Viera Voice, January 2026

America 250 commemorative flag raised page 18 Grocery stores plentiful in area page 22

WALK THE

TRACK

page 5

Vol. 17 Issue 12

Read Viera news anytime at vieravoice.com

JANUARY 2026

CAGED

VIERA VOICE Jill Blue

Rachel Winsten, left, the chair of the health and physical education department at Viera High School, Shannon Daly, center, the principal of Manatee Elementary School, and Manny the Manatee are excited about the upcoming inaugural School Mascot Olympics. It will be held from 6 to 8 p.m. Jan. 10 at Viera High School.

Mascot Olympics link schools for fun

BY JILL BLUE

VIERA VOICE Courtesy of Jay Fowler

Montreal Canadiens goaltender Jacob Fowler, 21, a former Suntree Elementary School student, became the first Florida-born goalie to start in a National Hockey League game on Dec. 11. Story, page 6.

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

Mascots from various schools around Brevard County will compete in the School Mascot Olympics, a friendly competition of high-energy fitness activities, from 6 to 8 p.m.

Jan. 10 at Viera High School.

“We want our schools to come out and support their mascot for a fun night centered around promoting healthy lifestyles for students across our schools and community,” said Shannon Daly, the principal of Manatee Elementary School. “… say the Ralph Williams’ cranes have

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really long legs,’’ Brevard County School Board Chairman Matt Susin said about the physical diferences of the mascots. “We might have to link them together. We have the high school or the middle-school owls and they can’t fly. So, I think we’re going to really focus on the 50yard dash and the shot put. (We won’t let them know the events) until they get there. … We will not tell anybody — that’s under a double secret locked (notebook) inside of Dr. Mark Rendell‘s office. He has a safe in there. That’s where all the regulations will be.’’

A second version will likely be held this November and each year afterward. VV

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Active in their faith, busy couple enjoying life in Viera

BY CHRIS BONANNO After meeting on the CatholicMatch dating site, Michael Oliva and his wife Andrea have made a life in Viera.

Michael, 50, moved to Viera in 2012, while Andrea, 45, has been in the community since 2021 after meeting her now-husband.

“I loved it here,” Michael Oliva said. “I thought it was really nice here.”

The couple who met on the CatholicMatch dating website in 2021, are active at St. John the Evangelist Catholic Community.

“We have a healing ministry called Kerygma Healing Prayer Ministry. We do healing services at St. John the Evangelist Catholic Community four times a year,” Michael Oliva said.

Andrea Oliva describes herself as a Secular Carmelite.

The couple records a podcast

entitled Jesus Within Us. “We do a weekly podcast, Andrea and I, and we have guests on that share about their conversion to Jesus and their relationship with the Lord,” Michael Oliva said.

The pair are also successful professionally.

Michael Oliva works as a business manager at Lexus of Melbourne while Andrea works as a pediatric physical therapist.

“I love kids and I always wanted to do something medical, but I remember seeing a movie with somebody learning to walk again with like the parallel bars and that kind of just stuck with me,” Andrea Oliva said.

When they’re not working, Michael Oliva, who has two adult children, indicated that they enjoy going to the movies and dining out.

“We like going for walks,” Andrea Oliva added. “… We

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like to read.”

Both Michael and Andrea Oliva have had living experiences well outside the community.

Michael Oliva grew up in New York City before leaving in 2010.

“I grew up Catholic, went away from the church, got into a lot of crazy stuff, trouble, and then I became a New York City bus driver,” Michael Oliva said. “My first day on the job was 9/11, Sept. 11, 2001.”

Michael Oliva indicated that thoughts of the day can still be emotional for him.

“I still can’t watch, like, documentaries sometimes without getting choked up

because it just overwhelms me because it was my city,” Michael Oliva said. “I grew up there.”

Andrea Oliva was born in Colombia and moved to the United States when she was 4 years old. She has lived in Miami, Fort Lauderdale, Texas, Virginia and Italy.

“Italy was a tough one to leave,” said Andrea Oliva, who ran a center for pediatric physical therapy in Italy.

Still, despite their immense experience elsewhere, both seem to enjoy living in Viera.

“I just love sitting back there,” added Andrea Oliva, referring to the patio at their Viera home. VV

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Viera Voice | January 2026

VIERA VOICE Shutterstock

Amelia Earhart sits outside of the cockpit on an autogiro in Los Angeles in August 1932, shortly after she became the first woman to complete a solo coast-to-coast flight.

Zonta plans workshop to draw young women's interested in aerospace SPECIAL TO VIERA VOICE Zonta Club of Melbourne will hold its second annual Reach New Heights: Women in Space workshop from 1

to 4 p.m. Jan. 10 at the Sands Space History Center in Cape Canaveral.

AEROSPACE

Continued on page 21

vieravoice.com

Defining excellence —right here.

Recognized as one of Florida’s best four years in a row and backed by a CMS 5-Star rating, Viera Hospital delivers excellence right here at home.

Explore our awards and recognitions at hf.org/awards

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Viera Voice | January 2026

3

Volume 17, Issue 12 ©2025 Bluewater Creative Group, Inc. All rights reserved Bluewater Creative Group 321-242-1235 7350 Shoppes Dr. Suite 102 Viera, FL 32940

media@bluewatercreativegroup.com

Editor R. Norman Moody Office Manager Sylvia Montes Design/Photography Jorjann Blake Copy Editor Jeff Navin

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It’s your move: Chess fans play at Publix

BY MIKE GAFFEY

and skill levels.

“People come from Publix Supermarket at Orlando and the Miami area,” Addison Center at Viera has said Suntree resident Arthur MEANS an unusual two-for-one VIERA Suggs, the tournament special on Monday nights. director and a member of BUSINESS KING GROUP Visitors can shop for N E T W O Rthe Brevard Chess Board of groceries and play chess.

Directors. “People will travel From 7 to 9 p.m. each for chess.”

Monday, up to 20 chess fans Part of the Brevard Chess gather at the supermarket’s Club, the group started second-floor dining area to meeting at the Publix a few play the popular, centuriesmonths ago after searching old board game. Hosted for a public venue where by the Viera Chess Club, they could play for free, meetings at Publix at 7655 Suggs said. Players also Stadium Parkway are free meet for Thursday night and open to all age groups tournaments at Panera

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

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Viera Voice | January 2026

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— Arthur Suggs

Bread at 245 Palm Bay Road NE in West Melbourne, at Catherine Schweinsberg Rood Central Library at 308 Forrest Ave. in Cocoa from 1 to 5 p.m. each Sunday, and at Nocturne Tea House at 4700 Babcock St. NE, Unit 2 in Palm Bay starting at 2 p.m. each Sunday.

“They’re cool with

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“One of our top players, Bob Wilcox, is a senior who just turned 71.

He’s in the top 50 in America, according to one of the ratings.”

P

Managing Editor Jill Blue

VIERA VOICE Mike Gaffey

Arthur Suggs, the tournament director for the Viera Chess Club, plays against Blake Gurden, 9, during a chess tournament at Publix Super Market at the Addison Center at Viera. The Viera Chess Club plays each Monday at the Addison Center Publix's second-floor dining area.

VIE R A

Publisher Bluewater Creative Group, Inc.

it,” Suggs said of Publix management. “We're supporting their business and Publix is supporting the community.”

At Publix, players face off in timed, five-minute games. Suggs will fill in if there’s an odd number of players. He recently took on an 8-year-old player without an opponent and “got beaten mercilessly.”

“One of our top players, Bob Wilcox, is a senior who just turned 71,” Suggs added.

“He’s in the top 50 in America, according to one of the ratings.”

At a recent tournament, Greg Gurden of Malabar brought his 9-year-old son Blake for a night of chess play.

“We’ve moved around a lot, so I’m trying to find him something steady so he can make some friends and stay in one place for more than a year,” said Gurden, an engineer at L3Harris who moved his family from North Carolina to Brevard County in October.

The upstairs playing site is quiet enough for games and occasionally lures new players, Suggs said.

“People will come up here and have dinner and they haven't played chess in years,” Suggs said. “And they say, ‘Hey, I want to play chess,’ and they'll get back in the game.”

For more information, go to brevardchess.org or call 321-514-8547. VV

vieravoice.com

Local tracks available for night laps in January SPECIAL TO VIERA VOICE Brevard Public Schools (BPS) has invited the community to take advantage of expanded access to the stadium tracks at Viera High School and Satellite High School.

From 6 to 8 p.m. Jan. 3 and 10, stadium lights at both schools will be turned on to create a safe, well-lit space for walking, running and other aerobic activities.

This initiative reflects BPS’s commitment to promoting health and wellness across Brevard County. By opening school facilities after hours, the district aims to encourage physical activity, strengthen family connections and foster positive community engagement in a welcoming environment.

“Any community member is allowed to come,” said BPS School Board Chairman Matt Susin. “We want to give families and individuals a chance to stay active, connect and build healthy habits.”

Susin added, “This is part of a larger focus on health and wellness for our students, both during the school day and beyond, ensuring they have opportunities to build

any opportunities to bring our families out and connect with them in a way that gets

them healthy and teaches those lifelong physical fitness skills to our students,’’ said

Shannon Daly, the principal at Manatee Elementary School. VV

Cathy Presnick, L.M.E Serving Brevard County since 2004 BETTER SKIN IN

VIERA VOICE photo

Only sneakers are permitted during the family friendly walking, jogging and running night at Viera High School.

lifelong habits that support their overall well-being.”

This opportunity is made possible through generous funding provided by Health First, whose support underscores the importance of community partnerships in building a healthier Brevard.

BPS looks forward to seeing residents of all ages take part in these community track access nights, designed to support wellness and togetherness.

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Viera Voice | January 2026

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p U p a r SPORTS W

Ex-Suntree Elementary School student makes historic NHL debut

BY MIKE GAFFEY

A former Suntree Elementary School student has made pro hockey history.

Jacob Fowler, 21, became the first Florida-born player to suit up as a starting goaltender in the National Hockey League when he took the ice for the Montreal Canadiens on Dec. 11.

In his pro debut, Fowler made 36 saves in a 4-2 road victory against the Pittsburgh Penguins, a team he idolized as a boy growing up in Melbourne.

“I mean, I could have played anywhere tonight,” Fowler told NHL.com after his first start. “And to get your first win, it’s going to be special. But (I’ve) been to a lot of games here. Grew up a Pittsburgh fan. (Sidney) Crosby and (Marc-Andre) Fleury were my favorite players growing up.”

A third-round pick by the Canadiens in the 2023 NHL Draft and likely the first Brevard County player ever drafted by the NHL, Fowler was the fourth Montreal goalie to make his first start on the road against the Penguins, and the fourth to record a win. He joined NHL Hockey Hall of Famers Ken Dryden and Patrick Roy, and former Canadiens goalie Carey Price in accomplishing

VIERA VOICE Courtesy of Jay Fowler

Kerri Fowler is excited for the opportunity her son Jacob Fowler, 21, has with the Montreal Canadiens.

the feat.

At 21 years, 17 days of age, Fowler also was the youngest Canadiens goalie to win in his first game since Price, who was 20 years, 55 days old when he won his debut in 2007.

A hockey fan since he started watching his father, Jay, play in men’s leagues, Fowler received a pair of plastic roller skates at age 2. He learned how to skate and play hockey at the Space Coast Iceplex in Rockledge, first as a forward, then as a goalie. He later played in the Lee County-based Florida Alliance.

After attending Edgewood Junior/Senior High School on Merritt Island for seventh, eighth and part of ninth grade, Fowler went to prep school in Connecticut in 2020.

Fowler spent two seasons playing for the Tier I junior hockey Youngstown (Ohio) Phantoms of the United States Hockey League. He was named USHL Goaltender of the Year in 2023 — the first Phantoms player to earn the award — and helped the Phantoms win their first USHL Clark Cup championship that year. He also earned Clark Cup MVP honors and the Dave Peterson Goalie of the Year award.

After being drafted 69th by the Canadiens, Fowler played two years at Boston College, going 32-6-1 his freshman season and ranking first in the NCAA in winning percentage (.855) and fourth in save percentage (.926).

He went 25-7-2 during his sophomore year in 2024-25.

In April, Fowler won the

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While at Boston College, Fowler also played on the USA U20 at the 2024 World Junior Championships, winning all three games he competed in and earning the gold medal.

Fowler was then assigned to the Laval (Quebec) Rocket, Montreal’s American Hockey League affiliate. He eventually became the team’s starting goalie during the AHL’s Calder Cup playoffs, helping the Rocket reach the Eastern Conference Finals.

After poor play from the Canadiens’ goalies during the first two months of the NHL season, Fowler was called up following a 6-1 defeat to the Tampa Bay Lightning on Dec. 9. After his debut, Fowler earned praise from his idol Crosby. “(Fowler) was solid,” Crosby told NHL.com. “We had some good looks. He looked pretty good in there. It would have been nice to get a little bit more traffic in front of him and test him more that way. The pucks that he was able to see, he did a good job.”

Todd Pokrywa, the president of The Viera Company, also congratulated Fowler.

“Watching Melbourne, Florida native Jacob Fowler

make his NHL debut as a goaltender for the Montreal Canadiens during early December was an incredible moment for Florida’s Space Coast,” Pokrywa stated.

“From my own experience in hockey, I’ve learned that teams are built on trust, accountability and a shared commitment to one another.

Jacob’s journey from a local Florida rink to one of the world’s biggest stages reflects those values and is a powerful reminder of what dedication and discipline can achieve. He is a source of community pride for the Viera/Suntree area and our entire region, as well as an inspiration to young adults who are dreaming big here at home and put in hard work to follow their passion.”

Fowler’s parents, attorneys Jay and Kerri Fowler, were at Pittsburgh’s PPG Paints Arena for their son’s big night.

“We are very excited for Jacob for this opportunity and grateful for all of the support he's had along his journey to get to the NHL,” Jay Fowler said. “In particular, we would like to thank all of his coaches, teachers, family and friends who helped him learn and grow in such a positive and supportive way during his time here in Brevard.”

VV

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Viera Voice | January 2026

Professional softball is back in Brevard.

The Florida Heat will begin play in the Professional Softball League in 2026, according to team owner Ricky Bumgardner.

“Professional softball is continuing to grow and I think overall the growth for women’s sport has continued,” said Bumgardner, who also coaches softball at Viera High School.

“There’s a want for it,” he said. “There’s a need for it with the talent level being the best it’s ever been.”

There is hope from both Bumgardner and USSSA Space Coast Complex general manager Lexi Betterman that the team will play their games in Viera, though as of press time that had not been made official.

“We’re really excited to have the opportunity to potentially host them,’’ Betterman said. “But it’s still

VIERA VOICE Jennifer Rincones

Ricky Bumgardner is the owner of the Florida Heat. The softball team hopes to begin play in June.

in the early stages. Once we get the schedules and figure out a calendar come the next month or so, we should be able to hopefully work it out and have them be here,” Betterman said.

Bumgardner noted that he

SOFTBALL

Continued on page 35

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Gold, Silver & Platinum Jewelry We buy all types of gold jewelry, new, old and broken. Rings, (class rings, mothers rings, wedding sets, etc.). Bracelets, (charm bracelets, tennis bracelets, bangles, etc.). Earrings do not need to be a matching pair. Chains and pendants, broken is okay.

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Viera Voice | January 2026

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Holy Trinity’s Spreitzer having success on a national level “If he stays healthy, he has the gifts, the talent, the drive Evan Spreitzer is a man and commitment to be one of with a future. the best.”

A future that could Spreitzer, a senior, became blossom into something really the fourth Holy Trinity boy to spectacular. win the Class 1A state crossAnd it’s all right in front of country championship on Nov. him, just like the tape at the 22. end of a finish line waiting — It’s what he did afterward for now — off in the distance. that’s even more impressive.

“I believe we’re watching A week later, Spreitzer a future Olympian,” Holy went up against runners from Trinity cross-country and track 17 different states and won coach Marc Bailey said of the Brooks XC South Region Spreitzer. championship in Charlotte, North Carolina Randy’s Pressure Washing with a The Hurri“cano” Solution to your pressure cleaning need time of 14 minutes, 52 Mildew & Rust Removal seconds.

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the biggest race I’ve ever won yet. And I broke my school record there, which is pretty nice.”

That regional title put Spreitzer into last month’s Brooks XC Nationals in San Diego, where he placed 15th in 15:45.

And to think, running was once his side sport.

A key member on Holy Trinity’s boys soccer team that went to the state finals last season, Spreitzer initially went out for cross-country and track to keep himself in shape and to also run with his good friend and soccer teammate, Luke Thomas.

But Bailey saw more.

“Three-and-a-half years ago, watching him play soccer, I noticed he had a perfect stride,” Bailey wrote in a text message. “He ran track that spring, and his first workout, I thought I was watching the second coming of Steve Prefontaine.”

That said, soccer was still Spreitzer’s main sport until things started to change during his junior year.

After finishing second in

the Class 1A state crosscountry meet, he stopped running and concentrated on soccer. Then came track season, where he won four medals — three gold — including the 3,200-meter championship.

A week later, at a Running Lane event in Alabama, he not only finished first in his heat, he ran a 4:10 mile, beating his previous best by five seconds.

“I knew I was pretty good, but I don’t think it fully clicked until after I ran that time,” Spreitzer said.

Not only did that performance convince Spreitzer he had a chance to compete at a national level, it also completely turned his main focus to running.

Soccer is now his second sport.

That time was VIERA VOICE good enough to draw Courtesy of Shannon Spreitzer attention from Division I Holy Trinity's Evan Spreitzer is the fourth runner in program history to colleges such as Furman win a Class 1A state cross-country University, a program championship. known for its distance running. The men’s and pro. I think it’s the best fit for women’s teams both won their me to try to achieve my goals.”

13th consecutive Southern Spreitzer certainly appears Conference Cross Country to be setting himself up for Championships this past success, both on the track and season. in cross-country.

Spreitzer loved everything And yes, he confirmed, about his official visit to the running in the Olympics is a Greenville, South Carolina long-term goal. Now that he’s campus, including the fact that devoting all of his attention the Paladins have produced to the sport, who knows how a number of pros that run the good he’ll become? same events he does. He’s “Evan is what I call ‘the 1 now committed there. percent,’” Bailey wrote. “His “The coach (Robert Gary) work ethic and drive to be the was an Olympian,” Spreitzer best are pro-level dedication.” said. “My goal is to try to go VV

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Oxley, Florida Tech win women’s soccer national championship

BY CHRIS BONANNO Savannah Oxley, a Viera High School alumna and a graduate student studying finance at the Florida Institute of Technology, was supposed to participate in the school’s commencement ceremony on Saturday, Dec. 13.

As great as it would have been for her to attend the ceremony, what Oxley ended up doing instead on the day was likely even better.

Oxley and her teammates on the Florida Tech women’s soccer team won the NCAA Division II National Championship, defeating Franklin Pierce University of New Hampshire 3-0 in the championship game held in Colorado Springs, Colorado.

The Panthers finished the season 17-3-6.

“It’s electric,” said Oxley, on Sunday, Dec. 14 after returning to Florida Tech from Colorado. “I mean, it’s amazing. It’s a feeling that we got last night and it hasn’t gone away. It’s really spectacular. I can’t explain it.”

to win the Sunshine State Conference Championship after the teams finished regulation and overtime tied at 1-1.

“The start of the year, we played some really good football,’’ Florida Tech assistant women’s soccer coach Scott Wilson said. “We played some really good stuff, but we maybe didn’t control the moments as well as we did. That’s something that we managed to do later on in the year, which made us really think we can do this. But, continue the same ideas like the messaging was still the same, the process was still the same but we were managing those moments much better.’’

Oxley, a center midfielder, also played in her 81st game with the team, which is a Florida Tech record, according to the school.

“I didn’t know about the record to be fair until we were on the trip,’’ Oxley said.

“And they announced it — it feels amazing. I’m honored to be able to play that many VIERA VOICE Chris Bonanno games for this team, and Former Viera High School soccer we really made this season standout Savannah Oxley helped count. It’s my last season so Florida Tech win the NCAA Division II Women’s Soccer to get that many games this Championship with a 3-0 victory season was really amazing.” against Franklin Pierce University Wilson also offered in Colorado Springs, Colorado. praise for Oxley.

“First of all, Savannah’s an exceptional person,’’ Oxley and the Panthers Wilson said. “I think that’s won six consecutive NCAA something that everyone Tournament games, with can attest to before we just one of them coming at even take football into home. They defeated three the equation, Savannah’s teams in the tournament just an awesome person. that they drew with She wants to put the team previously, with one of first, puts other people those teams being Nova before her. From a soccer Southeastern. standpoint, I’ve only been Nova Southeastern had in the program the past two defeated Florida Tech 6-5 years. She was awesome in a penalty kick shootout

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VIERA VOICE Courtesy of Stevie Szucs

Florida Tech went on an improbable run to win the NCAA Division II Women’s Soccer Championship.

in welcoming me into the team. For her as a leader, the way that she leads is just so organic and so natural to her and it’s infectious. She’s helped me become not just a better coach, but a better person from just learning and talking with her. I’d like to think that her legacy that she has earned right now is going to last for a long time at Florida Tech.”

Oxley, who also played at Viera-based Space Coast United, discussed what she learned with both SCU and Viera High School.

“I had Cal Dixon as a coach both at Viera and at Space Coast and we made state championship runs as well,” Oxley said. “I think I just learned a lot of resilience and grit honestly. Just hard work and consistency from both of those experiences.

I’ve carried that into my time here.” VV

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Viera Voice | January 2026

9

VIERA VOICE Courtesy of Dean Stewart Photography

With a well-balanced lineup that can score on the inside and from beyond the 3-point arc, the Viera Hawks will be a very tough basketball matchup for opponents this season.

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Viera boys basketball team features well-balanced lineup

BY CARL KOTALA The Viera Hawks knew they were going to have some rebuilding to do in order to replace four-fifths of last year’s starting lineup that set a school record with 22 wins.

Well, don’t look now, but they’re off to a good start.

“It was great to watch from where we started (in the offseason) and where we ended up by the end of summer,” Viera boys basketball coach Logan Keith said. “Hopefully, we keep this thing rolling.

“This is probably one of the most connected teams I’ve had in a long time. They all love each other. They hang out outside of playing ball. They enjoy being around each other. That always helps.”

Senior guard Brooks Harris, the only returning starter from last season, is now joined in the starting lineup by senior guard Damian Carter, senior center Sal Parker, senior guard/forward Alex Ollis and senior guard Will White.

Sophomore Bronson Chodachek, the team’s tallest player at 6-foot5, has been a force off the bench, averaging a double-double.

Junior Robbie Iezzi is a knockdown shooter. Sophomore Brayden Wasdin is a 6-3 point guard.

Senior Evan Bargewell is another good shooter coming off the bench, as are sophomore Nick Diedling and junior Matthew Johnston-Kline.

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Viera Voice | January 2026

"This is probably one of the most connected teams I’ve had in a long time. They all love each other. They hang out outside of playing ball. They enjoy being around each other."

— Logan Keith

improvements both Parker and Chodachek have made since last season, which have helped make the Hawks much tougher to deal with.

“We’ve got a well-balanced team,” Keith said. “We can go inside and score the ball. We’ve got guards that can score it. We’ve got multiple ball handlers. We’ve got some guys that can shoot it from 3. Just a wellbalanced team.”

Viera was off to a 6-3 start at press time.

While Class 6A, District 6 will certainly be a challenge with teams such as Melbourne lurking, the real issue for the Hawks will be playing in perhaps the toughest region in the state with Evans, Bartow and Edgewater.

“I think if we continue to play well and all things go the way they’re supposed to go, we could have a chance to be competitive in the region,” Keith said. VV

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Tigers ‘have all the pieces’ to have a strong postseason run

BY CARL KOTALA Steve Henderson is no stranger to postseason success, so when the Holy Trinity boys basketball coach talks about his team like this, you should probably pay attention.

“I think we have all the pieces to make a great run in the postseason,” Henderson said. “We have a schedule that I think has set us up to play teams that we would need to beat to make a run late in the year.

“But if they continue to build together, I think that’s something that’s very reasonable, to see us hitting our stride at the right time.

Staying healthy is a huge factor.

“Our goal is to continue to build and get better as the year goes on and, hopefully, make a strong run in January.”

The Tigers, once again favorites to win the Class 2A, District 6 title, don’t have a lot of height this season. In

fact, their tallest player is 6-foot-3 senior Elie Peter.

But what the Tigers have always hung their hat on is their intense defensive pressure and ability to get out and run.

They’ve also got junior point guard Derrick Flowers back from a knee injury that forced him to miss last season.

“He’s our leader,” Henderson said. “He was a guy that had the most experience, so our younger players looked up to him.

Not having him on the court last year had a huge effect, but at the same time it allowed some guys to grow up pretty fast; Aaron Raines being one of those guys.”

Raines, a sophomore, now shares the backcourt with Flowers in a lineup that features junior Omari Savage, senior Jaeden McMillan and senior Ryan Dierking. The Tigers also have plenty of depth that Henderson can insert into the lineup or bring off the bench.

VIERA VOICE Courtesy of Dean Stewart Photography

The Holy Trinity boys basketball team believes it has a chance to go far in this year's postseason. The Tigers are playing a challenging schedule to help get them prepared.

Those key pieces include Peter; senior Kriston Gibson; junior Jaylen Hall; junior Damien Henderson; senior Rico Buitrago and junior

Herman Poshin.

At press time, they were 7-2.

“We’re typically playing five guards every night,”

Henderson said. “We’re undersized, but we’re trying to get used to doing those little things to try to win games.” VV

Tigers expect to be back in state title picture this season

BY CARL KOTALA

The Holy Trinity girls basketball team made it to the Class 2A state final four for the first time in program history last season.

Now, the Tigers are looking to take the next big step.

And that preparation is well under way thanks to a brutal regular-season schedule that has already included two state champions — New Smyrna Beach (5A) and Grandview Prep (1A) — from last season.

“We kind of did it for a reason. We’re trying to get the girls prepared early on,” Tigers coach Will Gibson said.

“We expect to be back where we were last year for sure, competing at state.

We’re trying to help the girls develop a little bit over the regular season so we’ll be in a good spot later on. We’ve been battling.”

While the Tigers were off to a rough start in terms of their record — they were 3-6 at press time — Gibson has liked what he’s seen so far.

“We’re seeing some progress,” he said. “I think we’ll be in a good spot, a good space, once we get down to it.”

The addition of highscoring junior transfer Gianna Conklin-Jones has been a big bright spot for the Tigers because now opponents can’t simply

vieravoice.com

VIERA VOICE Courtesy of Sarah Martinez

The Holy Trinity girls basketball team made it to the state final four for the first time in program history last season. And that's exactly where the Tigers see themselves heading back to this year.

focus on their other bigtime scorer, freshman Leila Bryant.

Eighth-grader Cici Hsieh has already shown tremendous improvement and sophomore Kylie Green nearly averaged a doubledouble last season. Junior Samantha Frazier has been on varsity since the seventh grade and provides some toughness in the middle.

Junior Lorena Faber is the team’s tallest player at 6-foot-1 and she’s joined by eighth-grader Maddie D’Orazio who is 6-foot to

give the Tigers some size off the bench.

Liz Stewart may be just a sophomore, but she’s also a veteran (she’s been on varsity since the seventh grade) who can shoot and defend.

Take that experience, toughen it up with a strong regular-season schedule, and the Tigers should definitely have a shot at winning their region again and getting another crack at a state semifinal.

“We might be a little more complete in a sense than we were last year,” Gibson said.

VV

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11

DINING OUT & EVENTS JAN. 3

"The Yale Spizzwinks in Concert" 7 p.m.

Presented by the Space Coast Symphony Orchestra.

Satellite High School Performing Arts Center 300 Scorpion Court Satellite Beach 855-252-7276

40th annual Mustang and Ford Powered Car Show 8 a.m. - 3 p.m.

All proceeds benefit Grandparents Raising Grandchildren and Pineda Waterway Warriors.

American Muscle Car Museum 3500 Sarno Road Melbourne, 321-408-7107

JAN. 5

Flower Head painting class 5 - 7:30 p.m.

Galleria of Art and Photography 7720 N. Wickham Road, #107, Viera, 321-338-9787 Large Cats Talk 2 p.m.

Presentation by the Brevard

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JAN. 7, 21 and 28

S.A.I.L. Senior Adventures in Learning 2 p.m.

Explore how S.A.I.L. keeps seniors mentally engaged through lifelong learning.

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JAN. 5 - 8

Gold, Silver Buying Event 10 a.m. - 3 p.m.

Antiques, gold, silver and platinum jewelry buying event.

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Becoming an Artist Class Series 1 - 3:30 p.m.

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Come join us for our Mimosa Brunch

Family Fun Night 5 - 8 p.m.

Balloon twisting, face painting, and themed arts and crafts. Children eat free with the purchase of an adult entree.

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Music on the Patio

Chuck Gillespie 6:00 pm - 9:00 pm

Salsa Lesson & Dance 1st & 3rd Tues.

WIth Hans 6:30pm - 9:30pm

Karaoke Every Friday Night With Rockstar Entertainment 6:00 pm - 11:00 pm

Music on the Patio

Ryan Gates 6:00 pm - 9:00 pm

Trivia Night 2nd & 4th Tuesday WIth Steve & Evie 6:00 pm -7:30 pm

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Teddy V One Man Band 6:00 pm - 9:00 pm

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Viera Voice | January 2026

Senior Day trips — Motor Coach Tours-Group Cruises Departs Cocoa & Viera

Cherry Blossoms & Andersonville • March 22 - 26, 2026 Nashville & Louisville • April 7 - 14, 2026 Broadway to Bermuda Cruise • June 6 - 14, 2026 Alaska Cruise — Train & Land • June 8 - 20, 2026 Amish Tour — Mayberry-Walton’s Mountain Nov. 6 - 15, 2026

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8085 Spyglass Hill Road Viera, 321-751-6771

JAN. 15

JAN. 12

Dinosaur Adventures 5 - 7 p.m.

Animatronic dinosaurs, hands-on paleontology activities, and educational adventures.

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

JAN. 9

Thimble Girls in Friendship 9 a.m. - 1 p.m.

Quilting group.

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

Do It Yourself Friday 2:30 - 3:30 p.m.

Discover the science behind how drones work, explore some of the career and hobby paths. Quick rundown of key flight regulations.

Cape Canaveral Library 201 Polk Ave. Cape Canaveral 321-868-1101

JAN. 10

JAN. 14

Music at the Library 2 - 3 p.m.

Sean Gaskell performs West African music on the kora, an ancient 21-stringed harp.

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

3-2-1 Jazz Orchestra: Jazz, Lies & Alibis 7 p.m.

Presented by the Melbourne Municipal Band.

Melbourne Auditorium 625 E. Hibiscus Blvd.

Melbourne 321-724-0555

Flight Club: Drone Club for Adults 1 - 2 p.m.

Conquer obstacles, complete monthly challenges, and learn more about drones and their real-world applications.

Cocoa Beach Library 550 N. Brevard Ave. Cocoa Beach 321-868-1104 Third Thursdays 5 - 8 p.m.

Enjoy live music by the Heatstroke band.

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America’s Greatest Treasures — July 3 - 11, 2026 Celebrate America’s 250th Birthday in South Dakota. The trip begins in Rapid City to visit Mount Rushmore (includes fireworks), Crazy Horse and Deadwood. Then to Cody, Wyoming, Yellowstone National Park, the Grand Tetons and Jackson.

Finishing in Salt Lake City. This trip will sell out fast.

Gourmet Puglia — Sept. 20-27, 2026 Stay in Martina Franca for 6 nights exploring the Puglia Region of Italy. Martina Franca is known for its unique Baroque architecture. This tour will focus on Apulian Experiences involving local foods and wine. Deposit is $250 per person. Small group with 18 max.

Azamara Pursuit Down Under — Dec. 19, 2026 - Jan 4, 2027 Have you ever wanted to spend New Year’s Eve docked in Sydney Harbor next to the Opera House? This is your chance, as we will sail from New Zealand to Australia with a double overnight for NYE in Sydney Harbor.

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Amelia Earhart Event 1 - 4 p.m.

Presented by the Zonta Club to celebrate Amelia Earhart’s life and inspire the next generation.

Sands Space History Center 100 Spaceport Way Bldg. 90328, Cape Canaveral zontaspacecoast.org Cultivating a Supportive Community in Understanding Depression 2 - 4 p.m.

A presentation by Lifting Up Ladies in Love and Deed.

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Viera Voice | January 2026

13

Viera girls basketball has mix of senior leadership, sophomore talent

BY CARL KOTALA With four seniors and some standout sophomores, the Viera High School girls basketball team has a chance to do some fun things this season.

“Last year, we made it to the regional quarterfinals.

That’s our floor,” coach Melvin Jimenez said.

“I think our ceiling … I think we can get past that.

In our county, specifically, the talent of the teams has gotten better. A lot better.”

One of the keys to the season for the Hawks will be how quickly senior guard Yasmin Croom and

sophomore transfer Eriyana Kitchen — also a guard — can work their way back from injuries. Both girls have been playing, but will obviously get better as the season goes along.

Viera already has a pretty potent lineup that includes sophomore guard Demi Reck, an All-Cape Coast Conference selection last year whom Jimenez feels has Division I potential because of her athleticism, defense, motor and scoring ability.

Another sophomore, Aleyah McFadden, can be a scorer for the Hawks. And if senior Grace Nixon is

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The Viera High School girls basketball team has been getting strong play from its sophomore class, combined with solid leadership from its seniors. The Hawks are hoping to get out of the first round of the regional tournament this season.

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hitting her 3-pointers that night, Viera can be very dangerous.

Senior guard Kylie Winslow brings a wealth of experience and sophomore Ava Griggs brings a lot of potential because of her athleticism.

Sophomore guard Laali Franco starts and is another weapon for Viera.

Senior Vivianna Russell comes off the bench and brings plenty of energy.

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a chance to beat their win totals from each of the past two seasons. Both of those teams won 11 games.

Viera will face a challenge in Class 6A, District 6 from teams such as Bayside and Heritage, which are both much improved since last season.

That should make for an interesting postseason as Viera tries to advance to at least the regional semifinals.

VV

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Junior center Brailynn Allen moved to Viera from Missouri at the end of last season and has been contributing this season along with transfer Layla Mangum.

One thing Jimenez said he likes about this year’s group is that the players work together as a team, don’t force the action and make smart decisions.

The Hawks were off to a 5-2 start at press time with

Viera Voice | January 2026

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SENIOR LIFE • JULY 2024

Viera Voice | January 2026

5 15

Moving to Viera in 2024 has helped Atticus Stark become a surfing phenom. He has been surfing since he was 6 years old.

VIERA VOICE Courtesy of Matt Stark

Viera’s Stark winning on the waves, in home classroom

BY SUE DEWERFF

Since his family moved to Viera in the fall of 2024, 10-year-old Atticus Stark has surfed every day.

His first six years were spent living in western North Carolina (four hours from the coast), where he was lucky to get to the beach once a month.

Atti, as he is known by family and friends, was first introduced to the sport after watching someone surfing behind a boat on a lake.

His stoke for the sport became a reality after riding his first wave off the North Carolina coast.

“My wife Megan and I first began pushing him into the waves back then but, after a few times, he insisted he wanted to ‘fly solo,’ meaning paddle on his own,” his father, Matt Stark, said.

Fast forward, Stark won the first surf contest he entered just a year later, at age 7, at The Dune’s Club Classic in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina.

During the past three years, he has earned 24 top-two finishes in state competitions, including second place in the NSSA Regional U10 Open division.

His most recent accomplishment was last month when he took home the gold in the Space Coast Board Riders Grom Fest U12 division, besting several older competitors.

“Surfing is such a great sport because you get to experience the love of the ocean,” said Stark,

an often overlooked skill, and won their divisions in the 2025-2026 Elks Hoop Shoot Free Throw Competition on Dec. 5 at the Viera Regional Park Community Center.

The event for children ranging in age from 8 to 13 was sponsored locally by Viera Elks Lodge #2817.

Division winners earned the right to advance to the

who already has gained sponsorships from Hurley, a surfing apparel company, and Longdoggers, a local Brevard restaurant.

Stark’s talent on the waves is just a part of his well-rounded resume. His fifth-grade homeschool curriculum, which includes Algebra II, Molecular Biology and Spanish, presents challenges far above his grade level. He has excelled in these subjects.

“My short-term goals are

to improve my mental game and increase wave counts,” Stark said.

Thus far, Stark has traveled to El Salvador and California to surf in challenging conditions. He hopes to visit Indonesia, another difficult place to surf.

Like most young surfers or athletes, Stark would love to rise to the professional ranks. For now, he has taken the mature approach to excel in his schoolwork to have a viable backup plan. VV

Five advance in Viera Elks Lodge Hoop Shoot competition

BY CHRIS BONANNO Nate Dobbs, Kelly Ordonez, Jacob Sheller, Amber Veikalaite and Joslin Slavik each made their free throws,

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Viera Voice | January 2026

VIERA VOICE Chris Bonanno

The Viera Elks Lodge #2817 sponsors the Elks Hoop Shoot Free Throw Competition each year.

Southeast Central District Hoop Shoot contest on Jan. 10 in Fort Pierce.

Among those who competed and excelled was the 13-year-old Dobbs, who advanced last year to a competition in Mount Dora.

He finished first in the 12- and 13-year-old boys division in this year’s competition.

Joining Dobbs as division winners from the event were Ordonez (8- and 9-year-old girls), Sheller (10- and 11-year old boys), Veikalaite (10- and 11-year-old girls) and Slavik (12- and 13-year-old girls).

As part of the competition, youths have the chance to shoot 25 free throws with the goal to make as many shots as possible. Participants

competed in six different age divisions according to Heidi Vargas, the Viera Elks Lodge Hoop Shoot Coordinator.

“If they’re 8 or 9, they shoot before the free-throw line.

If they’re 10 or above, they shoot after it,” Vargas said.

Dobbs loves the competition.

“It’s pretty exciting to do because I want to be able to do better, but it’s just fun to be able to do something new each year,” Dobbs said.

Dobbs discussed a tactic he utilized, noting that he approaches the competition by “just practicing and taking your time, not rushing and

HOOP SHOOT

Continued on page 33

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Viera Voice | January 2026

17

s w e N

SCHOOL

Patriotic groups present America 250 Flag to Brevard Schools

BY ERNIE DORLING In a ceremony marked by tradition, patriotism and a deep sense of community, the Brevard School District was presented the America 250 flag.

Donn Weaver, the president of the Good Deeds Foundation, which is part of the Military Officers Association of America (MOAACC), Cape Canaveral Chapter, and Hans Hunt of the National Society Sons of the American Revolution (SAR) made the special presentation.

The commemorative flag — created to mark two-and-a-half centuries of the nation’s founding — was formally presented to Brevard Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Mark Rendell during a brief ceremony Dec. 9 at the district headquarters in Viera.

The America 250 Commission is a bipartisan federal body established

by Congress to plan and lead the nationwide commemoration on July 4, 2026 of the United States’ 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence.

“This Commission, among other things, seeks to foster civic engagement, promote leadership and inspire service in the Armed Forces,” said Hans Hunt, the first vice president of MOAACC. Hunt, who is also a member of the National Society Sons of the American Revolution (NSSAR), learned of the flag donations from the Hawaii Sons of the American Revolution. “Once I heard what Hawaii was doing, I approached Donn Weaver with the Good

VIERA VOICE Ernie Dorling

Hans Hunt, left, Donn Weaver and Doug Bisset present the America 250 flag to Brevard Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Mark Rendell, second from right, during a brief ceremony.

Deeds Foundation and we launched a joint venture in providing the America 250 Flag for all Brevard County JROTC units,” he said.

Weaver is excited about the venture.

“We’re planning on donating the 250th anniversary flag to every high school in Brevard County, as well as a separate flag to every high school in the county with a JROTC program,” Weaver said. “We want all students to embrace the history behind the founding of this nation, especially the role of veterans. Without veterans throughout our history, there would be no America.

It’s just our way of keeping history alive.”

The school superintendent was pleased to receive

the flag and see it hoisted outside the School Board offices.

“This flag is a visual representation of the enduring strength of our country and the generations who have defended it,” Rendell said on receiving the flag. “This flag will fly outside our headquarters as a way for us to show our gratitude for living in the United States.”

After the flag was presented to Rendell, it was hoisted on the flagpole in front of the School Board headquarters. The 250th anniversary flag, being flown throughout the country, will, hopefully, reinforce the lessons students encounter in the classroom. What students will hopefully come to know

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Viera Voice | January 2026

is that when a veteran places a historic flag in their hands, it becomes real in a way that textbooks alone can’t provide.

The America 250 Commission plans to continue distributing the America 250th anniversary flag across the country throughout the year, ensuring that local schools, civic institutions and community groups all have an opportunity to reflect on the nation’s VIERA VOICE Ernie Dorling milestone.

The America 250 flag was raised on “The distribution Dec. 9 at the Brevard Public Schools of America 250 flags headquarters in Viera. to schools and JROTC units promotes and the effort that went the spirit of America in into the establishment of celebration of 250 years of our great nation,” Hunt said. our Constitutional Republic VV

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Science fair showcases Suntree Elementary student projects

BY CHRIS BONANNO Students at Suntree Elementary School recently showed off some of what they learned in science this year.

More than 300 science projects created by fourth-, fifth- and sixth-grade students went on display on Dec. 1 as part of the school’s science fair on campus.

“They were all able to practice the whole scientific process or the robotic or engineering process that we’ve discussed in the very beginning of the year,” said teacher Missy Madl, who was one of the organizers. “We think it’s a great opportunity for them to explore. We wanted them to all have that experience so maybe if they want to go into a career or even explore it more

into middle school or high school.”

Among some of the projects were those relating to how the temperature of a pickleball, how high it bounces and which material grew the most barnacles — wood, plastic or metal.

Others dealt with how the location of an obstacle in a channel of water affected the speed of a floating object and whether live bait or lures catch the most fish.

First-place projects in the event were to be displayed at the Brevard Mainland Regional STEM (science, technology, math and engineering) Fair at the Merritt Square Mall on Feb. 20, according to Madl.

“Physics and astronomy was the hot topic,” she said.

“We had over 100 projects in the physics and astronomy

(category).”

Madl said that students were apprehensive, but ready to participate in the school’s fair.

“They were excited but they were very nervous,” Madl said. “It’s a lot of preparation making sure they’re understanding each of the steps of the whole scientific process because you can go over it in class. We can do a lot of investigations and experiments in class but when they’re doing it in their home, it’s a little different.

So, they are constantly coming back with questions.

It’s great because they also have the curiosity of ‘well what would happen if I did this instead of this?’ It gets their curiosity, gets their mind going, which is really exciting to see.” VV

VIERA VOICE Chris Bonanno

Science students at Suntree Elementary School created more than 300 projects based on lessons they learned during the school year.

VIERA VOICE Lillian Nguyen

Kathy Westrip is a kindergarten teacher at Suntree United Methodist School. Small classes help the students learn more efficiently.

Suntree school celebrates 35 years of guiding young children

BY LILLIAN NGUYEN The Suntree United Methodist School (SUMS) has been encouraging children to grow academically, creatively and spiritually for 35 years.

The school offers classes for children 2 years old through kindergarten.

Children enjoy music classes, physical education and science at SUMS, an engaging hands-on program led by an engineer and a marine biologist.

The curriculum is designed for young learners to build early literacy, math, problem-solving and social skills. The kindergarten program is unique for its small-class sizes and two dedicated teachers per classroom, ensuring each child receives the support they need.

“We offer the perfect balance of structure and

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child-led exploration,” said Lia Page, the director of SUMS. “Creating a place where every child is known, supported and inspired to love learning.”

She assures families that every day at SUMS is built around purposeful, playbased learning.

As a ministry of the Suntree United Methodist Church, children are encouraged to grow spiritually through songs, stories, prayer and chapel time. SUMS seeks to create an environment for children to learn kindness, compassion and community.

SUMS currently has 140 students. Registration for the 2026-2027 school year will open Feb. 11.

Families are encouraged to come and tour the school, check out suntreeumschool. com/ or call 321-254-2866.

VV

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19

Viera schools, community call for performing arts center SPECIAL TO VIERA VOICE Viera’s music and theater programs are thriving, but their stages are not keeping pace. At Viera Middle School, performances are typically held in the cafeteria, a space that no longer fits the size of the chorus, band and orchestra programs.

The concern is also shared by some at Viera High School.

Teachers from Viera schools and community members would like to have a performing arts center where the area schools can schedule their programs and performances.

The need is such that this winter, the VMS chorus moved its concert to the Viera High School auditorium, where every one of the 375 seats were filled and more than 100 additional family members and supporters stood in the aisles and lobby. The VMS band and orchestra concerts were also standing-room only, and they were held in the VMS gymnasium and cafeteria.

“Our chorus program has grown tremendously — from 100 students last

VIERA VOICE Jill Blue

A packed crowd on Dec. 5 watched the Viera Middle School Chorus perform its Holiday Concert.

year to 180 this year — and their excitement for music is contagious,” Viera Middle School chorus director Jacqueline Knappenberger said.

She noted that the standing-room-only crowd was proof of how deeply the community values the arts.

“A dedicated performing arts venue would give our students the space they deserve to shine, while also serving as a hub for families and local arts organizations to celebrate creativity.”

The high school faculty share the same concern.

Band director Nick Eggen, who has been with Viera High School since its earliest days, explained that while he can boast about the many strengths of the program to colleagues across the state, one area always falls short.

“I am able to expound on a multitude of benefits that this school has for its students,” he said.

“However, the one thing I can never talk about is our performance facility, which

is sorely lacking for what the school and community are demanding.

“Compared to facilities in Brevard County, our neighboring school districts and other states I have visited, the Viera community is missing a key piece to supporting the performing arts.”

Choral director Michael Coppola, who has led music and theater programs in Brevard County for nearly 30 years, was even more direct. Having worked in numerous facilities across Florida and beyond, he described the Viera High School auditorium as “the least suitable for music and theatre performance.” He pointed to shortcomings in space, sound, lighting and storage.

“This community, these students and these educators deserve a far better fine arts facility considering our program excellence,” Coppola said Students also recognize the limitations.

“There is so much that happens after the words are written, like how actors show their emotions, react off each other, and move

around on the stage with different sets,” Viera Middle School student Connor Combs said. “That also means good sound and lighting for the audience to best experience the work.”

Viera Middle School Principal Cathy McNutt emphasized that the vision for a performing arts center extends beyond the schools.

“A performing arts center is a gathering place for the entire community,” she said.

“As our programs continue to thrive, having a space to showcase our students’ talents and collaborate with feeder schools ensures authentic performance experiences and gives our community a shared space to support and celebrate their growth.”

While no formal campaign has yet been organized, faculty and families hope this call will inspire community leaders, arts advocates and local organizations to step forward. With programs growing and audiences overflowing, Viera is ready for a performing arts center that reflects the passion and excellence of its students.

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Viera High’s Winsten receives coveted physical education award

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BY JEFF NAVIN, JILL BLUE Rachel Winsten, the chair of the health and physical education department at Viera High School, has been named SHAPE’s Florida High School Physical Education Teacher of the Year.

SHAPE stands for the Society of Health and Physical Education.

Winsten also won the Southeast District, which consists of 13 states in the Southeast Region. The United States is divided into five regions.

The Teacher of the Year in high school physical education will be named on March 20 at the SHAPE of America Conference in Kansas City, Missouri. It is SHAPE’s annual event.

“This (award) means a lot to me,’’ said Winsten, a native of Queens in New York City and a graduate of SUNY Cortland in Cortland, New York. “I have been in this field for over 25 years and to be recognized by my peers for the work that I do is so humbling. I have always admired people who have won this award … tried to emulate what they do. I try to get my program to be the best it can be. To have that acknowledged by my colleagues in the state and my colleagues in the Southeast Region is just an enormous honor.’’

Physical education has evolved through the years.

“It is not what it used to be,’’ Winsten said. “There’s no more

WORKSHOP

Continued from page 2 The event is open to anyone of all ages interested in exploring aerospace engineering and space sciences. Women and girls interested in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) are encouraged to attend.

The speakers will include: • Col. Eileen M. Collins — retired Air Force colonel and retired Astronaut • McKayla Meier — 2025 Amelia Earhart Fellow • Kelly Collins — First officer Jet Blue • Priscilla Yecora — Public relations and communityspecialist with Sheltair • Jo Kiel Business development manager with Embraer • McKenna Taylor — 2024-2025 ASF Astronaut Scholar • Trupti Mahendrakar, Ph.D. — 2023 Amelia Earhart Fellow, spacecraft navigation engineer (contractor) at NASA Johnson Space Center Each year, Zonta Clubs worldwide celebrate the life and legacy of Zontian and famed aviator pilot Amelia Earhart. Earhart was a member of Zonta, joining the Boston club in 1928 and later transferring to the New York City club. Soon after her tragic disappearance in 1937, Zonta established the Amelia Earhart Fellowships. Despite extensive searches, no trace of her plane was

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VIERA VOICE Jill Blue

Rachel Winsten is excited about attending the upcoming SHAPE of America Conference in Kansas City, Missouri.

dodgeball, and we don’t climb ropes.

We really focus on the whole child and taking them along their physical literacy journey into a life of health and wellness and enjoying physical activity. We expose them to every different sport. Some that the kids think I make up that are popular elsewhere — like floor ball and netball, rugby, disc golf. We also do some of the traditional volleyball, basketball, and we emphasize fitness so that they know how to stay healthy when they go to college and careers and beyond. We just want our students in our communities to be as healthy and active as possible.’’ VV

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Zonta Club of Melbourne is a service organization working to advance the status of women and girls and is part of Zonta International, a leading global organization of individuals working together to build a better world for women and girls. VV

Viera Voice | January 2026

21

BUSINESS Scoop

Options abundant for Viera/Suntree grocery shoppers

BY MIKE GAFFEY

Jane Delgallo of Suntree is a little bit Publix and a little bit Walmart.

The 77-year-old Ohio native enjoys shopping at both supermarkets — just two of the more than dozen grocery stores that customers can choose from in Viera and Suntree.

“Customer service — it’s always pleasant,” Delgallo said of Publix Super Market at Suntree Square at 7777 N. Wickham Road as she loaded groceries with her husband Richard into her vehicle in the supermarket’s parking lot. “I usually get my meat or fish and my

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fruits and vegetables here.

I also shop at Walmart and do the bulk of my shopping there. But I love Publix. It’s close to us and I love the experience of going there.”

Publix has four stores in the Viera-Suntree area: Publix at Suntree Square; at Stadium Corners at Viera, 5380 Stadium Parkway; at Addison Center at Viera, 7655 Stadium Parkway; and at Rockledge Crossing at 3820 Murrell Road.

There is also an Aldi at 628 Barnes Boulevard, across the road from the Publix at Rockledge Crossing.

A fifth Publix is under construction at the

southeast corner of Murrell Road and Berglund Lane.

The supermarket in the Viera Promenade retail plaza is scheduled to open July 13.

Publix has filed permits for a sixth supermarket in the area at Lake Andrew Drive and Pineda Causeway, across from Costco Wholesale at 4305 Pineda Causeway.

Winn-Dixie has a Viera grocery at 5410 Murrell Road, just east of the Whole Foods Market, which officially opened Nov. 6 at 2035 Viera Blvd.

Two big department stores in Viera also sell groceries: Walmart

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VIERA VOICE Mike Gaffey

Jane Delgallo chooses her shopping preference based on customer service and location.

Supercenter at 8500 N. Wickham Road, across from Target at 8455 N. Wickham Road.

Aldi has a store at 6460 N. Wickham Road, just north of The Fresh Market at 6385 N. Wickham Road in Suntree.

At The Avenue Viera, shoppers can get groceries at Trader Joe’s, which opened Dec. 3 at 2221 Town Center Ave., No. 101.

Timothy and Mikaela Cabaniss of Viera hit three area supermarkets to feed their large family.

“We shop at Costco for bulk items, Winn-Dixie for buy-one-get-one free, and Walmart for the rest,” Timothy Cabaniss said.

“I like to shop at this particular Winn-Dixie because it’s close and they

VIERA VOICE Mike Gaffey

Timothy and Mikaela Cabaniss of Viera choose bulk-item shopping for their family of five, as well as store location.

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Dave’s Hot Chicken brings no-spice, extra hot, reaper to Viera

BY CHRIS BONANNO Dave’s Hot Chicken, which opened recently at Lakeside at The Crossings in Viera, puts a new spin on Nashville-style chicken.

“We have seven different heat levels all the way up to reaper,” store owner Scott Strahm said. “If you don’t like heat, we have no-spice. So, we go no-spice, light mild, mild, medium, hot, extra hot and the reaper is the one you have to sign a waiver to.”

Paul Kamus and his wife Kathy were the first customers in line on opening day. Paul Kamus was eager to try the reaper, the hottest sauce on the menu. He came prepared with his own container of milk to calm the peppery heat.

“We enjoy coming to restaurants when they first open,'' Paul Kamus said. "We try to be the first customers.

This is our first try with Dave's Hot Chicken. We are excited to give it a try.''

Paul and Kathy Kamus were also the first customers at Metro Diner in Suntree when it opened on Dec. 4, 2018.

There’s more than chicken on the menu, including fries, macaroni and cheese, kale slaw and a

Area of which Strahm is the owner.

“We met the developer when we opened our first one in Orlando over by Waterford Lakes and so that kind of began the discussion. Coming over here and seeing all of the construction, we couldn’t be more excited about bringing Dave’s Hot Chicken to VIERA VOICE Jill Blue Brevard,” he said.

The restaurants Kathy Kamus, left, and Paul Kamus, right, were the first customers during the opening can also be found day of Dave's Hot Chicken. Scott Strahm, center, owns the restaurant. variety of drinks.

“We have shakes,” Strahm said. “We have top-loaded shakes so you can get M&Ms, Oreos or Fruity Pebbles added to your shake. We’ve got slushers, strawberry lemonade, mountain berry, orange lava blast, fruit punch.”

The restaurant, which opened on Dec. 18 also caters for events such as the Super Bowl and other parties.

Strahm said this would be the sixth store in the Orlando Designated Market

in other parts of Florida, including the Gulf Coast and southeast Florida, and throughout the country.

“Dave’s Hot Chicken is a West Coast brand,” Strahm said. “It was four friends that started (it) as a pop-up tent with $900 and a fryer. They just popped up a tent on the corner of east L.A. and they got a food blogger to write about them. The next day, they had a line down the street and eventually they turned that into brick and mortar.”

The store at 2105 Viera Boulevard, Suite 101, has about 55 employees and will be open from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. seven days a week. VV

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Nourish will offer all-natural products at new store in Viera

BY CHRIS BONANNO Nourish, which started at the kitchen table of its owner and grew into several stores that sell handmade natural bath and body products, is coming to Viera.

The new Nourish store — is expected to open in February at The Avenue Viera, according to owner Shoshanna Walker.

“Nourish is excited to bring our handcrafted, all-natural bath, body and home products to Viera,” Walker said. “Customers can expect a wide range

of items, including our signature handmade soaps, moisturizing body washes, sea salt scrubs, body butters, shampoo and conditioner bars and home fragrances.”

Walker started small, beginning decades ago, but the popularity of the products has grown.

“Nourish began over 25 years ago as a small, homebased passion for making simple, natural soap for friends and family,” Walker said. “What started at a kitchen table, quickly grew through word of mouth into a beloved brand known for quality, care and

consistency. Over the years, Nourish expanded into retail, built a loyal customer base and continued to evolve while staying true to its roots — thoughtfully crafted products made with nourishing ingredients and intention behind every formula.”

The Viera store will be the sixth in existence, joining those in downtown Melbourne along with two stores in downtown Savannah, Georgia and one each in Pooler, Georgia and Hilton Head, South Carolina.

Walker said The Avenue Viera felt like a natural fit

VIERA VOICE Chris Bonanno

Nourish, which has a store in downtown Melbourne, is preparing to open a new store in Viera.

for Nourish.

“It’s a vibrant, growing destination with a strong sense of community and a great mix of local and national brands. Viera’s focus on quality, lifestyle

and experience aligns closely with our brand values. We love that it’s a place where people come not just to shop, but to spend time, connect and enjoy their day.” VV

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Viera Voice | January 2026

The Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research published a study on a 12 week program for rugby players. One group trained with supervision and the other group trained without supervision. Both groups improved but the supervised group was more consistent and achieved better results.

If high level athletes (whose job is performance) achieve better results with a coach, what makes us think a busy professional with 137 emails, two meetings, and a kid’s practice will have more discipline?

You might be thinking of using friends or family as your support system. While this sounds great, it rarely works because these are the people that are sympathetic to your obstacles and excuses.

Sympathy doesn’t equal accountability. You need a coach whose job it is to tell you the truth and help you make adjustments, not protect your feelings.

If you’re struggling to stay consistent with your fitness, stop telling yourself you need more discipline. You simply need a better system.

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VIERA COOKBOOK

⅔

Chicken breasts with jalapeño white sauce Ingredients: (Serves four) Two large boneless chicken breasts (butterflied and pounded to make thin) 2 tablespoons of olive oil Salt and black pepper (to taste) Garlic salt (to taste)

VIERA VOICE Elaine Moody

Chicken breasts with jalapeño white sauce is a flavorful dish and easy to make if you are looking to try something new.

BY ELAINE MOODY When I say jalapeño peppers, your first thought is probably how hot are they? And you would be right in thinking that.

However, if you cut them open, remove the membrane and seeds and cook them, they lose a lot of the spicy heat associated with jalapeño

Begin by butterflying the chicken breasts, sprinkle with salt, pepper and garlic salt and place in a large, heated skillet with olive oil. Cook on medium heat for about 5 minutes on each side (until inside is fully cooked).

Remove chicken and drippings from skillet. Place 2 tablespoons of butter in the same skillet and heat to medium. Add the diced peppers and onion. Saute until tender.

Important — reduce heat to low, add 2 cups heavy whipping cream, 1 teaspoon of chicken bouillon and stir well. Slowly blend in 1 tablespoon of flour and continuously stir until sauce thickens.

Add cooked chicken and saved drippings into jalapeño sauce, cover skillet and simmer for about 5 minutes.

Sprinkle a few chopped springs of cilantro to garnish the chicken.

We enjoy this dish with yellow rice and fresh green beans, but you can also pair it with your favorite side dishes. As always, enjoy!

peppers, but not the flavor.

This month’s recipe is made with boneless chicken breasts with a jalapeño white sauce. It’s easy to make and overall prep and cook time is only about 45 minutes.

I hope you will give this rich and creamy recipe a try and treat your family to a delicious and flavorful new dish. VV

PEOPLE ON THE MOVE

Donal Case

Green Gables sponsors workshop on window restoration

BY R. NORMAN MOODY If you own a historic building or home with windows that need attention — what do you do; replace them?

“You’re gonna replace something that will last for 100 years with something that will last for 15 years?”said John Daly, a president emeritus of the Green Gables at Historic Riverview Village, Inc. “Why would you do this?”

At Green Gables, historic preservation is the priority, and the organization would like to spread the word. It has scheduled a workshop called Windows are the Eyes of Your House. It is an educational workshop on preserving and maintaining

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windows for longevity.

Constantly changing aluminum windows costs a lot more than what a good craftsman would charge you to take the historic window apart and rebuild it.

Green Gables organization is in the process of restoring its Queen Anne style house that was built in 1896 and was one of the first houses in Melbourne to have electricity.

The workshop, conducted

by Austin Historical, will be held from 2 to 4 p.m. Jan. 10 at Green Gables at 1501 S. Harbor City Blvd. in Melbourne.

Register by contacting John Daly at dalyj@greengables. org, at 321-693-2006 or go to greengables.org. VV

Viera Voice | January 2026

One 3-inch-long jalapeño pepper (remove membrane and seeds) dice ½ medium size white onion (diced) 1 teaspoon chicken bouillon 2 tablespoons butter (clarified) 1 tablespoon flour One to two sprigs of Cilantro (chopped)

Donal Case, the lead mechanic at the Indian River Colony Club (IRCC), has been named IRCC’s 2025 Employee of the Year. The 54-year-old resident of Port St. John is in charge of maintaining equipment for the 18-hole golf course and the nearly 800-home neighborhood.

“Donal is not just a parts changer, but a true mechanic in every sense of the word,” said Dennis Rohne, the residential manager of IRCC. “He welds, designs, constructs and invents solutions to any problem that stops or slows the work at IRCC.” VV

Catherine “Cat” Maida is the new communications and marketing director for the Brevard Symphony Orchestra. Born and raised on Staten Island in New York, Maida graduated from Drew University in Madison, New Jersey with a bachelor’s degree in Media and Communications.

Maida brings a strong background in video and audio production and marketing skills to her new role. Outside of the BSO, Maida is an independent artist who enjoys painting and listening to live music.

VV Catherine “Cat” Maida

Business briefs Family Promise of Brevard was named Nonprofit of the Year during Accelerate Brevard: Chamber of Innovation’s recent 2025 Space Coast Honors awards ceremony in Palm Shores.

Cocoa-based Family Promise helps homeless and low-income families with children get back on their feet through emergency shelter, eviction prevention and support services that help families stay together.

“We keep families housed so children can thrive,” Family Promise Executive Director Tara Pagliarini said.

When Family Promise was founded in 2013, the group had one employee, Pagliarini said.

“Today we have 14 employees, and we went from serving a few families

to serving more than 5,000 families this year,” she said. VV

Shape Shift Marketing, a Cocoa Beach-based digital marketing agency, was named Accelerate Brevard: Chamber of Innovation’s Business Champions of the Year during its recent 2025 Space Coast Honors awards ceremony in Palm Shores.

The awards recognize exceptional businesses and leaders making a lasting impact on the Space Coast.

“We were going against some heavy hitters like SpaceX and Health First and all,” said Gina Boyett, who co-owns the nearly four-year-old, full-service agency with her husband, Nick. “I didn't think we were going to win. I was very shocked, but we actually did. It's pretty cool.” VV

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(I-95 & Wickham Road) Free Parking

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Viera Voice | January 2026

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2026 Battle Winners

VIERA FOURTH ANN

UAL

Major Sponsor

B AT E TL

Best Outdoor Christmas Tree how Newbury Circle S f o t s e B er family, 5778 ight Carpent pace Coast TrimL S Sponsor:

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East — Rendek family 1320 Cape Sable Drive West — Mackenzie Phelps 2661 Ballydoyle Lane

O'Neill family, 6102 Meghan Dr.

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East — Pulci family 835 Blackbird Court West — Coniker family 3621 Chardonnay Dr. Sponsor: Arty Pagan State Farm Insurance

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Digital Dancing East — Rensing family 1161 Rock Springs Dr. West — Francis Heiner 3422 Addison Dr. Sponsor: Viera Voice

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Viera Voice | January 2026

Inflatables

East — Grissom family 3947 Montesino West — Flora family 3202 Candia Dr. vieravoice.com

BUSINESS In December, the Viera Means Business networking group met at No Limits Fitness in Suntree.

The Viera Means Business networking group meets at 8 a.m. the second Thursday of each month at various locations.

VIERA MEANS

BUSINESS

Kelly Riese, Jill Blue

Riki Montgomery, Amanda Packal xxx

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LEGO® SETS MINIFIGS BIRTHDAY PARTIES B L S BULK BRI BRICKS RETIRED SETS

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HOW TO SOLVE SUDOKU SHAPESHIFTER Every number from 1 to 9 must appear in: • Each of the nine vertical columns • Each of the nine horizontal rows • Each of the nine different colored shapes Remember no number can occur more than once in any row, column or color.

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Worship Times:

Saturday, 5 pm • Sunday, 8 am • 9:30 am • 11 am 5550 Faith Drive, Rockledge FL 32955 321-636-5504 • FaithViera.org Viera Voice | January 2026

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Sassy Saturdays Monthly

Viera East Golf Club

Hello January SUNDAY

MONDAY

TUESDAY

WEDNESDAY

Happy New Year from the staff at Viera Voice

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National Spaghetti Day

Chess Club 1 - 4 p.m.

Casual, friendly and informal chess lessons and competition. All ages and skill levels. nut Day Cocoa Library 308 Forrest Ave. Cocoa, 321-633-1792

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National Milk Day

BCPFF 10th annual Chili Cook Off 1 - 4 p.m.

Riverfront Park 401 Riveredge Blvd.

Cocoa, 321-863-4002

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Ratification Day

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National Hugging Day

National Take Down the Christmas Tree Day Abstract Art Class Salsa Lesson and Dance S.A.I.L. Senior 2 - 4 p.m.

6:30 - 9:30 p.m.

Adventures in Learning Galleria of Art and Hook & Eagle Tavern 2 p.m.

Photography 2300 Clubhouse Drive Explore how S.A.I.L. 7720 N. Wickham Road, Viera, 321-639-3487 keeps seniors mentally #107 engaged through Viera, 321-338-9787 Gold, Silver Buying lifelong learning.

Event One Senior Place Large Cats Talk January 5 to January 8 8085 Spyglass Hill Road 2 p.m.

Presentation by the 10 a.m. - 3 p.m.

Viera, 321-751-6771 Brevard Zoo on large Antiques, gold, silver and cats. platinum jewelry buying One Senior Place event.

8085 Spyglass Hill Road Fairfield Inn Viera, 321-751-6771 2400 Town Center Ave. National Bird Day

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National Pharmacist Day

Dinosaur Adventures 5 - 7 p.m.

Animatronic dinosaurs, hands-on paleontology activities, and educational adventures.

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

International Plastic Modelers 6 - 7:45 p.m.

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

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Brevard Youth Chorus Auditions Spring Term 2 p.m.

Auditions for grades four to 10.

Advent Lutheran Church 7550 N. Wickham Road Suntree, 321-610-8731 National Gourmet Coffee Day

Martin Luther King Jr. Day

Flutter Fest Peace March and 10 a.m. - 3 p.m.

Service honoring Dr. Celebrate native Martin Luther King Jr. pollinators with a guided 2 - 5 p.m. horticulture tour, native Cocoa Riverfront Park plant identification and 401 Riveredge Blvd. hands-on pollinator Cocoa, 321-795-0537 activities.

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

Sunset in the Hollows Scottish Country Dancing 3 - 5 p.m.

6:30 – 9:30 p.m.

Stroll the trails and Springs of Suntree the peace of nature.

Holiday Springs Entrance is free. Park on 8300 Road the street or at Springs Suntree, 321-427-3587 of Suntree clubhouse.

Pets are not allowed.

Early Bird Trivia Hundred Acre Hollows 4 - 6 p.m.

1170 Rock Spring Free to play and fun for all.

Drive. Suntree, Hundredacrehollows.org Pizza Gallery 2250 Town Center Ave. Viera, 321-633-0397

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Viera Voice | January 2026

Trivia Night 6 - 7:30 p.m.

Trivia with Steve and Evie.

Hook & Eagle Tavern 2300 Clubhouse Drive Viera, 321-639-3487 National Cheese Lovers Day

Pickleball Open Play 9:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. $2 per person.

Viera Community Center 2300 Judge Fran Jamieson Way Viera, 321-433-4891

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Wednesday Art Group 1:30 - 4 p.m.

This group meets to discuss and share art.

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

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THURSDAY New Year's Day

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FRIDAY NationalMew Bartender Happy Year's Day Day for Cats Day

Lights On A Nighttime Viera Park Market 4 - 8 p.m.

Art Experience Viera Regional Park 6 - 9 p.m.

More than 25 captivating 2300 Judge Fran Jamieson Way artworks near life-size Viera, 321-759-3713 illuminated paintings, virtual reality stations, Brevard Antiques and glow-in-the-dark murals Collectibles Club and a flashlight safari.

10 a.m. - Noon Brevard Zoo This month’s topic is 8225 N. Wickham Road food and drink.

Suntree/Viera Library Viera, 321-254-9453 902 Jordan Blass Drive Suntree, 321-255-4404

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SATURDAY SATURDAY

Duo Dash 5K 7:30 a.m.

Benefit for Big Brothers Big Sisters.

Viera Regional Park 2300 Judge Fran Jamieson Way Viera, 407-475-2996 Open House Tours at Green Gables 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Tour the museum and see the interactive exhibits.

Green Gables 1501 S. Harbor City Blvd.

Melbourne, 321-306-8635 National Save the Eagles Day

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National Law Enforcement Appreciation Day Alzheimer’s/Dementia Karaoke BPS School Mascot Olympics Caregiver Support Group 6 - 11 p.m.

11 a.m. - noon Karaoke with Rockstar 6 - 8 p.m.

All BPS elementary, Suntree/Viera Library Entertainment. middle and high school 902 Jordan Blass Drive Hook & Eagle Tavern mascots from across the Suntree, 321-255-4404 2300 Clubhouse Drive district will face off in a Viera, 321-639-3487 friendly competition with Running for Brews a variety of high-energy 7 p.m.

Suntree/Viera Anime fitness activities. Come All levels are welcome Club cheer your school and find out who will take the and the run is free.

3 - 4 p.m.

Longdoggers Ages 10 to 17 years old. gold.

Viera High School 1970 Viera Blvd.

Suntree/Viera Library Stadium Parkway Viera, 321-433-1116 902 Jordan Blass Drive 6103 Suntree, 321-255+4404 Viera, 321-633-1000 National Take the Stairs Day

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National Fig Newton Day

National Pie Day

National Bagel Day

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Reset & Rise Karaoke “Audience Choice” 5:30 - 8 p.m.

Concert 6 - 11 p.m.

An empowering event to Hook & Eagle Tavern 7 p.m. release stress and reset. 2300 Clubhouse Drive Presented by the Space Center for Collaboration Viera, 321-639-3487 Coast Symphony.

1100 Rockledge Blvd.

Scott Center Rockledge, 321-241-6600 5625 Holy Trinity Drive Pickleball Open Play Suntree, 855-252-7276 9:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.

Third Thursdays $2 per person.

5 - 8 p.m.

Bunny Yoga Live music by the Viera Community Center 10 - 11 a.m.

Heatstroke band.

2300 Judge Fran Space Coast Bunnies.

The Avenue Viera Dragonfly Yoga Jamieson Way 2261 Town Center Ave. 500 Barton Blvd.

Viera, 321-433-4891 Viera, 321-634-5390 Rockledge, 321-493-2733

Sit-n-Stitch Group 1 - 3 p.m.

Embroidery, knitting, crochet group Suntree/Viera Library 902 Jordan Blass Drive Suntree, 321-255-4404

Holiday Light Recycling Thursday Night Par 3 Havana Nights 6:30 - 9:30 p.m.

January 24 and 25 League Salsa class and dance. 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.

4:45 - 6 p.m.

Weekly league perfect for Venezia Wine Veranda Bring in broken, burned 5475 Lorkey Lane out or old string lights to golfers of all skill levels Viera, 321-301-4115 the drop-off point in the for a fun, competitive bus parking lot. and social evening.

Rock & Roll Revue Brevard Zoo Duran Golf Club 7:30 - 9:30 p.m.

7032 Stadium Parkway Presented by the MMB. 8225 N. Wickham Road Viera, 321-504-7776 Cocoa Village Playhouse Viera, 844-432-7972 300 Brevard Ave. Cocoa, 321-636-5050

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National Peanut Butter Day

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Wine Women & Shoes Viera East Traveler’s Club Paint and Sip Art Experience 11 a.m. - 1 p.m. - Brunch 6 p.m.

5 - 7 p.m.

2 - 4 p.m. - Happy Hour A look into what’s next on the travel calendar for An artist will guide you Benefiting weVenture. step by step through Venezia Wine Veranda 2026-2027. an acrylic painting 5475 Lorkey Lane Viera East Resident experience.

Viera, Coin Talk Pickleball Open Play Clubhouse $35 includes wine and winewomenandshows.

6 - 8 p.m.

9:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. 1964 Golf Vista Blvd. snacks. com Bring coins or old money $2 per person.

Viera, 321-890-3522 Galleria of Art and and talk to a local Viera Community Center Photography American numismatist. 2300 Judge Fran 7720 N. Wickham Road, Suntree/Viera Library Jamieson Way #107 902 Jordan Blass Drive Viera, 321-433-4891 Viera, 321-338-9787 Suntree, 321-255-4404 Trivia Night 6 - 7:30 p.m.

Hook & Eagle Tavern 2300 Clubhouse Drive Viera, 321-639-3487

Breakfast Bingo 8 - 9 a.m.

Chick-fil-A 8300 N. Wickham Road Viera, 321-751-0801

vieravoice.com

Cooler weather makes Viera Wetlands a fine place to visit

BY LINDA WIGGINS Winter weather brings out the best in Brevard County as cooler temperatures make it more fun to go outside.

Photographers are flocking to the Ritch Grissom Memorial Wetlands, also known as the Viera Wetlands, to take awardwinning photos from the secluded and peaceful spot.

Jan. 1 is the official start of the bird-watching calendar, but the birds have been migrating from the north since at least November to enjoy their special sanctuary.

The Viera Company’s annual year-long, birdwatching competition begins Jan. 1. The winner of the $1,000 prize will be announced in December 2026.

People from all over the country also will come to the area for the Space Coast Birding & Wildlife Festival scheduled for Jan. 21 to 25.

For information, check out scbwa.net.

The Viera Wetlands, across the street from Charlie Corbeil Way, is a true oasis.

“I’ve been coming to the Ritch Grissom Memorial Wetlands for six or seven years since I started working in Melbourne,” said Adam Salter of Orlando who recently had his arm’s-length lens and DSLR digital camera between him and an absolute beast of an alligator sunning itself, mouth agape, beside the trail.

“It’s happened more times than I can count,’’ Salter said. “It’s absolutely beautiful here. Stunning.

Everywhere you look is beauty. The water, the plant life, the animals. It’s man made, but it’s designed to serve a purpose, and then serve an even-higher purpose in my view.’’

Salter then gestured toward an already impressive variety of wildlife present, sweeping his arm westward toward the agricultural preserve.

Produce giant Andrew Duda and Sons — the founders of Viera — will thrive in cattle and sod for perpetuity.

The 5,112-acre area, which ends in a watershed along the St. Johns River at the western edge of Brevard County, links with

the 44,000-acre River Lakes Conservation Area. Managed by the St. Johns River Water Management District, it includes 14,000 acres that was formerly part of the Duda Cocoa Ranch. That translates to a lot of wild space to attract and support wildlife.

Grissom was a longtime VIERA VOICE Joshua Gaffey employee Barbara Atzingen of Suntree and Glenn Stevenson of Viera love the peace and serenity of the South of the Ritch Grissom Memorial Wetlands in Viera.

Central Water Viera Voice highlighted with Treatment Plant as three prehistoric-looking his photos. The Viera Voice next to the Viera Wetlands.

Sandhill cranes honked and honors his legacy through Without the plant, there hurtled overhead. the annual Charlie Corbeil would be no Viera Wetlands.

A passerby Youth Art Contest each April.

Treatable water is pumped complimented the Hikers Barbara Atzingen out to golf courses or it “handsome couple” on their of Suntree and Glenn remains behind to flow “obviously loving marriage,” Stevenson of Viera, who through a series of aquatic and Atzingen joked that it have been dating for about a cells and layers of natural was because they were only year, have incorporated the filtration to become newly dating.

Viera Wetlands into their drinking water.

Quipped Stevenson, exercise routine.

Corbeil, a popular which added to Atzingen’s “We like to stay active Florida naturalist and Viera blush, “Nothing says that and enjoy life together, not resident, shared his photos has to end, does it?” just doing, doing, doing, but locally and worldwide.

Courtship abounds for taking the time to just be His wife Charlotte wrote both humans and wildlife at and breathe,” Atzingen said a monthly column in the the Viera Wetlands. VV

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31

WEStill DO 50+

VOW RENEWAL

Who Can Sign Up: Couples married more than 30 years, who have not participated in the vow renewal ceremony in the past.

Date/Time: The Vow Renewal ceremony will take place during the Senior Life’s Senior Expo on Feb. 13, the day before Valentine’s Day. Friends and family are welcome to attend and take photos.

Cost: Entrance to the Senior Expo is free. Vow renewal, cake, champagne toast and digital photos are free.

Registration is required.

The Senior Expo is an independent event.

Entrance to the Brevard Zoo is not included.

Venue: Vow Renewals will take place in a group setting on the veranda overlooking the giraffe habitat at the Nyami Nyami River Lodge. The River Lodge (convention hall) is on the left side of the Brevard Zoo entrance gate.

Dress: There is no wrong dress attire for this occasion.

Wear the dress of your dreams, formal or casual. Men can wear a suit, uniform, something casual or opt for a special look to make lasting memories. Photos will be taken during and after the wedding vow renewal.

Sign up: Registration is required. Limited to the first 20 couples. Deadline to register is Jan. 20. Call early to reserve your spot.

For more information, call Sylvia at 321-242-1235.

Friday, Feb. 13 — Wedding Vow Renewal Who Can Sign Up:

Couples married more than 30 years, who have not participated in the vow renewal ceremony in the past.

Call to register 321-242-1235 Registration is required.

The vow renewal ceremony takes place during Senior Life’s Senior Expo & Valentine’s Party on the veranda at the Nyami Nyami River Lodge at the Brevard Zoo. Deadline to register is Jan. 20. Space is limited.

For information, call 321-242-1235 or email media@bluewatercreativegroup.com

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Viera Voice | January 2026

Newspaper and Expo Company vieravoice.com

HOOP SHOOT

Continued from page 16 trusting your shot.”

Dobbs also said that “once you get to shooting a lot, it starts to become easier and you don’t have to worry about making it so much.”

Doing well in Fort Pierce could lead to more contests, according to Lodge president Mark Harrell.

“As far as the Hoop Shoot

goes, it’s national,” Harrell said. “They have a chance to win scholarships and even whoever wins even gets their name in the National Basketball Hall of Fame.”

Vargas stated that the program had been ongoing since the 1960s with the help of the Elks.

“This is our 25th year for Viera Lodge; so, we’ve been involved every year,” Harrell added. VV

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© Lovatts Puzzles

Solution, page 34

ACROSS

DOWN

1. They lack refinement 5. Charges 9. Nave bench 12. Polly, to Tom Sawyer 13. Be an accessory to 14. Diamonds, to hoods 15. Capable of being decreased 17. Everyday article 18. Court divider 19. Ancient storyteller 21. “The Gondoliers” girl 24. Scotch’s partner 26. Lodge member 27. Bursae 29. Notebook projections 33. Keyboard operator’s complaint 34. Delete 36. Pond fish 37. Branch headquarters?

39. Stepped 40. Country retreat 41. Metal fastener 43. Moorehead of “Bewitched” 45. Collar inserts 48. Grounded Australian 49. Get the drop on 50. Lice and the like 56. Have a bug 57. Pupil’s locale 58. Cottage site 59. Carry on 60. Grant 61. Elder, e.g.

1. Sculler 2. Parisian way 3. Last word in films?

4. Floors 5. ___ accompli 6. Go back 7. Sushi order 8. Farm or home attachment 9. Absolute worst 10. Sound in a cave 11. Display dolor 16. Put a stop to 20. Finish the course?

21. Cousin of a gull 22. If not 23. Snow-runners 24. Line of cliffs 25. ___ buco 28. Fine things 30. Having a similar quality 31. Jolly Roger feature 32. Moral lapses 35. Dutch exports 38. Your of yore 42. Jellied garnish 44. Kind of trip 45. Ginger cookie 46. Wagging appendage 47. Competently 48. The good life 51. Live 52. Free (of) 53. Highway-crew need 54. Just manage, with “out” 55. Consult

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Viera Voice | January 2026

33

s w e N SENIOR

Former POW overcame torture to eventually become a colonel

BY ERNIE DORLING

In 1964, Mike Lane walked across the commencement stage at the University of Notre Dame. Newly commissioned as a second lieutenant, through ROTC he was ready to take his place in the United States Air Force. He imagined a career of purpose and challenge.

“All I ever wanted to do was fly,” Lane said. “I had no Plan B.” What Lane could not foresee was the extraordinary test of endurance that would define his life — being held as a prisoner of war in North Vietnam for a little more than six years.

After flight school, Lane was assigned to England.

But in November 1966, after just 11 months in England, he was transferred to South Vietnam to fly combat missions.

“It was my very first mission,” Lane said. “It was Dec. 2, 1966, when a surface-to-air missile hit my aircraft.”

With his plane crippled and losing altitude, he ejected into hostile territory. He was captured and transported to a small prison known as Heartbreak Hotel.

“It only had eight rooms,” Lane said. “They tortured

Retired Col. Mike Lane us to the point they broke us. They’d inflict as much pain as they could until we told them something. Once I started making stuff up that sounded reasonable, they’d stop — at least for a while.”

Lane was moved to several other prisons during the next three years before being sent to Hoa Lo Prison, infamously known to American POWs as the Hanoi Hilton.

“For the first three years that I was a prisoner, I was listed as missing in action and presumed dead,” Lane said. “My family didn’t know if I was dead or living.

The government listed me as missing and presumed dead.”

For more than six years, Lane lived in a world designed to break the human spirit.

Interrogations, isolation, malnutrition and the constant uncertainty of survival became routine.

But like many American POWs held there, he leaned

and returned to active duty, determined to serve the country that had never forgotten him. But he couldn’t fly any longer.

“I developed a heart condition while in captivity,” Lane said. “So, the Air Force sent me to the Air Force Institute of Technology, VIERA VOICE Courtesy of Mike Lane where I became Mike Lane was interrogated harshly at the a project infamous Hanoi Hilton prison in Vietnam. manager.”

Lane’s Air on a deep will of discipline Force career continued and faith. Prisoners for another 15 years, communicated through tap taking him through codes, passed messages leadership posts, strategic in whispers and found assignments and roles that comfort in the strength of allowed him to shape the one another. next generation of aviators.

“When everything else He retired as a colonel in was taken from us, we still 1988. had each other — and that “After retiring, I spent was enough,” Lane said. six years working in Freed during Operation the training Division of Homecoming in 1973, McDonnell Douglas,” Lane Lane returned to a United said.

“I later started a States that had changed business with three other dramatically during his military retirees, building captivity. Yet he embraced simulators for NASA and the transition with the the Air Force.

After 14 same resolve that had years of doing that, I carried him through retired for good.” imprisonment.

Today, Lane lives a He recovered, rebuilt

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quieter life in Melbourne with his wife Ruth. “After returning from Vietnam, I spent two weeks in the hospital in D.C. I met Ruth on my flight home to Charlotte, North Carolina,” he said. “Ruth was a flight attendant with Eastern Airlines at the time. She was wearing a POW bracelet, and we struck up a conversation, exchanged phone numbers and were married just over six months later.”

Now, Lane enjoys the sea breezes, warm sunlight and steady rhythm of coastal living, which is a far cry from the noise and fear of Hanoi. Yet he carries the lessons of those years with humility, gratitude and an unshakable belief in the resilience of the human spirit.

At 84, Lane holds several prestigious military awards, including the Silver Star, the Distinguished Flying Cross and a Purple Heart. He remains a living example of courage under the most extreme circumstances. His journey — from Notre Dame Reserve Officers’ Training Corps graduate to POW survivor to respected Air Force leader — is a reminder that heroism often comes not from a single act, but from the willingness to endure, return and keep serving.

VV

Viera Voice | January 2026

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Recycle Brevard updates its programs for 2026 A new year brings new plans and renewed commitments. As 2026 begins, Recycle Brevard is introducing important changes to its recycling programs — driven by shifts in the recycling industry and the organization’s ongoing mission to recycle more and reduce waste in Brevard County.

Recycling has always been a challenge. For nearly 15 years, Recycle Brevard has helped the community recycle more and waste less. Operated entirely by volunteers and funded solely through donations, the organization has offered affordable — and mostly free — ways to recycle hardto-recycle materials. While modest in scale, these efforts have been sustained through determination, creativity and the support of volunteers and supporters.

SOFTBALL

Continued from page 6 was “thinking that tickets are going to be $10 for the general public.”

“We’re working with the (USSSA) Space Coast Complex to bring this as the landing home. It’s looking really promising to have an incredible partnership with them,” Bumgardner said.

BEYOND the CURB Marcia Booth

President & Founder, Recycle Brevard

The recycling landscape continues to evolve.

TerraCycle, which offers many programs for hardto-recycle materials, has canceled or restructured several free options and is increasingly shifting toward paid zero-waste boxes, costing an average of $200 each. For a nonprofit that is 100% run by volunteers and 100% funded by donations, continuing free recycling of these materials is no longer feasible.

To adapt while continuing to serve the community responsibly, Recycle Brevard has restructured how

Games in the PSL will begin in June 2026, according to Bumgardner, who also noted that the PSL had signed a deal to be broadcast on the All Women’s Sports Network.

“This is a huge deal for softball,” Bumgardner said.

“The team, the staff, everybody involved and quite frankly Viera. Because there’s seven teams in the league and they’ll

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hard-to-recycle items are accepted. Starting in 2026, there will be two primary recycling options: Recycling Club Designed for regular recyclers, the Recycling Club offers monthly or annual contributions to support ongoing recycling efforts.

One-Time Recyclers For occasional recyclers, this option allows community members to recycle a grocery bag (or a few) of accepted materials once or whenever enough items are collected.

These options (available at RecycleBrevard.org) help offset recycling and shipping costs while keeping recycling accessible.

As for unmanned, free drop-off locations, those have been permanently closed.

Unfortunately, they were frequently misused, with non-accepted items or loose materials being placed in the

all be coming to Viera from Atlanta to New York to Kansas City to Chattanooga — will all be coming here to play, which is awesome.”

The team’s roster is currently being constructed, Bumgardner indicated, though the Heat had announced two player signings on social media as of press time.

“I am actively full-go,”

Make Today About You

boxes creating extra work for volunteers and increasing contamination. Ultimately, these drop-offs did not improve recycling outcomes or provide educational benefits. Recycle Brevard thanks participants and its partners — Mrs. Mango and Company (Rockledge) and City of Satellite Beach City Hall - for their trust, support and understanding.

What free programs are still available?

Recycle Brevard continues to accept arts and crafts materials, electronics, string lights and similar small items, exclusively at Recraft Bazaar in Cocoa Village (270 Brevard Ave) during open hours — 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. each Saturday.

Check the online calendar at RecycleBrevard.org for dates.

The organization also donates reusable materials to teachers and makes them

Bumgardner said. “I’m going to bring a general manager on but, in the meantime, I’m just acting as general manager. I am building the team myself.

I’m hitting the ground. I’m making the calls. I’m doing everything right now to build what we feel is going to be the best team to go compete this year. We’re looking for players that aren’t going to be

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redrafted every year like other professional softball leagues are. We’re looking for girls that we want to invest in, we want to invest time in. And we want them to be able to be thinking that isn’t just a one year and then you’re going to be drafted somewhere else, ideally. That’s not what we want. That’s not who we want to be as a league either.” VV

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available to community groups, such as Odyssey of the Mind, for a nominal donation. Supporters can further assist by attending events like Crafting with Friends or visiting Recraft Bazaar to acquire items, keeping reusable materials out of landfills while supporting programs.

Confused? Free presentations are available and may be scheduled for a group of interested individuals. For more information, visit RecycleBrevard.org.

As Recycle Brevard moves into a new year, we hope the community will continue recycling through these updated programs.

Participation helps reduce waste, support educators and build a more sustainable future for everyone. VV Email Marcia Booth at Marcia@RecycleBrevard.org

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Viera Voice | January 2026

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