others, must take certain precautions to protect themselves.

Sunlight helps the body create vitamin D and improve health, but protecting the skin and eyes from UV damage is essential. It is recommended to combine methods of protection from the effects of too much sun.

Among those methods are protective clothing, sunscreen, shade and

ICE SKATING

Continued from page 4

hydration.

Laird said he does have some concerns about the effects of too much sun, but not enough to keep him from enjoying the outdoors.

“I wear a shirt that is 50 UPF (Ultraviolet Protection

Factor),” he said. He also wears a hat, sunglasses and sometimes sunscreen.

Deborah Key, a retired advanced registered nurse practitioner, said that while the body needs sunlight, precautions are a must.

She said it is essential for vitamin D production, to help reduce stress and support the immune system.

Key, who worked in hospitals in Texas, Nevada, Georgia and in Melbourne, prefers taking a holistic

Juvenile teams’ charge to the other bronze for the Space Coast skaters.

“I am extremely impressed with what they have accomplished, and proud of all of these kids, and especially thankful for another successful Nationals opportunity,” Nyman added.

Deseree Dawn Kemble,

often referred to as the Team Mom Extraordinaire by all the Theater on Ice skating teams and coaches, has spent countless hours behind the scenes coordinating, baking and connecting all the teams’ fundraising efforts, as well as creating costumes and props.

“It literally takes a village to keep all of these pieces in

motion for all of the amazing skaters,” said Kemble, whose daughter, Serena, is a member of the Open team.

Theatre on Ice Skating has been a part of the Space Coast Iceplex since 2005.

The competitive form of figure skating combines the grace of skating with theatre and dance. VV

Sudoku Solution

Puzzle on page 26

34

VIERA VOICE Courtesy of Cheryl Smith and Tara Birch

Tara Smith Birch, Cheryl Smith and Ashley Smith Johansson excelled as both coaches and skaters.

Crossword Solution

comprised of many skaters who have been part of the TOI family since they were toddlers,” Nyman said.

Nyman’s son, T.J., who recently returned to assist as part of the coaching staff for the TOI teams, led the

VIERA VOICE Courtesy of Chris Laird

Chris Laird, an avid outdoorsman, is always mindful of protecting himself from the effects of the sun.

approach to protect herself from the sun’s rays.

“Do not go out into the sun during the hottest part of the day,” Key said. “If you do, wear protective clothing.”

Key said people should know what their bodies can tolerate. She recommends using an umbrella on the beach. Spend some time in the shade, rather than being in the direct sun for a prolonged time. The sun is healthy, but too much can be harmful in short order.

Avoid getting sunburned.

“Once you burn, you have broken down your first line of defense,” she said. “Burn over burn could lead to cancer.”

There are many brands of sunscreen and sunblock on the market, but Key said she prefers other forms of sun protection. She recommends Zinc oxide, which is used in mineral sunscreen.

“I love natural ways of doing things,” Key said. “I believe in balance.” VV

Viera Voice August 2026

Puzzle on page 20 vieravoice.com

Start of school year presents unique recycling opportunities As it happens every year, parents have to shop around to cover a long list of school supplies and teachers have to prepare their classrooms and look for materials that will be used in their various lessons and special projects.

That can be an expensive, and sometimes frustrating expedition.

How could that experience be turned into a win for students, teachers, families and the environment?

The short answer: Reuse!

Countless materials that businesses and households no longer need still have tremendous value in the classroom.

Ribbons, buttons, cardboard tubes, office supplies, craft foam, paper, binders, folders and many other items can become science experiments, engineering challenges, art projects, STEM activities and classroom organizers.

In the hands of a creative teacher, what might have ended up in the landfill becomes a valuable learning tool.

Reuse does more than stretch classroom budgets — it encourages imagination and problem solving.

“Reusing is great.”

BEYOND the CURB Marcia Booth

President & Founder, Recycle Brevard

Students learn to look beyond an object's original purpose just to discover that creativity often begins by seeing possibilities where others see waste. These lessons stay with them long after the school year ends, helping to build a generation that values resourcefulness and environmental stewardship.

And this is the big plus — the environment gains from that mind shift as well.

According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), only about a third of municipal solid waste in the United States is recycled or composted. This leaves roughly two-thirds of what we discard to be sent to landfills, burned for energy or disposed of using other methods.

While not every discarded item can be reused, many materials still have plenty of useful life left in them and can serve schools,

Classifieds For Sale • Senior Services Employment • Rentals • And more

— Bill Nye

communities and household projects before it becomes waste.

Reuse sits higher than recycling on the EPA's waste management hierarchy and on Recycle Brevard’s waste pyramid too because, as we all know, extending the life of materials conserves resources and reduces the demand for manufacturing new products.

That is why Recycle Brevard accepts donations of reusable materials. Diverting those materials from the landfill and distributing them to those who can give them a purpose changes waste into valuable resources and educational tools.

With the new school year just beginning, August is the perfect time for teachers to connect with Recycle Brevard and find supplies for upcoming lessons and classroom projects. Teachers are encouraged to join the Supply Hub email list through RecycleBrevard.org to receive notifications about available materials and also have access to a request form

when looking for special items.

Another exciting opportunity is coming on September 23 when Recycle Brevard will once again provide free classroom materials during the Brevard Zoo Teacher Open House in Viera. Registered teachers can simply bring a bag and select the supplies that best fit their classroom needs for the coming school year.

The community can also participate throughout the year by attending Recycle Brevard Connect events at local libraries, where reusable materials are made available to residents.

Looking ahead to November, Recycle Brevard will host Recycle Brevard Fix It, celebrating repair and reuse, 2026 EDITION

20 th

Stay Active s Stay Curioure Go Anywhe

ValuableES RESOURCities

Activ Sports & s Resource Veterans & Helplines Hotlines tings Clubs & Mee Groups ort Supp g Senior Livin

ANTIQUES WANTED TO BUY High prices paid!

Buying costume jewelry, flatware sets, coins, old military items, pottery, toys, trains, old paintings, figurines & much more

Email Marcia Booth at Marcia@RecycleBrevard.org Recycle Brevard is an independent, nonprofit organization promoting sustainable living.

The free 2026 Boomer Guide

• N0. 20

MAGAZINE T RESOURCE SPACE COAS

ry issue Anniversa

along with Crafting with Friends at The Wine Lady in Cocoa Village. Participants can enjoy an evening of creativity using reclaimed materials and a glass of wine.

Additional events are scheduled throughout the year and can be found on the online calendar at RecycleBrevard.org.

Back-to-school season does not have to mean buying more — it can mean reusing better. Every item given a second life keeps valuable materials in our classrooms instead of our landfills, saving money, reducing waste and giving students an opportunity to learn, rethink and create. VV

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Walk Hike Roam Life’s more fun after

50

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Find everything you need to live your WAY on the Space Coast — from clubs to activities, to health care and recreation, the best places to live, play and thrive.

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Viera Voice August 2026

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CLOSETS, GARAGES, PANTRIES, LAUNDRY ROOMS, WALL BEDS AND MORE 36

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Viera Voice August 2026

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