Viera HarVest FestiVal
OTTERLY TERRIFYING
Scarecrow Stroll concludes with 'Crow Silent Auction at the Viera Harvest Festival page 20
BY JEFF NAVIN
For the past 13 years, Jill Blue has been thrilled at the effort and hard work local businesses put into making colorful, creative and interesting scarecrows for the Viera Voice Scarecrow Stroll and Viera Harvest Festival while benefiting the community.
“It has been so much fun seeing the scarecrows through the years,” said Blue, the CEO of Bluewater Creative Group and the publisher of the Viera Voice. “I can’t wait to see the bright, brilliant and stunning ’Crows the businesses will build this year. So many are so creative in naming their ’Crows — from puns to rhymes to clever phrases.”
Woodside Park will host the Viera Harvest Festival from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Oct.
18. The eight-acre park, which winds through a hammock with Spanish Moss-draped trees, is located off Murrell Road at 1703 Crane Creek Boulevard in Viera. It has nature trails for walkers and bicyclists.
The Viera Harvest Festival was held at Woodside Park last year for the first time after a long-time stint at The Avenue Viera with a couple of years at Viera Regional Park mixed in. Orlando Health will be the presenting sponsor for the Viera Harvest Festival.
“It is wonderful to see families that come out year after year to enjoy a great time at the Viera Harvest Festival,” Blue said. “Woodside Park offers nice wide-open spaces and some shade trees for the
VIERA VOICE Jill Blue
Tracy Frampton, the executive director at the Florida Wildlife Hospital, top left, Dr. April Geer, top right, Saige Haddock and Lindsay Mayer are in the middle of building Otterly Terrifying for the 13th Viera Voice Scarecrow Stroll and Viera Harvest Festival.
Emphasis on mental health spurs Rogers family to focus on faith
BY NICHOLE YUAN
With the hustle and bustle of the growing community, residents seem to always be on the go without hesitation and often without stopping.
But as the Rogers family knows all too well, living life in constant nonstop motion can take its toll.
“I was struggling with anxiety, kind of in my middle school years, and that’s kind of when I found God,” said husband and father Joel Rogers. “The Bible (was) really helping me out through that time and that’s when my whole, like, journey with ministry started.”
Mishella Rogers, too, has been extremely involved in engaging with the local community, bonding with other mothers over faith and
family life. What started as a simple social media post looking to connect with other moms quickly became a community of its own when she decided to create a group to plan meetups.
The group, designed to help moms meet other moms, has already amassed more than 600 members who have found comfort in one another through the shared realities of parenthood.
“A lot of women talk about postpartum depression, their anxieties, and us coming together and supporting each other is so important,” Mishella Rogers said.
Just two months later the Rogers opened their own church, Our Village, a passion project of the family that embraces the importance of mental health.
Featured family
“We want to speak the real realities of life,” Mishella Rogers said of their church and sermons.
“My dad took his life,” Joel Rogers said. “And that’s kind of ignited a new passion to have kind of a more of a niche in like, helping people with mental health.” Together, the Rogers, along with their young children Zion, 2, and Shalom, 1, are leading by example, sharing the raw, unfiltered truths of life. Whether that means tending to fussing children during a sermon or reaching out to others in the community, the Rogers’ determination to simply be accepting, welcoming and show love in any way they can, is truly inspiring. VV
SUNDAY
9:15 a.m. Adult Bible Study (Bldg. E) 10:45 a.m. Sunday School (Bldg. C) children and adults
WEDNESDAY
ALL CLASSES ARE FROM 6 - 7
VPK - 2nd (Room 3)
3rd - 5th (Room 1) Confirmation (Main Area) Post-Confirmation (Youth Room) Adult (Room 2) 7:05 p.m.
VIERA VOICE Nichole Yuan
Mishella Rogers plans meetups all over the county, from coffee shops, to the Brevard Zoo, to playgrounds, allowing moms an opportunity to connect without the need to find a sitter.
Excitement grows over Silver Jubilee Gala
BY BETTY PORTER
The St. John the Evangelist Catholic Community Silver Jubilee Gala will celebrate its 25-year journey of grace, faith and hope.
Volume 17, Issue 9
©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
Publisher
Bluewater Creative Group, Inc.
Managing Editor
Jill Blue
Editor
R. Norman Moody
Office Manager
Sylvia Montes
Design/Photography
Jorjann Blake
Copy Editor
Jeff Navin
Sports Writer/SportsBlog
Carl Kotala
Writers/Reporters
Chris Bonanno
Ernie Dorling
Mike Gaffey
Elaine Moody
Lillian Nguyen
Betty Porter
Nichole Yuan
The 25th anniversary celebration will be held at 6 p.m. Oct. 18 in the church hall at 5655 Stadium Parkway in Viera.
The church has served the community since 2001 and is celebrating the unwavering spirit of the parish family.
“Parishioners are filled with excitement as preparations are underway for the church's first-ever Gala, marking the kickoff of its 25th Silver Jubilee year,” parishioner Anjanette Wicks said. “The Gala is planned as both a celebration and a fundraising outreach event to benefit local organizations in need, including Matthew's Hope, Aging Matters, Family
the Children's Hunger Project and many others.”
Billed as “An Elegant Evening Under a Jubilee
the gala will include a three-course plated dinner by Chef Tony of Renaissance Catering, dancing and live entertainment with violinist
“Through
— Rev. John Britto Anthony
Evening gala attire is suggested. There will be photo opportunities, a silent auction, basket raffle and a 50/50 raffle.
Tickets are $75 per person and $680 for a reserved table for a party of eight people. Tickets are available for purchase before and after mass or by calling 321-591-3414.
The Rev. John Britto Anthony is excited about the celebration because it is an opportunity to recognize all the parishioners for their hard work and dedication. It is a way of showing gratitude to all of them.
“This Gala will be a joyful celebration of the faithful parishioners who have devoted themselves to serving God and our community,” he said. “Through their love, service and generosity, they have made St. John the Evangelist a home for worship and fellowship. Over these past 25 years, we have witnessed the hand of God guiding us, blessing us and bringing us together as one family in Christ. Through God's grace, we have been able to build not only a beautiful place of worship, but also a thriving community of faith and fellowship in a short time.”
Promise,
Moon,”
Char Good, B&H (Brian and Hannah) and DJ Chuck (Papa Smurf).
VIERA VOICE Jill Blue
The St. John the Evangelist Catholic Community is celebrating its 25th anniversary Oct. 18 with a gala and fundraising outreach event.
Great Taste at Suntree brings great food, ‘Unite for Good’
BY BETTY PORTER
The Rotary Club of Suntree will present its 20th annual Great Tastes at Suntree fundraiser from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. Oct. 25.
Its new venue is the Oasis at Palm Shores located in the Space Coast Association of Realtors building at the corner of Pineda Plaza Way and Wickham Road.
Culinary samplings from a variety of local restaurants will be available and include entrees, appetizers and desserts. Each restaurant will vie for best decorated booth and best food, including the People's Choice Award.
In addition, there will be live music, gift basket giveaways and 50/50 raffles.
The fundraising event will help raise money for
two local programs — The Boys & Girls Club of Temple Terrace off Aurora Road in Melbourne and Neighbor Up Brevard.
Tickets are $50 in advance and $60 at the door. Tickets and sponsor registrations can be found on the club's website suntreerotary.org
“For years, this event has celebrated our community's love of food while fueling a greater purpose,’’ said Erin Harvey, the Cocoa Rotary Club president and Senior Development officer of Brevard County Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Florida.
“Rotary's dedication to the Boys & Girls Club ensures that every dish served helps empower young people with opportunities to thrive.”
VIERA VOICE Courtesy of Rotary Club of Suntree
The Great Taste at Suntree will be held Oct. 25 at the Oasis at Palm Shores located in the Space Coast Association of Realtors building.
WrapUp SPORTS
Viera Suntree Youth Football League continuing to grow, succeed
BY CARL KOTALA
The Viera Suntree Youth Football League is continuing to get bigger and better.
This year’s roster includes nearly 600 athletes between its tackle, cheer and NFL Flag Football divisions, with players ranging between 6U and 16U.
“That’s a slight increase from last year, which reflects the growing enthusiasm in our community and trust families place in our program,” SVYFL President Adam Wallace wrote in an email.
“SVYFL is committed to offering something for every young athlete,” he said.
Among the changes implemented this season are a new branding initiative introducing the letter “V” in place of the traditional Hawk logo on the program’s helmets.
“This update was partly inspired by Viera High School’s recent decision to rebrand their logos as well,” Wallace wrote. “Additionally, we have chosen to feature the
player number on one side of the helmet and our logo on the other, offering a fresh look for our teams.”
The Winter Flag Football season has been expanded and now runs from midJanuary through late February. Competition has been enhanced with the addition of officials for most games. The move was made in part at the suggestion of Flag Director Gary Miracle.
“These changes align with our mission to cultivate not
only exceptional athletes, but also a community of dedicated individuals who understand the challenges involved in overcoming obstacles to achieve their goals … on and off the field,” Wallace wrote.
The season has been “electric” so far, with the 10U and 12U teams both 4-0 coming out of last month’s bye week.
“Many of our teams have strong playoff potential, with disciplined coaching and standout performances,”
Opening October
Wallace wrote. “But what’s most exciting is the depth of talent across all age groups — every team has players stepping up and making an impact.”
The first round of the Pop Warner playoffs begin Oct. 18 with the East Coast Conference Championships set for Oct. 25.
Several SVYFL teams advanced deep into the playoffs last season with the 11U team coached by Wes Perkins winning the ECC Championship. The program also had multiple players honored at the Southeast Regional Scholarship Banquet, including Kalan McGuigan and Zane Pasanen, who was awarded a $2,500 scholarship from the Pop Warner Southeast Region.
As for the relationship between the SVYFL and the Viera High football program — which feed off each other — that relationship couldn’t be better.
“Our partnership with Viera High School Football is vital,” Wallace wrote. “We
work closely with their coaching staff to ensure a smooth transition for athletes who are moving up. That includes shared coaching philosophies, mentorship opportunities, and even joint clinics where younger players can learn directly from high school athletes.
“It’s about building a pipeline — not just of talent, but of leadership and community pride. Tony Gulla, (Viera High’s head coach) is fully invested in our youth program, and we are consistently looking for ways to create a better partnership.
“The youth kids look up to the older high school kids, and so many look forward to wearing that VHS jersey on game day, and to play under the Friday night lights.
“Looking at the current Viera varsity roster, I counted at least 35 kids that grew up playing SVYFL football. That shows our dedication and efforts are paying off, for the young athletes that aspire to compete at the next level.”
SmallGroupPersonalTrainingforBusyAdults
VIERA VOICE Lillian Nguyen
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Both Viera golf programs swing for top of podium
BY CARL KOTALA
There’s a phrase the Viera High boys golf team hopes to be using by the time this season is done: Back-toback state champs.
The Viera girls, meanwhile, are focusing on a certain number: Three.
Because if the Hawks pull off what they think they’re capable of, they’ll be celebrating the third state title in program history come November at the Mission Resort + Club at Howeyin-the-Hills.
“We have the most promising group of girls in my entire coaching career,” Viera girls coach Carl Guettler wrote in an email.
“… The entire team understands that anything less than a state championship this season will be very disappointing.”
Viera boys coach Paul Bentley, meanwhile, is also bullish about his team’s chances of holding the Class 3A state trophy once again after becoming the first boys program in Brevard County history to win a state title last season.
“Viera boys golf returns a bunch of players from last year’s state championship team,” Bentley wrote in an email. “Just recently, the boys shot a school record 6-under par for a team total of 138.
“I think we have the horses again to make a solid run at the championship. We lost two from last year’s team, but return a bunch of proven players who have competed year-long in tournaments from across the country.”
This year’s top players include junior Shayaan Kim and seniors Alexander Bercea and Ryan Woodward. Junior Jeremiah Smith
will also play a key role along with seniors Alex Tea; Peyton Roszowiak; Jake Taylor; Harris Brooks and senior Cyrus Kim.
Woodward finished fourth individually last season, the highest finish ever by a Viera boys golfer.
Viera’s girls have two top-10 state finishers returning this year in senior Hannah Hall and sophomore Mikayla Arnold. Hall, a Kansas University commit, finished second in the state last season and has already turned in a nine-hole score of 30 this season, missing a 29 by just an inch.
Arnold placed 10th last season and has been consistently shooting in the 30s. Sandwiched between them in the Viera lineup this season is talented freshman Harlow Brogden, who has already shot a 35.
Junior Avery Derdich is Viera’s No. 4 player and helped the Hawks come in with a season-low score of 145 at Duran Golf Club last month.
Viera’s other top players include sophomore Lily Amoroso at No. 5 and senior Olivia Robinett in the sixth spot. They’re followed by sophomore Fiona Holladay; sophomore Paris Myers; junior Alexa Lynch and hard-working senior Olivia Serrano.
“I have every confidence we will all be standing on the podium this November as state champs,” Guettler wrote. “We are all focused and working hard to accomplish this achievable goal.”
VIERA VOICE Courtesy of Samantha Guettler
The Viera High School girls golf team has its sights set firmly on winning the Class 3A state championship this season.
VIERA VOICE Courtesy of Dean Stewart Photography After winning the first state championship, not just in program history, but in the history of Brevard County, the Viera High School boys golf team believes it has the talent to repeat.
Holy Trinity golf teams will be relying on a lot of youth
BY CARL KOTALA
With only seniors between them — none on the girls side — it’s safe to say the Holy Trinity golf teams are building toward their collective futures this season.
That is, if they can get a few days of clear weather so they can get out on the course.
The Holy Trinity boys and coach Ron Benfeld were rained out four times during the early part of the season and had only played two matches so far. Even a number of practices have been canceled because of the weather.
Seniors Jay Huguley and Luke Rector lead a Tigers team that plays in Class 1A, District 8 along with 11 other teams, making for a huge challenge to try to advance to the regional tournament and beyond.
The one good thing for the Tigers is that, unlike in years past, they are not competing against other Class 1A teams from the Orlando area that are consistently challenging for state championships.
This year’s district opponents are: Brevard HEAT; Cocoa Beach; Edgewood; John Carroll; Lincoln Park; Masters
Academy; Melbourne Central Catholic; Morningside; Space Coast; St. Edwards and West Shore.
Whether that will help Holy Trinity get out of the district tournament remains to be seen. This year’s district final is set for Oct. 27 to 29, but the FHSAA website does not list a location.
There is also no site listed for the Class 1A regional tournament, which is set to take place Nov. 3 to 5.
This year’s state championship is once again set to be played at the Mission Inn + Resort at Howey-in-the-Hills. Those dates are Nov. 14 to 15.
Joining Huguley and Rector on the boys team this year is sophomore Bradley Braid, whom Benfeld
VIERA VOICE Courtesy of Jane Ponton
The Holy Trinity Episcopal Academy girls golf team features Juliet Nigara, left; Emerson Tran; Nitya Patel; Katie VanHooven; Brooke Hess and Hannah Harrington.
Holy Trinity XC teams focused on getting back to state
BY CARL KOTALA
The Holy Trinity boys and girls cross-country teams are entering this season with the same goal they always have: Get to the Class 1A state meet, run their best on the championship course at Apalachee Regional Park in Tallahassee … and do some damage.
“We have a mixture of veteran leaders and young lions hungry to make a name for themselves,” Tigers coach Marc Bailey wrote in an email. “The standard
remains the same — my kids show up and work hard.
“They push themselves through grueling workouts. They are a fun group to be around. They have great energy and they applaud each other’s success.”
Holy Trinity’s boys finished second in the state last season and should be legitimate contenders for the title once again.
Senior Evan Spreitzer, who burst onto the scene last season with a secondplace individual finish at the state meet, is the No. 1
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ranked runner in Class 1A with a blistering time of 15 minutes, 28 seconds for the 5K course. He and fellow senior Luke Thomas — who is ranked No. 7 in Class 1A (16:17) — form a powerful 1-2 punch at the top of Holy Trinity’s lineup.
In fact, that was their exact finish at last month’s Winter Springs Invitational 5K race — Spreitzer won, followed by Thomas — where the Tigers placed second overall as a team.
Finishing behind Holy Trinity’s co-captains that day were junior Kaden Nazareno; freshman Aiden Darlington; seventh-grader Zamari Blumenberg; junior Jesus Martinez; freshman Daniel Penny; sophomore Cormac Schutte and eighthgrader Jack McFadden.
If the Tigers can keep pushing forward and improving throughout the season, they should find themselves on the podium at the state meet. Spreitzer has to be considered the favorite
HT GOLF
Continued from page 9
referred to as a good, up and coming young player.
Other Tigers who will play a big role on the team this season are Cody Seitz, Bo Bagwell and Owen Theiser.
The rest of the Holy Trinity boys lineup includes Aiden Holtkamp; Max Rhodes; Evan Schroeder and Bradley Dunn.
The Holy Trinity girls
to take home individual gold.
Holy Trinity’s girls, coming off a fourth-place team finish last season, are led by senior Grace Mooney, who is in her third season as a team captain.
Mooney leads a roster that includes impressive eighthgrader Abby Connors, who is the No. 3 ranked eighth-grader in the state with a time of 20:50.
junior Marina Kallish and junior Gabby Weiner.
Connors was the Tigers’ top finisher at the Winter Springs race, immediately followed across the line by Mooney.
Other top finishers on the girls side for Holy Trinity that day included: sophomore Caleigh Schmoll; eighth-grader Kelly Geraghty; junior Frances Hale; eighth-grader Saren Heck; junior Evelyn Hsieh;
team will rely on a lot of young players to guide them through this season. The Tigers are led by juniors Hannah Harrington, Brooke Hess and Xinlie Shen.
Juliet Nigara and Katie VanHooven are sophomores and Nitya Dubal is a freshman.
The rest of Holy Trinity’s lineup for this season includes sophomore Sophia Flammio; freshman Nathalie Ponton; eighth-grader Riva
Just like the boys, the Holy Trinity girls have a chance to make this another memorable season if they continue to improve.
“In the tradition of past Tiger squads, their story will be written not only by finish lines and times, but by the way they uphold a culture built on unity, perseverance, and the relentless pursuit of greatness,” Bailey wrote. VV
Patel; freshman Reya Patil; eighth-grader Sahana Shah; seventh-grader Grace Hays; seventh-grader Quin Fung; sixth-grader Emerson Tran and sixth-grader Victoria Hagen.
“After being a runner-up for district championship last year, we’re looking for a better outcome this year,” Tigers coach Ben Rotgers wrote. “But it will be tough with a very strong Cocoa Beach team.” VV
VIERA VOICE Courtesy of Darren Nazareno Abby Connors, left, is an eighth grader who has excelled for Holy Trinity in the early part of the girls cross-country season. Evan Spreitzer, a senior, finished second in the state last season.
OUT & EVENTS
THURSDAYS
2025 Sea Turtle Program and Walk
8 p.m.
Sea Turtle walk led by the U.S. Florida Wildlife Service. The program starts with an educational session and then the chance to watch a loggerhead lay her eggs. Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge 1963 Headquarters Road Titusville, 321-861-2377
SATURDAYS
Saturday Bird Walks 9 - 10 a.m.
2025
• Biltmore Christmas • King Tut • Gingerbread Dec. 28-31, 2025
• Broadway to Bermuda Cruise June 6-14, 2026
• Alaska Cruise, Train & Land June 8-20, 2026
• Cherry Blossoms & Andersonville March 22-26, 2026
All levels of birders are welcome. Sams House at Pine Island 6195 N. Tropical Trail Merritt Island, 321-449-4720
OCT. 4
28th annual Puerto Rican Day Parade and Multicultural Festival
10 a.m. - 7 p.m.
Live performances, talented artists, dancing, unique merchandise and ethnic foods.
Eastern Florida State College 250 Community College Parkway SE, Palm Bay unitedthirdbridge.org
OCT. 16, 17, 18, 24, 25
2025 Haunted Jail Trail
7 - 11 p.m.
$20 per person. Food trucks Brevard County Jail Complex 860 Camp Road Cocoa 321-506-8752
OCT. 16
Opening Doors for Women 6 - 9 p.m.
Fundraiser for New Life Mission. Heavy hors d’oeuvres, live and silent auction. American Muscle Car Museum 3500 Sarno Road Melbourne, 321-480-9100
VIERA FESTIVAL
Continued from page 1
heat. We hope that we get a blast of cool, fall weather.”
For two weeks before gathering at Woodside Park in Viera East, the 13th Viera Voice Scarecrow Stroll will be conducted from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. from Oct. 2 to 16 at
SUDOKU
businesses throughout Viera, Suntree and Rockledge. Scarecrow strollers will visit businesses along a mapped route across the greater Viera/Suntree area.
The public will view and vote on the unique creations for the People’s Choice and Best of Show — along with other awards. Winners will earn a
trophy and bragging rights for the year.
More than 22 handcrafted 'Crows will be sold at a silent auction during the Viera Harvest Festival to benefit the Florida Wildlife Hospital. It has been selected to be the event’s charity of choice. The hospital staff will also build a scarecrow.
HOW TO SOLVE A SUDOKU PUZZLE:
Each row, each column and each 3 x 3 square must contain the numbers 1 to 9 in any order.
The solution is on page 34.
“Florida Wildlife Hospital will be our charity of choice this year,” Blue said. “They have built some clever ’Crows through the years. They always have a neat theme based on nature and rescuing animals. The staff and volunteers there are wonderful human beings in all that they do.’’
Free activities such as a costume contest sponsored by Birthday Blessings Brevard, face painting sponsored by Scenthound, kids’ craft sponsored by CDS Builders, a fall photo area sponsored by Future Home Loans, a Mini Pumpkin Patch sponsored by Mr. Delicious Pizzeria, bluegrass music by the Penny Creek Band sponsored by the Viera Builders and The Viera Company, golf cart transportation provided by United Community Bank and bottled water sponsored by Pizza Gallery & Grill will be offered. Sweeties Food Truck will be serving fall favorites.
The People's Choice award trophy will go to the ’Crow with the most votes collected during the twoweek Stroll.
The popular kids' MiniCrow building contest is open to children in two categories — ages 5 to 8 and 9 to 14. The mini crow can be any character that
includes hay in its design, be no taller than 3 feet and can be carried by the child.
The scarecrows and one schoolcrow will be moved to the Viera Harvest Festival for judging for Best of Show, Best Use of Hay, Most Whimsical and Best Name. The scarecrows will be placed up for silent auction to benefit either the charity or the school.
There will be hay bale horses ready for photos with the children.
Local physicians from Orlando Health will represent the Ted E. Bear Clinic and will be on hand to give full exams for bears and other stuffed animals brought by children. Certificates of wellness will be offered after the exams.
A pull-out map in a special section is in this edition of Viera Voice. It also will serve as a voting ballot, showing readers where to go to see the scarecrows and get a secret code as proof of the visit.
The more scarecrows they check off the list, the more valuable the prizes will be up for grabs when they drop off their ballots at three locations in Viera.
For information about the Viera Harvest Festival or the Viera Voice Scarecrow Stroll, call 321-242-1235. VV
The Brennity of Melbourne’s Ritchie Sorrentino, Andrew Asistin and Walid Massad carved the winning sculpture.
1st
BY LILLIAN NGUYEN
Chef Ritchie Sorrentino, Andrew “AJ” Asistin and Walid Massad of The Brennity at Melbourne teamed up to win the inaugural Watermelon Carving Contest at Senior Life’s Slice of the Good Life Expo with their entry called The Brennity.
The third and final in the summer series of Senior Life’s free Senior Day events was held Aug. 27 at the Brevard Veterans Memorial Center at 400 Sykes Parkway on Merritt Island. Free watermelon was provided for all who attended the event.
“It was an amazing day,” said Jill Blue, the publisher of Senior Life. “The Chefs really hit it out of the park in coming up with outstanding ways to carve up this wonderful and refreshing fruit.” VV
Chef Ritchie Sorrentino is the culinary director for The Brennity at Melbourne. A Brevard County local for more than 35 years, Sorrentino’s background includes at restaurants and hotels such as the Radisson Resort at Port Canaveral. His skill and passion for food presentation helped lead his team to victory in the Watermelon carving competition.
Andrew “AJ” Asistin is a member of The Brennity’s culinary team. Asistan has worked alongside Sorrentino at the Radisson Resort since 2016 and has a wide range of artistry and culinary skills. His expertise includes fruit carving, a key element to his team’s winning submission.
Walid Massad developed his skills in Boston before moving to Florida two years ago. As a Sous Chef at the Brennity, his experience with different cuisines brings a broader perspective to the team. His skill and precision with fruit carving helped secure his team’s success in the competition.
Congratulations to the carvers!
Chef Jack St. Clair is the director of dining service at Royal Oaks Nursing and Rehab Center. His experience in healthcare dining and his more than 20 years in hospitality includes country clubs, hotels and restaurants.
St. Clair’s standard of excellence provides flavorful meals for his residents.
Chef David Jones graduated from culinary school in Melbourne in 2008 before becoming the culinary director at Sodalis Merritt Island. Originally from Rome, New York, his love for his craft started at a young age. He is certified in Chocolate Creation and Advanced Sauces from the Culinary Institute of America.
Sherlon Lee Hyde Jr. is the executive chef for the Metz Culinary Management/ Devereux Foundation. Hyde’s training started in his father’s restaurant before he enrolled in South Florida Community College’s culinary training program in Avon Park. He has worked in restaurants and in the healthcare industry. He has about 20 years of experience.
Carving: Flower Power
Carving: The Metz
Carving: Dolphin Paradise
Ready, Set, Stroll!
2024 Best of Show Autumn — Goddess of Fall Devereux Advanced Behavioral EVENT
13th annual Scarecrow STROLL
Oct. 2 - 16
VISIT EACH BUSINESS LOCATION
public viewing starting agree to display and maintain 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
FESTIVAL
Viera Harvest Festival
Scarecrow entries and locations can be found on the map on pages 18 and 19. Write the "Crow Code" (on signs near scarecrow) in the appropriate box on your ballot.
Best Use
of
VOTE FOR YOUR FAVORITE & ENTER TO WIN
Visit all 25 crows on the ballot to be entered for a chance to win the first prize and second prize, or visit at least 17 crows to be eligible for the third-place prize. Drop off your ballot at one of the ballot box locations on the map.
GO TO THE VIERA HARVEST FESTIVAL — OCT. 18
Join Viera Voice at Woodside Park in Viera East to see all the scarecrows that are up for bid in the Silent Auction and see if your favorite scarecrow won the popular vote! Buy your favorite crow — 100% of the sales go to Florida Wildlife Hospital.
and end at 1:40 p.m. at scarecrow’s bid sheet on the
HARVEST FESTIVAL
most votes at the festival. receive a trophy and the Trophy and a $200 prize. and Scariest $50
100% of the Scarecrow sales at the Viera Harvest Festival will go to the
allowed. Items on the scarecrow are SOLD with the crow. prop or built around a frame. Entries must be no taller than 7-feet tall. indicating the name of the builder and the name of the scarecrow. Faces may be sad, cheerful, beautiful, ugly or angry. Facial expression hats, gloves, shoes and props make a difference. They are easier to sell if they can fit in a car. Two-piece construction acceptable. construction. Scarecrows must be firmly built. Use PVC glue to secure the joints of the
Hay Darla and Nemo at the dentist White Palm Dental
SCARECROW STROLL MAP
Harvest Festival
all 25 Scarecrows for a chance to win 1st, 2nd or 3rd Prize. Visit at least 17 crows for a chance to win the 3rd Prize.
tickets to ICE! featuring Rudolph the Red-Nose Reindeer, zoom down ice slides, see huge ice sculptures.
end at 1:40 p.m. at scarecrow’s bid sheet on the
HARVEST FESTIVAL
most votes at the festival. receive a trophy and the
Trophy and a $200 prize. and Scariest $50
Items on the scarecrow are SOLD with the crow. or built around a frame. Entries must be no taller than 7-feet tall. the name of the builder and the name of the scarecrow. Faces may be sad, cheerful, beautiful, ugly or angry. Facial expression hats, gloves, shoes and props make a difference. are easier to sell if they can fit in a car. Two-piece construction acceptable. Scarecrows must be firmly built. Use PVC glue to secure the joints of the
tubing, pipe cleaners, raffia, a mop head or torn strips of fabric. generators or flammable objects. Scarecrows may display battery-operated religious statements or connotations, nor any offensive incorporate subtle use of a company name.
Visit the Scarecrows on location Oct. 2-16
Builder: YogaSix Viera 7954 N. Wickham Road, #111, Viera
Builder: Viera Storage Company
Viera
7350 Shoppes Drive, #102, Viera
Builder: White Palm Dental 2305 Vidina Drive, #103, Viera
Center Dental Care
8805 Ivanhoe Drive, Viera
Builder: Quest Elementary School
Hosted by: Fifth Third Bank 7695 Stadium Parkway, Viera
Builder:
Builder: RISE Viera 55+
8353 Auterra Drive, Viera
Builder: CDS Builders
CDS Model in Aripeka, 1726 Gracewood Drive, Viera
Jelati Crow
Builder: Jeremiah's Italian Ice of N. Melb
5555 N. Wickham Road, # 105, Melbourne
Builder: Orlando Health Outpatient Cardiac Rehab
6300 N. Wickham Road, #116, Suntree 14 Silly the Scarecrow Clown
7300 Dolina Court, Viera
Builder: Home Depot 2075 Viera Blvd., Viera 21 Just a Little Off the Top Timmy
Builder: Scenthound Viera
Scarecrow Stroll CONTEST RULES
Hosted by: Ford's Garage 5480 Lake Andrew Drive, Viera
Builder: Island Animal Hospital 5485 Lorkey Lane, Viera
SCARECROW STROLL — START TIME
Builder: The Junction at Rockledge 4101 Fiske Trail, Rockledge
Scarecrows must be completed and available for public viewing starting Thursday, Oct. 2 - Thursday, Oct. 16. Participants agree to display their scarecrows during the normal business hours of 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Builder: Florida Wildlife Hospital
DELIVER TO THE VIERA HARVEST FESTIVAL
Hosted by: United Community Bank 2338 Citadel Way, #103, Viera
All Scarecrows must be delivered and set up at the Viera Harvest Festival between 8 a.m. and 9:30 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 18.
Builder: Jersey Mike's Subs
DONATION, AUCTION & BIDDING
2338
Way, #101, Viera
Builder: Beef's Barbershop 2251 Town Center Avenue, #101, The Avenue
All Scarecrows will be auctioned to benefit our 2025 charity — the Florida Wildlife Hospital. The Scarecrow Auction bidding will begin at 10 a.m. and end at 1:40 the festival. Bid on or Buy Now will be on each scarecrow’s bid sheet Auction Tent.
WINNERS ANNOUNCED AT THE HARVEST
Builder: 28 North Gastropub 2250 Town Center Ave., #101, The Avenue Viera
Builder:
FESTIVAL
1. Best of Show — Scarecrow or Schoolcrow with most votes at Most Artistic and Creative Craftsmanship will receive a trophy $300 prize.
Builder: Pizza Gallery & Grill 2250 Town Center Avenue, #113, The Avenue
2. People’s Choice, Winner of stroll voting ballot: Trophy and 3. Best Use of Hay, Most Whimsical, Best Name and Scariest
SCARECROW Rules
Builder:
1. Store-bought masks and costumes are not allowed. Items on the
Viera
2. Scarecrows must be freestanding, supported by a prop or built around You will receive a sign to hang on your crow indicating the name of
Builder: Devereux Advanced Behavioral
3. Scarecrow styles may be scary, traditional or funny. Faces may be is the first thing a viewer will notice. Accessories like hats, gloves,
Hosted by: Urban Prime 2435 Metfield Drive, Viera
4. Scarecrows must be a managable weight and height. They are easier
5. No perishable goods may be used in the construction. Scarecrows scarecrow if you are designing a base with PVC pipe.
6. Hair can be made from a variety of materials, including tubing, pipe Hazardous items not allowed include: gas-powered generators or lights and music.
7. Scarecrow names may not contain any political or religious statements verbiage or items. Businesses and organizations may incorporate
VIERA COOKBOOK
BY ELAINE MOODY
If you have lived in Florida long enough, you probably have sampled some of the wonderful tropical fruits the Sunshine State has to offer.
Yes, Florida has always been known for citrus, but there are strawberries, avocados, watermelons and a multitude of other fruits and berries.
Of course you can eat just the fresh fruits, but there is something very special about using them in baked breads and desserts.
My father would always bring back some kind of tropical fruit from his hunting and fishing trips. One of his specialties was mangoes. We did eat them fresh, but he went one step further and would make mango bread. It’s one of those delightful treats that smells so good cooking, you can’t wait for it to come out of the oven.
The most important ingredient, of course, is ripe mangoes. I prefer the larger Kent mangoes, as they are sweet and juicy.
Most supermarkets and
Mango Coconut Bread
2 cups of chopped mango (remove skin and seed)
2 cups of baking flour
1 ½ cups white sugar
½ cup shredded coconut ½ cup chopped walnuts
fruit stands carry them, but it’s always helpful if you know someone who wants to share their harvest with you.
Some mango varieties may be stringy, so look for Kent, Alphonso, Kesar, and Ataulfo. Mangoes are seasonal, so if you just have to make this bread during off season, you can freeze chopped mango for future use or if all else fails, use canned mango. VV
1 tbsp. cinnamon 1 tbsp. baking soda
3 eggs 2 tsp. vanilla ¾ cup cooking
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Grease a 9x5x3 inch loaf pan. Stir flour, baking soda and cinnamon in a mixing bowl. Add in sugar, coconut and walnuts. Add remaining ingredients and mix well. Pour into a preheated pan and bake for 1 hour and 15 minutes or until done.
Cool before removing from the baking dish. Serve bread as is or with cream cheese.
Makes one loaf. Enjoy!
ARTHRITIS AND JOINT CENTER OF FLORIDA
Daniel King, MD & Ashley Kalin, APRN
Trusted Orthopedic Care in Brevard County since 1985
Same day appointments possible with our nurse practitioner
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ScoopBUSINESS
BY MIKE GAFFEY
A 60-acre community with single-family homes and apartments for active adults 55 and older is coming to south Viera in 2027.
Restore at Viera is planned southeast of Costco Wholesale on the eastern side of an asyet-unbuilt extension of Lake Andrew Drive.
The community is a partnership between Houston-based David Weekley Homes, which is building 221 homesites, and developer The Berry Companies of Charleston, South Carolina. It is adding four luxury apartment buildings with 186 total units and 78 luxury carriage and cottage rental homes on about 20 acres of the 60-acre site.
“This partnership allows us to create a larger community with more to offer our customers,” said Sam Abruzzo, the division president for David Weekley Homes in Orlando. The two developers teamed up on a similar, highly successful community in the Charleston area, Abruzzo said.
David Weekley homesites, in a gated enclave called Encore at Viera within the Restore community, will offer four styles of homes varying in size with single-
story floor plans ranging from around 1,520 square feet to 2,800 square feet of living space, Abruzzo said. The neighborhood also will have its own homeowners
— Sam Abruzzo
association, he added.
The developers will share Restore’s amenities, which likely will include an 8,000-square-foot clubhouse, a pool, a fitness center, a movement studio, meeting rooms, a demonstration kitchen, a combination game room and movie theater, pickleball and bocce ball courts, a dog park, a community garden and walking trails that connect to
other trails in Viera, Abruzzo said.
Having a community with homes and apartments can appeal to prospective residents unsure whether they want to rent or own, Abruzzo said.
“Many people choose to rent first to get a feel for the area, the builder, and the community and then decide to buy a home,” he said. “That flexibility is an advantage to our residents. It also provides convenience for families who want to live near each other but prefer different options. For example, one sibling may buy a home while another chooses to rent nearby.”
Home construction should begin in the fourth quarter of
Uncle Vito’s opens in Viera with New York-style pizza
BY MIKE GAFFEY
Arthur Crossett had to put paper on the windows of his new Uncle Vito’s Pizzeria to deter curious residents and get his new restaurant ready to open.
“People were so excited,” the Viera resident said. “They were coming up to me
and asking, ‘When are you opening? Is it going to be New York-style pizza?’ ”
Their wait ended Sept. 25 as Uncle Vito’s welcomed hungry customers to a soft opening at the 1,000-squarefoot pizzeria adjacent to the BP gas station at 8020 N. Wickham Road.
A New York native,
Crossett owned two pizzerias in New York for a decade before moving to Viera five years ago with his wife, Julie, who co-owns Uncle Vito’s, and their two children.
Concerned about the high costs of taking a family out for dinner, Crossett decided to open a restaurant that offers New York style pizza and other Italian dishes such as calzones and strombolis at affordable prices.
“We've got two kids and when we go to get a pizza, it's $60,” Crossett said. “That seems pricey. There's got to be a way to do this where it's affordable to feed a family of four for $30 or $40, right? And it's fast, and it's good. So, we're going to use fresh, quality products, and we're going to be quick, and we're going to be affordable.”
Crossett chose the former site of Bizzarro’s and Tommy’s Pizzeria.
He gutted the interior, installing ovens and a stateof-the-art hood system worth more than $75,000 that can crank out 300 handtossed pizzas an hour.
“The only thing I really kept was a dough mixer,” said Crossett, who named the pizzeria after his great uncle.
“I’m
just a guy, a guy with a dream.” — Arthur Crossett
Uncle Vito’s has 11 employees, Crossett said.
The restaurant hours are 3 to 9 p.m. weekdays, noon to 10 p.m. Saturday and noon to 9 p.m. Sunday. .
Crossett hopes the pizzeria will be a big hit.
“It's exciting,” he said. “I will be able to pump out product and hopefully the community will support it. I’m just a guy, a guy with a dream.”
For more information, call 321-988-VITO (8486). VV
VIERA VOICE Mike Gaffey
Arthur and Julie Crossett, with their children Artie, left, and Ezra, have opened Uncle Vito’s Pizzeria at the BP gas station on Wickham Road.
Loretta Fox, Ph.D. Owner and Director
Orlando Health Outpatient Cardiac Rehabilitation Center already treating patients in Suntree
BY CHRIS BONANNO
The Orlando Health Outpatient Cardiac Rehabilitation Center is now officially open in Suntree.
Although it had already opened, its ribbon cutting was held Sept. 12.
“Cardiac rehab’s a real specialty unit and, with the transition of Rockledge Hospital, we’re looking for a new home,” Orlando Health Melbourne Hospital president Ron Gicca said. “This group is actually one of the only in the north part of the county that provides cardiac rehab services. Bringing them and getting them online again was very important for us and for the community. We're really excited to have them here for this opening.”
Gicca indicated that those who would utilize the facility are “post cardiac procedure-type patients that are looking at strengthening their heart rhythms, heart muscles and heart performance post-cardiac procedure.”
The patients are referred to the Center by a cardiologist or those with primary care.
The center, which had begun to serve patients in April, has already made a difference in at least one patient’s life. Shannon Harrington was referred by intervention cardiologist Wesley Romney after having open heart surgery.
“From Day One, the staff has been amazing,” said Harrington, who graduated from the facility at the end of April.
“They are very helpful in not only getting your heart back into shape, but the nutrition that you should do. There are classes, then they also work you out, but everybody that I’ve worked with has been amazing.”
Harrington added that “the first thing I did is I went out and got a gym membership,” noting that his work at the Center instilled in me the good activity, “what's healthy for you.”
Romney also discussed the importance of cardiac rehabilitation.
“I have to say for many years now, cardiac rehab has been one of the cornerstones of cardiovascular medicine,” Romney said. “It’s one of the pillars of recovery for patients that have had not just valve disease like Shannon but also coronary artery disease and vascular disease.”
Romney referenced “study after study showing the massive benefits” of cardiac rehabilitation.
“What I mean by that is that people have been recovering substantially after they have a heart attack. Or, they have a valve replaced to the point where they reduce hospitalizations or death by about 40 percent. It’s incredible that it’s not utilized more often because it’s one of the lessexpensive things that can be done for patients. It has such a huge benefit. And I’m a really strong advocate because it’s not just that it extends quality of life, it extends life. Overall, it gives people confidence to really do what they need to do in their daily routines, get back to doing things that they enjoy.” VV
RESTORE Continued from page 22
2026, and model homes should go on sale in spring 2027, Abruzzo said.
Completion of the apartment complex is expected in fall of 2027, according to Melbourne-based Certified General Contractors Inc., which was chosen to do the construction work.
The project is the first in Brevard County for David Weekley Homes, which built many of the residences in Celebration, a master-planned community in Osceola County that originally was developed by The Walt Disney Company.
“We’re excited about the growth in the Viera area,” Abruzzo said.
“We see tremendous opportunities throughout the whole corridor.” VV
VIERA VOICE photo Stevel Hollinger Restore at Viera is planned to be built southeast of Costco Wholesale.
VOICE Jill Blue
Orlando Health Outpatient Cardiac Rehabilitation Center held its ribbon cutting Sept. 12.
Scenthound satisfies dogs, owners with personal touch
BY NICHOLE YUAN
What makes a groomer unique? Is it the shampoo they use? The closeness of their location? Or perhaps how quickly they trim a dog’s fur?
What if there was more to it? What if the things that set groomers apart were more defined?
That’s precisely what Scenthound — which is opening a new location in Viera — set out to do when creating an inviting environment for furry family members. It’s a place that blends standard grooming practices with canine hygiene.
“We’re focused on
wellness, not just haircuts,”
franchise owner Chris Denault said.
Scenthound prides itself on addressing dogs’ skin, coat, ears, nails and teeth, keeping notes on file with each visit to make it easy to keep owners and vets easily informed of suspected issues and changes. And with specialized training, the “Scent techs” are uniquely equipped to work with each dog that comes in. In fact, Scenthound’s approach is very much centered around the comfort of the dogs.
“We don’t push services to the point the dog is uncomfortable,” Denault said.
“Safety is our number one
priority.”
And if that means a dog is too scared of getting its nails trimmed, then that service will simply not be performed at that appointment. Going further to reduce potential anxiety in its canine clientele, Scenthound is very appointmentfocused, ensuring that the dogs coming in aren’t overwhelmed by an influx of other dogs or stressed in cages.
As an entity that is very much tuned in to a dog’s overall wellbeing, success stories always bring smiles to the staff’s faces.
Talking about a dog that’s been coming regularly for
about eight months, Jamie Friand, the manager of the Scenthound at Post Commons in Melbourne, relayed a story of a dog who first came in with baldness on its back from a skin condition whose fur had grown back.
“It was actually jawdropping to see a dog that came in today,” Friand said. “I recognized the owner and I looked down and my jaw dropped. I was speechless. I said ‘That is not the same dog.’”
In another success story, Friand shared her and her
team’s observations on a particular pup.
“(She was) terrified of having her feet touched. So doing nails for her (was) a challenge,” Friand shared. “The last visit she came, we just let her stand on the table, no one holding her, no one’s restraining her, no one’s making her feel more nervous. We figured out (it’s) OK to clip her nails if she just has her paw down.”
The new Scenthound location in Viera will be at 2105 Viera Blvd., Suite 104 near Home Depot. VV
VIERA VOICE Nichole Yuan
Scenthound in Melbourne is proud of its success stories in helping dogs overcome health and anxiety concerns. It is opening a new location in Viera.
People on the Move
Stephen Branca is the director of athletic performance and head baseball coach for Holy Trinity Episcopal Academy. Branca will oversee the development of the school’s sports performance education for Holy Trinity students in grades 7 to 12.
“We are thrilled to welcome Coach Branca to the Holy Trinity community,” Holy Trinity Athletic Director
James Phillips said. “His unique combination of professional playing experience, collegiate coaching and expertise in athletic performance makes him ideally suited to guide our students in reaching their goals while fostering character, discipline and teamwork. I am confident he will take our sports programs into a new era of growth and achievement.” VV
Bob Grey
will lead developments to strengthen MRC’s relationships with the Space Coast community using his prior experience as director of Strategic and Community Accounts for USSSA in Viera and as national director of sales and promotions for Baseball the Magazine and Softball Magazine
Prior to USSSA, Grey built a ground-up retail initiative for Boombah, a national sports retail company. Grey is a longtime resident of Florida and has lived in Melbourne for the past 35 years. VV
Alysia Ross has been named vice president of marketing for the East Coast Zoological Foundation (ECZF). Ross will lead marketing ventures for ECZF’s Brevard Zoo and the
future Bowen Aquarium, elevating the Foundation’s brand to a national scale.
“I am so proud to be joining the East Coast Zoological Foundation at such a pivotal time in its history,” said Ross, a proficient marketer with more than 30 years of marketing and leadership experience. “From building our portfolio of brands and experiences to driving awareness of our mission, I am so excited to have a hand in the shaping of our future.”
Prior to joining ECZF, Ross led marketing at Busch Gardens and Adventure Island in Tampa. VV
STEPHEN BRANCA
BOB GREY
For an invitation to the October VMB meeting, call 321-242-1235.
In September, the Viera Means Business networking group met at Galleria of Art and Photography and at Stretchability.
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.
LaChrista Jones, Maxine Lauer and Kelly Cote Cody Green, Jesse Scianno and Jeff Law
Rose Marie Capasso speaks to the group
Jason Freshly, Tom Graver
Chris Tauscher, Erikka Williams, Daisy Pickett and Adam Copenhaver
JoAnne Post, Sally Kramer, Karen Whiting, Cyndi Sweet, Morgan Picard and Denise Brown
Dawn Reprogel, Malak Hammad, Michelle Llorens, Kelly Cote, Cody Green and Gregory John Schwendeman
Slaughter Cinema returns at Montesino Manor
A few years ago, Toby Grissom and his buddy Anthony Viggiano, both 2024 graduates of Rockledge High School, decided to create the Montesino Manor and Slaughter Cinema.
This year’s free neighborhood production is titled, “The Montesino Manor Slaughter Cinema Part 4: The Final Curtain.” It will be held at Montesino Drive in the Ashwood Lakes neighborhood of Rockledge near the community swimming pool.
Performances will be held from 6 to 10 p.m. Oct. 25, 26, 31 and Nov. 1 and 2. The shows from 6 to 7 p.m. each night are considered to be no scare shows. The shows from 7 to 10 p.m. are the opposite.
Be prepared to be scared.
“My best friend’s brother has his birthday around Halloween,’’ said the 19-yearold Grissom. “We tried to put on the best parties and eventually we came up with a haunted trail and started to put on these small, little performances. We
wanted to do something to bring the community together.’’
The Usher, Beetlejuice and The Director will guide spectators to the trail where they will meet encounter characters such as Michael Myers, Art the Clown, Sam, Jason, Leatherface, Ghostface, Billy the Puppet, Ghillie, Pennywise, The Nun, Chucky, Regan, Fatso, Pighead, Chuckles, Freddy Krueger, Dracula, Krampus, Jack Torrance, the Invisible Man, Wolfman and the Bride of Frankenstein.
Spectators can jump the line for $5. All proceeds will go to Harmony Farms, the charity of choice this year.
Harmony Farms is a not-forprofit organization in Cocoa that offers equine-assisted therapy and activities for individuals of all ages with disabilities.
For information, contact Grissom on Instagram @ Montesino_manor, Facebook at Montesino Manor or on Youtube at @mineparks0105 VV
Hello October
1 2 3 4
Parade of Homes Sept. 26 - Oct. 5 Parade of homes challenge, the more model homes you visit the more chances to win. Find the parade map at spacecoasthbca. org, 321-254-3700
STEAM Stations
3 - 4 p.m.
Elementary school age appropriate activities with Lego blocks, magna tiles, Play-Doh, coloring sheets and a tech or lab component.
Suntree/Viera Library 902 Jordan Blass Drive Suntree, 321-255-4404
National Bartender Day SATURDAY
Free Movie at the Park: "Wicked" 7 - 9:30 p.m.
McLarty Park 790 Barton Blvd. Rockledge 321-633-1874
Havana Nights 6 p.m. Salsa class, social dancing, Cuban inspired flavors and wine.
Venezia Wine Veranda 5475 Lorkey Lane Viera, 321-301-4115
Fourth annual Rocktober 5K 7:30 a.m. For all ages and fitness levels. Rockledge Civic Hub 530 Barton Blvd. Rockledge rocktober5k.com
Youth in Harmony 2 - 3 p.m. The Youth in Harmony A Cappella Choir. Suntree/Viera Library 902 Jordan Blass Drive Suntree, 321-255-4404
5 6 7 8 9 10 11
Boo at the Zoo
10 a.m. - 3 p.m.
Every Saturday and Sunday in October. Trick-or-treating at themed stations, special activities, photos and live performance at 10:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. Brevard Zoo 8225 N. Wickham Road Viera, 321-254-9453
Who Went There? Scat and Tracks Activity 2 p.m. Hands-on exploration by the Brevard Zoo on using ID cards to identify animal scat and tracks. Learn how to tell which animals have passed through an area just by the clues they leave behind.
One Senior Place 8085 Spyglass Hill Road Viera, 321-751-6771
Community Viewing Night
5 - 7 p.m.
Preview the instructional materials currently being considered for elementary, ELA, art and music.
Quest Elementary School 8751 Trafford Drive Viera, 321-633-1000
1 2 3 4
Parade of Homes
Yappy Hour: Howl-OWeen
5 - 7 p.m.
Sept. 26 - Oct. 5 Parade of homes challenge, the more model homes you visit the more chances to win. Find the parade map at spacecoasthbca. org, 321-254-3700
Dress up your pup for the paw-fect Howl-OWeen with sips, treats, a live DJ and photo ops in Central Park. Plus, visit dog-friendly shops and pick up a treat for your pup.
The Avenue Viera 2261 Town Center Ave. Viera, 321-634-5390
Brick Builders
Friday Night Karaoke
Brevard Creative Crawl
STEAM Stations 3 - 4 p.m.
3 - 4 p.m.
6 - 10 p.m.
Elementary school age appropriate activities with Lego blocks, magna tiles, Play-Doh, coloring sheets and a tech or lab component. Suntree/Viera Library 902 Jordan Blass Drive Suntree, 321-255-4404
Build a LEGOS project using the theme from the story that is read. Ages 5 to 12 years old. Suntree/Viera Library 902 Jordan Blass Drive Suntree, 321-255-4404
Hook & Eagle Tavern 2300 Clubhouse Drive Viera, 321-639-3487
Free Movie at the Park: "Wicked" 7 - 9:30 p.m. McLarty Park 790 Barton Blvd. Rockledge 321-633-1874
Thimble Girls in Friendship (TGIF) 9 a.m. - 1 p.m.
Quilting group.
Suntree Viera Library 902 Jordan Blass Drive Suntree, 321-255-4404
Havana Nights 6 p.m. Salsa class, social dancing, Cuban inspired flavors and wine. Venezia Wine Veranda 5475 Lorkey Lane Viera, 321-301-4115
10 a.m. - 4 p.m.
Fourteen studios, give visitors the chance to meet artists, see works in progress and discover the stories behind the art. artsbrevard.org/Brevardcreative-crawl
Fourth annual Rocktober 5K 7:30 a.m. For all ages and fitness levels. Rockledge Civic Hub 530 Barton Blvd. Rockledge rocktober5k.com
Viera East Market
10 a.m. - 2 p.m. Woodside Park 1705 Crane Creek Blvd. Viera, Facebook.com/ VieraEastMarket
12 13 14 15 16 17 18
Youth in Harmony 2 - 3 p.m. The Youth in Harmony A Cappella Choir. Suntree/Viera Library 902 Jordan Blass Drive Suntree, 321-255-4404 5 6 7 8 9 10 11
2025 Haunted Jail Trail
Boo at the Zoo
10 a.m. - 3 p.m.
Every Saturday and Sunday in October.
Trick-or-treating at themed stations, special activities, photos and live performance at 10:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. Brevard Zoo 8225 N. Wickham Road Viera, 321-254-9453
Pumpkin Patch October 12 to October 31 A portion of the proceeds will go directly toward playground upgrades for the students of Unique Foundations Academy, First Baptist Church of Rockledge 1810 Cedar St. Rockledge 734-755-2287
Flower Heads - Self Portrait
Who Went There? Scat and Tracks Activity
2 p.m.
5 - 7:30 p.m. Multimedia art class. Galleria of Art and Photography 7720 N. Wickham Road, #107 Suntree, 321-338-9787
Hands-on exploration by the Brevard Zoo on using ID cards to identify animal scat and tracks. Learn how to tell which animals have passed through an area just by the clues they leave behind.
One Senior Place 8085 Spyglass Hill Road Viera, 321-751-6771
Painting with Pearl 10 a.m. - noon
Community Viewing Night
5 - 7 p.m.
An instructor-led watercolor or acrylic painting class. Cocoa Library 308 Forrest Ave. Cocoa, 321-806-3760
Preview the instructional materials currently being considered for elementary, ELA, art and music. Quest Elementary School 8751 Trafford Drive Viera, 321-633-1000
An Afternoon with Elvis 2 - 4 p.m.
Third Thursdays
Brick Builders
Yappy Hour: Howl-OWeen
5 - 7 p.m.
Live music and food. Alura Senior Living 777 Roy Wall Blvd. Rockledge 321-549-3980
Dress up your pup for the paw-fect Howl-OWeen with sips, treats, a live DJ and photo ops in Central Park. Plus, visit dog-friendly shops and pick up a treat for your pup.
The Avenue Viera 2261 Town Center Ave. Viera, 321-634-5390
3 - 4 p.m.
5 - 8 p.m. The Avenue Viera 2261 Town Center Ave. Viera, 321-634-5390
Build a LEGOS project using the theme from the story that is read. Ages 5 to 12 years old.
Dine to Donate Ford’s Garage 5 - 8 p.m.
Suntree/Viera Library 902 Jordan Blass Drive Suntree, 321-255-4404
15% of your dinner bill will be donated to the Hidden Acres Rescue. Ford’s Garage 5480 Lake Andrew Drive Viera, 321-405-3673
Friday Night Karaoke
6 - 10 p.m.
Hook & Eagle Tavern 2300 Clubhouse Drive Viera, 321-639-3487
Thimble Girls in Friendship (TGIF) 9 a.m. - 1 p.m.
October 16, 17, 18, 24, 25 7 - 11 p.m. $20 per person. Food trucks will be available. Brevard County Jail Complex 860 Camp Road Cocoa, 321-506-8752
Quilting group.
Suntree Viera Library 902 Jordan Blass Drive Suntree, 321-255-4404
Brevard Creative Crawl
Viera Harvest Festival 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. Woodside Park 1703 Crane Creek Blvd. Viera, 321-242-1235
10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Fourteen studios, give visitors the chance to meet artists, see works in progress and discover the stories behind the art. artsbrevard.org/Brevardcreative-crawl
Viera East Market
10 a.m. - 2 p.m. Woodside Park 1705 Crane Creek Blvd. Viera, Facebook.com/ VieraEastMarket
19 20 21 22 23 24 25
12 13 14 15 16 17 18
Sunset in the Hollows
6 – 8 p.m.
Pumpkin Patch October 12 to October 31
Walk the trails around the old basins and have a chance to observe Gopher tortoises and other animals.
Hundred Acre Hollows 1170 Rock Spring Drive
Scottish Country Dancing
6:30 – 9:30 p.m. Springs of Suntree 8300 Holiday Springs Road Suntree, 321-427-3587
Suntree, hundredacrehollows.org
A portion of the proceeds will go directly toward playground upgrades for the students of Unique Foundations Academy, First Baptist Church of Rockledge 1810 Cedar St. Rockledge 734-755-2287
Flower Heads - Self Portrait 5 - 7:30 p.m. Multimedia art class. Galleria of Art and Photography 7720 N. Wickham Road, #107 Suntree, 321-338-9787
Painting with Pearl 10 a.m. - noon
National Night Out Trunk-or-Treat 4 - 7 p.m.
An instructor-led watercolor or acrylic painting class. Cocoa Library 308 Forrest Ave. Cocoa, 321-806-3760
Free family event with food, pumpkin and face painting, music, police K9 demonstration and inflatables. Rockledge Department of Public Safety 1801 S. Fiske Blvd. Rocledge, 321-221-7540
Wednesday Art Group
1:30 - 4 p.m.
Suntree/Viera Library 902 Jordan Blass Drive Suntree, 321-255-4404
Become an Artist 1 - 3 p.m.
An Afternoon with Elvis 2 - 4 p.m. Live music and food. Alura Senior Living 777 Roy Wall Blvd. Rockledge 321-549-3980
Galleria of Art and Photography 7720 N. Wickham Road, #107 Suntree, 321-338-9787
Estate Planning 10 a.m. Seminar presented by elder law attorney William A. Johnson. RSVP required.
Third Thursdays 5 - 8 p.m. The Avenue Viera 2261 Town Center Ave. Viera, 321-634-5390
One Senior Place 8085 Spyglass Hill Road Viera, 321-751-6771
Dine to Donate Ford’s Garage 5 - 8 p.m. 15% of your dinner bill will be donated to the Hidden Acres Rescue. Ford’s Garage 5480 Lake Andrew Drive Viera, 321-405-3673
The Forge Men’s Conference 2025 Oct. 24 and Oct. 25
The Forge Conference is all about refining and strengthening men through the fire of God’s truth and grace.
Church at Viera 9005 N. Wickham Road Viera, 321-259-3454
2025 Haunted Jail Trail October 16, 17, 18, 24, 25 7 - 11 p.m. $20 per person. Food trucks will be available. Brevard County Jail Complex 860 Camp Road Cocoa, 321-506-8752
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Viera Harvest Festival 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. Woodside Park 1703 Crane Creek Blvd. Viera, 321-242-1235
Brunch, Exercises, Giveaways and an Art Project 1 - 4 p.m. A benefit for the Florida Breast Cancer Foundation. Gaalleria of Art and Photography and StretchAbility 7720 N. Wicham Road, #107 Suntree, 321-338-9787
Sixth annual Trick or Teeing Event
Medium John Rogers
6 - 7 p.m.
Sunset in the Hollows
5 - 8 p.m.
Trick or treating from a variety of treat stations vendors on each hole of Par 3 Course.
6 – 8 p.m. Walk the trails around the old basins and have a chance to observe Gopher tortoises and other animals.
Duran Golf Club 7032 Stadium Parkway Viera, 321-504-7776
Hundred Acre Hollows 1170 Rock Spring Drive
Suntree, hundredacrehollows.org
Scottish Country Dancing
Professional Medium
6:30 – 9:30 p.m.
Springs of Suntree 8300 Holiday Springs Road Suntree, 321-427-3587
John Rogers will share his 30 years of experience communicating with spirit guides on the other side. Brief readings will follow the presentation as time allows.
Suntree/Viera Library 902 Jordan Blass Drive Suntree, 321-255-4404
Chakras 101: Understanding Your Body's Energy Centers
National Night Out Trunk-or-Treat 4 - 7 p.m.
2 - 3 p.m. Learn what each energy center represents, signs of imbalance and simple way to bring more balance to daily life.
Wednesday Art Group
1:30 - 4 p.m.
Estate Planning
Ford’s Garage Trunk or Treat 5 - 9 p.m. Free candy for kids, creative
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Suntree/Viera Library 902 Jordan Blass Drive Suntree, 321-255-4404
Become an Artist
One Senior Place 8085 Spyglass Hill Road Viera, 321-751-6771
Free family event with food, pumpkin and face painting, music, police K9 demonstration and inflatables. Rockledge Department of Public Safety 1801 S. Fiske Blvd. Rocledge, 321-221-7540
1 - 3 p.m.
Galleria of Art and Photography 7720 N. Wickham Road, #107 Suntree, 321-338-9787
10 a.m. Seminar presented by elder law attorney William A. Johnson. RSVP required. One Senior Place 8085 Spyglass Hill Road Viera, 321-751-6771
6 - 8:30 p.m. Trunk-or-treat competition, food trucks, bounce house, face painting and candy. East Coast Christian Center 3475 Viera Blvd. Viera, 321-452-1060
The Forge Men’s Conference 2025 Oct. 24 and Oct. 25 The Forge Conference is all about refining and strengthening men through the fire of God’s truth and grace. Church at Viera 9005 N. Wickham Road Viera, 321-259-3454
Brunch, Exercises, Giveaways and an Art Project 1 - 4 p.m. A benefit for the Florida Breast Cancer Foundation. Gaalleria of Art and Photography and StretchAbility 7720 N. Wicham Road, #107
BY BETTY PORTER
Hundred Acre Hollows
will host HAH-lloween at the nature preserve on Sunday, Oct. 26 to celebrate the ninth anniversary of its founding.
Visitors to the 114-acre site, which is tucked away in the Springs of Suntree at 1170 Rock Springs Drive, are welcome to wear costumes.
There will be candy at the entrance to the preserve and at tables along the walking path, volunteer board member Tanja Tea said.
The event will be from 4 to 6 p.m., which are the normal Sunday hours in October for visitors. There is no admission fee but donations are welcome, which enable the 100% volunteer nonprofit to continue its mission at the preserve, which is home
to more than 300 Gopher tortoises and many other animals and birds.
“We are proud of what we have accomplished in the first nine years as caretakers of this land, including working to restore the habitat and hosting at no charge home school groups and other organizations,” Tea said. “Our mission is to protect the wildlife, restore the habitat and engage the public.”
Hundred Acre Hollows, which opened in 2016, is owned by Brevard County and leased to the nonprofit group Hundred Acre Hollows, Inc.
Through the years, the HAH group made the property into an uplands conservation habitat for numerous types of animals, including the Florida gopher tortoises that burrow in the soft sand along berm slopes.
The preserve is open from 4 to 6 p.m. on Sundays in October. November through January it is open from 3 to 5 p.m. February hours are 4 to 6 p.m.
More information about the Hundred Acre Hollows can be found at hundredacrehollows.org. VV
Jewelry Appraisals for Seniors
Downsizing?
•
TASTE SUNTREE
Continued from page 5
Chris Myers, the president of the Suntree Rotary Club, noted that the Rotary International 2025-2026 presidential theme is Unite for Good.
“What a fitting theme as we celebrate our 20th annual Great Tastes at Suntree,” she said. “Our event embodies that theme by bringing together local restaurants who donate samplings of their great foods, local volunteers
and fellow Rotarians from throughout Brevard County. (They give) of their time and talents. Generous community sponsors share their treasure through providing sponsorships and donations, as well as the community at large giving great support." Leslie Tibbetts, the board chair for Neighbors Up Brevard, said, “We're excited to be a beneficiary of Suntree Rotary Club's Great Taste of Suntree, which helps enable us to create lasting change in marginalized communities for over 20 years.” VV
in a way
Peaks
Your of yore
Figurehead's place
"Tosca" tune 15. Unkempt hair
Desire
Take note of
Seasons
Self-image
Apple leftover
Swarmed
Reserve
Female lobster
Previously
Grasped
Garage contents 33. "Phooey!" 34. Sushi selection 35. Susan of "The Partridge Family" 36. Viola flower
Test 39. Desertlike 40. Aardvark's morsel 41. Turns back, perhaps
Bunk 47. Fishing gear
Area
Cropped up
Slice 7. Speaker part 8. California/Nevada lake 9. Pique
Pizzeria order 11. Dejected 19. Parachute part 21. Lee, e.g. (abbr.) 24. Wandered aimlessly 25. Drops the ball 26. Just say no
Outbuilding 28. Jury member 29. Stable diet 32. New York City park 33. Roasting platform 35. Horse color 36. Magician's word 38. Some are inflated
Cosmetician Elizabeth
Measurer
Green
Squad
Assist in crime 52. Org. concerned with PCB's 53. Multitudes
Hospital flooring
Cotillion girl
Q-Tip
Bubble source
Family card game
Little lie
Kimono sash
WWII veteran recounts chaos of war as he approaches 100 years
BY ERNIE DORLING
George Rosenfield, a resident of Sonata Viera, was born in 1925, the same year “Mein Kampf,” a political manifesto written by Adolf Hitler, was published.
In 1943, at the age of 18, Rosenfield found himself in Italy
fighting Hitler’s army as a member of the U.S. Army’s famous 10th Mountain Division.
On Oct. 16, Rosenfield, a World War II veteran who helped liberate Italy, will celebrate his 100th birthday surrounded by family, friends and community leaders in Melbourne.
George Rosenfield grew up in the Baltimore, Maryland area. “I was drafted when I turned 18,” Rosenfield said. “The Army sent me to Camp Hale in Colorado to learn to ski. Once I learned to ski, I was assigned to the 10th Mountain Division and sent to Italy. Our unit was part of Operation Encore, a series of attacks on the Germans that became known as the Climb to Glory.”
Thrown into the chaos of war at the age of 18, Rosenfield tears up talking about that battle and climbing the icecovered mountain to allow the allies to break through what was referred to as the Gothic Line in Italy.
“After that climb and battle, only 17 of us walked out under our own power,” Rosenfield said. “We were just kids, but we learned fast.”
While in the Army, Rosenfield obtained a master’s degree in industrial engineering.
“I became an officer and fought in Korea,” Rosenfield said. “The army would have me build bridges and then blow them up,” he added, shaking his head, demonstrating his sense of humor.
After retiring with the rank of major, Rosenfield went on to have a career in the space industry, where he is credited with helping create and design the algorithms used in sending astronauts to the moon.
Today, Rosenfield struggles with health issues associated with aging. Still, on most days, he tries to get to
in Brevard County through the years.
“Our unit was part of Operation Encore, a series of attacks on the Germans that became known as the Climb to Glory.”
— George Rosenfield
the gym at Sonata Viera to exercise to the best of his ability and tries to eat healthy.
“About once a week, I’ll have a sip of something,” Rosenfield said, although he didn’t specify what that sip was. He also attends Temple Beth Sholom in Melbourne, which he helped found in 1958.
“George has been a part of the fabric of our community since its very beginning on the Space
VIERA VOICE Ernie Dorling George Rosenfield has been instrumental in raising money for many charitable causes
Back by popular demand — WARBIRD MUSEUM Powered by A Blast from the
Clearing space, avoiding waste and creating impact
Through life, we gather and tend to accumulate things; things that we simply do not need. Be it a favorite pair of jeans, that souvenir from a family trip or notes from college classes, they get stored but rarely looked at again.
After living in the same house for more than 15 years, I know a bit about that — and I am not alone.
Across the United States, many households are overflowing with items tucked away in closets, garages and storage units.
Recent reports show that about 10.2% of U.S. households currently use self-storage (CBRE IM), and the average cost to rent a self-storage unit is about $85.30 per month nationwide according to Sparefoot.com As industry revenue data shows, Americans spent more than $44 billion in 2024 (Alan’s Factory Outlet) to hold belongings they most likely no longer want or need.
Then throwing things in
ROSENFIELD
Continued from page 34
Coast in the 1950s,” Rabbi Craig Mayers said. “He is an inspiration, and we wish him continued strength, health and success as he approaches this milestone.”
A long-time member
the trash comes as a natural alternative.
The U.S. alone generates more than 268 million tons of municipal solid waste each year, or about 4.5 pounds per person per day (dumpsters. com; EPA). A large portion of that waste could probably be reused or donated, but instead it ends up in landfills.
Clothing alone is a major contributor: the average American throws away about 81.5 pounds of textiles each year, much of which is still perfectly usable (Earth. org). When we discard these materials, we are not just wasting resources — we are also filling landfills that are costly to maintain and take a huge amount of space out of
of the Cape Canaveral Chapter of Military Officers Association of America (MOAA), Rosenfield has been instrumental in helping to raise money for the many charitable causes supported by the organization.
“George has been a great asset to MOAA as well as
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neighborhoods.
Things are just taking too much space, harming the environment and costing money.
But what if those things could be given a second life and not thrown away? What if instead of collecting dust, they could fill a need or bring joy to others or even spark creativity and bring the community together? That’s exactly what Recycle Brevard hopes to inspire.
On Sept. 17, the organization donated materials to teachers at the 27th annual Teacher Open House at Brevard Zoo, where 138 educators attended. By sharing reusable materials collected from the community, Recycle Brevard supported classrooms while keeping useful items out of the landfill.
Teachers interested in ongoing access to these kinds of materials can join the Supply Hub email list at RecycleBrevard.org under
our community,” said Hans Hunt, the second vicepresident of the chapter. “He has a wealth of knowledge and experience that he has shared often over the years. MOAA representatives are excited about attending his 100th birthday celebration.”
Michelle Barns, a
Resources to receive updates on available materials for their students and classrooms. Check the online calendar to plan a stop at a local library when Recycle Brevard Connect is scheduled for — upcoming dates are Oct. 26 and Nov. 16.
And since saving resources can also be fun, on Monday, Oct. 20, Crafting with Friends will take place at The Wine Lady in Cocoa Village. This evening event combines creativity, sustainability and community connection. Participants will create a unique craft using reused and recycled materials — all while enjoying a glass of wine included with the donation. It is the perfect chance to relax and discover how simple and rewarding reuse can be.
Then, on Saturday, Dec. 6, the Reduce Reuse Rummage Sale in Cocoa will help unwanted items find new homes. What one person no longer needs could be exactly what someone else is looking
concierge at Sonata Viera, has known Rosenfield for a year.
“He is always witty and personable,” Barns said. “I always look forward to talking with him. He also gets more mail than any of our residents.”
When asked what he
for — and by choosing to pass items along, participants help keep perfectly good materials out of the landfill. These events remind us that unwanted does not have to mean useless. Registration for both events is open and more information can be obtained at RecycleBrevard. org under Events.
As you look through your own stored items this fall, ask yourself: Do I really need this? Could it benefit someone else? Could it be reused in a different way? By making those small choices, we not only clear space in our homes and avoid extra storage, but also help reduce the staggering amount of waste that impacts our planet.
VV
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.
attributed to turning 100, Rosenfield said, “I’m not sure if God doesn’t want me, or if he isn’t finished with me.” If you were to ask the people who know George, they would no doubt all tell you that God clearly isn’t finished with him, not just yet. VV
