Viera Voice, May 2025

Page 1


inside,

Trinity, Pages 18, 19

Manatee mosaic mascot unveiled

Manatees have always been a cherished visitor here in Florida. These gentle giants, sometimes

referred to as sea potatoes due to their round bodies and lazy demeanor, bring smiles to everyone who spots them floating around. It’s no surprise that Manatee

Elementary School was more than happy to accept the Fantasea the Manatee sculpture upon her retirement from the Melbourne Orlando International Airport.

However, once she arrived, no one really knew what to do with her until Katelyn Bergman, the school’s

MANATEE continued on page 12

Corp. prepares the Viera Town Center food truck park along Town Center Avenue. park will be across from the popular Urban Prime restaurant in Viera. The outdoor entertainment area Company. W+J Construction is aiming for an April 2026 completion date. VVx

See pages 4, 5

VIERA VOICE Steve Hollinger
Viera Town Center food truck park on 2.5 acres of lakefront property on Town Center Avenue. Story, page 29.

Theme parks, sports, great food keep Akers family fond of Florida

Families with children often have their weekends filled up with activities. It’s almost like a rite of passage for children as they explore new interests and hobbies.

For the Akers family however, they find themselves busy over the course of the whole week ensuring that their children, Brinley and Millie, have plenty of opportunities to do the things they love.

Originally from Virginia, Jeff and Amanda Akers moved to Florida six years ago. As avid Disney fans, they have definitely been enjoying their new residence and they visit the theme park whenever they’re able.

“You can go to the golden statues (at Disney parks) like Pluto, Mickey and Minnie and your Magic Band — you put it around in a circle and it’ll sing and make noise,” Millie said, sharing a pro tip.

They adore Disney so much that when Brinley planned to use her saved birthday money for a giant plush toy, they couldn’t say no. Yet with the girls’ busy schedules, they don’t always get to visit Disney parks as often as they’d like.

“(There’s) basketball, soccer, volleyball, flag football, dance three nights a week — well, dance (is) three classes a week for

“There’s

like seven of us (in the neighborhood scooter club, sometimes referred to as the scooter gang) and we all have electric scooters.”

— Brinley Akers

each, band, choir (and) chess club. And that’s — did I leave anything out? (And) Girl Scouts!,” Amanda said of her daughters’ activities.

“And the community scooter club,” Jeff added jokingly.

“There’s like seven of us and we all have electric scooters,” Brinley explained, noting that the group is sometimes referred to as the scooter gang.

The Akers are always up for a family adventure. Whether it’s a day at the amusement park, trying a different restaurant or just relaxing at home playing Mario Party, there is one thing very noticeable within the family dynamic: They not only cherish the love they have for each other, but also the vibrant energy they have for seizing the day. VV

• Board-Certified, Recertified Orthopedic Surgeon

• Independent Practice – Personalized Patient Attention Privileges at Holmes Regional, Orlando Health Melbourne and Viera Hospital

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• U.S.-Made Implants Only – From Trusted Major Supplier Experience you can trust. Care you deserve.

Featured Family

VIERA VOICE Nichole Yuan
The Akers family has a long list of activities that keep them busy as they enjoy living in Viera.

Volume 17, Issue 4

©2025 Bluewater

Creative Group, Inc.

All rights reserved

Bluewater Creative Group

321-242-1235

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Viera, FL 32940

media@bluewatercreativegroup.com

Publisher

Bluewater Creative Group, Inc.

Managing Editor

Jill Blue

Assignment Editor

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Office Manager

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Copy Editor

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Sports Writer/SportsBlog

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Art/Design/Photography

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Writers/Reporters

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Maria Sonnenberg

Nichole Yuan

TIPS FROM THE TOP

Dear Viera High School Class of 2025,

Congratulations on this incredible milestone! This achievement marks not just the end of one chapter, but the exciting beginning of another — full of opportunity. As you take the next step forward, know that the values of learning, dedication and commitment that you’ve embraced here in Viera during your high school studies will serve you well in the journey ahead.

At The Viera Company, we believe in building more than places — we believe in improving people’s lives. You are our leaders of tomorrow. Embrace every opportunity to improve the lives of others in whatever you pursue, but always do it with passion and positivity. Never underestimate the power of being committed to your vision.

On behalf of everyone at The Viera Company and our affiliated businesses, I wish you continued success on the road ahead. We’re proud of you and can’t wait to see what’s next!

Dear graduates,

My advice for graduates? Here’s the deal — no one has it all figured out, even the people who look like they do. There's no magical guidebook.

So you’re going to make mistakes. Big ones. Little ones. Medium ones. With your career, with your education, with your (eventual) kids, with your love life, with your friends. And guess what — it’s fine. It’s fine as long as you keep learning from mistakes. As long as you stay curious. As long as you let momentum — not perfection — be your best friend.

And especially as long as you give yourself grace. And give those around you and those you love? Give them grace too, as they make their mistakes. Because that’s how you grow. How we all grow. Life is less about getting it all right, and more about making good stories out of the wrong turns.

So take the leap. Try things, fail things, laugh about it, learn from it and keep going. You’ve got this — especially when you let yourself not have it all the time. (Besides, perfection is boring.)

Dear graduates,

As you step into the next chapter of your lives, remember that learning doesn't end with graduation. Embrace every opportunity to grow, both personally and professionally. Stay curious, be resilient and don't be afraid to take risks. Your journey will be filled with challenges, but it's through these challenges that you will find your true strengths.

Surround yourself with positive influences, seek mentors and always strive to make a difference in your community. Remember, success is not just about achieving your goals, but also about the impact you have on others along the way.

Congratulations on your achievements, and best wishes for a bright and fulfilling future.

Dear graduates,

Congratulations for meeting the requirements and mastering all of the challenges that stood between you and this day. Your graduation is a testament to your hard work and dedication and is an incredible achievement. Today, you will embark on a new chapter in your lives that has endless possibilities for joy, triumph and an amazing adventure. There will also be new encounters, uncharted waters and inevitably some disappointments. Never waver in your plight to overcome these challenges and always keep your focus and motivation. Do not let your setbacks and mistakes be roadblocks. Rather, let them be the learning opportunities that pave the way for future successes. Once again, congratulations graduates, on this momentous accomplishment!

TIPS continued to page 5

Anne Conroy-Baiter
Todd J. Pokrywa
Dr. Mark Rendell Superintendent of Schools Brevard County School District
Dana Blickley, CFA Brevard County Property Appraiser

Brevard residents' travel focuses on mission to help others

Several Brevard County residents are traveling with purpose this summer as they focus on trips that help their fellow humans.

Chris and Robin Conneen, aka the 4TheGirls Hike Team, are channeling their love for the outdoors into a trek through 100 miles of the Inca Trail. The freedom hike is organized by Atlas Free, an international nonprofit fighting against human trafficking and sexual exploitation.

The couple aim to hike 100 miles in 10 days through the mountainous terrain of the Peruvian Andes.

“I’ve been researching and planning our self-guided hike from Cusco, Peru to Machu Picchu for about six months now,” said Chris Conneen, the owner of Pizza Gallery and 28 North Gastropub in Viera.

Although seasoned hikers, the Conneens are nonetheless preparing themselves for the strenuous adventure.

“We are seeking our primary care doctor's counsel, since we're sea-level Floridians that have never been higher than 12,000 feet elevation, and we’re not spring chickens anymore,” Conneen said.

They have armed themselves with information on mitigating altitude sickness and have put their legs to the test, logging more than 10 miles at a time on local trails and climbing more than 60 flights of stairs in one hour while maintaining a good heart rate. They have also become frequent joggers up and down the Eau Gallie Causeway and have been doing lots of yoga, breathing exercises, stretching and even cold plunging several times a week.

Their team’s name

TIPS continued from page 4

Donn

Weaver, a

Dear graduates,

stems from the couple’s four daughters and one granddaughter and the fact that three out of four victims of human trafficking are women and girls.

"Worldwide, human trafficking is the fastestgrowing criminal enterprise, generating $236 billion in illegal profit,” Conneen explained.

“This is why we are doing what we love, to fight what we hate.”

This is the second time the couple have hiked to raise funds for Atlas Free.

“Robin and I did an 18-mile hike in one day in Yosemite in 2021 and raised $10,000 and more awareness,” Conneen said, adding that it was one of the hardest things they had ever done and one of the most rewarding, too.

On the other side of the world, in Kenya, Viera resident Cameron Countryman, her mom, Andrea, and friend Elizabeth Kent, will be helping the One Mission Society as Team Viera.

Andrea Countryman, a nurse, and Kent, a pharmacist, will be volunteering at temporary clinics around Nairobi. Cameron, a freshman studying journalism at the

As the grandfather of 10, I would like to share with high school graduates the same points that I have told them. Never forget your past and honor your family that brought you this far.

Develop your own goals and dreams of how you want to live your life within the newly independent way ahead. Even if you have to adjust your dreams, keep them throughout life.

Whatever you do, be the kind of citizen who is engaged with America and remembers how lucky we are to be Americans.

Be grateful to our veterans since 1775 — 250 years ago — and all who have served and sacrificed. Without veterans, there is no America.

Think of service to others as well as self — from your future family, to your job, to your volunteer work, your impact can be huge and your own satisfaction even bigger. VV

University of Florida, will assist while also gathering material for stories. All three women are members of Faith Viera Lutheran Church.

“I am looking forward to being out of my comfort zone and spreading God’s word,” Cameron said.

One Mission Society

“engages the one to reach the many.” The nonprofit multiplies the efforts of more than 1,700 cross-cultural missionaries and 7,500 volunteers to serve their fellow human beings in 83 countries.

Join the adventures

Help these teams to help

others in need.

To donate to the 4TheGirls Hike Team, visit give.atlasfree. org/team/643869

To donate to Viera Team, visit onemissionsociety.org/ express-giving and donate to project number 583425.

All donations are taxdeductible. VV

VIERA VOICE Courtesy of Chris Conneen
Chris and Robin Conneen will trek through 100 miles of the Inca Trail in the Peruvian Andes to raise funds for the fight against human trafficking and sexual exploitation.
VIERA VOICE Courtesy of Andrea Countryman Elizabeth Kent, left, Cameron Countryman and her mom Andrea Countryman will travel to Kenya to volunteer with One Mission Society, helping out at temporary medical clinics in Nairobi.

SPORTS

WrapUp

Viera track teams boast plenty of young, talented athletes

If there’s one thing the Viera High School boys and girls track teams have in common this season, it’s that their numbers are up and the future is definitely bright.

“The team has come along pretty good,” Viera boys coach Carl Thomas said. “We’ve got a lot of young talent — ninth and 10th graders.”

Sophomore Jordan Bryant has had himself quite a year so far, breaking the school record in the 400 hurdles three times (1 minute, 3.54 seconds).

However, don’t rule out a few upperclassmen.

Junior Jayden McPherson pulled off an impressive feat at the Class 4A, District 7 meet, finishing first in the 100, 200 and 400 meters. He was also part of Viera’s 400-meter (4x100) relay team that finished second. That team included seniors Bobby Meyer and Zach Taylor, along with sophomore Alexander Tud.

"We have a lot of really talented, really committed ninth graders. It's really impressive to see."
— Randi Liddle, VHS girls track and field coach

Senior Jack Girard and junior Michael Girard are also good bets to get to state.

Jack Girard won the 3,200 at the district as well as the Cape Coast Conference meet. He was also second in the 1,600 at district.

Michael Girard won the CCC 1,600-meter race and was third in the 3,200.

Junior Colby Thompson broke the school record

in the 800 (1:57.44) and was second in the event at district.

The 1,600 (4x400) relay team of Taylor, Tud, Thompson and senior Alcient Odic finished second in the district meet along with the 3,200 (4x800) team of Jack Girard, Michael Girard, Thompson and sophomore Aiden Germain.

Senior Brody Burrup was second in the javelin at both district and CCC meets. Other top throwers include sophomore Brooks Stowe and junior Andrew Elwell. Sophomore Jayceon Britt is the team’s top high jumper and also runs the 110 hurdles.

While the boys have a chance to get a few runners

to the state meet, junior Addy Elwell leads a girls team that has doubled in size with a number of freshmen, some who are new to the sport.

“We have a lot of really talented, really committed ninth graders,” Viera girls coach Randi Liddle said. “It’s really impressive to see.”

Freshman Ava Griggs finished second in the 800 and third in the high jump at district. She was also part of a 400 race that saw four Viera runners finish 3, 4, 5 and 6 led by sophomore Kristin Bright, Griggs, freshman Skyla Walters and freshman Madison Church.

Senior Paige Rutherford won the district 100 hurdles race, with sophomore Malia Zambrano finishing fourth.

Junior Justyce Ablordeppey was fourth in the 100 and fifth in the 200. Another junior, Yasmin Croom, was fifth in the 100. Freshman Laali Franco was fifth in the long jump.

Other key athletes include freshman Nailah Osinowo (shot put); sophomore Kaitlyn Peedin (discus); Liliana Gallego (javelin); sophomore Lindsey Daly (4x100); sophomore Laura Wagner (4x400); junior Callie Price (4x800); junior Rachel Devoid (4x800) and senior Maddie Helms (4x800).

As for Elwell, the junior just keeps adding to an already impressive legacy. She broke the school record in the 800 (2:26.84) and reached her goal of going sub-five minutes in the 1,600 with a record time of 4:58.25. VV

VIERA VOICE Courtesy of Jennifer Rincones
Viera High School senior Paige Rutherford, center, won the 100-meter hurdles at the Class 4A, District 7 meet last month. The Hawks have several athletes who have a chance to qualify for this year's state championships.

Holy Trinity boys going after state title; girls also could have strong finish

The Holy Trinity boys track and field team is coming for the Class 1A state championship this season.

With the defending state champion 3,200-meter (4x800) relay team poised to win a second consecutive title and a number of other runners occupying some of the top rankings in Class 1A, it’s easy to see why.

“Our goal is to go perform our best at state and, if we do that, we’ll have a shot to win a title,” Tigers coach Mark Bailey said. “We’re going after it.”

Seniors Zak Gunderson and Skyler Jensen, along with juniors Evan Spreitzer and Luke Thomas, make up the 4x800 relay team. They’ve already run 7 minutes, 50.05 seconds, which is better than last year’s winning time (7:51.71) in the state finals.

Gunderson, Jensen and Thomas also make up the 1,600 (4x400) relay team, with Spreitzer serving as an alternate. That’s because he’s also running the 1,600 (where he’s ranked No. 1 in the state) and the 3,200.

“Evan Spreitzer is going to do one of the hardest things to do in track and field to try to help the boys win a state title this year,” Bailey said.

The other spot on the 4x400 relay will likely be taken by junior Camryn McRoy, who is ranked No. 1 in the 110 and 400 hurdles.

Gunderson is ranked No. 1 in the 800 and Thomas is ranked eighth, while Jensen is

No. 4 in the 1,600.

Junior Jaedon McMillan is ranked third in the 110 hurdles and sixth in the long jump.

Other key contributors include junior Jordan Osborne (100, 200, 400-meter relay); sophomore Omari Savage (400 relay) and senior Jaden Kameka (shot put, discus).

Holy Trinity’s girls, meanwhile, could be looking at a top eight finish if everything goes right. Once again, it could be the Tigers’ top-ranked 3,200 (4x800) relay that steals the show.

Seniors Aniyah Francis and Ava Knight teamed with junior Grace Mooney and seventh-grader Abby Conners to run 9:59.30 earlier this year and will look to take home gold. Freshman Liz Stewart is the alternate.

Junior Cailyn Easton is ranked third in the 100 hurdles and is part of a 400 (4x100) relay that is expected to get to state. That group also includes seniors Jadeyn Webb and Greer Reynolds

along with junior Julianna Pedicini.

Webb, a senior captain, has been having a good year in the 100 and 200.

Bailey said a runner to look out for could be Knight, who ran cross-country in the eighth grade before concentrating exclusively on soccer. Back out for track, the senior should be strong in the 1,600.

Other top athletes who have performed well for the Tigers this season include seventh-grader Cecilia Hsieh (200); freshman Juelle Masser

(400, 1,600 relay); Francis (800; Connors (3,200); senior Jadalynn Morel (400 hurdles, long jump); sophomore Anna Phillips (high jump); senior Olivia Durgin (high jump); sophomore Gabby Weiner (pole vault); eighth-grader Adelyn Burch (triple jump); junior Lilly Collier (shot put, discus); senior Isabelle Clark (javelin) and sophomore Brooke Ellingson (javelin). VV

VIERA VOICE Courtesy of Darren Nazareno
The Holy Trinity boys track and field team has a strong chance to win the Class 1A State Championship. The girls could be among the top finishers.
Evan Spreitzer
Ava Knight
Jadeyn Webb
Camryn McRoy
Aniyah Francis
Grace Mooney
Luke Thomas
Skyler Jensen
Zak Gunderson

Hawks feel good about offensive line, quarterback spots

The Viera Hawks entered the start of this year’s spring football practice confident in two different areas: Offensive line and quarterback Eric Nelson.

Everything else, especially on defense, will sort itself out.

Unlike last season, when the Hawks had a veteran defensive unit, this year’s team is returning only three starters and three other players who got some varsity playing experience last season. The rest of the unit will be fresh out of the box.

The Hawks will also have a new defensive coordinator in Phil Price, who will try to create a system that works best for the players on Viera’s roster.

That was the emphasis when spring practice began on April 28, where the Hawks took their first steps toward preparing for the 2025 season.

Viera is set to play in a

jamboree on May 16, along with Orlando Christian Prep, Leesburg and host St. Cloud. The Hawks will play each team for one quarter, which will let them play against different looks.

Nelson, a receiver turned quarterback, did an admirable job taking over as Viera’s signal caller a year ago. Now, he’s back with a full season of experience under his belt and some shiny new weapons thanks to a few transfers.

Chase Kramer, a 6-foot4, 265-pound offensive lineman, has come in from Merritt Island. The rising senior is expected to play left tackle with rising junior Coby Wallace kicking inside to guard, rising junior Max Kukuljica at center, rising junior Sam Cardona at right guard and 6-7, 275-pound rising sophomore Tyler Wu at right tackle.

Viera also has two quality backups in rising sophomore Royston Goldinger, who could

see time at tight end, and rising senior Ollie Goehmann.

Duke Butler, a rising junior transfer from Holy Trinity, brings tremendous athleticism to the Hawks. He’ll likely start at running back and also has a chance to play safety. He can also play quarterback. Rising sophomore Jake Boobar is also expected to get time at running back.

Sean Hartman, who grew up playing in the Viera Suntree Youth Football League, has transferred back from Merritt Island and will help fill one of Viera’s four

open wide receiver spots along with rising senior Jonah Woodruff, rising junior Dylan Arroyo, rising junior Slade Pulliam and rising sophomore Timmy Sedaros.

Rising sophomore Mikkel Zades is the backup quarterback.

Defensively, the only returning starters are defensive linemen Sal Orlando (rising senior) and Dillon Price (rising junior) along with rising senior linebacker James Olson.

Rising juniors Dimitri Jean and Daniel Jolly both made a couple of starts at safety

last season and rising senior Blake Thomas saw time at linebacker.

Among the key newcomers are rising sophomores Yanni Jean (defensive back); Avery Thompson (linebacker); Chase Blackmore (linebacker) and Jaxson Rhude (defensive lineman). Rising juniors Paul Hanna and Jaycob Klein will be in the secondary and rising junior Matthew JohnstonKline is a defensive lineman.

“As a team, we’re bigger, stronger,” Viera coach Tony Gulla said. “… I think we’ll be OK. We should be competitive.” VV

VIERA VOICE photo
Eric Nelson, left, returns at quarterback for the Viera Hawks.

Unique instructor guides Viera boys golfers to new heights

The story of the Viera High School boys winning the Florida State Golf championship appeared in the December edition of Viera Voice

While the story shares information about some of the personal accomplishments of the players on the team and the challenges they faced during the competition, there is, like so many stories in life that highlight the individual and team accomplishments of winning, a bit of a back story to the team’s winning the championship. As the late Paul Harvey said, “Now for the rest of the story.”

That story involves Professional Golf Association (PGA) instructor Ted Britschgi, who has been a golf instructor for more than 30 years and has worked with professional sports teams, athletes and celebrities alike. Britschgi is not only a golf professional, but is also recognized by Golf Magazine as one of the Top 250 Golf Instructors in the country.

A graduate of the University of Connecticut in 1989, Britschgi used his education and degree in Industrial Psychology to aid him in teaching and educating golfers.

“I use a holistic approach to teaching golf,” Britschgi said. “I focus on biomechanics and the science of the golf swing.”

For the past two years, members of the Viera High School boys golf team have traveled to and from the TB Golf Academy in Orlando two to four times a month for personal instruction from Britschgi.

One member of the Viera team, Ryan Woodward, who moved from Maine to Viera a

Check out our Viera Voice Facebook page for Breaking News and Facebook Live posts

year ago, has been working with Britschgi for the past year.

“His teaching is focused on the individual,” Woodward said. “He helps improve your swing based on your individual style. During each lesson, he spends time focusing on the mental aspect of the game and not simply on how to strike the ball. With coach Britschgi’s help, I have moved up almost 3,000 positions in the junior

national rankings.”

“I incorporate DISC style leadership in my golf instruction,” Britschgi said. “D stands for Dominance, I is for Influence, S is for Steadiness and C is for Conscientiousness. The DISC leadership principles have proven to be highly effective in business and in helping athletes deal with strategies used in sports. And they definitely work helping golfers, especially with the

mental aspect of the game.”

While Britschgi is quick to talk about how much he enjoys teaching golf, seeing the Viera boys golf

Say NØ to Back Surgery

There is a new scientific medical breakthrough that is patients with severe neck and low back pain. The innovative treatment is called spinal decompression therapy.

What is spinal decompression therapy?

Spinal decompression therapy is proven to be a safe and effective means to treat severe chronic neck (cervical) and low back (lumbar) conditions that cause neck pain, low back pain, sciatica and arm numbness and pain. The program consists of an FDAcleared, nonsurgical decompression machine focusing on disc-related and arthritic conditions affecting the spine. Using advanced technology decompression therapy provides relief by gently stretching the bones of the spine, thus reducing the pressure within the disc (intradiscal pressure). Disc decompression treats the source of the pain caused by disc bulge or herniated disc pressure. Treatment is computer-controlled and very comfortable.

What conditions does spinal decompression therapy treat?

Spinal decompression therapy can effectively treat disc herniations (low back and or leg pain/numbness and neck pain and/or arm pain and numbness).

Degenerative disc disease, arthritis, facet syndrome, failed back surgery and post-surgical pain syndrome, sciatica and many other neck and back conditions are treated by this therapy.

How successful is the treatment?

The success rate for spinal decompression is extremely high for patients who are candidates. The result is pain relief and acceleration of the natural healing process by removing pressure off spinal nerves and retraction of the herniated disc. After the recommended treatment

team, comprised of several students, winning the Florida State Championship in November is one of his proudest moments. VV

program, patients will be on their way to optimal health again. Spinal decompression has no side effects and is virtually pain free. Patients can continue with their normal daily activities during this procedure.

A study by C. Norman Shealy, M.D., Ph.D. and a former teaching fellow in surgery at Harvard University School of Medicine, published in the American Journal of Pain Management, April 1997, reported that “86 percent of ruptured intervertebral disc (RID) patients achieved ‘good’ (50 to 89 percent improvement) to ‘excellent’ (90 to 100 percent improvement) results with decompression. Sciatica and back pain were relieved. Of the facet arthrosis patients, 75 percent obtained ‘good’ to ‘excellent’ results with decompression.”

Is spinal decompression therapy an effective, long-term solution for patients with herniated degenerated discs, sciatica and chronic neck and back pain?

Yes, the therapy is effective without drugs, pills, shots or surgery. In fact, more than 10 research articles support up to 80 percent effectiveness with even the toughest of cases. Now, other countries are getting in on the action as spinal decompression becomes the worldwide go-to treatment for non-surgical neck and back pain treatment.

Dennis McClure, M.D., neurosurgeon, wrote in the European Musculoskeletal Review, 2006: “Of particular interest are lumbar surgical candidates, that is, those patients who had been advised to undergo surgery and who came to the practice for a second opinion or patients who I might have previously operated on. [With spinal decompression therapy], this group showed a success rate of 92 percent. This is quite an exciting find, considering the next alternative for these patients would have been surgery.”

Dr. Kevin Fogarty, who owns Fogarty Chiropractic Life Clinic at 839 Barton Boulevard in Rockledge, is a Chiropractic physician. For information, call 321-636-5200.

ADVERTORIAL

VIERA VOICE Courtesy of Ted Britschgi
Ted Britschgi, a Professional Golf Association instructor, uses a holistic approach to teaching the science of golf..
Dr. Kevin Fogarty
VIERA VOICE Courtesy of Ted Britschgi Viera High School golfer Ryan Woodward moved up 3,000 positions in the junior national rankings under the mentorship of Ted Britschgi.

SCHOOL News

beloved art teacher, had the idea to mosaic the sculpture with the aid of her fifth and sixth graders in the art club.

Ensuring that the project was executed as planned, local professional artist Mary Moon assisted in teaching the craft of mosaic to the eager students.

“One

of the kids was like, 'am I gonna be able to, like, tile a bathroom after this?”

“We taught the kids what mosaic means, how to prep for a mosaic, they had all the proper safety equipment — this started last year, with last year’s fifth and sixth grade art club — and they took off all the shells, we sanded her down because she was like Pepto Bismol pink (and) she was a sight to see,” recounts Bergman.

The project, spanning two years worth of hard work, was made possible in large part due to the Brevard Cultural Alliance and the Heineman Foundation, whose

contributions have inspired the young minds that worked tirelessly to bring Bergman’s vision to life.

The students enjoyed the opportunity to work with their hands and learn this new skill with some even pondering how they can further make use of what they’ve learned.

“One of the kids was like, ‘am I gonna be able to, like, tile a bathroom after this?’ ” Bergman said.

Throughout the duration of the project, all the students had already become familiar with the manatee, which they nicknamed Bertha. They insist on hearing updates before art class could begin. Now that the venture has been completed, the students at Manatee Elementary School have a special friend and confidant that they are already using to share secrets, bring good luck and sometimes simply to pretend to give high fives to. VVx

VIERA VOICE Jill Blue
A manatee sculpture that once was on display at the Melbourne Orlando International Airport has a new home at Manatee Elementary School. It also has a new look thanks to artist Mary Moon, art teacher Katelyn Bergman and her fifth and sixth grade art club.
VIERA VOICE Jill Blue Wood artist Keith MacGrath of Dynamic Wood Creations, left, crafted the wave wood base. Art teacher Katelyn Bergman, center, and artist Mary Moon guided Manatee students through the project.
VIERA VOICE Courtesy of the Brevard Cultural Alliance Fantasea, the manatee scupture, was part of an exhibit at the airport before it was given to Manatee Elementary School.

That’s a big plus! Other great benefits include:

• Get paid up to two days early with direct deposit²

• 0.25% rate discount on any new or used auto purchase loan1

• Earn daily interest on your account balance

Suntree/Viera

Dining Out & Events

Navigating

p.m.

Suntree/Viera Library

902 Jordan Blass Drive Suntree, 321-255-4404

37th Veterans Memorial Reunion

May 8 to May 11 9 a.m. - 6 p.m.

Wickham Park 2500 Parkway Drive Melbourne, Veteransmemorialreunioninc. org

May 14

Hurricane Preparedness 1 p.m. An informative session covering the basics of hurricane

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

May 15

Third Thursday 5 - 8 p.m.

Live music by Last Call, complimentary snacks and a free drink or ice cream. The Avenue Viera Central Park 2261 Town Center Ave. Viera, 321-634-5390

Thunder on Cocoa Beach

May 15 to May 18 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Offshore powerboat races. 1500 N. Atlantic Ave. Cocoa Beach thunderoncocoabeach.com

May 17

Platinum Coast Amateur Society

2 - 4:30 p.m.

A group for those interested in ham radio.

Suntree/Viera Library

902 Jordan Blass Drive

Suntree, 321-255-4404

Spirit Fest

May 17 and 18

10 a.m. - 5:30 p.m.

Florida’s largest metaphysical and crystal expo.

Melbourne Auditorium 625 Hibiscus Blvd.

May 27

VMC Library Discussion Series 6 - 7:30 p.m.

Salute to the First American Military Service: 250 Years of the US Army. Veterans Memorial Center 400 S. Sykes Creek Parkway Merritt Island, 321-453-1776

May 31

Bottoms Up Beer Run 6 p.m.

Benefit for the St. Baldrick’s Foundation.

Wickham Park 2500 Parkway Drive Melbourne runsignup.com

Upcoming Trips

Private Safari to South Africa with Jean Nov. 11-22, 2025 This year, I am excited to return to South Africa to share my love of South Africa. Maximum of 18 people, 2 seats remain. The cost without international air is $7170 pp based on double occupancy.

Avalon River Cruise June 2-9, 2026

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Viera Middle School seventh graders enjoy STEM Challenge

Six students in the seventh grade at Viera Middle School took part in the recent annual L3 Harris STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) Challenge at the Brevard County School Board building at 2700 Judge Fran Jamieson Way.

Students competed April 9 in four categories, which included competitions that focused on one of four traits — collaboration, communication, coding and engineering.

“They (students) are having a blast,” said Michelle Marshall, a Brevard Public Schools teacher technology integrator. “Even if they aren’t doing as well as they would have hoped in the individual components,

I think at the end of the day everybody had a great time.”

Marshall discussed the communication aspect of the competition.

“Communicate (challenge) is really cool,” Marshall

said. “That’s almost like a telephone. They can’t see each other. They actually have Lego builds and one team has the directions and the Legos and the other team has too many Legos and no

ADVENTURE AWAITS

directions and then one team has to tell the other team how to build it.”

Students were also put through an escape room challenge as part of the collaboration segment, Marshall noted. In the coding challenge, seventh-grade students had to build and code cars to go through a Martian landscape.

Viera Middle School students indicated that they enjoyed putting together a bridge that had to support weight as part of the day’s event.

“I like seeing how sturdy our bridge was even though it wasn’t matching everything that it should have,” said Kellan Lee, who was in a leadership role with the VMS team on coding. “It was sturdy enough to survive.”

VMS was one of nine Brevard middle schools to compete in the Challenge, which included 22 teams, according to a release from the Brevard Schools Foundation. Teams of seventh graders competed April 9 while teams of eighth graders did so the following day.

“I’m extremely proud,” said Beth Rembe, a technology associate at VMS and one of the STEM coaches at the school. “For a brand-new school, they stepped out

to come to a competition outside of this school against other schools. Even when we had a mishap here or there, they still tried their best. For us to take third place in coding with Kellan’s help, it was really amazing. They stuck together, they kept trying and they put themselves out there to begin with.”

Rembe said that a STEM club was started in the first year alongside another coach, Gina Rossi, who Rembe said, is a science teacher at the school.

“We met every Monday morning,” Rembe said. “Since there are four parts to the competition, each Monday we tried to emphasize a different aspect of the competition. So, one Monday, we worked on coding. One Monday, we worked on the 3-D design. We worked on escape rooms, on communication and tried to work on a little bit of everything throughout the couple months leading up to the competition.”

Jameson Iliff, another student member of the team, shared excitement for what happens in the future.

“I’m most excited for this competition again,” Iliff said. “It was really fun being in.”

VIERA VOICE Courtesy of Beth Rembe
Ahmad Alrahmani, left, Kellan Lee, Jaxson Freeman and Jameson Iliff were among six students from Viera Middle School who participated in the L3 Harris STEM Challenge on April 9.
VIERA VOICE Chris Bonnano
Eighth-grade students from Cocoa High School participated in the L3 Harris STEM Challenge on April 10.

Butterfly garden at Ralph Williams Elementary School encourages outdoor learning

Everyone at Ralph Williams Elementary School is excited about a new butterfly garden coming to the school.

The garden was made possible with a donation of $1,150 from the Viera Woman’s Club that was made on its “Turn Compassion Into Action Day,” according to school principal Susan Schroeder.

“It’s going to be just beyond the playground,” Schroeder said. “There’s a big dirt area that we have not been

able to get grass to grow in. Our children do like to play soccer in that area. But, of course, there’s no grass so we get a lot of complaints because they’re coming home filthy. Black mud, dirt everywhere. So, we’re going to be putting in a lot of plants and ground cover, planter boxes. It’s going to be beautiful. There’s a lot of plants going in.”

Schroeder said that students will be able to play soccer in another grassy area. She also noted that all of the plants in the garden will be native to Florida.

“They’re all plants that attract butterflies and bees and pollinators,” she said.

The garden will undoubtedly help to complement an outdoor classroom that will be put in behind the butterfly garden.

“I like to see butterflies,” said Cole Reichley, a third grader in a message via his mother Megan Connaughton Reichley to the Viera Voice.

One club that will unquestionably benefit from the new addition is the Garden Club. The club began this school year with both first- and second- grade students participating in it, Schroeder said.

A Community Work Day was also held on Saturday, April 12, which included members from the club who helped plant. VV-

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VIERA VOICE Chris Bonnano
A ceremony was held to celebrate the installation of a new butterfly garden at Ralph Williams Elementary School in Viera on April 8.
VIERA VOICE Chris Bonnano
The Viera Woman's Club donated $1,150 toward the installation of a new butterfly garden at Ralph Williams Elementary School in Viera.

HOLY TRINITY EPISCOPAL

Barlow
Grillo
Webb
Balda Anna Dlugasch Michael Gonzalez Jayan Janardhan Melanie Maze Matthew Nunes
Aiden Silika
Walders
Bean Brayden Doolittle
Zackery Gunderson Skyler Jensen Donald McCorquodale IV
Ponton
Smith
Hall
Jaden Kameka Thomas McHenry III
Donovan Boesch Parker Duran
Sean Harrison Benjamin Kindem
Jake Middlebrooks
Sanjana Reddy
Sophia Sutton
Mitchell White
Griffin Brunger
Olivia Durgin
Madelyn Hassey
Ava Knight
FilChristopher Moore
Greer Reynolds
Andrew Szabo
Cali Wilamowski
Madison Adair
Ryan Day
Aniyah Francis
Sawyer Jacobs
Gavin Manion
Channguyen Nguyen
Aayan Shah
Valentina Velarde

EPISCOPAL ACADEMY

the Class of 2025!

Over

the past five

years,

Holy Trinity graduates have been accepted to some of the world’s finest colleges and universities, including:

Brown University

Columbia University

Cornell University

Princeton University

University of Pennsylvania

Yale University

Harvard University

American University

Auburn University

Baylor University

Boston University

Case Western Reserve University

Carnegie Mellon

Duke University

Emory University

Florida State University

George Washington University

Georgia Institute of Technology

Johns Hopkins University

Michigan State University

New York University

Northwestern University

Penn State University

Purdue University

Rhode Island School of Design

Savannah College of Art and Design

Stanford University

United States Air Force Academy

United States Military Academy

United States Naval Academy

University of California (Los Angeles)

University of Southern California

University of Chicago

University of Florida

University of Georgia

University of Massachusetts

University of Miami

University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

University of Virginia

Virginia Polytechnic University

Roman Carlson
Effie Emigh
Isabella Henderson
Sage La Gala
Jadalynn Morel
Charlie Robbins
Janely Tavarez-Cintron
Zhibo Zhang
Ved Chary
Kiren Farooqui
Katherine Hughes
Kaitlynn LaNois
Natalie Morris
Jayden Ruddock
Julia Thessen
Isabelle Clark
Joshua Feliciano
Clara Hyatt
Victoria Lee
Ashlee Mullen
Vikram Sabapathy
Frederic Tu
Liam Curran
Beau Fleis
Taha Itani
Katie Leonard
Victoria Nelson
Savannah Schultz
Anika Vaishnav
Landon Dawson
Alexander Fontanin
Devon Jackameit
Jonah Lush
Matthew Newmarch
Katherine Schwinn
Jamie Louise Van Hooven
Not pictured: Brian Quino-Pedro Photos courtesy of Dean Stewart Photography, Inc.

VHS yearbook wins silver award, praise for page design

Viera High School’s 202324 yearbook earned several elite honors from America’s biggest yearbook publisher. Titled “24K Gold,” the yearbook received the Jostens

CHURCH RUMMAGE SALE

June 7, 2025 – 9 a.m. - 2 p.m. Proceeds to benefit New Life Mission

Youth Bake Sale to benefit July National Youth Gathering

National Yearbook Program of Excellence 2025 award at the Silver level, the secondhighest honor a yearbook can earn. A club page in the yearbook also appeared in the prestigious Jostens Look Book 2025, which honors the best in yearbook design and coverage.

“I'm super proud,” said VHS English teacher and yearbook sponsor Karrah Hudkins, who has overseen production of the high school’s previous 10 yearbooks. “Every year, it's one of my goals to make it. When we make it, I'm so proud of the kids and their hard work. They are super talented and I'm very blessed.”

Created by three classes of yearbook students, the 2023-24 VHS edition went before highly qualified judges, who viewed more than 1,000 entries from across the U.S., Canada and overseas, according to Hudkins.

The page that Jostens selected for its Look Book was titled “Clash of Clubs” and featured a lip-sync battle between VHS club members. Created by student Hayley Power, who has since graduated, the page’s design

won praise for its use of color, cutout photos and use of graphics or lines.

“To be picked for the Look Book is something we strive for because every Jostens customer gets to see this,” said Hudkins, a 25-year Brevard County instructor and a yearbook sponsor for 17 years.

The 2023-24 yearbook sold out all 1,115 copies, Hudkins noted.

VHS Principal Heather Legate congratulated Hudkins and her students for their accomplishments.

“This is very exciting!” Legate stated in an email. “Our yearbook staff works so hard every year and they always produce a fantastic book.”

With the 2024-25 yearbook nearly ready to be distributed, Hudkins said her staff is eager to compete for more awards from Jostens.

“They were very excited,” Hudkins said. “They know that this is a big deal for us in yearbook to be able to accomplish this. They were really proud of themselves and now they're setting a standard to do it again this year.” VVx

VIERA VOICE Courtesy of Viera High School
Viera High School’s 2023-24 yearbook, created by three yearbook classes and overseen by English teacher Karrah Hudkins, right, earned several elite awards from Jostens, America’s biggest yearbook publisher.
Lanai, Patio, Garage or Walkway into a beautiful work of art.

Viera teacher receives James Madison Memorial Fellowship

Viera

Bryan “Keith” Vincent has always had an interest in the U.S. Constitution.

Now, his perseverance is paying off.

Vincent became the only educator in Florida this year — and just the fourth in the history of Brevard County — to receive the James Madison Memorial Fellowship.

The 43 year old will receive up to $24,000 to study for a master’s degree focused on the U.S. Constitution.

It’s a dream achievement for Vincent, who got the fellowship on his third try. He got the good news on the night of April 1, when he woke up, checked his phone, and saw a notification from FedEx that a package from the James Madison Foundation would be delivered the next day.

“When I saw that notification, it was like three o’clock in the morning,” Vincent said. “I woke my wife up. I’m like, ‘Look … I’m going

to get a Madison Fellowship.'

“She’s been super supportive because she knows this has been a career goal for me, to get a Madison Fellowship and do a Master of Arts in American History. It’s pretty awesome.

“For me, it was like Christmas. I was that excited about it. There was that period where you’re almost like, ‘I can’t believe this happened to me.’ This is that big of a deal.”

Vincent is getting to work quickly, having already enrolled in online summer classes at Gettysburg College in partnership with the Gilder Lehrman Institute for American History. He will spend the summer of 2026 at Georgetown, where he will stay in the dorms and have an exciting opportunity to study with top scholars and historians.

He anticipates completing his studies by the fall of 2026. He already has a master's degree in Education.

“The purpose of this fellowship is to get a second masters that is all content

focused on U.S. History,” he said.

Vincent, who goes by his middle name Keith, has been teaching for 13 years. He’s been at Viera since 2016.

“My big thing is I love

being able to have an impact on the next generation,” he said. “Because I teach history, and in the past, I’ve taught government, my focus is we need to build informed citizens that can go out, and

they’re equipped when they graduate, to go out and be part of our democracy, part of our society and have at least some level of interest in what’s going on.” VV

Faculty Softball Challenge remains a true community event

The annual Faculty Softball Challenge event has become so popular around the Viera community, even the man who organized it all is a little surprised.

“I didn’t expect it to be this

strong, but the community is kind of what made me want to keep doing it and keep pushing the event,” Manatee Elementary School teacher Todd Zgonc said.

“If the community is happy and shows up, it’s a big win for everybody.

That’s kind of how I grade, if it was a victory or not.”

The 19th version of the event is scheduled to take place May 22 at the USSSA Space Coast Stadium with faculty and staff from Quest Elementary School taking on Viera Elementary School at

Elementary

at the Faculty Softball Challenge. The 19th

to take place May 22 at the USSSA Space

6 p.m., followed by Manatee Elementary School against Suntree Elementary set for 7:15.

Manatee and Suntree won last year’s games, which puts them in the later time slot.

It will mark the second time Quest and Viera have played (2023 was the first), while Manatee and Suntree will square off for the third time (2004, 2023) in the history of the event.

The rainout date is May 23.

Once again, a crowd of 3,600 to 3,700 people is expected.

What makes the games

so much fun is not only that crowd made up of current students of all four schools, but also former students who come back to see their old teachers and friends, making it a true community event.

“There are events that bring schools together … but I would be hard pressed to think of any event that brings two schools, let alone four schools, together in a fun environment,” Zgonc said.

“It’s crazy, the energy of all the kids and that parents that

VIERA VOICE Jill Blue
Viera High School teacher Bryan "Keith" Vincent realized a career goal by receiving a Madison Fellowship to pursue a Master of Arts degree in American History.
VIERA VOICE photo
Manatee
Principal Shannon Daly poses with the school mascot
edition of the event is scheduled
Coast Complex.

19th edition of the event is scheduled to take place May 22 at the USSSA Space Coast Complex.

FACULTY SOFTBALL

continued from page 22

support it.”

Tickets are $3 at the school and $5 for walkup fans the night of the games.

Food trucks will be on hand.

Proceeds from the event, after expenses are paid, go into a discretionary fund for each school.

A lot has changed since Zgonc organized the first Faculty Softball Challenge game, but he couldn’t be happier to see how it’s grown through the years and how sustainable he believes it’s become.

“I guess you could say it’s gotten bigger than me, bigger than the school and bigger than the people running it,” Zgonc said. “I know when I’m done running it, it will easily continue itself because people want it and they support it.

“That’s kind of cool.” VV

ACROSS

1. Most agile

5. Peel

7. Uncouth

8. Walked

9. Go by (of time)

12. Aspiring actress

15. River of ice

19. Grills

21. Wired message 22. Salute

23. Went on horseback 24. Hearing membranes DOWN

1. Hospital workers

2. Paging device sound

3. Follow next

4. Front of neck

5. Big dipper, ... coaster

6. Subtract

10. Vocal solo

11. Sri Lankan robe

12. Male title

13. Type of saxophone

14. Large amounts

15. Roadside channel

16. Dairy product

17. Come into view

18. Biblical prayers

19. More docile

20. Dislike intensely © Lovatts Puzzles

VIERA VOICE Bob Parente
A crowd of roughly 3,700 people came out to watch last year's Faculty Softball Challenge. The

CONGRATULATIONS to the Charlie Corbeil Youth Art Contest artists

WINNERS:

Best of Show Morgan Sinclair — “A Lunar Spoonbill”

Kindergarten through Third Grade

Art/Painting

First Place: Ava Strain — “Millie & Marty in the Indian River Lagoon” Second Place: Lucy Helding “Panther Problems” Third Place: Gus DeFranco “Fishing the Fish!” Photography

First Place: Luke Straut “Mr. Butter in the Butterfly Garden”

Second Place: Caroline “Callie” Lau — “Florida Fresh”

Third Place: Eren Akkoyunlu — “Flying Great Blue Heron” Writing

First Place: Lila Burgaz — “A Day of Fuzzy the Squirrel”

Second Place: Luke Straut — “Owls Eat Bugs”

Fourth through Seventh Grade

Art/Painting

First Place: Audrey Welling — “The Snowy Egret” Second Place: Molly Stuker — “Beauty Amongst Us”

Third Place: Juliana Castillo — “Sunrise of the Birds of Paradise” Photography

First Place: Emma Landreville — “Shy Winter Visitor”

Second Place: Charlotte Landreville — “The Posing Preppy Stork”

Third Place: Isabella Braunecker — “Seagulls” Writing

First Place: Anika Reddy — “Walking in the Wetlands”

Second Place: Amritha Vuddharaju — “Oh, Dear Earth”

Third Place: Lola Anderson — “Viera”

Eighth through 12th Grade

Art/Painting

First Place: Adalia Rodriguez-Rivera — “A Curious Encounter”

Second Place: Natalie Block — “Pink Spoonbill” Photography

First Place: Hannah Hubble — “From a Squirrel’s Perspective”

Second Place: Ethan Landreville — “Traveler Clad in Dun”

Third Place: Ashritha Vuddharaju — “Little Pockets of Heaven” Writing

First Place: Riya Reddy — “Dreaming of the Wetlands” Digital

First Place: Mia Alejandra Vegh — “Save the Manatees”

Second Place: Delaney Alexander — “Sandhill Cranes”

ScoopBUSINESS

for a $72 million

Developer plans townhome community at old Rockledge Airport site

A South Florida real estate developer plans to build townhomes at the old Rockledge Airport site.

Aventura-based Stellar Communities announced plans April 2 to break ground by late June on The Stellar at Space Coast, a $72 million community on 22 acres at 3795 Flypark Drive, just east of Murrell Road and north of Barnes Boulevard.

Rockledge Airport, a small, privately owned airfield, operated on

the property until it was closed in 2015. The Florida Department of Transportation cited numerous safety concerns regarding pilots landing in unauthorized areas.

The new community will feature 201 townhomes ranging in size from 1,400 to 2,000 square feet, with two-, three-, and fourbedroom layouts. The townhomes will offer modern appliances, quartz countertops, eco-friendly features, a pavilion and poolside barbecue events, electric vehicle charging

stations, 24-hour emergency maintenance, safety and security features, a securedaccess building and social events and according to Stellar’s website. The petfriendly development also will have a pet lawn and wash station.

According to Brevard County Property Appraiser's Office records, the land was purchased for $3.75 million on Feb. 28.

The project still needs approval from Rockledge’s planning commission and City Council.

John W. Cooper Sr.,

Rockledge’s community development director, said the project received preliminary plat approval for the townhome development, but still needs site plan approval and final plat approval.

“We have not received those applications for review so those dates and determinations have not been scheduled as of yet,”

Cooper stated in an email.

Stellar broke ground April 2 on the 266-unit Havens at Palm Bay Reserve, a luxury buildto-rent community south

of Malabar Road and near Heritage High School. The development is expected to be completed in 2026.

“This is our first community in Brevard County,“ Alex de Chabert, the president of Stellar’s Central Florida division, said during the groundbreaking ceremony. “The Stellar community takes pride in innovation and growth, and to date we have completed over 3,000 homes in the state.” VV

Solutions Healthcare purchases the closed The Town Square facility

A Central Florida treatment program for people facing mental health and substance abuse issues has purchased The Town Square, a former assisted living facility on Murrell Road that has been closed since 2021.

Solutions Healthcare LLC bought the 88-unit senior care facility at 1700 Wuesthoff Drive in December 2024, according to the Brevard County Property Appraiser's Office records.

The 77,000-squarefoot property sold for $4,125,000 on Dec. 5, records show.

With treatment centers in Orlando, DeLand and Palm Coast, Solutions Healthcare provides behavioral healthcare for individuals

VIERA VOICE M ike Gaffey Solutions Healthcare LLC has bought The Town Square, a former assisted living facility on Murrell Road that’s been closed since 2021.

and families in Central Florida and surrounding communities. Its dualdiagnosis residential and

community-based programs assist people suffering from mental health and substance use disorders.

“Our facilities in Florida offer a safe and supportive environment where clients receive 24/7 care, ensuring their physical, emotional

and social needs are met,” Solutions states at its website.

Solutions Healthcare declined to comment on the purchase.

The Town Square, which opened in 2001, provided assisted living care for up to

120 residents until it closed in October 2021. Occupancy rates at the Steward Health Care-operated facility had been declining since before the Covid pandemic, The Town Square officials said in a statement announcing its closing. . VV

VIERA VOICE
Steve Hollinger
South Florida real estate developer Stellar Communities has announced plans
townhome community at the site of the former Rockledge Airport near Murrell Road and Barnes Boulevard.

Family-run El Tesoro Cocina Mexicana serving up its signature tacos

El tesoro means “the treasure” in Spanish.

The owners of El Tesoro Cocina Mexicana hope that customers find a treasure trove of tasty dishes when they visit the Mexican restaurant, which celebrated its grand opening March 8.

“It’s all been positive,” El Tesoro general manager and Viera resident Rene Zarinana said of the public’s response. “Everybody’s been waiting for us to open.”

The Mexican restaurant at 8260 N. Wickham Road in Viera is formerly the site of AJ’s Lager House, a sports bar that opened in January 2024 but closed Sept. 13. An Uno Pizzeria & Grill operated at the location

until 2021. It’s the fourth restaurant for Rene’s father, Pascual Eric Zarinana.

El Tesoro’s menu features dishes from the region around Mexico’s capital Mexico City made from scratch using fresh ingredients, he said.

Diners can choose from a wide variety of meals, including 25 house specialties, eight styles of burritos, nine varieties of enchiladas, four fajita dishes, and six different quesadillas, including a vegetarian version stuffed with beans, corn, grilled onions, peppers, mushrooms and tomatoes.

“Our signature dish, our No. 1 thing, is our tacos,” Rene Zarinana said. “Everybody knows us for our tacos. Apart from that, we go a little diverse with lomo saltado, which comes from Peru. It’s steak with purple onion and habanero

pepper and it comes with fried rice, plantains and fries.”

El Tesoro also offers an extensive lunch menu from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. weekdays, seafood dishes, hamburgers, desserts, soft drinks, a children’s menu and alcoholic beverages that include tequila, imported beers, cocktails and 27 varieties of margaritas.

“It’s a huge menu of drinks,” Rene Zarinana said. “We have a lot of variety.”

The Viera location has about 30 employees, Zarinana said.

“Our plan was to have a little version of a fine-dining type of restaurant so you could come in, eat with the family, look at the pretty atmosphere and have great food,” he said. “And at the end of the day you can keep

coming back and we’ll have consistent meals.”

Fans of Mexican food gave El Tesoro a thumbs-up.

“We had the tierra y mar,” said Angela Miles of Viera, out for dinner with husband Rick and daughter Isabel. “It was steak and shrimp with queso and rice and beans. It was delicious.”

“The margaritas are excellent,” Rick added.

Operating hours are 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Friday and Saturday, and 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Sunday. Takeout and delivery is available through Toast Delivery Services.

For reservations, takeout, delivery or more information, call 321-2525368. VV

The Neighbors of Suntree donates $20,000 to two local charities

The Neighbors of Suntree, Inc. (NOS) was started by a group of women golfers from the Suntree Country Club to get to know their neighbors and help others new to the area with a welcoming spirit.

It just celebrated its 40th anniversary.

“We have 327 members and are growing steadily each year,” Kim Mangrum, the incoming president, said. “We currently have our largest membership in history.”

At its April 10 meeting at the Suntree Country Club, the NOS donated $10,000 to the charity Helping Seniors of Brevard and another $10,000 to the Women’s Center of Brevard.

“This year, because

it’s our 40th anniversary, we wanted to support organizations representing our membership, women and senior citizens,”

Mangrum said. Mangrum, who moved to Melbourne three years ago with her husband David, joined NOS after learning

about it from a friend.

“We just love it here,” she said. “I love being part of an organization whose goal is to encourage friendliness among our members and guests and raise money for local charities.”

The NOS raises money throughout the year, including hosting holiday and spring raffle events and a yearly fashion show.

In addition to supporting local charities, including the Children’s Hunger Project, and collecting toys for the Brevard County Sheriff’s Office and Sheriff Wayne Ivey’s annual Shop with a Cop toy drive, the NOS has informative club activities, including book club, bunco, card groups, and coffee and conversation gatherings, which usually include guest speakers on a variety of topics.

“Although our membership is 99% women, anyone can join,” Mangrum said. “You can join online or contact a current member. The annual dues are $30.”

The outgoing president of the NOS, Patti Coggins, often tells people that the membership has big hearts. Donating to various charities, including this year’s recipients, proves that they do indeed have big hearts.VV

VIERA VOICE Mike Gaffey
Server Adielis Pimentel holds a plate of lomo saltado, a featured dish at the newly opened El Tesoro Cocina Mexicana in Viera.
VIERA VOICE Jill Blue Patti Coggins, left, the former NOS president, is happy that Kim Mangrum is the new president.
VIERA VOICE Jill Blue
Helping Seniors of Brevard was the recipient of a generous $10,000 donation by The Neighbors of Suntree.
VIERA VOICE Jill Blue
The Neighbors of Suntree raised $10,000 to help the Women's Center of Brevard.

Construction work starts on Viera food truck park

Executive chef Ercan Ekinci could barely contain his excitement when he saw construction work begin on a food truck park across from his popular Urban Prime restaurant in Viera.

“When I saw the trucks there breaking ground, my heart was singing,” Ekinci said of the upcoming Viera Town Center food truck park planned along Town Center Avenue.

Rockledge-based W+J Construction Corp. is preparing the 2.5-acre lakefront site, which will feature a stage, a bar, green space and lots of room for several food trucks and public events such as farmers markets and art shows.

Eva Rey, the senior vice president of community management and communications for the project developer The Viera Company, said the outdoor entertainment area won’t be a typical oval amphitheater with raised seats.

“What we are building is a performance stage and open field for people to gather,” Rey stated in an email.

The park is taking shape in a growing area in the heart of Viera. The Luna at Viera apartment complex is just east of the food truck park.

The Viera Town Center Dog Park & Playground is just south of the park at Colonnade and Rodina drives behind the Centre Pointe apartments. Duran Development Center, a golf driving range, also is west of the food truck park.

Nova Apartments of Viera, a seven-story, 225unit apartment complex, is planned on the north side of Town Center Avenue, across the street from the food truck park and immediately west of Urban Prime.

Ekinci said he originally wanted to build Urban Prime on the park property, but learned that The Viera Company had plans for the land “So I decided to buy across the street” at 2435 Metfield Drive in a growing residential area, he said.

“As soon as I saw the plans there, with a children's playground and spaces for

food trucks, I said, ‘What could be better than this?’ Ekinci said. “People will come on the weekends for farmers markets, art shows and car shows. We can really bring the people here and have a great time.”

W+J Construction is aiming for an April 2026 completion date, said Brian Seli, the site superintendent. VV

PEOPLE ON THE MOVE

C.J. Hughes has returned to his old role as the executive chef at 28 North Gastropub.

The native of Cape Cod, Massachusetts returned to 28 North Gastropub in a managerial position last year before assuming the executive chef position this spring. It was a post he held a couple of years ago at 28 North Gastropub.

“We’ve designed a whole new menu and brought back some classic stuff we had before,’’ said Hughes, a graduate of the New England Culinary Institute in Boston. “(Oyster) Rockefeller, smoked duck wings and some light, spring options. It’s going to be something different that nobody is doing around here. We’ll have our soups — clam chowder is back. We’re doing it with cobia. We also have diver scallops being flown in. Everything is from scratch.’’

Hughes is delighted to be back in his old role.

“I’m very excited — this is my spot,’’ Hughes said. “This is where I’m going to stay.’’

VIERA VOICE Mike Gaffey
Work has started on the Viera Town Center food truck park on 2.5 acres of lakefront property on Town Center Avenue.
VIERA VOICE
Chef C.J. Hughes

Faculty Softball Challenge

1 2 3

x Brunch & Learn

11 a.m. - 1 p.m. Color trends with SherwinWilliams. Presented by CDS Builders. Aripeka Model Home 1726 Gracewood Drive Viera, 321-419-4441

Sip & Smoke 5:30 p.m. Cigar and spirit themed event.

28 North 2250 Town Center Ave. Viera, 321-241-1159 Third annual

Pair Charity Event 6 - 10 p.m. Food, games and entertainment benefiting Eckerd Connects’ programs. The Oasis at Palm Shores 2950 Pineda Plaza Way Palm Shores 321-253-0032 Big Hats & Bow Ties Derby Party 4:30 - 8:30 p.m. Proceeds benefit the Zonta Club. Urban Prime 2435 Metfield Drive Viera, 321-499-1188 Casino Night 7 p.m. Fundraiser for the Temple Beth Sholom. Suntree Country Club 300 Country Club Drive Suntree, 321-254-6333

4567 8910

Eat My Crust 5K Proceeds benefit Viera High School Athletics and Space Coast Early Steps. Viera High School

613 Stadium Parkway

Space Coast Cars & Motorcycles Car Show

8 - 10:30 a.m.

All makes, models and years are welcome.

Ford’s Garage

5480 Lake Andrew Drive Viera

Make and Take Aromatherapy Body Cream

1 - 2 p.m.

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

Open Pickleball

10 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Forester Recreation Center 960 Cogswell St. Rockledge 321-684-7920

A Day at Shell Harbor

12:30 p.m.

Sip and paint and hear hands-on personal stories of service.

Shell Harbor 2855 Murrell Road Rockledge, 321-265-6875

Healing Through Art Expression

Noon For women veterans. RISE Viera 8353 Auterra Drive Viera, 321-426-6736

Sit-n-Stitch Group

1 - 3 p.m.

Embroidery, knitting, crochet group.

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

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

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

Movie Matinee

2 p.m. Featuring “Wicked.” Presented by Rhodes Law, PA. One Senior Place 8085 Spyglass Hill Road Viera, 321-751-6771

City of Rockledge Public Safety Building Naming Ceremony

5 - 6 p.m.

The Rockledge Public Safety Building official naming in honor of Mayor Tom Price. Rockledge Police Department 1776 Jack Oates Blvd. Rockledge 321-221-7540

Viera East Farmers Market

10 a.m. - 2 p.m. Woodside Park 1705 Crane Creek Blvd. Viera, vieraeastmarket@ gmail.com

Drive, Chip & Putt Local Qualifier An opportunity for young golfers to develop their skills. Duran Golf Club 7032 Stadium Parkway Viera, 321-504-7776

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Cocoa Village Summer

Art & Craft Fair

May 10 and 11

10 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Historic Cocoa Village 1 Oleander Street

Cocoa, 321-631-9075

Scottish Country Dancing

6:30 - 9:30 p.m.

Springs of Suntree 8300 Holiday Springs Road

Suntree, 321-427-3587

Brevard Investment Education Group

11 a.m. - 1 p.m.

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

Early Bird Trivia 4 - 6 p.m.

Free to play.

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

20 Tips on Using Your iPhone App 10 a.m.

Learn how to search your photos, create and organize albums, hide private photos, find deleted photos and recover them. One Senior Place 8085 Spyglass Hill Road Viera, 321-751-6771

Inaugural Military Enlistment Ceremony of the Space Coast 6 - 8 p.m.

The event recognizes and honors high school seniors who have enlisted in the military. Viera High School Stadium 6103 Stadium Parkway Viera, 321-783-1776

17th annual Mayors Breakfast (16 mayors) 7:30 a.m.

Mayors from Brevard County will gather. Sheriff Wayne Ivey will be the emcee. Space Coast Convention Center

301 Tucker Lane Cocoa, 321-951-9998

The Love Run 5K Run/ Walk 7 a.m. Proceeds support the Salvation Army domestic violence services. Rockledge Civic Hub 530 Barton Blvd. Rockledge runsignup.com

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Space Coast Jeep Club Show & Shine

4 - 8 p.m.

More than 50 jeeps to see and live music on the patio.

Pizza Gallery

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

Gold Star Mother’s Art Display

May 19 - May 27

9 a.m. - 3 p.m.

Artist Jeanne Weaver's display of 21 paintings, Losing Todd: A Mother’s Journey. First Lt. Todd Weaver was killed in combat in Afghanistan on September 9, 2010. Porcher House 434 Delannoy Ave. Cocoa, 321-639-3500

Estate Planning Seminar

10 a.m.

Presented by William Johnson, PA. One Senior Place 8085 Spyglass Hill Road Viera, 321-751-6771

Space Coast Poets

5:30 - 7:30 p.m.

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

Sit-n-Stitch Group

1 - 3 p.m.

Embroidery, knitting, crochet group.

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

19th edition

Faculty Softball Challenge

6 p.m. and 7:15 p.m.

USSSA Space Coast Stadium in Viera Rain date May 23

Collectors and Antiques Extravaganza

10 a.m. - 7 p.m. Cocoa Marketplace 2507 N. Cocoa Blvd. Cocoa, 321-432-1256

The Best of John Williams: Side by Side 7 p.m.

Relive blockbuster classics with the Space Coast Symphony. Scott Center at Holy Trinity 5625 Holy Trinity Drive Suntree, 855-252-7276

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Shake, Wag & Roll

1 - 6 p.m. Fundraiser for Companion Animal Care of Brevard. Live music, dancing raffles and a 50/50 drawing. Pineda Inn 6533 U.S. Highway 1 Rockledge 321-750-2669

of

Memorial Day — time to honor, remember

As they have for the past few years, hundreds will gather at the Cape Canaveral National Cemetery and elsewhere in Brevard County for Memorial Day ceremonies that pay tribute to those who died serving the nation.

The Memorial Day Observance at the National Cemetery in Scottsmoor, one of the largest of several memorial events in Brevard County, will be held at 10 a.m. Monday, May 26.

“Come out and pay your respect for an hour,” said Tom Fitzgerald, who chairs the event’s planning committee.

The keynote speaker at the National Cemetery will be retired Navy Rear Admiral James Hart, the president of Space Coast Honor Flight, the organization that takes veterans on one-day trips to visit the monuments in their honor in Washington, D.C.

“I think it is very important to take Memorial Day seriously,” Hart said. “It’s a tough day for veterans who remember their friends.”

Hart said people should attend at least one Memorial Day event honoring those who died serving.

“It’s a good way to show your gratitude,” he said.

Memorial Day, observed on the last Monday in May, is a day to remember and honor members of the military who were killed in service, both during deployment overseas or in training and service in the United States.

Veterans would encourage Americans to spend the day visiting a cemetery, attending a Memorial Day event and paying tribute and honoring the courage, sacrifice and legacy to those who lost their lives in service to the nation.

It is a tradition that began May 5, 1866 in Waterloo, New York, when the community gathered to honor the dead of the Civil War. Two years later, Gen. John Logan of the

Grand Army of the Republic proclaimed May 30 as the day to commemorate the sacrifices of Civil War soldiers.

After World War I, the holiday expanded to honor all those who had died in all American wars. It was not until 1971 that the day was declared a national holiday.

In addition to the observance at the Cape Canaveral National Cemetery, there are other ceremonies taking place in Brevard County.

• The Brevard Veterans Memorial Center Memorial Day Ceremony will be held from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. May 26. The Sacrifice in Service to America will feature patriotic

music, guest speakers retired Army Col. Jeff Rogers, a Vietnam combat patrol leader, and retired Army Lt. Col. Hans Hunt, who served in the Global War on terror. The center is located at 400

S. Sykes Creek Parkway on Merritt Island.

• A Parade and Memorial Day Ceremony will be held in

MEMORIAL DAY

Continued to page 33

VIERA VOICE R. Norman Moody
There will be several Memorial Day ceremonies throughout Brevard County. Take time to reflect on the sacrifice of those who served and died.

When I was growing up, my very favorite meal was my mother’s yellow rice and chicken. Now, I have to say, that was as

as you could

Viera Cookbook

get. The rice mix came in a yellow, cellophane package. I had no idea the rice itself was not yellow.

Many years later, I found out it was the spices that gave the rice its color. She would

cook the chicken and add it to the rice mix and there you have it, yellow rice and chicken.

Fast forward many years and this is still my favorite dish, except now, it’s the

Arroz con pollo (Rice with

Ingredients:

2 large chicken breasts (diced) 1 teaspoon cumin

½ white onion (chopped) ½ teaspoon oregano

½ bell pepper (chopped) 1 bay leaf

6 to 8 Spanish olives (sliced) 1 cup chicken broth

4 to 6 sprigs cilantro (optional) chopped 1 8 oz. tomato sauce

chicken)

1 or 2 garlic cloves (minced) ½ cup red wine or red cooking wine

¼ cup olive oil

1/3 link chorizo sausage (chopped)

½ teaspoon salt ½ teaspoon black pepper

1 cup green peas

6 pimento slices

One box of your favorite yellow rice mix (I prefer the one from Aldi)

Begin by preparing the yellow rice mix. Cook as directed and set aside.

In a deep skillet, season the chicken with salt and pepper and cook in olive oil until tender. Add the chorizo sausage, onion, bell pepper and garlic. Add a little water if needed, stir, cover and continue to cook on medium low heat for about 15 minutes.

Arroz con pollo that I have learned to cook. There is a whole lot more that goes into it than just flavored rice and cooked chicken.

When my husband and I travel around the world, I

always try the Arroz con pollo if it’s on the menu. Every country makes it a little different.

I will share my recipe with you. It’s one that seems to be a favorite when I make it. VV

Now add the remaining ingredients except the peas, stir, cover and let it simmer for about 20 minutes. At this point, everything should be well cooked and you’ll have a nice sauce. Fold in rice a little at a time, stirring as you go to make sure the rice is well coated with the sauce, but not soupy.

Transfer the rice and chicken to a baking dish, add peas on top and garnish with pimentos.

Place in the oven at 325 degrees for about 15 minutes. Serve with your favorite salad and bread. Enjoy!

Hurry

VIERA VOICE Elaine Moody Arroz con pollo (Rice with chicken) is a simple meal to cook.

VIERA MEANS BUSINESS

For an invitation to the May VMB meeting, call 321-242-1235.

In April, the Viera Means Business networking group met at The Exchange — Resale store in East Viera. The Viera Means Business networking group meets at 8 a.m. the second Thursday of each month at various locations. Join business colleagues in Viera and the surrounding area to network.

VIERA MEANS BUSINESS

MEMORIAL DAY

Continued from page 31

Cocoa Village. The parade is at 4 p.m. along Delannoy Avenue, Harrison Street, Brevard Avenue and Maryland Avenue, and a static display at 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. at Riverfront Park.

• The Liberty Bell Museum

will host its annual Memorial Day remembrance at 11 a.m. Monday, May 26. The featured speaker will be Air Force Col. Shannon DaSilva, commander Space Delta 10 at Patrick Space Force Base. The museum will be open before and after the ceremony for public viewing.

“Memorial Day is a

remembrance that sacrifice is part of the call to service,” said Donn Weaver, a past president of the Brevard Veterans Memorial Center.

Weaver’s son, 1st. Lt. Todd Weaver, was killed in action Sept. 9, 2010, while leading a platoon in Afghanistan.

“It is a time to focus on him and all the fallen.” SL

Dr. Jaya Prakash, Dylan Brozny Kim Cone, Kristine Quattrone
Sofia Saladino is the owner of The Exchange — Resale. The 20-year-old entrepreneur started the business when she was 14 years old.
Terry Peralta, Cameron Countryman Bob Grey, Curtis Stolaas
Alan Frisher, Chris Conneen, Adam Copenhaver
Christine Stolaas, Cathy Greene and Maureen Reeder with her dog, Romeo.
Theresa Stocking, Kelsy Gibbs, Brittany Cessar, Alexandra Piotrowski
Teri Hirsch, Jeff Law, Daisy Pickett
Cameron Wicks, Wendy Taylor
Cheryl Clark, Derek Olinski
Michelle Walker, Anastina Bratton, Michelle Llorens, Erikka Williams
Carmelia Byers, Tammy Petrone
Angie Higgins, Amanda Packal, Riki Montgomery

SENIORNews

B-Roll Media could be an A-plus in underserved communities

When Robert Jackson was growing up, dyslexia significantly hampered his academic progress.

“The only thing that kept me in school were the arts and sports,” he said.

Jackson channeled his creativity into a successful career in the greater Washington, D.C. area, eventually owning his own broadcast media business. But, he never forgot his struggles as a student and wanted to help the next generation.

“I wanted to expose young people to the arts, particularly now that art education has been eliminated from so many schools,” he said.

Broadcast media is his forte, so Jackson leaned on the subject when he formed B-Roll Media in 2011 in Maryland. The nonprofit’s name refers to the name given in video production to supplemental footage that smoothly transitions film.

While living in the area, Jackson organized photography, videography and filmmaking classes for high school students, using facilities provided by county schools and recreation centers.

The program focuses on

students from underserved communities, as well as on youths with learning disabilities. Drawing on the richness of the arts, students are focused on positive activities that could lead to a satisfying, well-paying area.

Participants receive comprehensive and applied experience with film, television, audio engineering, art and music.

Jackson and his wife eventually decided to shed off Maryland snow for Florida sunshine and began researching possible retirement options. Viera earned top marks.

“We researched the community and it resonated with us,” Jackson said.

The Jacksons moved to Viera two years ago and so did B-Roll Media, although the organization still maintains its outreach programs in the D.C. area.

“I started looking for youth organizations here to share the program,” Jackson said.

He found the perfect group in The Dock, the dropin after school and summer program of Neighbor

Up Brevard, a United Way agency that serves Melbourne’s Booker T. Washington neighborhood, one of the poorest

“I wanted to expose young people to the arts, particularly now that art education has been eliminated from so many schools.”

communities in the county.

Come June, B-Roll Media will host photography and video classes at The Dock. The lessons are taught by professionals in the field and provide students with the audio and video equipment needed to unleash their creativity, all at no cost.

“Money should never be an obstacle,” Jackson said.

A certificate of

—Robert Jackson

completion and a vast new body of knowledge awaits students who complete the 40-hour course.

“We’re always looking to expose the kids to new educational opportunities, particularly in the arts,”

Neighbor Up executive director LaShaundra McGhee said.

“The program B-Roll Media also exposes (youth)

to career opportunities that may not require college skills and helps them tap into their passions.”

Because B-Roll Media depends on grants, private and corporate donations, tax-deductible contributions are always welcome, as are volunteers eager to change lives.

For more information, go to b-rollmedia.org VV

VIERA VOICE Jill Blue
Robert Jackson, who built a successful career in broadcast media, wants to encourage young people to pursue photography and videography careers.

Take care of mother — our true nurturer and protector

May is the month to honor mothers — nurturers and protectors, whose role is vital in our lives. Our own mothers, as well as Mother Earth, deserve respect and care.

A recent event hosted by Waterway Warriors, a local nonprofit organization, is a perfect example of what this care can look like. In an inspiring community effort along the Banana River, more than 50 volunteers came together to remove 321 tires — weighing more than 10,000 pounds — from the waterways. Sandra Leone, the co-founder of Waterway Warriors, explained that these tires were part of a well meaning but misguided attempt from the 1970s to prevent shoreline erosion.

At the time, placing tires along the banks was considered innovative, but we have since learned the hidden dangers. As tires degrade, they leach microplastics and harmful chemicals such as 6PPD-quinone, a toxic compound linked to the decline of aquatic life. This contaminant can disrupt fish habitats and impair their nervous and hormonal systems, posing serious threats to marine ecosystems.

By removing these tires, our community was not just cleaning up but also healing that area.

These kinds of actions reflect how much people care, and it is not just about the aesthetics — it is about restoring the health and balance of our environment. While large-scale efforts like this are impactful, small acts matter just as much and everyday choices can have a big impact, too.

For instance, this Mother’s Day, consider giving the gift of experience and buying meaningful gifts from secondhand shops. It is a simple yet powerful way to show love to mom, to a special cause and to the planet. On its site (recyclebrevard.org/p/thrift-

“We don’t inherit the earth from our ancestors; we borrow it from our children."

stores.html), Recycle Brevard has compiled a list of local thrift stores where alternative and sustainable presents can be found.

Also, at Recraft Bazaar in Cocoa Village, there is a treasure trove of craft materials, thoughtful gifts and gift-wrapping options that support Recycle Brevard’s mission to recycle more, expand recycling access and keep hard-to-recycle items out of landfills.

Whether it is pulling tires from a river, rethinking how we shop or choosing a gift that gives back, every positive

DRAMATIC CHANGES IN YOUR KITCHEN

Tired of white boring kitchen cabinets? Let me paint them for a brand new look. Free Estimates, Central Brevard Only, Videos upon request. Call or email Bill 321-412-1900 williamfmeyeresq@gmail.com

DOCUMENT SERVICE

Divorce, Bankruptcy, Estate Planning, and much more. All case types prepared at the guaranteed lowest rate. Call or text 321-266-1299

SKATE SHARPENING

35 year Professional skater, hockey, sharpener. Elite Hockey and Figure skate maintenance. Company Sharpener Disney on Ice, Holiday on Ice.

Ice Maxx Productions LLC, Viera Contact: 843-478-4128 Richard@richardswenning.com

GARAGE SALE

Sunrise Community Garage Sale Saturday, May 17 8 a.m. - Noon Pinehurst Ave. and Homewood Ave. in Suntree.

PET HEALTH

Use Happy Jack® KetoWipes for dualaction antibacterial and antifungal properties— ideal for managing skin conditions in dogs, cats, and horses without steroids. Amber Acres Feed Call 321-632- 3333

action counts. When we care for our environment as we care for our mothers — with love, attention and respect — we build a healthier, kinder world for future generations.

This year, let’s take care of mother and decide to make a difference to honor and celebrate our moms, our Earth and generations still to come.

Email Marcia Booth at Marcia@RecycleBrevard.org

Recycle Brevard is an independent nonprofit organization 100% run by volunteers focused on reducing waste and promoting sustainable living. VV

Recycle Brevard

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