Issuu

From HAWK to Doc

Ella Grace Helton lands new show page 5 Christian networking platform begins page 33

page 18

Vol. 18 Issue 9

OCTOBER 2026

Read Viera news anytime at vieravoice.com

Boomer Bash SeniorFest

will get your motor running

Planet Hairspray

VIERA VOICE xxxxx

XXXXX. Story, page x. VIERA VOICE Courtesy of Red Hat Studio

A variety of exhibitors will fill the Expo Hall.

Story, page 4

BY LILLIAN NGUYEN Those attending Senior Life’s Boomer Bash SeniorFest can expect fun activities, health and wellness information, exhibitors and community resources. There will be ample opportunities to discover new ways to stay active and enjoy life to the fullest. Boomer Bash SeniorFest, which is Senior Life’s annual Expo set for 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Friday, Nov. 6 at Route 7 Karting and Entertainment Center. Health First is the presenting sponsor of the Expo, while Cornerstone Caregiving and RISE Viera are gold sponsors. The snack sponsors are Florida Blue Medicare and Vitas Healthcare. The Salvation Army of North Central Brevard will serve lunch, which is sponsored by Devoted. Alura Senior Living is the photography sponsor. The search has begun for models for the 2027 Boomer Guide. Dress to impress to have photos taken at the Expo.

EXPO, See page, 20

VIERA VOICE Courtesy of Imagine Marketing

Vinny Daniels is part of the energetic band Planet Hairspray. It will perform Oct. 24 at Lakeside at Viera Town Center.

K-9 Copper takes a bite of cake at his 10th birthday party on Sept. 17 at Cocoa Riverfront Park. Story, page 32.

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

***********ECRWSS*************

PRSRT STD ECRWSS US POSTAGE PAID PERMIT #300 PRSRT STUART, FL STD

Suntree Internal Medicine Same-day appointments — comprehensive adult primary care

ECRWSS US POSTAGE PAID PERMIT #785 FT PIERCE, FL

CARE THAT FITS YOUR LIFE • Open 7 days at our Suntree location • Viera office open Monday-Friday • Primary care plus on-site diagnostic testing

OCAL ************ECRWSS************* POSTAL CUSTOMER LOCAL POSTAL CUSTOMER

Flu Shots available

SAME-DAY APPOINTMENTS

CALL (321) 259-9500 Pucks for Autism scores for an honorable cause page 6

Medicare patients welcome

SUNTREE: 6619 N. Wickham Road VIERA: 6156 Breslay Drive

suntreeinternalmedicine.com

Helding family finds the Rockledge area suits them fine BY CHRIS BONANNO After living in some interesting locales, the Helding family has decided to make their home in the Rockledge area. The family consists of Amanda Helding and her husband, Josh, and their four children — 11-year-old Charles; 9-year-old twin daughters Lucy and Rosie; and 6-year-old Vivi. The family found a home in Rockledge, where they moved in January 2023 after living in Washington state, Michigan and Germany. “We had a few different locations we could choose from, but Florida was the right fit,” Amanda said. She added that better weather and the recommendations of nearby friends also were factors in their decision to move here.

Featured family

VIERA VOICE Courtesy of Kyla Ruth Photography

Amanda and Josh Helding and their four children, 11-year-old Charles; twin 9-year-old daughters Lucy and Rosie; and 6-year-old Vivi, enjoy the beach, making new friends and taking exciting road trips to explore the National Parks.

“For us, it was finding a community that we felt safe, that we felt had the support Randy’s Pressure Washing structure The Hurri“cano” Solution to your pressure cleaning need to be able to raise Mildew & Rust Removal a family, Residential Services Commercial Services • Homeowner Associations • Driveways & Sidewalks so that • Buildings • Pool Enclosures includes • Parking Lots • Patios, Fences, Walls the • Common Areas • Soffits & Gutters • Houses, Mobile Homes educational element Special pricing available for bundles of 2 or more services of good PROUDLY SUPPORTING schools that St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital ® we felt safe sending 321-794-5168 FREE ESTIMATES them to, Celebrating 25 Years Serving Central Brevard had the RandysPressureWash@att.net amenities Randy Cano, Owner – Viera, Florida – Licensed & Insured that we

were looking for. It has plenty of parks. It has lots of things to do,” said Josh, who works for SpaceX. “Orlando being a huge hub is awesome. I love the STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) aspect of the area.” The family enjoys trips together. “We love exploring, traveling and exploring local things Florida,” said Amanda, who added that she enjoys going to the beach and being near water. “We were collecting National Parks. That’s a thing that we’ve always done, big roadtrippers.” They also enjoy some

interesting discussions. “We often just end up talking about things — life, books, music,” Amanda said. Josh added that the situation was easier for the family socially, noting that “because there’s so many families in the area, it’s easier to make friends.” Each of Amanda and Josh’s children, who attend Manatee Elementary School, have enjoyed the area. “I love the weather,” Charles said. “We can swim and play sports outside all year.” Lucy enjoys her friends in the area. “It’s really nice here because my school, I know

it’s really safe and I love the wildlife here,” she said. “It’s really pretty.” Her twin sister, Rosie, enjoys swimming in the family’s pool. She said that she also likes that “so many family and friends come to visit.” “I like Florida because I have been here since I was 2 and I really like it and I like how it has lots of beaches and I like all my friends and I like my school,” Vivi said. The family has a Golden Doodle named Honey who is a year-and-a-half old. “She’s really loving and calm and I think she’s the perfect dog for us,” Amanda added. VV

New patients welcome

Viera Voice October 2026

vieravoice.com

Expert orthopedic care. Here at home. With advanced surgical techniques and personalized care, our orthopedic team helps you get back to feeling like yourself again. This...is what care should feel like.

hf.org/ortho

Brent Stephens, MD Orthopedic Surgeon

First in Brevard to offer Mako SmartRobotics™ shoulder replacement.

vieravoice.com

Viera Voice OCTOBER 2026

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 Editors Hillard Grossman Jeff Navin VIERA MEANS

BUSINESS

Sports Writer/SportsBlog Kotala N E Carl TWOR KING GROUP Writers/Reporters Chris Bonanno Marcia Booth Mike Gaffey Lillian Nguyen

Planet Hairspray set to rock Viera's Lakeside BY CHRIS BONANNO

host of popular rock songs from that era, including songs from bands such as Motley Crue, Poison and Def Leppard. The band consists of five big-hair, leather-clad members: • Mojo Phoenix, vocals/ guitar • Vinny Daniels, guitar/ vocals

Have you ever wanted to be transported back in time to 1989? Well, those who answered "yes" will have the opportunity to figuratively do just that from 6 to 10 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 24 at Lakeside at Viera Town Center. Planet Hairspray will perform a

RECONNECT • REBUILD • RENEW Specializing in:

• Damien Dagger, guitar/ vocals/keyboards • Youngblood, drums/ vocals • KK Thunder, bass guitar/ vocals “I hope they (attendees) feel like they’re coming back to the '80s,” Phoenix said. “We want to make sure that everybody’s having a lot of fun. We do a lot of interaction

• Neurodiverse Couples Counseling • Counseling for Neurotypical Partners • Affair Recovery VIERA Dr. Gloria Rivera KingMEANS BUSINESS • Assertiveness and Boundary Setting Ph.D., LMFT, LMHC, CIRT NETWORKING GROUP

• Discernment Counseling for mixed agenda couples (one leaning in/one leaning out of marriage)

Licensed Psychotherapist Certified Imago Relationship Therapist Individual & Couples Counseling

I’m here to help. Start turning things around today. I’m just a phone call or click away.

321-956-9477

drgloriariveraking.com

2328 Medico Lane, Melbourne 32940

Corner of Stadium Parkway and Wickham Rd. (Located inside the Professional Center)

VIERA MEANS BUSINESS NETWORKING GROUP

BUSINESS Viera Voice Networking Group

VIERA MEANS

BUSINESS The entire contents of this newspaper are

VIERA VOICE is not liable for errors or omissions in editorial, advertorial or advertising materials. Distribution of this newspaper does not constitute an endorsement of products or services herein. Reproduction or use without permission, of editorial or graphic content in any manner is prohibited.

Facebook LIVE

Videos

ANS BU E S M

SS E IN

VIERA MEANS

VIERA MEANS BUSINESS NETWORKING GROUP

Bluewater Creative Group 321-242-1235 7350 Shoppes Drive Suite 102 Viera, FL 32940

VIERA VOICE Jill Blue

Planet Hairspray's Youngblood, Mojo Phoenix, Vinny Daniels, KK Thunder and Damien Dagger will perform in Viera on Oct. 24.

VIE R A

KIN G G

with the crowd. We want to be connecting with people because that’s what the music really is about — connecting with people.” The band performs in attire that makes them look exactly like rock stars from the 1980s, as well. “We are just like a bunch of teenagers enjoying making music,” said Kyle Knappenberger, who goes by the KK Thunder moniker. “It feels a little bit like that garage band where we’re all just playing loud and enjoying the rock together. It’s great.” Four of the five members are Brevard County residents, with only Youngblood, who lives in Wellington, residing outside of the Space Coast. Knappenberger is a Viera resident. Knappenberger said that playing at Lakeside at Viera Town Center is going to be thrilling because it’s like a hometown show. “I live 10 minutes from there. I work five minutes from there. It’s going to be fantastic. My co-workers are talking about making matching T-shirts and my two daughters are so excited to see daddy the rock star. It’ll be a lot of fun,” Knappenberger said. Daniels echoed those sentiments. “So psyched,” Daniels said. “We can’t wait. I’ve been up there several weekends, saw some other bands and stuff. It’s been great. It’s a super awesome venue. We’re super excited to bring this to Viera because we’ve been trying to for a couple of years. Now’s our chance.” Knappenberger has made quite a transition after previously performing as an opera singer. “I discovered that I loved singing in high school,’’ Knappenberger said. “In college, I discovered I had the ability to do it and sang professionally for 15 years. And then, kind of circumstances happened. I had a family and Covid and all these things. So, I decided

HAIRSPRAY

Continued on page 27

Viera Voice October 2026

vieravoice.com

TV journey continues for Space Coast teen with new show BY LILLIAN NGUYEN From acting and singing to dancing and painting, Ella Grace Helton does it all. The 13-year-old actor has been acting ever since her parents signed her up for theater at age two-and-ahalf, as a way to channel her outgoing energy. Once she got started, Ella Grace was hooked. She booked her first commercial at only 3 years old. At age 5, she made her Broadway debut in the “Waitress” tour. Helton has continued to play a wide variety of roles across stage and screen, including Emily Ryan in the 2020 sitcom “United We Fall” from ABC and Sony Pictures Television and as Katie Townsend in the Netflix hit “Sweet Magnolias.’’ Her latest role takes her opposite Matthew McConaughey and Woody Harrelson in the new AppleTV comedy series “Brothers.’’ The series follows McConaughey and Harrelson (playing fictionalized versions of themselves) as their lifelong friendship is suddenly thrown into disarray by a decades-old

she could. The actress especially enjoyed traveling for filming.

She found it nerve-wracking in the beginning, but loved exploring different

ELLA GRACE

Continued on page 26

Cathy Presnick, L.M.E

Serving Brevard County for 23 years

VIERA VOICE Courtesy of Ella Grace Helton

Ella Grace Helton will star in the comedy series "Brothers."

secret — they might actually be brothers. Ella Grace plays Clara McConaughey, the daughter of Matthew McConaughey. “Clara is a very independent, mature — and I'd even say a little sassy — teenager,” Ella Grace said. “She's way too smart for her age and she loves that she can continue learning things; she's very happy to be a McConaughey, very proud.’’ During her time filming, Ella Grace never found herself bored or wanting to go home. She speaks highly of her experience and explains that it left her wanting to stay as long as

BETTER SKIN IN

3 STEPS!

CLEANSE, EXTRACT, HYDRATE

Dermaplaning, Customized Treatments & IMAGE Skin Care Protocol for Anti-Aging, Teen & Adult Acne, Back Treatments

e Year

ian of th

Esthetic

9 Years

Coast Florida

Territory

NECK & DÉCOLLETÉ ANTI-AGING TREATMENTS FOR BRIGHTENING AND SUN-DAMAGED SKIN!

3270 SUNTREE BLVD.

321-604-1333

Suntree Business Center

HELLO MELBOURNE! We're celebrating our arrival in town with free food and family fun. THURSDAY, OCTOBER 29, 2026

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 7, 2026

Prizes every 15 minutes!

Ribbon Cutting at 10AM • Free refreshments • Trick-or-Treat bucket decorating and candy stations

10AM – 1PM • Enjoy free food trucks and giveaways from local vendors • Join in activities and fun for the whole family

1725 COLUMBIA LANE | MELBOURNE, FL 32904 vieravoice.com

Viera Voice OCTOBER 2026

p U p a r SPORTS W Team Viera takes part in charity hockey event SPECIAL TO VIERA VOICE Team Viera was proud to hit the ice Sept. 19 and 20 at the Community First Igloo in Jacksonville for the Pucks for Autism Hockey Tournament. Pucks for Autism is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit whose mission is to foster awareness, acceptance and understanding of autism. Funds raised from events are allocated to grants to local autism-related nonprofits, supporting programs that provide educational tools, resources and autism-friendly environments to help children and young adults thrive both socially and academically. The organization was founded by Shawn Pfieffer, inspired by his son Henry’s autism diagnosis, with the

for individuals and families affected by autism,’’ said Todd Pokrywa, the president of The Viera Company. “For me, VIERA VOICE Courtesy of Pucks for Autism hockey has Todd Pokrywa, the president of The Viera Company, always been served as team captain of Team Viera at the Pucks for about more Autism Hockey Tournament at the Community First Igloo than the in Jacksonville. game.It’s goal of creating inclusive, about community, friendship, welcoming environments teamwork and giving back, where families and This past weekend was a communities can connect. great example of all of those “We were honored to elements coming together. support an event that brings A huge thank you to my the hockey community teammates for supporting together to raise awareness this important cause in our and help create opportunities community.’’ VV

Got Ugly Concrete? Don’t replace it. Restore it for LESS! James and Andrea Family Owned and Veteran Operated

Durable, Clean Showroom Finish

250 OFF projects over $1,000

Call today to claim your savings. Must present VV coupon. Cannot be combines with other offers Expired 10-30-26

Call today for your FREE estimate

Patios Pool Decks

321- 421-7047 or email: Spacecoastdeckcoatings@yahoo.com

SPACE COAST DECK COATINGS Licensed & Insured

We can TRANSFORM your old, cracked Driveway, Pool Deck, Lanai, Patio, Garage or Walkway into a beautiful work of art.

Viera Voice October 2026

VIERA VOICE Courtesy of the Orange Brevard Cricket Club

The Viera Hawks are part of the Orange Brevard Cricket Club.

Orange Brevard Cricket Club encourages Viera community to give the sport a try BY CARL KOTALA They started out playing pickup cricket games at tennis courts, or on the football and soccer fields at Viera Regional Park, whenever they could rent the space. There were about a dozen of them at the time. Two years later, that number was up to about 25 or 30. Now, they have their own competitive league with five teams — one based in Viera — and more than 100 players participating on grounds designed specifically for the sport, which is clearly expanding in the area. “It’s more about bringing people together, enjoying time and having fun,” said Kesser Ahsan, the president of the Orange Brevard Cricket Club, which was formed in 2023. “Of course, there’s a competitive nature in any sport you play that’s organized, but for us, it's more about playing with our friends, creating relationships and connections. “A lot of the folks that ended up playing cricket with us, they were coming here as strangers. What we saw was the sport was allowing someone to at least know someone in the community.” The Viera Hawks currently play their home games at Fred Poppe Regional Park in Palm Bay, where there is a dedicated cricket ground. Other weekend matches take place in the Orlando area — where the other four league teams are based — though the team has traveled as far as Gainesville. Already one of the most popular sports in the world, cricket will become an Olympic sport at the 2028

“It’s more about bringing people together, enjoying time and having fun.” — Kesser Ahsan

games in Los Angeles. Ahsan wants to not only raise the awareness of the sport in the Viera community, he would also like to see more youths give it a try. “We have several individuals who carry certifications for training and coaching,” he said. “Folks that have played overseas in the Caribbean, that have played professional cricket, and are now over here, living amongst us right now. “Our main focus and drive is that the majority of us all have kids as well. We’re trying to create something where we have youth programs.” Ahsan believes cricket could be a fun alternative for baseball players and just people who want to try a new sport. “It’s about trying something you’re not familiar with and you might be great at it,” he said. The league is working to develop a cricket ground just outside of VRP that would make it even more accessible for local players. Anyone interested in cricket can check out the league’s website at orangebrevardcricket.com/. “Our goal is to grow the sport, welcome anyone and everyone from wherever they’re at, and try to get more eyes on the sport, which will help promote it and give us more resources to make something serious out of it,” Ahsan said. VV

vieravoice.com

A New Practice in Being Seen and Heard Now Accepting New Patients Anita Fazeli, DO, and Srividya Kannan, MD, are excited to welcome new patients to Orlando Health Physician Associates – Viera. They provide preventive, routine and ongoing care for families, taking the time to listen and support your health at every stage. Because great primary care starts with knowing you, not just knowing your medical history.

Specializing in • Preventive care and health maintenance • Chronic disease management • Women’s health and family planning

Anita Fazeli, DO

Srividya Kannan, MD

Board certified in Family Medicine

• Obesity medicine and weight management • Mental health integration

(All ages)

Orlando Health Physician Associates – Viera 8055 Spyglass Hill Rd., Suite 102 | Viera, FL 32940

To request an appointment, call (321) 872-9996. For more information, visit OrlandoHealth.com/PhysicianAssociates

vieravoice.com

Viera Voice OCTOBER 2026

Hawks believe individual, team state golf titles are within reach BY CARL KOTALA The Viera High School boys golf team lost all but three players from last year’s team. The girls, well, they graduated perhaps the most decorated player in team history. So, no trip back to the state tournament this year, right? Nothing could be further from the truth. “This year’s team is the deepest I have ever had the pleasure to lead, with five girls capable and able to shoot in the 30s on a consistent basis,” Viera girls coach Carl Guettler wrote in

VIERA VOICE Courtesy of Paul Bentley

The Viera High School boys golf team will be counting on a crop of new players to go along with state title contenders Jeremiah Smith and Shayaan Kim this season. Pictured here are Cyrus Kim, left; Jeremiah Smith; Shayaan Kim; Ryan Stevens; Jack Levitz and Bradley Van Aelst.

an email. “… Even though we lost an amazing athlete in Hannah Hall to college golf,

this team's future has never been brighter since the state championship win in 2014.”

HAIRCUTS THAT FIT INTO YOUR GAME PLAN. CHECK IN ONLINE

WALK-INS

WELCOME

Avenue Viera Viera Palm Bay/West Melbourne 6729 Colonnade Ave 205 Palm Bay Rd NE 6729 Colonnade Ave 321-637-1553 321-953-4905 321-637-1553 SportClips.com/FL208 SportClips.com/FL220 SportClips.com/FL208 REDEEM FOR A

$3 OFF ANY HAIRCUT SERVICE

Regular MVP Haircut: $31. Present coupon before haircut. Not valid with any other offer. Void if bartered, copied, traded, or sold. Valid only at participating locations. *Valid ID required for new Clients.

REDEEM FOR A

$5 OFF MVP HAIRCUT EXPERIENCE

EXPIRES 10/17/26 11/17/2026 CODE 2012

Now OPEN

Viera Voice October 2026

EXPIRES 10/17/2026 11/17/2026 CODE 2005

VIERA VOICE Courtesy of Carrie Derdich

Viera High School girls golf coach Carl Guettler says this is the deepest team he's ever had with five girls able to shoot in the 30s.

Viera boys coach Paul Bentley, meanwhile, believes two of his players are the best in the state and have a chance to do something no other Hawk has done before. “I expect to have the team compete at the state level once again and either Shayaan Kim or Jeremiah Smith winning the state title as an individual,” Bentley said. “Both players are seniors and will be playing somewhere at the college level next year. “This is a little bit of a rebuild year, but we have a solid 1-2 punch who can play with anyone in the country. If we can get a young player this year to put it altogether, we could see us at the top at the end of the season.” Joining Shayaan Kim and Smith as a returner is sophomore Cyrus Kim. The new players are junior Chase Elden-Moore; sophomore Derek Landis; junior Jack Levitz; junior Ryan Stevens; junior Bradley Van Aelst; sophomore Alex Wall; freshman Arin Sinha and senior Caleb Nichols. This year’s state tournament is set for Nov. 13 and 14 at the Mission Inn & Resort in Howey-in-the-Hills. While Hall is already starting to make a name for herself at Kansas, the Hawks have an exciting freshman

who is making a splash as well on the girls team. Isla Amos birdied her first hole as a high school player and is Viera’s new No. 1 player, with junior cocaptain Mikayla Arold — who shot 38 against Holy Trinity earlier this season — in the second spot. Guettler described No. 3 player Lilyanna Amoroso as one of the hardest workers. The junior co-captain shot a career-low 35 in a win against Cocoa Beach. Sophomore Harlow Brogden shot 36 against Holy Trinity, “and has much more in the tank,” Guettler said. Viera’s No. 5 player is the only senior on the team and another co-captain, Avery Derdich. Other key Hawks are junior Fiona Holladay; junior Abigail Whitney; junior Paris Myers and three promising freshmen — Zooey Myers, Lucie Del Gatto and Aurora Amoroso. Viera’s boys won a Class 3A state championship in 2024, and the Viera girls have a pair of team titles from 2010 and 2014. Could there be an individual title, or another team title in the cards? “I would love to see us on the podium in 2026,” Guettler said. VV

vieravoice.com

PAID ADVERTISING

July 17, 10 a.m. Join Us! Estate and Medicaid Planning — Get Your Plan Unmasked: • 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. Wednesday, May 21 - 10 a.m. Join us Thursday, May 8Medicaid

inFree Order! Movie Matinee legalYour seminar Assets in Florida The Medicaid & Protecting July 11, 2Truth - 4 p.m. About This will discuss the basics of estate and RSVP Required Oneseminar Senior Place Movie Matinee Medicaid planning. Presented by Ruth C. Rhodes, One Senior Place 8085 Spyglass Hill Road 10 a.m.,RSVP Wednesday, October 21 Join Attorney Rhodes for a look at Medicaid: RSVP required.Ruth 8085 Esq. and Jackie McManus. Spyglass Hill Road Viera, 321-751-6771 Senior Place,• 8085 Spyglass Hilland Road SpyglassPlace Hill Road •One Who qualifies Common myths misconceptionsOne Senior Place, 8085 One Senior Viera, 321-751-6771 Viera, 321-751-6771 Viera, 321-751-6771 • Legal strategies to protect your home, savings and other assets

8085 Spyglass Hill Road Viera Call 321-751-6771 to RSVP SENIOR LIFE • JULY 2024

AND A HAPPY NEW YEAR

Planning before a crisis allows for more options, provides greater peace of mind and helps to prepare for the future. 321-242-1235 vieravoice.com

Viera Voice OCTOBER 2026

MICRO-DOSING NOW AVAILABLE

VIERA VOICE Courtesy of Jane Ponton

This year's Holy Trinity golf team features Juliet Nigara, left; Emerson Tran; Nitya Patel; Katie VanHooven; Brooke Hess and Hannah Harrington. With no seniors on the roster, the Tigers will be relying on their young players to challenge for a district title.

Holy Trinity golf teams ready to take shot at getting to regionals BY CARL KOTALA

There’s something brewing with the Holy Trinity Episcopal Academy boys and girls golf teams this season … and it’s all good. Not only do the girls have 14 returning players after losing no one from last season, they have 19 golfers overall. Holy Trinity’s boys, meanwhile, have 13 players, including two seventh graders, an eighth grader and just one senior — Bo Bagwell. “We are off to a good start,” boys coach Ken Benfield said after the team won its first two matches of the season. Junior Bradley Braid has been the Tigers’ top player, averaging a score of 37 over nine holes in the early season. “He’s a hard worker and tries to improve his score every match,” Benfield said. Bagwell was averaging 40 and sophomore Max Rhodes was shooting 41. “Our goal is to do well in the districts, so we can advance to the regionals,” Benfield said. The boys district tournament is scheduled for Oct. 27, at the Point West Country Club in Vero Beach with the regionals set for Nov. 2 at Orange County Regional. The Class 1A state tournament is Nov. 17 and 18 at the Mission Inn & Resort in Howey-in-the-Hills. The Tigers will host this year’s District 8 girls tournament at the Indian River Colony Club on Oct. 27 with regionals Nov. 2 at the Cocoa Beach Country Club. Holy Trinity girls coach Ben Rotgers loves how well his team competes both on the course and in the classroom. The Tigers finished fourth in Class 1A with a combined 3.842 GPA last season, and everyone is back. “My favorite thing about this team is when somebody asks what school they want to play golf for, the responding answer is

Viera Voice October 2026

usually, ‘depends what medical school, law school, business school or engineering school the university has,’ " he said. Senior Hannah Harrington is the team’s No. 1 player, and a captain for two different sports. Not only is she the Tigers’ golf captain, she is also captain of the school’s Cheer Team.

“Our goal is to do well in the districts, so we can advance to the regionals.” — Coach Ken Benfield

Emerson Tran is the team’s No. 2 player and has a promising future. “She is a seventh grader and a strong competitor,” Rotgers wrote. “I’m looking forward to her and her game growing and leading the team.” Holy Trinity’s No. 3 player, senior Brooke Hess, is a dual threat. She qualified to go to regionals as an individual last year and is also a National Merit Scholar semifinalist. Junior Katie van Hooven also qualified for the regionals as an individual last season and is a member of Holy Trinity’s Academic Team. Other members of the varsity team include senior Xinlei Shen; junior Juliet Nigara; junior Sophia Flammio; sophomore Nathalie Ponton; sophomore Nitya Dubal; freshman Riva Patil; eighth grader Grace Hays; and seventh grader Sophia Gittsovich. Ponton plays No. 5 for the Tigers, followed by Nigara, Shen, Hays and Dubal. “The team outlook for this season is positive,” Rotgers said. “We have a good chance to make regionals. We get better every day and every match.” VV

vieravoice.com

Do you really need a new A/C? $35 OFF

CALL US FOR

FREE

2nd OPINION

Cannot be combined. Must present coupon. Expires 10/31/26. Call for details.

HIRING

10% OFF REPAIR

Call for Details

Experienced Techs

CAC1816772

! y a d o T l l Ca

321-757-9008

MILITARY, POLICE, FIRE RESCUE, SENIORS AND HEALTH CARE Can be combined with one other offer. Call for details.

LOCALLY OWNED AND OPERATED

FREE ALL MAKES AND MODELS REFRIGERANT WE SELL & SERVICE CERTIFIED TECHNICIANS! DRUG TESTED! BACKGROUND CHECKED!

FPL Participating Independent Contractor©

REPAIR

Good for 1 lb. Must present coupon during repair call. Cannot be combined. Expires 10/31/26

BrevardCooling.com

Honest Work! Honest Price! We Fix It Right!

Looking for a safe spot for your RV? 321-259-3333

Come to the Safe Lot! • 8 security cameras • Privacy fence • Located at the end of a cul-de sac

Stop by and pick out your spot before they are all gone! 5255 Corporate Ct., Melbourne, FL 32940 info@thesafelot.com vieravoice.com

TheSafeLot.com Viera Voice OCTOBER 2026

DINING OUT & EVENTS OCT. 10 Rescue Ball 2026 6 - 10 p.m. Benefit for Rescue Rebels by Cash 4 Canines. Live music. Brevard Zoo 8225 N. Wickham Road Viera, rescuerebels.org

K9 Saint Francis’ Kids’ Day 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. Honoring Saint Francis on Saint Francis Feast Day.

Food trucks, touch a truck and animal adoptions. Viera High School 6103 Stadium Parkway Viera, 321-264-5201

OCT. 23

Boo Bash 5 - 7 p.m. Live DJ dance party, festive kids’ activities and photo ops. The Avenue Viera 2261 Town Center Ave.

Viera, 321-634-5390

OCT. 24 Charity Car and Motorcycle Show 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. Benefit for the Brevard County Sheriff’s Office Charity. Specialty law enforcement vehicles and SWAT Displays. Viera High School 6103 Stadium Parkway Viera, 201-658-2004

Medium

Concrete Mixers

Buy 1, Get 1

FREE

Please no substitutions. Not valid with any other offer or discount. Limit one coupon per person per visit.

Enjoy the tradition of the South Pacific

Electronic versions of this coupon are not accepted. Offer not applicable with DoorDash and Uber Eats. Expires: 10/31/2026

Drive-Thru Available

Culver’s in Viera, 6451 Lake Andrew Dr., Viera FL 32940 Sun. - Thurs. 10:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. Fri. & Sat. 10:30 a.m. to 11 p.m.

321-305-4100

Delivery Available:

Our enticing Kava drinks provide a soothing, relaxing effect for your mind, body and soul. 7954 N Wickham Rd #115, Melbourne

island-root.com 321-914-0914

Buy 1 KAVA Get 1 KAVA Free With this ad. Exp. 10/31/2026

SUNTREE • MELBOURNE EAU GALLIE • ROYAL PALM BEACH PORT ST LUCIE • STUART JENSEN BEACH • ABACOA

Viera Voice October 2026

vieravoice.com

29.99

Delivery! Two Large $30 Minimum Order Call Cheese Today OrPizzas Order Online! Large Specialty $ Pizza, Medium Large Cheese Pizza Cheese Pizza UncleVitosPizzeria.com 321-988-VITO $ Pick Up Only + Large Salad 8020 N Wickham Rd, Viera, FL 32940 unclevitospizzeria

WEDNESDAY!

9.99

22.00

Add 6 Breadsticks + $3.99

Uncle Vito’s • 321-988-VITO

Cannot be combined with any other offers. Must redeem in person. Expires 8/31/26.

Must redeem in person. Expires 8/31/26.

AUTHENTIC - HAND-TOSSED - STONE OVEN PIZZA Cannot be combined with any other offers. Cannot be combined with any other offers.

FREE DELIVERY! FIRST-TIME CUSTOMER $ $ SPECIAL

26.99

49.99

15% OFF

22.99 Fast

FREE Two Large Large Medium Delivery! One-Topping $30 Minimum One-Topping One-Topping Order Salad, Your First Order! CallPizzas, TodayLarge Or Order Online!Pizza + 10 Wings Pizza + 10 Wings + 20 Wings In App Only

I R B THDA R U O Y! TI ’S ys ’

Add 6 Breadsticks + $3.99 Add 6 Breadsticks + $3.99 Add 6 Breadsticks + $3.99to Scan Here UncleVitosPizzeria.com 321-988-VITO USEUncle CODE: MENU15Uncle • Vito’s Min. $30 Vito’s • 321-988-VITO • 321-988-VITO Uncle Vito’s • 321-988-VITO Order Online!

8020 Noffers. Wickham FLExpires 32940 Cannot be combined withinany other Redeem inRd, person or online. 8/31/26. Must redeem person. Expires 8/31/26. Must Viera, redeem in person. Expires 8/31/26. Cannot be combined with any other offers.

Cannot be combined with any other offers.

Cannot be combined with any other offers. unclevitospizzeria Must redeem in person. Expires 8/31/26.

WACKY - HAND-TOSSED AUTHENTIC - STONE$ OVEN PIZZA TWO FOR $22! WEDNESDAY! Two Large

FREE DELIVERY! Cheese Pizzas

9.99 26.99

29.99

Large Specialty $ Pizza, Medium $ $ Large$ Cheese Pizza Cheese Pizza $ Pick Up Only + Large Salad Two Large Add 6 Breadsticks Add 6 Breadsticks + $3.99 Add 6 Breadsticks + $3.99 Large+ $3.99 Medium One-Topping Uncle Vito’s • 321-988-VITO Uncle Vito’s • 321-988-VITO UncleOne-Topping Vito’s • 321-988-VITO One-Topping Pizzas, Large Salad, Cannot be combined with any other offers. Cannot be combined with any other offers. Cannot be combined with any other offers. Expires 10/31/26. Expires 10/31/26. Expires 10/31/26. Must Pizza redeem in person. Expires 8/31/26. Must redeem in person. Expires redeem in + person. 8/31/26. + 10 Wings 10Expires Wings + 20 Wings8/31/26. MustPizza

49.99 22.00

22.99

Add 6 Breadsticks + $3.99 FIRST-TIME Add 6 Breadsticks + $3.99 Add 6 Breadsticks + $3.99 15% OFF CUSTOMER SPECIAL FIRST-TIME CUSTOMER SPECIAL Uncle Vito’s • 321-988-VITO Uncle Vito’s • 321-988-VITO Uncle Vito’s • 321-988-VITO

only, Code: Menu15, $30.beCannot bewith combined with other offers. Expires 10/31/26 Cannot In be App combined with any other offers. Min. Cannot combined any other offers. Cannot be combined with any other offers. Must redeem in person. Expires 8/31/26. Must redeem in person. Expires 8/31/26. Must redeem in person. Expires 8/31/26.

15% OFF

WACKY TWO FOR $22! Your First Order! WEDNESDAY! Two Large In App Only

9.99

USE CODE: MENU15Cheese • Min.Pizzas $30

22.00

Large Cheese Pizza

Cannot be combined with any other offers. Redeem in person or online. Expires 8/31/26.

Pick Up Only

Add 6 Breadsticks + $3.99

Private Lessons Uncle Vito’s • 321-988-VITO Private Private Lessons Lessons Cannot be combined with any other offers. Cannot be combined with any other offers. Must•redeem in person. Expires 8/31/26. Must redeem in person. Expires 8/31/26. Piano • Voice • Violin • Piano • Piano • Voice • Voice • Violin • Violin • Flute • Harp • Guitar • Ukulele •Harp Harp •CUSTOMER Ukulele •FIRST-TIME •• Guitar Ukulele SPECIAL Uncle Vito’s • 321-988-VITO

Space Coast

29.99 ebrat in

$ Cel

g our t h year i n busi ness Add 6 Breadsticks + $3.99! Large Specialty Scan Here to Pizza, Medium Order CheeseOnline! Pizza + Large Salad

Uncle Vito’s • 321-988-VITO Cannot be combined with any other offers. Must redeem in person. Expires 8/31/26.

a w a e Giv Gifts e e r ! F e r o M &

COME CELEBRATE WITH US! th

October 24 & 25

7640 N Wickham Rd Melbourne FL

Enter to Enter to win win a a LEGO® LEGO ® set! set! First 150 First 150 get get a a free free Minifig Minifig th Stand Stand on on Sat Sat 24 24 & first & first 100 100 get get it it on on S n Sun 25 25th!!

15% OFF Your First Order! In App Only

USE CODE: MENU15 • Min. $30

Scan Here to Order Online!

Happy Holidays and Join Team! We offer our aHolidays "Little Mozart" Happy and Beginning Piano best wishes foraa Wanted — best wishes for and Music Enrichment Piano Instructors wonderful NewtoYear! wonderful Program forNew ages 4Year! 6 Loretta Fox, Ph.D.

Cannot be combined with any other offers. Redeem in person or online. Expires 8/31/26.

We’ll Train You!

Founder

Something new at the Galleria Art that moves you. Stories that stay with you.

Artist Damian Rhodes

Artist Theresa Garnett

Check website for October class schedule. artgalleryofviera.com

7720 N. WICKHAM RD., #107, VIERA | 321-338-9787 vieravoice.com

Viera Voice OCTOBER 2026

Viera cross-country program, new coach hope to maintain history of success BY CARL KOTALA What do you do when you take over a new coaching position right before school starts? You hit the ground running, of course. And that’s exactly what new Viera High School crosscountry coach Bobby Toenjes has done … literally. “I’ve run with them every workout,” Toenjes said. “I’m almost 51. I’m doing 1,000-meter repeats. I tell them all the time, I’m trying to make varsity. You’ve got to do what you preach, I feel like. I don’t have to be the top guy, but I need to at least be out there, working hard and showing them this is what it takes. “They seem to like it.” Toenjes, who was an assistant at his alma mater, Melbourne High School, last season, is in his first season as a high school head coach. He’s also the first on-campus cross-country coach the Hawks have had in at least five years. While Toenjes has

VIERA VOICE Courtesy of Viera High School Cross Country

The Viera High School Hawks have a new coach in Bobby Toenjes, far right, and are working hard to ensure both the boys and girls teams make it to the state meet this season.

been busy trying to entice students to give the sport a try, the Hawks have been dealing with some injuries to both the boys and girls teams. Junior Chris Naberhaus should be the team’s top runner when he comes back, hopefully in time to get ready for the postseason. In the meantime, junior Logan Rosenthal has stepped into the No. 1 spot and done quite well. He finished fifth overall at the season-opening event, the

Wickham Jamboree, in 17 minutes, 20 seconds. Behind him is senior Elie Gleicher and senior Caleb Nichols, a dual-sport athlete (he’s also playing golf) from Ohio who had run in the 16:30s before moving to Florida. The Hawks also have talented young runners in sophomore Ryder Mott; junior Ryan Burnham; sophomore Julian Islas; sophomore Bryson Nichols and freshman Colin Rendek. “They’ve been to states 13 years straight, so we’re going

Tigers out. Holy Trinity’s girls appear ready to step right into that state championship title contender role with a young team that could be good for years to come. “There’s definitely a different feel to this group,” Tigers coach Marc Bailey wrote in an email. “There aren’t as many established names coming into the

season, but I think there may be more cohesiveness. They understand that no one runner has to carry us. Everybody has a responsibility to the person standing next to them. “There is a lot of work ahead of us, but I love where we are right now. The girls have put themselves in position to chase a state championship. The boys have

to do everything we can to make it happen,” Toenjes said. “The girls have a very good chance of going to state, for sure.” The girls have been dealing with their own injuries, most notably to senior Addison Dwenger. Already one of the best female soccer players in Brevard County, senior Eva McMenemy-Hoang has also quickly developed into a very strong cross-country runner after working with last year’s top runner, Addy Elwell.

At this year’s Wickham Jamboree, McMenemyHoang beat defending Class 2A state champion Selah Vignier of West Shore by 3 seconds and her time of 18:29 beat her previous personal best by more than a minute. “I don’t try to tell her too much. In my mind, I know what I think she’s going to run,” Toenjes said. “Even before she ran sub-19 (minutes), I knew she was going sub-19. “She’s going to be going for Addy’s record this year (17:42.60). I have a very good feeling that she’s going to get to it. She’s a workhorse. When we run, she’s with the boys in the front.” Other top runners for Viera’s girls this season are sophomore Chancey Jones; senior Ansley Englert; freshman Liza Nixon; sophomore Fiona McMenemy-Hoang; freshman Raegan Clare; freshman Abigail Escobar; and senior Rachel Amann. VV

Holy Trinity boys, girls still ranked among state’s best cross-country teams BY CARL KOTALA

Things are definitely looking a little different for the Holy Trinity crosscountry program right now. The boys, who have been among the state’s best the past few years, graduated all of their big-name athletes, including last year’s Class 1A state champion, Evan Spreitzer. But don’t count the

Luxury 1, 2, & 3 Bedroom Private Entry Apartment Homes Community Amenities:

Zoned for Viera Schools

■ Resort Style Swimming Pool

Move-in Special Two Months Free

■ Fully-Equipped Fitness Center with 24-Hour Access ■ Detached Garages ■ Dog Park & Pet Spa ■ Pickleball Court ■ Smart Home Features ■ ...and so much more!

Viera Voice October 2026

1019 Fusion Lane Rockledge, FL 32955 (877) 570-8776 TheJunctionLiving.com

VIERA VOICE Courtesy of Darren Nazareno

The Holy Trinity Tigers are contenders for state championships in both boys and girls cross-country.

put themselves in position to chase the podium, and because both teams are young, the future of the program is extremely bright.” The boys, ranked No. 3 in the state, are led by senior captain Jesus Martinez, eighth-grader Zamari Blumenberg and sophomore Daniel Penny. “Our goal is to get on the podium at the state championship. Obviously, everybody wants to win, but with this group, if we can finish second and establish ourselves as one of the top three teams in the state, we would consider that a very successful season. What I really like about this boys team is that they aren’t trying to be last year’s team. They understand that their strength has to come from the group. “We may not have all the big names we’ve had in previous years, but we have a group that is becoming extremely cohesive. They genuinely care about one another, they’re willing to fight for each other, and they’re beginning to understand how powerful

that can be in cross-country.” Holy Trinity’s top girls are eighth-grader Taylor Geraghty and ninth-grader Kelly Geraghty, followed by freshman Abby Connors, junior Caleigh Schmoll and senior captain Frances Hale. The Tigers got a boost when junior 400-meter track standout Juelle Maaser joined the cross-country team. “We’re currently ranked No. 1 in the state, so our expectations are obviously high,” Bailey wrote. “Our goal is to contend for a state championship. We know it is going to be a fierce battle and there are probably three teams that realistically have a chance to win it. “The girls are relatively young as well, which makes what they’re doing even more exciting. We have some talented runners, but more than anything, I’ve been impressed by how they’ve come together. Cross-country is such an interesting sport. Individual talent matters, but championships are ultimately won by five runners working for one another. This group is starting to understand that.” VV

vieravoice.com

NG EVENT 4 DAY BUYING EVENT

y, March 2 sday, March 3 ay, March 4 March 5

10am to 3pm 10am to 3pm 10am to 3pm 10am to 3pm

Fairfield Inn Viera

Monday, Oct. 5

10 am to 3 pm

Tuesday, Oct. 6 Wednesday, Oct. 7 Thursday, Oct. 8

10 am to 3 pm 10 am to 3 pm 10 am to 3 pm

Wash, Clean, or Polish!

Antiques of all Kinds: Do Not Wash, Clean or Polish!

hs, old movie posters, cartoon art & more. Art work: old oil paintings, old watercolors, old etchings, lithographs, old movie posters, cartoon art & more. porcelain old bronze, carved 0) old JapaneseStatues: toys, robots, old banks & oldjade, dolls wood, marble, alabaster, pottery, porcelain Old Toys: old toys, trains, old comics + baseball cards (prior to 1960) old Japanese toys, robots, old banks & old dolls al glass + porcelains Oriental items: jade, statues, figurines, netsuke, old swords, oriental glass + porcelains cal etc), old photos, politicalitems: pins + letters, ribbons,autographs old Historical (movie stars, presidents, political etc), old photos, political pins + ribbons, old fountain y items, American, Japanese, German medals, pens, old pocket knives, swords, military items, American, Japanese, German medals, advertising items, old stamps and old , fire, military) badges (police, fire, military).

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

eed to be

ALL THINGS GOLD!

We even buy old yellow gold teeth and crowns. Brooches, company year pins. We buy diamonds, emeralds and rubies.

ny year

Sterling & Silver Items

wls, dishes, unds, ry. Broken

Any item made out of sterling silver. Silverware, forks, spoons, bowls, dishes, trays, tea sets, statues, sterling and .999 bars, sterling and .999 rounds, frames, candle sticks, trophies, salt and pepper shakers and jewelry. Broken and smashed is okay.

OldPins, or New Jewelry • BrokenBars Jewelry • Antique Jewelry • Costume Jewelry • Engagement Rings • Charms, Pins, Chains • Gold/Silver Bars • Sterling Silverware • ment Rings • Charms, Chains • Gold/Silver • Sterling All •Things Belt Buckles • Old s • Depression Glass ChinaGold/Silver • Waterford•Crystal • Crystal ItemsClocks • Glassware • Cut Glass • Depression Glass • China • Waterford Crystal • Crystal Items • Collectibles Figurines •

Hummels • Royal Doultons • Oriental Rugs • Russian Enameled Items • Cartoon Art • Old Banks • Old Crocks • Old Door Stops • Old Pottery Items • Oriental Pot-

meled Items • Cartoon Art • Old Banks • Old Crocks • Old Door tery • Oriental Glass • Old Advertising Items • Old Carousel Figures • Buck Roger Items • Roy Rogers Items • Old Disney Items • Cigar Store Indians • Slot Machines s • Old Carousel Figures • Buck Roger Items • Roy Rogers Items • Old Coin• Operated & Ives Prints • Old Prints • Paintings • Collector Prints • Old Fire Dept Items • Flash Gordon Items • Whirligigs • Wood ines • Currier & Ives Prints Old Prints Machines • Paintings••Currier Collector Carvings Antique OldBird Dolls • Old Teddy Bears • Old Bird Decoys • War Memorabilia • War Medals • War Pictures • War Weaponry • Old Knives • Old ntique Lamps • Old Dolls ••Old Teddy Lamps Bears ••Old Decoys d Swords • Old Stamps • Autographs • Old Letters • Old•&Old NewLetters • Old & New Tools • Automobiles • Entire Estates • Icons • Old Ink Stands • Leaded Windows • Old Beer Steins • Swords • Old Stamps • Autographs d Beer Steins • OldOld Judaica • Tiffany Items • Lone Ranger Items Items • Judaica • Tiffany Items • Lone Ranger • Old Maps • Old Globes • Old Paperweights • Old Napkin Rings • Old Nautical Items • Old Political Items • Histor• Old Political Items • Historical Items • Old Pictures Old Powder ical Items • Old Pictures Old Powder Horns • Old Quilts • Old Railroad Items • Franklin Mint Items • Old Fountain Pens • Old Weather Vanes • Old Perfume Bottles Old Weather Vanes • Old Perfume Bottles • Lalique Items • Lladro • Lalique ItemsPaper • Lladro Statues • Vintage Native American Items/Artifacts • Swarovski • World’s Fair Items • Vintage Foreign Paper Money rld’s Fair Items • Vintage Foreign Money

House Calls available Monday thru Friday onday thru Friday Entire Estates — all antiques & collectibles wanted & collectibles wanted Gold & Silver coins, United States Coins, & silver/gold foreign coins

Pennies before 1959, Dimes and Quarters before 1965, Half Dollars before 1970, Dollar Coins before 1936, Bullion (Gold, Silver & Platinum), Foreign Gold/Silver coins, all US Gold coins and Old paper currency

Watches

WIND UP ONLY, Gold, Silver, Gold-filled, Pocket & Wrist, Working or Not.

ns, & silver/gold foreign coins

Dollars before 1970, Dollar Coins before 1936, ns, All US Gold coins, Old paper currency

cket & Wrist, Working or Not

GOLD BUYERS 32 1 -2 5 8- 91 0 9 we will be at the

Fairfield Inn Viera 2400 Town Center Ave., Viera, FL YERS 9109

————— Payment on the Spot at Your One-Stop Shop for Unwanted and Used. ————

vieravoice.com

Viera Voice OCTOBER 2026

Perfect start? Justiniano, Espling roll 300 games for Viera bowling BY CARL KOTALA Talk about a perfect way to start a season. The Viera High School boys bowling team had a big moment on Aug. 20, when freshman Liam Justiniano threw a 300 game at Shore Lanes Bowling Center in Palm Bay. Not long after that — Sept. 1, to be exact — senior Carson Espling walked into Shore Lanes and rolled a perfect game of his own. It was the first 300 game for both players. Add that to the fact that the Viera girls now have enough bowlers to form a team for the first time in several years and things are really looking up for the Hawks. The additions of Justiniano, fellow freshman Hayden Espling and junior Tristan Ellis to go along with seniors Jackson Lewis, Maxton Layton and Carson Espling, who went to the state tournament as an individual last season, have the Hawks thinking they have shot to make it to this year’s state tournament, which is set for Oct. 27 to 29 at Orlando’s Boardwalk

VIERA VOICE Courtesy of Aaron Keehn

The Viera High School boys bowling team got off to an incredible start this season as freshman Liam Justiniano and senior Carson Espling both rolled perfect games.

Bowl Entertainment Center. “Our boys team lost a lot of players last year,” Viera coach Aaron Keehn wrote in an email. “However, we have a very good team this year and are hoping to make it to states as a team. … Tristan and Hayden, in addition to the other two (Justiniano and Carson Espling), continue to be around 200 pins each game. “Our boys team as a whole is very close and a lot of fun to coach and support.” In order to get to that state tournament, the Hawks

will have to work their way through a large Class 1A, District 5 contingent that includes Bayside; Calvary Chapel; Cocoa Beach; Eau Gallie; Heritage; Melbourne; Melbourne Central Catholic; Odyssey Charter; Palm Bay; Pineapple Cove; Rockledge; Satellite and West Shore. The district tournament is scheduled for Oct. 21 at Shore Lanes. And, this time, the Viera girls will be participating, too. Not only that, but they could do a little damage. This year’s team is made

up of freshman Olivia Jean and juniors Audrey Showers, Isabella Casavant, Alana Critchfield and Holly Nardontonia. “We have a full team and have been very competitive this year,” Keehn wrote. “These girls continue to fight, and in the past few matches, have been down 3-0 and have fought back to win, 4-3. “I’m very proud of how hard they continue to work in practice.” That hard work could continue to pay off in the postseason, which would be a very big deal for the Viera

girls team. And with a lot of young talent on the boys team, Viera should be a program to watch in Brevard County’s bowling scene for future seasons to come. “Our girls team has an opportunity to, hopefully, make it to the afternoon (session) at districts and, hopefully, will finish in the top four,” Keehn wrote. “Viera, in the past, hasn’t had a full girls team. Now, every single match, we are very competitive. These girls don’t give up and continue to fight until the end.” VV

VIERA VOICE Courtesy of Aaron Keehn

For the first time in several years, the Viera High School girls have enough bowlers to form a full team. Not only that, but the Hawks have been very competitive this season.

Open 24/7! Compassion-driven. Always available. Board-Certified Dentistry Board-Certified Surgery 24/7 Emergency Care Right Here When You Need Us. Trusted Care. 24/7. 2281 W. Eau Gallie Blvd., Melbourne, FL, 32935

Viera Voice October 2026

(321) 725-5365 animalspecialtyemergencycenter.com

vieravoice.com

David Weekley Homeowners Lori Rust & Kevin Jordan

COMING SOON:

RESTORE AT VIERA Inspired living from Encore by David Weekley Homes is on its way to Restore at Viera, a 55+ lifestyle community located within the master-planned community of Viera in Melbourne, FL! Here, you’ll soon delight in the ideal balance of livability and outstanding design, where you can gather with family and friends, unwind and relax in your Owner’s Retreat, and enjoy a vibrant community with your neighbors.

Join our VIP List and be among the first to receive exclusive updates on Restore at Viera by contacting 407-984-4050

Explore Your Future in Viera Encore by David Weekley Homes communities are age-restricted. See a David Weekley Homes Sales Consultant for a copy of the restrictions and other details. Prices, plans, dimensions, features, specifications, materials, and availability of homes or communities are subject to change without notice or obligation. Illustrations are artist’s depictions only and may differ from completed improvements. Copyright © 2026 David Weekley Homes - All Rights Reserved. CBC1256705 Weekley Homes, LLC. Orlando, FL (ORL-26-005332)

vieravoice.com

Viera Voice OCTOBER 2026

s w e SCHOOLN

Among Viera High's first students, doctor practices in Viera 20 years later

BY HILLARD GROSSMAN A year after the Washington Nationals opened their spring training residence at Space Coast Stadium, a new, expansive building down the street on Stadium Parkway was getting ready to open its doors on Aug. 9, 2006. Among those 961 wideeyed students at Viera High School was Michael Nartatez, a Suntree resident at the time. He traded longer bus rides from DeLaura Middle School in Satellite Beach to shorter ones at Viera for his freshman year. "Everybody was excited about us being the first people to go through the

Jewelry Appraisal & Liquidation Solutions

“I don't know if that (quest) started (at Viera High School), but I was always active in sports and, even at a young age, I wanted to do something associated with helping people with an active lifestyle.” — Dr. Michael Nartatez

school," he said. “It was a cool, different experience. Unique, you could say.” With just freshmen and sophomores that first year, everyone bonded and there was no bullying. “Good thing. I was just 4-foot-8, 88 pounds,” he said, laughing. “I would have been an easy target.” Now, 20 years later, it's Dr. Michael Nartatez, 34, and he begins the third

year of his professional career. He is teaming with another Dr. Mike, a threedecade chiropractic and neuropathy expert, Dr. Mike Rozenblum, who heads the The Spine and Nerve Institute of Viera, which recently opened in the CRI Building behind Health First's Viera Hospital. The double play combination of Rozenblum and Nartatez has worked

Jewelry Appraisals for Seniors

Downsizing? Settling an estate, or just curious about your jewelry’s value? We offer expert, trustworthy appraisals with a personalized approach. • Over 50 years of experience • Accurate valuations for insurance coverage • Estate, Fair Market & Liquidation guidance

Organizer of Trash or Treasure Events! Free to your community & attendees

Contact Peter Indorf, GG, RGA for more information today!

321-914-0118 • jewelryappraisal-liquidation.com 1103 West Hibiscus Blvd. | Suite 307B | Melbourne, FL 32901

Quality legal services with a Compassionate Touch for you and your family William A. Johnson has been a Florida Bar Board Certified Elder Law Attorney for 20 years and has more than 32 years of experience serving Brevard County.

We are here to help!

Expert, Reputable, and Trusted Experienced Estate & Trust Planning William A. Johnson is a member of the National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys and Academy of Florida Elder Law Attorneys. Two-time Member of the Year for Florida Bar Elder Law Section. William A. Johnson

Stop in for a free copy of our 2026 Florida Long Term Care & Nursing Home Answer Book

FloridaElderLaw.net

321-253-1667

2026 Brevar d

County Edi tion

The Flo Long Termrida & Nursin Care gH e Answer B om ook™

WILLIAM A. JOHNSON, P.A. ELDER & ESTATE LAW OFFICE

140 Interlachen Rd., Suite B, Melbourne

Viera Voice October 2026

VIERA VOICE Jill Blue

Dr. Michael Nartatez and his wife, Rose, keep active with their dogs Durks, left, Marlon and Darcie.

well already, and both have ties to baseball. Nartatez played all four years at Viera High School and was the center fielder for a year under the old Brevard Community College banner. He remains a Pittsburgh Pirates fan, although he realizes the constant rebuilding there makes it difficult sometimes. Rozenblum, a conflicted Chicago Cubs, New York Mets and Philadelphia Phillies fan, has loved the sport for many years, especially watching his sons play at the nationally known, baseball-rich Calvary Christian Academy in Fort Lauderdale. Nartatez said he is happy to be back in Viera. For the past two years, Nartatez has primarily worked with patients involved in auto accident cases, with a different company. “It was a good experience; I saw a lot of patients with acute pain,” he said.

“But this is a different environment, where people are actively seeking solutions and long-term maintenance instead of temporary relief from an accident. We still take PI (personal injury) cases.” Nartatez met his wife, Rose, while he attended the Palmer College of Chiropractic in Port Orange. She is now a concierge for a med spa company and they are parents of “three, big, beautiful English Mastiffs, probably weighing a collective 600 pounds.” Nartatez wasn't sure if he even thought about earning a Doctor of Chiropractic degree back when he attended Viera High. “I don't know if that (quest) started there,” he said, “but I was always active in sports and, even at a young age, I wanted to do something associated with helping people with an active lifestyle.” It seems both have found the perfect place at the right time here in Viera. VV

ON • N0. 20

2026 EDITI

E E MAGAZIN ST RESOURC SPACE COA

20 th issue niversary

Stay Activeus Stay Curio re Go Anywhe

le ValuabCE S RESOURivities

Act Sports & Resources Veterans es & Helplin Hotlines etings Clubs & Me Groups Support ng Senior Livi

The free 2026 Boomer Guide Explore mo

Walk Hike Roam Life’s more fun after

blue the deep Navigating

Find everything you need to live your WAY on the Space Coast — from clubs to activities, to health care and recreation, the best places to live, play and thrive. For a pick-up location near you, call 321-242-1235.

vieravoice.com

We are listing and selling homes in ALL price ranges! Contact our Team today for information on flexible commissions and comprehensive marketing plans. Buying or selling this season? Ellingson Properties can help you

Fall

into your perfect home today!

Greg Ellingson, Broker 2,399 SQ FT — 4 BD, 3.1 BA, 2 CG, WATERFRONT

2,004 SQ FT — 3 BD, 2 BA, 2 CG, POOL

3,027 SQ FT — 4 BD, 4 BA, 3 CG

2,862 SQ FT — 4 BD, 3 BA, 2 CG

ICE PR

GE AN CH

ICE PR

GE AN CH

2,814 SQ FT — 4 BD, 3 BA, 3 CG, POOL

T AC NTR O C DER UN

Bridgewater at Viera 55+ $589,900

Forest Lake Village $575,000

Brookshire at Heritage Oaks - $420,000

Capron Ridge $675,000

Levanto $885,000

1,692 SQ FT — 3 BD, 2 BA, 2 CG

2,148 SQ FT — 4 BD, 2 BA, 2 CG, WATERFRONT

5,038 SQ FT — 4 BD, 4.2 BA, 3 CG, WATERFRONT

5,674 SQ FT — 5 BD, 8 BA, 5 CG, POOL

3,550 SQ FT — 4 BD, 4.5 BA, 4 CG, WATERFRONT

Emerald Hills $399,900

Daintree $599,000

Still Point $3,295,000

Summer Lakes $2,499,900

Adelaide $1,849,000

2,779 SQ FT — 4 BD, 4.1 BA, 2 CG, POOL

1,996 SQ FT — 4 BD, 3.1 BA, 2 CG, POOL

1,393 SQ FT — 2 BD, 2.1 BA, 1 CG, WATERFRONT

1,170 SQ FT — 2 BD, 2 BA, 1 CG

3,200 SQ FT — 4 BD, 3 BA, 3 CG, POOL

Montecito $389,000

Casa Verde Club Condo $179,900

Heritage Isle 55+ $769,900

E NG HA C ICE PR

ICE PR

Sunnyland Beach $1,235,000

GE AN CH

Brookhill $629,900

E NG HA C ICE PR

GE AN CH E IC PR

Visit our offices in the Space Coast Business Realty Center (SCBRC) 5815 Hwy 1, Suite 3 Rockledge

ELLINGSON PROPERTIES

(321)750-7050 ~ EllingsonProperties.com vieravoice.com

Viera Voice OCTOBER 2026

Community Band of Brevard always looking for top talent BY MIKE GAFFEY

percussion instrument made of tuned metal bars arranged in a keyboard layout. “I hadn’t played since high school. I missed it, so it was just nice to get to play again. It’s actually good for me, too, because it exercises the muscles while playing the instrument.” A shared love of music and performing attracts people ranging in age from high school juniors all the way to seniors in their 70s to the Community Band of Brevard, band conductor Robin Kessler said. Founded in 1985 by Marion Scott, then-director of bands at Brevard Community College, known today as Eastern Florida State College, the band presents several free shows each year featuring classical, jazz, patriotic and contemporary music.

Suzanne Clark heard about the Community Band of Brevard around 2001 from her friend, Connie Miller, a fellow teacher at Lewis Carroll Elementary School who played clarinet in the band. “She told me about it and I just got into it,” said Clark, who teaches third grade at the Merritt Island school. So, on Wednesday afternoons, Clark, who uses an electric wheelchair due to spinal muscular atrophy, plays her glockenspiel with more than 60 local musicians who gather at Edgewood Junior/Senior High School’s music room to rehearse for upcoming performances. “I like playing,” she said during practice, using small mallets to strike her

VIERA VOICE Mike Gaffey

Timpanist Rod Lowery plays timpani during band practice.

VIERA VOICE Mike Gaffey

Band member Suzanne Clark plays a glockenspiel.

VIERA VOICE Mike Gaffey

Conductor Robin Kessler leads the Community Band of Brevard during a rehearsal at Edgewood Junior/ Senior High School on Merritt Island. “Some people have been with the band from the beginning, although there are a lot of newer people in the band over the past five years,” said Kessler, a saxophonist and former military bandleader who became CBOB conductor in 2021. Timpanist Rod Lowery of Palm Bay remembered Kessler from his days as an Army percussionist. “I saw him in a couple of bandmaster conferences when I was a first sergeant,”

said Lowery, a music education major and former band director who plays in a variety of local groups. “We kind of met that way, and he knew who I was. I moved to Brevard County from Virginia in 2022. And I’ve been mostly playing with him ever since.” If someone wants to join the band, they can meet with a section leader and be evaluated “to see if they are to the level of performer we’re looking for,” Kessler said. “We’re always looking

EXPO

Continued from page 1

The Murtha Law Group, PA Kevin M. Murtha Attorney and Counselor at Law Serving Brevard County

· Wills · Trusts · Estate Planning · Probate · Family Law 7351 Office Park Place Melbourne 32940 KMurtha@MurthaLaw.us

321.600.4989

Viera Voice October 2026

Trusted Legal Advice

“It allows us to share with the community the canteen that was paid for by a local donor,” said Neal Hagglund, the chair of the advisory board of the Salvation Army of North Central Brevard. “We want the public to know that we are a part of the response when there is a disaster, whether natural or man-made.” In addition, Hagglund said that serving at the Expo allows The Salvation Army to provide extra training for its volunteers to serve following disasters. The Boomer Bash SeniorFest is a free event. For guests attending the Expo who want to take advantage of the Route 7 attractions, they can pay for the ones they wish to enjoy. The 60,000-square-foot venue is fun for all ages. Retiree Cathy Bolt-Jones has been to Route 7 multiple times. “I enjoyed the kart racing and dart games,” she said. “The staff is always helpful and check-in is pretty

for fine musicians.” The band performed a free American Spirit concert in September. Its next performance will be a free holiday concert Dec. 6 at the Merritt Island High School Auditorium. “It’s a nice band,” Lowery said. “They do some really good literature and they do it justice, which is a lot of fun.” For information, visit communitybandofbrevard. com or call 321-338-6210. VV

“This is also a good central location since we have people who come from all areas of the county.” — Jill Blue

easy!” “It’s been a dream to bring Orlando-style entertainment to Brevard County that all families can enjoy,” Jenna Webb, the special events sales manager at Route 7, said. “Come for the resources, a free lunch and the entertainment of the Boomer Bash SeniorFest Expo and have the option of staying for the excitement of the attractions at Route 7,” Blue said. Route 7 is in Suntree/ Melbourne at 1 AAR Way, just south of Suntree Boulevard and off of U.S. 1. For more information on the Expo, visit boomerseniorexpo.com or call 321-242-1235. VV

vieravoice.com

Suntree HOA opposes rezoning, will replace playground equipment BY MIKE GAFFEY Suntree residents opposed to an 84-unit townhome project near their communities have a new ally: the Suntree Master Homeowners Association Board of Directors. In a Sept. 11 letter to Brevard County commissioners, Board President Dick DeLauder expressed “strong opposition” to a rezoning application that would allow the development on a 17.12acre wooded parcel owned by Manav Mandir Hindu Temple at 7400 Waelti Drive. The letter followed a unanimous vote Sept. 8 by the board of directors to support The Forest at Suntree community. Manav Mandir wants the property north of the temple rezoned from AU (Agricultural Residential) to RA-2-6 (Single Family Attached Residential), according to Brevard County records. The AU designation allows for one home per 2.5 acres, while the RA–2-6 designation permits up to six homes per acre. If County Planning and Zoning Board members recommend the rezoning

VIERA VOICE Lillian Ngyun

Interlachen Park is slated to get new playground equipment.

at a scheduled Nov. 16 meeting, the Brevard County Commission could vote on it Dec. 10. At the Sept. 8 meeting, Suntree resident Edward Lankenau asked the board to pressure the County Commission to reject the application. “I have yet to talk to one resident here that thinks this is a good idea,” Lankenau said. In other action, the board voted unanimously to approve an $85,808 contract to replace aging playground equipment at Interlachen Park. BYO Recreation of St. Augustine will supply the new equipment and National

Playground Construction will remove the old equipment and install the new

playground apparatus. The new playground equipment will feature a Super Sonic Slide, a Dueling Super Sonic Slide with a Spiral, a Loop Hole Climber, a Spiral Step Climber, an Inclined Wall Climber, a Surge Climbing Link, a Horizontal Loop Ladder Vertical Panel Climber and a Leg Lift. A Rain Wheel, Bubble Panel and Bongos will cater to children with sensory issues and for dramatic play. New SMHA General Manager Billy Specht, who was unanimously appointed at the Sept. 8 meeting as the board’s registered agent

with the state of Florida, said the new equipment should be installed in time for Christmas. “We’re going to have a community event, maybe even a Santa event at that park with some free ice cream for kids to celebrate the fact that we’ve got a brand new playground that's super safe and accessible,” Specht said. The board also approved replacing six old breaker panels that support Suntree’s irrigation system and the lights on Suntree entry signs. Advanced Electric Services of Melbourne was chosen to do the work for $11,050. VV

Jeff Leonard, inanCialPlanner Planner Jeff Leonard,CCertified ertified ffinanCial ™™ Smart Thinking SmartPlanning, Planning, Forward Forward Thinking Financial Wealth Wealth Financial Wealth Wealth Protection Management Planning Protection Management Planning Call us us today Call today for a Complimentary Review for a Complimentary Review

321.259.6239

321.259.6239 www.leonardfinancialgroup.com

www.leonardfinancialgroup.com

Investment Advisory Services offered through Bay Colony Advisors, a Securities and Exchange Commission Registered Investment Advisor.

Your New Home Awaits — But Not for Long “Fall” for the Lifestyle you deserve! Tour today and reserve your new home!

Call to Schedule a Tour INDEPENDENT LIVING ASSISTED LIVING MEMORY CARE Stay connected! Follow us on Facebook to stay updated on all of our exciting and engaging events — you won’t want to miss out! Assisted Living License AL #13616

vieravoice.com

The only local community rated for a Category 4 In Gratitude for Your Service: Veteran Discounts Available

321-549-3980

777 Roy Wall Blvd., Rockledge AluraSeniorLiving.com Viera Voice OCTOBER 2026

PRESENTING SPONSOR Presenting Sponsor

o p x e l a annu

H S A B R E M O BO IORFEST N E S r! o o l f o p • x t E c e e t h t o Explore y • Travel • Pr a l P • e • Liv

y o j n E • t c e n n o C

. M . P 1 . M . A 6 . 9 V O N , Y A D FRI

e h t e v Sa Date!

FREE 7 E T U O R T A

U O Y E E xpos S

e e f i L r Senio

Location: Route 7AVAILABLE SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES

BoomerSeniorExpo.com 1 AAR Way, Suite 102, Rockledge/Suntree Off US 1, Back side of the building. Follow the signs. Free parking.

For exhibitor information, call 321-242-1235

For exhibitor or sponsor information, call 321-242-1235 • Boomerseniorexpo.com

Viera Voice October 2026

vieravoice.com

GOLD SPONSORS

THE SEARCH IS ON

PHOTOGRAPHY SPONSOR

We will be searching for models for the 2027 Boomer Guide during the Nov. 6 Boomer Bash SeniorFest Expo

Presenting Sponsor 2026 EDITION

AZINE RESOURCE MAG SPACE COAST

SNACK SPONSORS

20 th

issue Anniversary

• N0. 20

Explore mor

Walk Hike Roam

H S A B R E T OM an

o p x e l a nu

LUNCH SPONSORS

Models age 50+ — take part in our annual photo shoot 9 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. at the Expo.

Stay Active Stay Curious Go Anywhere

Valuable

RESOURCESs

vitie Sports & Acti urces Veterans Reso lines Hotlines & Help tings Clubs & Mee ups Support Gro g Senior Livin

Are you ready for your close up? Come dressed to impress in your favorite space-themed attire! • Astronaut • Alien • Space movie character 50 Take your inspiration from

Life’s more fun after

S E F R O I V. 6 N Lunch served in partnership with The Salvation Army

deep Navigating the

blue

“Star Trek,” “Star Wars,” “Apollo 13,” “Guardians of the Galaxy,”

O E N , S M • FRIDAY

The original Boomer Bash — there’s no other like it!

SCHEDULE

9 a.m. Doors open Tote bags to the first 200

9 a.m. Entertainment Tour the Expo Hall, Route 7 Door prizes every 1/2 hour Boomer Guide model photo shoot The search is on! Be a model. 10 a.m. Demonstrations & Seminars

P 1 M A 9

11 a.m. Lunch — The Salvation Army canteen and Devoted

ALL NEW VENUE Experience Route 7

12:45 p.m. Grand Prize iPad Winner announced

FREE ADMISSION to the EXPO

12 p.m. Dessert Served Need not be present to win

GRAND PRIZE

Enter to Win APPLE iPAD Register at the Senior Life booth for your chance to win.

PRIZES EVERY 30 MINUTES

Directions to Route 7

1 AAR Way, Suite 102, Rockledge/Suntree

7 E T U O R T A U E YO ve

Route 7 Karting and Entertainment Center is just south of Suntree Boulevard and off of U.S. 1. re e h s t r s t abuilding. Drive around to the back side r ethe n t u of

ad o p x e r u FAN list and know before you go! 321-242-1235 o y Get on the SUPER — s po x e e f i L Senior EXHIBITORS

FREE ADMISSION vieravoice.com

FREE PARKING Viera Voice OCTOBER 2026

BUSINESS

Scoop

The Spine and Nerve Institute embraces quality of life

BY HILLARD GROSSMAN Treating the root cause of pain without injections or surgery and allowing patients to enjoy the quality of life they expect are the primary goals at The Spine and Nerve Institute of Viera, which opened just a few weeks ago. "We're here to fix the problem, rather than patch it," said Dr. Michael Nartatez, a Viera High graduate who has joined veteran Dr. Mike Rozenblum as the chief chiropractors at The Spine and Nerve Institute of Viera, located in the CRI Building just behind Health First Viera Hospital. After a consultation and exam, they can tell prospective patients if their alternative treatments will be helpful or not. "We're not in it to waste anyone's time," Nartatez said. "(But) even after surgery, there may still be options and hope. We treat the cause of the problem because "we believe everyone deserves to feel great."

VIERA VOICE Jill Blue

Dr. Mike Rozenblum, Dr. Michael Nartatez and Maria Concepcion are ready to serve patients at The Spine and Nerve Institute of Viera.

Rozenblum, 57, is from the Fort Lauderdale area, where he still oversees another chiropractic clinic. In addition, he operates a consulting/coaching business for chiropractors across the nation. He began his career in New Mexico, where he practiced for 20 years. He also served his church in the men’s ministry and leadership. He decided to move back to South Florida

Viera Voice October 2026

in 2012 and, recently, opened this practice in Viera. The clinic serves patients from childhood into their 50s, 60s, 70s and beyond. Rozenblum said that golfers and tennis players comprise a big portion of patients, but pickleball injuries have been steadily cropping up at his practice. They are even collaborating with the indoor pickleball franchise in Satellite Beach.

Dr. Rozenblum recently took time to answer a few questions: Q. Who are your typical patients? A. "We see real people. We treat a lot of athletes, veterans, golfers, really anyone. We specialize in severe spine and neck problems; we see those with chronic knee and shoulder joint pain; and we have wonderful treatments for peripheral neuropathy. That condition usually affects older people, especially diabetics who can develop a lot of tingling in their hands and feet. Also those who have undergone chemotherapy, radiation, or who've had an exposure to toxins or chemicals; even vaccines can develop these symptoms. Other than a couple of pills, medically, there's nothing they can do (for the numbness, tingling and pain). "So, we examine the spine and may include in-office treatment as well as at-home therapies to stop the progression and reverse the problem as

much as possible. We mostly specialize in non-surgical spinal decompression for disc issues and sciatica. We also have an amazing program for pregnant moms, who experience severe lower back pain and cannot take drugs. We have put together a great program specifically for them. We have several decompression tables, some with harnesses and some without. We have a lot of modern technology." Q. When should patients come see you? A. "When you are sick and tired of being sick and tired. When you are not enjoying a good quality of life, or when the condition persists after a week or two. We're nonsurgical, non-drug. We offer a natural alternative for those looking to correct the cause of the problem rather than just giving them temporary relief." Q. Will the pain ever go away on its own? A. "If something can go

SPINE AND NERVE

Continued on page 27

vieravoice.com

Fourth Publix in Viera-Suntree set to open in early November BY MIKE GAFFEY Brevard County’s newest Publix Super Market should be welcoming shoppers just in time for Thanksgiving. The popular grocery store chain’s fourth location in the Viera-Suntree area will anchor Viera Promenade, a retail plaza under construction just south of Viera Boulevard at the northeast corner of Murrell Road and Berglund Lane. The 50,325-square-foot Publix is scheduled to open during the first week of November, according to Dylan Silverman, a senior associate with Orlandobased commercial real estate firm Crossman & Company. A 2,100-squarefoot Publix Liquors, a 1,200-square-foot Sergio’s Tacos, a 1,200-squarefoot Pigtails & Crewcuts children's hair salon, and an as-yet-undetermined business on a 2.1-acre outparcel will be the plaza’s other tenants, Silverman said. The plaza also will have an outdoor seating area. The new supermarket

vieravoice.com

Center Publix opened in April 2024. Sergio’s Tacos plans a return to Viera at the Plaza after having offered Mexican food from the Mobil station at 5470 Murrell Road from 2015 to 2019. The restaurant has Brevard County locations

in Melbourne, Cocoa Beach and Titusville. Atlanta-based Pigtails & Crewcuts’ first Brevard franchise will be the company’s 87th location across 25 states. Founded in 2003, Pigtails & Crewcuts specializes in making haircuts fun and stress-free for kids. VV

Don’t Let “Too Busy” Become “Too Late” VIERA VOICE Mike Gaffey

Publix Super Markets’ fourth location in the Viera-Suntree area will anchor Viera Promenade, a retail plaza under construction south of Viera Boulevard at the northeast corner of Murrell Road and Berglund Lane.

will offer departments for grocery, dairy, frozen food, seafood, meat and fresh produce, as well as a fullservice bakery and deli, said Lindsey Willis, the media relations manager for Lakeland-based Publix. “The store will feature an upstairs seating area for customers to stop and enjoy their favorite Publix finds,” Willis said.

Publix currently has 27 stores in Brevard, including three in the growing VieraSuntree area: Publix Super Market at Suntree Square, 7777 N. Wickham Road; Publix Super Market at Stadium Corners at Viera, 5380 Stadium Parkway, No. 100; and Publix Super Market at Addison Center at Viera, 7655 Stadium Parkway. The Addison

Strength Training & Conditioning For Busy Professionals Coaching That Builds Your Confidence To Train Without Us Support & Accountability That Make You Want To Stay

7640 N Wickham Rd. Suite 116 Melbourne, FL 32940

NoLimitsFitnessFL.com 321-497-6190 @nolimitsfl_suntree

Viera Voice OCTOBER 2026

ELLA GRACE

VIERA VOICE Courtesy of Ella Grace Helton

accompany her on her journey and to see the people that she works with. They've all been so wonderful, and we've developed some beautiful relationships along the way.’’ On top of acting, Ella Grace is an ambitious director and filmmaker. She is excited about the debut of her fourth short film, “Baby Angel,” at the Melbourne Independent Filmmakers Festival on Oct. 17. To learn more about Ella Grace's adventures, check out EllaGraceHelton.com. Check out the show’s page on AppleTV at apple.co/Brothers. VV

Continued from page 5 restaurants and stores. The first two episodes of the eight-episode series will premiere Sept. 23, with new episodes releasing each following Wednesday. Ella Grace's mother, Lee Nessel, said it never gets old watching her daughter perform. She strongly encourages Helton’s creative arts and passions. “I am proud beyond words of her. … I'm always astonished,” Nessel said. “It's been surreal to

CROSSWORD

Viera resident Ella Grace Helton is part of a star-studded cast in the comedy "Brothers." Helton will play Clara, the daughter of Matthew McConaughey, in the AppleTV comedy series. The eightepisode series will premier Sep. 23.

Solution, page 34

ACROSS 1. Ornamental carp 4. Group of wolves 8. Spill the beans 12. Elementary particle 13. Awestruck 14. Subterfuge 15. It’s definite 16. Rein in 17. Signs, as a contract 18. Mysterious 20. Feeling of apprehension 21. Prompt 23. Black 25. Meat cuts 27. Jar part 28. Item in a bucket 31. Beginning 33. Unseat 35. Not straight 36. Haul 38. Washing machine cycle 39. “Pomp and Circumstance” composer 41. Appearance 42. Babes in the woods 45. Runway walker 47. Line of rotation 48. Burn 49. Stipulations 52. Maitre d’s offering 53. Heroine of Tennessee Williams’s “Summer and Smoke” 54. Picker-upper

55. Advantage 56. Dermatologist’s concern 57. Chop down DOWN 1. Do-it-yourselfer’s purchase 2. La-la preceder 3. Unjustness 4. Rate 5. Fevers 6. Capture 7. CIA’s Cold War foe 8. Pickling liquid 9. Air bag? 10. Is inquisitive 11. Overcome 19. Vases 20. Tree with catkins 21. School zone sign 22. Decant 24. Nod, maybe 26. Markets 28. Large stone monument 29. ___ buco 30. Cheat, in a way 32. Yank 34. Lot of loot 37. With pluck 39. Succeed 40. Drifts 42. Renown 43. Discontinued 44. Annex 46. “Shoot!” 48. Baglike structure 50. Honorarium 51. Toothed tool

Don’t Let The Myths Haunt You

Viera Voice October 2026

(321) 616-8790 • Toll-free (800) 742-0060 BuenaVidaEstates.org • 2129 West New Haven Avenue, West Melbourne, FL 32904 Entrance on Doherty Drive • A 501(c)(3) Not For Profit Organization

vieravoice.com

HAIRSPRAY

Continued from page 4 to hang it up, but this has been such an exciting musical outlet and very different.” The group also recently played a benefit concert at Matthew’s Hope in Cocoa on Sept. 21. “We really believe in Matthew’s Hope vision and their mission. So, we’re thrilled to be able to support them and be able to provide for them,” Knappenberger said. Planet Hairspray’s performance there was replete with energy, patrons dancing to music, and special effects lighting and haze/smoke that gave the performance a genuine 1980s rock feel. “We live every day back in the '80s,” Daniels added. “So we like to bring that to the people every time that we

SPINE AND NERVE

Continued from page 24

away on its own, that's great. But, if a problem is not gone in a week's time, usually it doesn't go away on its own. Most people who deal with chronic pain go weeks, months, even years, taking (pain) pills. Something like that requires (us) to find the cause and solution, rather than injections or pills." Q. Is surgery recommended in many cases? A. "Sometimes there is no choice, but to do surgery. We are completely an alternative to surgery and we use a lot

VIERA VOICE Courtesy of Image Marketing

Kyle Knappenberger performs as KK Thunder.

step on that stage. It’s like they’re back in ’87 or ’88 or ’89 and they’re in high school. Or, they’re listening to it on the radio, or they’re watching MTV and we want to bring them right back. That’s the whole idea behind the band. And when you come and watch us, you’ll find out. We are the premier '80s rock show in Florida.” VV of modern treatments. ... If someone told me they were told they needed surgery, it would be wise to welcome a second opinion." Q. Should I come see you if I just tweak my back? A. "Absolutely. The back is connected to every single organ in our body. They get their instructions from the brain through nerve supply. I'm in the business of reducing that nerve pressure or eliminating it altogether." The Spine and Nerve Institute of Viera is located at 7506 Lynx Way, Suite 102, in Viera. Call 321-319-7474 or visit spineandnerveviera.com. VV

Pinnacle Eye Center A Leader In Patient-Focused Eye Care

CATARACT SURGERY

Wood Shutters • Polyvinyl Shutters • Pleated Shades Porch Shades • Mini-Blinds • Vertical Blinds • Wood Blinds Custom Options • Expert Installation One of the first in Brevard to offer Laser-Assisted Cataract Surgery! ALEXANDROS PAPPAS, DO Board Certified Ophthalmologist Cataract & Refractive Surgeon

REGINE PAPPAS, MD Board Certified Ophthalmologist Eye Surgeon & Glaucoma Specialist

Call today to schedule!

321-255-4949

Expert treatment of your cataracts, glaucoma, dry eye, and complete eye care has never been so accessible!

PinnacleEyeCenter.com

8059 SPYGLASS HILL ROAD, SUITE 101, VIERA 1649 W. EAU GALLIE BLVD., MELBOURNE

vieravoice.com

Mon - Fri: 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. Sat: 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. Call for your free in-home consultation.

Shoppes at Baytree 7954 N. Wickham Rd. #118 – in Suntree Big Show Room • Best Selection • Same Excellent Service

321-752-7288 www.theblindspot.com Viera Voice OCTOBER 2026

VIE R A

VIERA MEANS

In September, the Viera Means Business networking group met at the Viera Builders Welcome Center at Atlin Cove. The Viera Means Business networking group meets at 8 a.m. the second Thursday of each month at various locations.

VIERA MEANS

BUSINESS

Venue and Breakfast Sponsor: Viera Angie Higgins, Mary Sipe Builders, Bion Davis and Anna Almirall N E

Viera Means Business met at the Viera Builders Welcome Center in Atlin Cove.

Viera Means Business had an enjoyable meeting in the new Viera Builders Atlin Cove model home.

General & Cosmetic Dentistry

You Deserve!

R KIN G G

Nathalia Urbina, Jalyn Moore, Cat Maida

Get the

Smile

Anthony Bredwood, Robert Allen, Chelsea Payne U

BUSINESS

Dr. Mike Natartez, Lonn Terryn

SS E IN

ANS BU E S M

Modern, High-Tech Care 45+ years experience

One crown in only One

appointment 23+ Years of Excellent Service in BrevardCounty

7331 Office Park Place Suite 100, Viera (1/10 mile North from corner of Wickham & Murrell)

Marielly Rivera, Cartama Ramos-Crafton, Q and Anthony Bredwood, Ryan Rapolti, Scott Bigler

DECK THE HALLS

Book Your

WITH

Holiday

Trimlight

Installation Now!!

PERMANENT CHRISTMAS LIGHTING

PERMANENT FESTIVE LIGHTING

PERMANENT COMMERCIAL LIGHTING

ACCENT & SECURITY LIGHTING

POOL ENCLOSURE LIGHTING

PATIO LIGHTING

SCONCE LIGHTING

FREE ESTIMATES

321-775-4127

PERMANENT LED C COLOR-CHANGING OLOR-CHANGING ACCENT, SECURITY & HOLIDAY LIGHTING

NEVERHANGHOLIDAYLIGHTSAGAIN.COM 28

Viera Voice October 2026

vieravoice.com

PEOPLE ON THE MOVE Katrina Aldridge Katrina Aldridge is the new Pathways director at the Brennity at Melbourne. She previously worked as a patient ambassador for Health First and has 15 years of experience in healthcare and management. “I’ve been a marketing director, assistant business office manager, activities director,” she said. “But my favorite role is as the (Pathways) director.” Aldridge said that she has a personal connection with Alzheimer’s and dementia patients, as she helped care for her grandmother and great-aunt before they both passed away from Alzheimer's. VV

Billy Specht Billy Specht is the new general manager of the Suntree Master Homeowners Association, Inc. A Titusville resident, Specht started at his new position Aug. 17. As a licensed community association manager in Florida, Specht brings a wealth of experience in management following a decade as general manager of The Great Outdoors Nature, RV & Golf Resort in Titusville and 15 years as a

Sudoku

manager with Delaware North at Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex. The Florida native already is working on improving communications with Suntree homeowners by updating the SMHA website, creating a new quarterly newsletter and improving payment methods. Specht also is teaming with the Board of Directors to improve Suntree’s lakes and stormwater system, enhance road monuments, and replace the playground equipment at Interlachen Park. VV

CJ Szucs is the new executive chef on the team at 28 North Gastropub in Viera. Szucs, who previously worked at Venezia Wine Veranda, which closed in March 2026, graduated from the Florida Culinary Institute in West Palm Beach. He enjoys cooking with fresh seafood. The restaurant’s newest seasonal menu features his specialty dish, crispy octopus with microgreens from local vendors. Szucs will participate in Gastropalooza VII, 28 North Gastropub’s culinary competition to be held in February 2027. “I’m excited!” he said. “I’ve never been to one.” VV

CJ Szucs

Card Readings By Melinda 36 YEARS EXPERIENCE READINGS CAN BE RECORDED included with purchase

COMPLIMENTARY 6 BONUS CARDS! “My monthly readings assist me with business and personal decisions, I’m so thankful!”

CLARITY—AND GUIDANCE Michael Talley WHEN YOU NEED IT MOST READINGS ARE BASED ON NUMEROLOGY & ASTROLOGY 321-468-3004 • gateways9.com

321-468-3004

Suntree Business Center • Email: gateways9@outlook.com

Fill the grid so that every column, every row and every 3x3 box contains the numbers 1 through 9.

Solution on page 34

Do you suffer from: • • • • • • •

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

Call for your free consultation 321-421-7525 vieravoice.com

Visit gateways9.com 3270 Suntree Blvd.

Viera Heart and Vascular Clinic Dr. Hong Jeong 1706 Berglund Lane Melbourne, FL 32940

vieraheart.com Covered by insurance

Hours: Mon-Fri: 8 AM-5 PM

Viera Voice OCTOBER 2026

OCTOBER SUNDAY

MONDAY

TUESDAY

WEDNESDAY

Richard Drexler Trio 2 - 4 p.m. • Sunday, Oct. 11

spacecoastjazzsociety.org National Golf Lovers Day

Bingo for Harmony Farms 2 - 3 p.m. Bingo, raffles and prizes. Proceeds benefit Harmony Farms. Hook and Eagle Tavern 2300 Clubhouse Drive Viera, 321-639-3487

Gold Buying Event 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. Oct. 5, 6, 7 and 8 Fairfield Inn Viera 2400 Town Center Ave. Viera, 321-258-9109

Brevard Veterans Memorial Center, Gray Hall 400 S. Sykes Creek Pkwy., Merritt Island General Admission, $30 members $35 guests, students free

Early Bird Trivia 4 - 6 p.m. Pizza Gallery 2250 Town Center Ave. Viera, 321-633-0397

Mommy and Me Dance Viera Chess Club Class 7 - 9 p.m. 9 - 10 a.m. Open to all ages and skill Advent Lutheran Church levels. 7550 N. Wickham Road Publix at Addison Center Suntree, 321-960-8989 7655 Stadium Parkway Viera, rskchess.com National Farmers Day

Navy Birthday

Navy Day

Viera Voice Voice October 2026 Viera

Coin Talk 6 - 7:45 p.m. Numismatic enthusiasts. Suntree/Viera Library 902 Jordan Blass Drive Suntree, 321-301-1014 Texas Roadhouse: Harvest Fest 6 - 8 p.m. Texas Roadhouse 1975 Viera Blvd. Viera, 321-785-8880

National I Love Lucy Day

FRIDAY

SATURDAY SATURDAY

National Play Outside Day

National Walk to a Park Day

National Bartender Day

Brevard Antiques and Collectibles Club 10 a.m. The subject will be Ephemera. Suntree/Viera Library 902 Jordan Blass Drive Suntree, 321-254-5831 Trivia Night 6 - 7:30 p.m. Hook & Eagle Tavern 2300 Clubhouse Drive Viera, 321-639-3487

Fifth annual Rocktober 5K 7:30 a.m. Run/walk. Rockledge Civic Hub 530 Barton Blvd. Rockledge, roctober5k.com Boo at the Zoo Every Sat. & Sun. in Oct. 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. Brevard Zoo 8225 N. Wickham Road Viera, 321-254-9453

Wacky Tacky Golf 21st annual Great Tastes Tournament and Social at Suntree 11 a.m. 5:30 - 8:30 p.m. Fundraiser for The Arc of Culinary fare Space Coast. from a variety of Rockledge Country Club local restaurants, 1591 S. Fiske Blvd. entertainment and a Rockledge silent auction. 321-754-1764 Presented by the Rotary of Suntree. Senior Job and Oasis at Palm Shores Volunteer Fair 2950 Pineda Plaza Way 10 a.m. - noon Palm Shores, One Senior Place suntreerotary.org 8085 Spyglass Hill Road Viera, 3321-751-6771

National National Pasta Day Boss' Day Viera Run Club Lili Fitness Talk Birdie To Me Swing for Charity Golf 7 p.m. 7 - 8 p.m. Golf Tournament Tournament 2.25 miles, all levels Strong body, mind 2 p.m. 7:30 a.m. welcome. and spirit exercise and Rockledge Country Club Proceeds support the Viera Woman’s Club’s 2853 Rodina Drive meditation. 1591 S. Fiske Blvd. Viera, Facebook.com/ Viera Community Center Rockledge321-724-5400 philanthropic efforts. Rockledge Country Club vierarunclub 2300 Judge Fran 321-522-6334 Jamieson Way Space Coast Runners Line Dancing with Larry Viera, 321-433-4891 Run/Walk A Yappy Howl-O-Ween 10 - 11:30 a.m. 6:30 - 7:30 a.m. 12 - 3 p.m. Viera Community Center Run/walk to Borrows Dog Costume Contest 2300 Judge Fran West Park and back. Collecting for rescues Jamieson Way Lucky Goat Viera, 321-323-4928 2105 Viera Blvd., #105 Urban Prime & Marketplace 2435 Metfield Drive, Viera Viera, 321-208-7225

National Pumpkin Day Trick or Teeing Event Merry Money: A Three5 - 8 p.m. Part Holiday Financial A variety of treat station Series vendors on each hole of 2:30 p.m. Par 3. Part one: Don’t Let Duran Golf Club Par 3 7032 Stadium Parkway the Holidays Haunt Your Wallet. Presented Viera, 321-504-7776 by Fifth Third Bank and Raymond James Financial. One Senior Place 8085 Spyglass Hill Road Viera, 321-751-6771

National Heroes' Day

Yappy Hour: Howl-OWeen 5 - 7 p.m. DJ, dog-friendly photo ops and treats The Avenue Viera 2261 Town Center Ave. Viera, 321-634-5390

Estate Planning Seminar Viera East Travelers 10 a.m. Club Presented by attorney 6 p.m. William A. Johnson. Discover how to save One Senior Place 8085 Spyglass Hill Road on your next Collette Vacation. Viera, 321-751-6771 RSVP requested. Viera East Space Coast Poets 1964 Golf Vista Blvd. 5:30 - 7 p.m. Monthly meeting. Viera, 321-890-3522 Suntree/Viera Library 902 Jordan Blass Drive Suntree, 954-205-9541

Dancing Little Stars 3:30 - 6:45 p.m. Viera Community Center 2300 Judge Fran Jamieson Way Viera, 407-312-5924

Halloween Charm Club Party 6 - 8 p.m. Kids make their own pizza and eat for free. Pizza Gallery 2250 Town Center Ave. Viera, 321-633-0397

Car Show Scottish Country Dancing 8 - 11 a.m. 6:30 - 9:30 p.m. Breast Cancer Springs of Suntree Awareness Car Show 8300 Holiday Springs supporting The Pink Road Fund. Suntree, 321-427-3587 Ford’s Garage 5480 Lake Andrew Drive Bone Builders Viera, 321-405-3673 This class is geared toward seniors. Cocoa Library 308 Forrest Ave. Cocoa, 321-633-1792

Sip & Smoke 5:30 p.m. Locally hand-rolled cigars and a spotlight spirit. 28 North Gastropub 2250 Town Center Ave. Viera, 321-241-1159

Sox Hop 4 p.m. RISE Viera's two-year anniversary. RISE Viera 8353 Auterra Drive Viera, 321-371-7144

Lunch and Learn “Colon Health Matters: Prevention. Peace of Mind” 11:30 a.m. Presented by Kathleen Tills, DNP, ARPN with Health First. One Senior Place 8085 Spyglass Hill Road Viera, 321-751-6771

National Black Dog Day

2026 Walk and Roll to School Day 7 a.m. Walk, bike or ride a scooter to school. walkbiketoschool.org/ registration

Sunset in the Hollows Kids Fall Workshop 9:30 - 11 a.m. 4 - 6 p.m. Wildlife workshops for Stroll the trails and kids 3 to 10 years old. the peace of nature. workshop has a Entrance is free. Parking Each presentation, a craft is on the street or at and an educational the Springs on Suntree activity. clubhouse. No pets Oct. 12 - Owl Observers allowed. Oct. 26 - Nocturnal Hundred Acre Hollows Naturalists 1170 Rock Spring Drive Florida Wildlife Hospital 4560 N. U.S. 1 Suntree, Hundredacrehollows.org Palm Shores 321-254-8843

THURSDAY

Line Dancing 10 - 11:30 a.m. Line dancing with Larry. Viera Community Center 2300 Judge Fran Jamieson Way Viera, 321-433-4891

Viera Resident Trunk or Treat Orientation 6 - 8:30 p.m. 6 - 8:30 p.m. Decorated trunks, A two-hour class treats, storytime with developed to inform new saints by the fire and Viera residents about the a trunk-decorating history of Viera. contest. Addison Village Club St. John the Evangelist 8150 Stadium Parkway 5655 Stadium Parkway Viera, 321-237-2377 Viera, 321-637-9650

'80s Halloween Party 11 a.m. - 6 p.m. Family fun and games Planet Hairspray Band 6 - 10 p.m. Lakeside at Viera Town Center 2431 Town Center Ave. Viera, 321-777-7575

National First Responders Day

Ford’s Garage Trunk or Treat 5 - 9 p.m. 5480 Lake Andrew Drive Viera, 321-507-0112

Floor & Decor Ribbon Cutting 10 a.m. Dancing Little Stars Refreshments. Trick-or3:30 - 6:45 p.m. treat bucket decorating Viera Community Center and candy stations. Floor & Decor 2300 Judge Fran 1725 Columbia Lane Jamieson Way Melbourne Viera, 407-312-5924

National Cat Day

Halloween

Wedding Ceremonies - Halloween Party on the Patio Halloween theme 6 - 9 p.m. 2 p.m., 4:30 p.m., 5 Music, costume contest. p.m., 6:30 p.m. Hook and Eagle Weddings performed Clubhouse Drive by Brevard County Clerk 2300 Viera, 321-639-3487 Rachel Sadoff. Moore Justice Center Trunk or Treat 3836 Judge Fran 4 - 6 p.m. Jamieson Way Costumes are required. Forester Center Viera, 321-637-2006 960 Cogswell St. Rockledge 321-684-7920

vieravoice.com

Couples say ‘I do’ at Star Trek-themed wedding ceremonies BY CHRIS BONANNO Couples exchanged vows in “Star Trek”-themed wedding ceremonies complete with the sci-fi motif at the Moore Justice Center in Viera and the Brevard County Courthouse in Melbourne.

“I normally have a mustache and a beard. I shaved that all off because Capt. Picard doesn’t have one.” — Jeffery Decker

Brevard County Clerk of the Circuit Court and Comptroller Rachel Sadoff held the themed ceremonies Sept. 8 to celebrate the date that the original television show premiered. “I think it is fantastic,” Sadoff said. “This means so much to our community, to the individuals and the couples that enjoy "Star Trek." So, we went out, we made the day special for them. We were in costume. The constitutionals (constitutional officers)

got together and wore our costumes and we’re here for them.” Even the backdrops for the wedding were "Star Trek"-themed. The Viera location had a "Star Trek" star fleet insignia light display with other themed signs posted on the backdrop. There were also depictions of planets hanging from the ceiling. Jeffery Decker and Amaury Gimeno, who were married in Melbourne, got into the spirit of the event. Decker was dressed in an outfit similar to what Capt. Jean-Luc Picard, played by Patrick Stewart, wore in “The Next Generation” lineage. Gimeno dressed as Lt. Nyota Uhura from both the original series and the more recent "Star Trek" movies. “We had looked at doing (something) a little more authentic than ‘oh, let’s go buy a Halloween costume,’ Decker said. “We tried to get a little bit more, maybe not Comic-Con level. … That way, it looked the part versus looking cheap. I normally have a mustache and a beard. I shaved that all off because Capt. Picard doesn’t have one. I let my hair grow

VIERA VOICE Courtesy of Chad Horne

Jeffery Decker and Amaury Gimeno, center, were married in Melbourne dressed as Capt. Jean-Luc Picard and Lt. Nyota Uhura. They were accompanied by Superintendent of Elections Tim Bobanic, left; Clerk of Courts Rachel Sadoff; Property Appraiser Dana Blickley; and Brevard County Tax Collector Lisa Cullen.

out ’cause I normally shave and I let it grow into what he normally has. That small kind of ring of hair around his head, I wanted to be different then the series. So, I put a little more effort into finding an outfit that was from the movie part of "Star Trek" versus the series and she brought in more of the series link.”

Decker called it luck that the two were able to get married on Sept. 8, given that he works out of town on contract jobs. “It’s not the same-old, same-old that you see,” Decker said. “We’re both — I wouldn’t call us diehard fans, but I’ve watched the original and "Next Generation" and "Voyager"

and all that. She’s familiar (with it), so we thought it would be fun.” Natonia and Ramon Ayers exchanged vows at the Viera location later in the day. “We’ve been together forever, it feels like, 14 years," Ramon said. "And she’s going into the service (U.S. Air Force), so it’s only right.” VV

EST. 1989

BREVARD’S FRESH, FAST & DELICIOUS LUNCH CHOICE SINCE 1989

THE HAPPIEST HOUR IN BREVARD! Monday & Tuesday 4-6pm | Wednesday – Friday 2-6pm $7 house wines $8 select martinis $10 classic cocktails BOGO 50% off ALL Beers & SHAREables

BOOK YOUR HOLIDAY EVENTS EARLY!

FULL RESTAURANT BUY OUTS / PRIVATE PATIO BRUNCH / COCKTAIL HOURS & MORE!

ALL YOU CAN EAT

BUFFET

TUESDAY - SATURDAY / 11AM - 2PM

SUNDAY BRUNCH 11-2

PRIVATE DINING ROOM! Rehearsal Dinners | Business Meetings | Birthday Parties After Work Socials and Cocktail Parties Training Seminars | Bridal Showers | and More...

CHOOSE LOCAL AND UN-CHAIN YOUR DINING EXPERIENCE! 321.241.1159 28ngp.com

vieravoice.com

SCAN FOR INFO & MORE

321.633.0397

pizzagalleryandgrill.com

SCAN HERE TO ORDER PICK UP OR DELIVERY!

Viera Voice OCTOBER 2026

K-9 Copper noses his way into well-deserved retirement BY JEFF NAVIN

VIERA VOICE Jill Blue

Brenda Warner and her friend, Maureen Finch, donated Copper to the Cocoa Police Department in January 2017.

Elephants aren’t the only animals that never forget. K-9 Copper, the beloved therapy dog and community ambassador for the Cocoa Police Department, was reunited with a friend from the past during his retirement and 10th birthday party on Sept. 17 at Cocoa Riverfront Park. Brenda Warner, a local breeder and a former Cocoa City Council member, donated Copper to the Cocoa Police Department in January 2017 to serve the community through its outreach and engagement efforts. The Black and Tan Coonhound’s tenure at the department officially began on Feb. 14, 2017 when he was sworn in to the department. He was a beloved ambassador and therapy dog in his 9½ years of service. Warner, who now lives in North Georgia, attended the ceremony. Copper was excited to see his old friend, showering her with dog kisses and a hug. “I hadn’t probably seen

him in three years,’’ said really tight with the grandson Warner, who owned Copper’s of his handler. He loves to father and grandmother. crawl around with him.’’ “Once they know you, they In retirement, Copper will never forget you. He was just live with his current handler, the best puppy. He was just Officer Donald Tabor. like his dad. He never gets Warner and her friend, too excited, and he’s always Maureen Finch, were been intuitive about what known locally for breeding people need. He can walk reputable dogs. They bred into a room and see who Copper’s father with a female needs him and what they dog owned by Cynthia Owen need.’’ of Oak Hill Kennels in North Lauded for his calm Carolina. Copper was sent demeanor, gentle spirit and back to Florida as a gift for giant floppy ears, Copper the stud services. provided comfort and “It’s surprising that they’re support to countless children, not a more popular breed,’’ families and residents Warner said. “They’re only throughout the community. (ranked) around 146 on the Whether greeting students AKC list. Copper has been so at local schools, participating special working for the Cocoa in the Cocoa Police Athletic PD and helping children who League summer program, have been victims.’’ VV attending community events or lending a gentle paw during school supply drives and food drives, Copper brought smiles wherever he went. “He’s a really special dog,’’ Warner said. “I hope that VIERA VOICE Jill Blue he has an awesome K-9 Copper celebrated his retirement and 10th retirement. He’s birthday on Sept. 17 at Cocoa Riverfront Park.

Shell Harbor

The Comforts of Home. And So Much More. Retirement living where comfort is just the beginning. The comforts of home take on new meaning when paired with the ease of all-inclusive retirement living. Your spacious apartment home oﬀers the comfort and privacy you value, while just beyond your door, freshly prepared meals, friendly faces, lively gatherings, and new experiences await.

Tour Today! Experience our Signature Freedom Dining program for yourself! Schedule a private tour and be our guest for a fabulous meal.

You’ll be glad you made the move! Tour today:

321-252-4882

2855 Murrell Road  Rockledge, FL 32955  ShellHarborRetirement.com

Viera Voice October 2026

vieravoice.com

New Christian networking platform forming in Brevard County SPECIAL TO VIERA VOICE Embrace Life Network hopes to bring people together in a special sort of way. The new Christian networking platform has been created to connect churches, ministries, nonprofits, Christian businesses, community organizations, events and individuals throughout the Space Coast. Founded by Anjanette Wicks, Embrace Life Network has a vision of making it easier for people to discover opportunities to connect, serve, forge fellowship opportunities, support one another and become more engaged in the local Christian community. “Embrace Life Network is about bringing people together,” Wicks said. “There are so many wonderful churches, ministries, businesses, nonprofits, organizations, events and people doing amazing things throughout our community. Our goal is to create a place where people can find those connections and opportunities all in one place.”

“Embrace Life Network is about bringing people together. ... Sometimes, people want to get involved, but simply don’t know where to look. ”

sponsorships, featured listings, newsletters and special community initiatives. The network will also highlight people and organizations making an impact through community stories, videos and interviews. “Sometimes, people want to get involved, but simply don’t know where to look,” Wicks said. “Embrace Life Network is designed to help bridge that VIERA VOICE Courtesy of Charles Miller gap and make those Anjanette Wicks hopes that Embrace Life connections easier.” Network will bring religious groups and The official businesses together. launch of Embrace Life Network will Embrace Life Network take place from 5 to 8 p.m. aims to become a oneSaturday, Oct. 10. RSVP is stop Christian community required and seating is network, initially serving limited for the free event. Brevard County from For information about Titusville to Palm Bay. If the location and to attend that works out well, future the event, contact Wicks at expansion is possible. 321-591-3414 or by email Churches and nonprofit at embrace321@yahoo.com. organizations will have The evening will opportunities to establish include an opening prayer a presence on the platform, and blessing, music, an while businesses and introduction to the community partners can Embrace Life Network connect with audiences vision, information about through advertising,

— Anjanette Wicks

opportunities to participate, networking, food and dessert, and an opportunity

for guests to meet other community and faith leaders. VV

PROFESSIONAL GRAB BAR INSTALLATION

Shower and Bathroom Safety

Safe. Fast. Affordable.

Free Estimates

One Call Stops the Fall®

321-863-1834

SameDayGrabBars.com

Franchise Opportunities Available

Your money deserves more. Our High-Yield Account gives you flexibility to use the account as a savings, a checking or both.

•

Access your funds when you need them without penalties. •

•

Direct deposit is available sooner with Early Payday.²

Enjoy peace of mind knowing your funds are insured by the NCUA.

Ready to grow your savings?

Member Services: 321.690.2328 ccuFlorida.org

Scan the QR code to learn more, or visit any CCU Florida branch.

¹APY=Annual Percentage Yield. Rates as of September 1, 2026. Rates are subject to change without notice. Interest earned on balance. Amount of dividend is based on your average daily balance for the month. The minimum deposit required to open is $25. Avoid a monthly service fee of $25 by maintaining a minimum daily balance of $10,000. ²Early Payday is based on the date that your employer or other direct deposit source sends CCU Florida the funds for your deposit. The actual delivery dates may vary in the event of holidays and other occurrences. Membership available in Brevard, Indian River, Orange, Osceola, Polk & Volusia Counties. A share savings account with a one-time $5 membership fee is required.

vieravoice.com

FEDERALLY INSURED BY NCUA

Viera Voice OCTOBER 2026

s w e SENIOR N

One community celebrates 600 years of six lively centenarians

BY LILLIAN NGUYEN PHOTOS ANJANETTE WICKS The Brennity of Melbourne recently celebrated the combined 600 years of wisdom and experience of six centenarians in its senior living community. During National Centenarian’s Day on Sept. 22, the senior living

community celebrated the birthdays of its residents who reached the milestone this calendar year. There are some secrets to reaching the century mark. Florence Molinari said that turning 100 was something that seemingly happened overnight. “One minute I was 29,” she reminisced. “And then I was

Florence Molinari

Wilma Grader

Josephine Durham

Inez Gallagher

Ruth Thorson

Ethel Murray

pushing 100.” She has one son, who is 78 years old. Wilma Grader, 100, said that having lots of friends will keep you alive. She has two daughters and four grandchildren. Josephine Durham, 101, explained that good food and good genes gets you to 100 — she is grateful to have a great family and friends to take care of her, including her three children, five grandchildren and five great-grandchildren. Inez Gallagher, 101, said the secret to living long is to eat spinach salad daily. Sharing a glass of wine with friends doesn't hurt, either.

She makes sure to live life to the fullest at The Brennity at Melbourne. Ruth Thorson, 101, credits her age to her faith and family, who have kept her going to age 100 and beyond. “Trust in the Lord,” she said. Ethel Murray, 101, is the only one left since 1995 out of six siblings. Both her and her sense of humor are still going strong — “I just keep breathing,” Murray said, jokingly. Lifestyle director Evelyn Breault said The Brennity at Melbourne was honored to recognize the significance of the 600 years.

“Today is a special opportunity to recognize and celebrate our residents who have reached the extraordinary milestone of 100 years of age and beyond,” Breault said. “We are grateful for the wisdom, experiences and lasting contributions they bring to our community.’’ The Brennity presented each centenarian with a unique tribute — their very own star in the sky. Breault explained that the stars were a lasting tribute to “a life beautifully lived, a journey rich with memories and the hearts you have touched along the way.’’ VV

BACK PAIN? SLIPPED DISC?

Have you been told to “Stay off your feet and take these pills?” Have you been told “It will go away on its own?” Have you been told “You need surgery?”

MRI Review & Back Evaluation

ONLY

$35*with ad

*Expires in 2 weeks. $185 Value.

CALL TODAY !

Dr. Kevin Fogarty, D.C.

321-636-5200

RockledgeDiscCenter.com |839 Barton Blvd., Rockledge, FL 32955 NOTE: THE PATIENT AND ANY OTHER PERSON RESPONSIBLE FOR PAYMENT HAS A RIGHT TO REFUSE TO PAY, CANCEL PAYMENT OR BE REIMBURSED FOR PAYMENT OR ANY OTHER SERVICE, EXAMINATION OR TREATMENT. THIS OFFER IS INVALID WHEN MEDICARE, MEDICAID, TRICARE OR OTHER FEDERALLY FUNDED INSURANCE ARE INVOLVED OR WHEN WORKERS’ COMPENSATION AND/OR AUTOMOBILE INSURANCE LIABILITY LAWS, GOVERN THE PAYMENT OF TREATMENT BY THESE CARRIERS. THIS COUPON REPRESENTS A $185 VALUE AND MAY BE APPLIED TO X-RAYS IF NECESSARY OR APPLICABLE TO YOUR BALANCE UPON REQUEST. NOT REDEEMABLE FOR CASH.

Sudoku Solution

Crossword Solution

K O

Puzzle on page 29

Viera Voice October 2026

O N

A G O G

C U R

Q U

R U

N G S

P O S

O O K

M O D

U R

O U

W R

U G

G A

A W N

M O P S

N U

M A

D G E

E W

M E E

Puzzle on page 26 vieravoice.com

Water bankruptcy: Are we spending more than nature can replenish? Summer in Florida. Afternoon showers. Water cycle. Have you ever stopped to wonder: could we actually run out of water? It may sound impossible in a state known for summer downpours. Yet 2026 has shown us how quickly our water situation can change. Earlier this year, Florida experienced one of its driest periods in decades. By late March, more than 72% of the state was experiencing severe drought. More than 1,400 wildfires had also burned in excess of 86,000 acres between Jan. 1 and March 22 (AccuWeather, 2026). Then, in a dramatic swing, heavy tropical moisture and repeated thunderstorms improved conditions across much of Florida. However, too much rain falling in a short period can create other problems. When rainfall is more intense than the ground can absorb, much of the water runs off instead of soaking into the ground. That runoff can contribute to flooding and erosion, while less water infiltrates deeply enough to replenish underground aquifers. Simply put, a tremendous amount of rain does not necessarily translate into water available for use (USGS, 2026),

“We never know the worth of water ’til the well is dry.” — Thomas Fuller, Historian

BEYOND the CURB Marcia Booth

President & Founder, Recycle Brevard

which could lead to water bankruptcy. A 2026 report from the United Nations University Institute for Water, Environment and Health explains that expression: a condition in which longterm water use exceeds what natural systems can reliably replenish, while damage to aquifers, wetlands, soils, rivers and other waterrelated natural assets makes recovery increasingly difficult (UNU-INWEH, 2026). On top of that, not all water can be used because of pollution. While water may still be available, if it becomes contaminated, it may no longer be suitable for drinking, agriculture, wildlife or recreation. Water bankruptcy is, therefore, not simply about how much water we have, but also about the condition of the systems that provide, store and protect it (UNU-INWEH, 2026). The U.S. Environmental

Classifieds

Protection Agency (EPA) identifies reducing and reusing as important ways to conserve natural resources and prevent pollution (EPA, 2021) since new products produced require extraction of raw materials, water and energy for manufacturing. When we reuse a product instead of replacing it, we reduce the need to extract and process additional raw materials. Reuse is not only about keeping an item out of the landfill; it also helps reduce the natural costs of producing something new. Even water can be reused to help save water! Our gardens may use reclaimed water or water from rain barrels. On a larger scale, companies may apply the same principle to their business. Consider a data center in Quincy, Washington. The City of Quincy and Microsoft developed a system that treats and recirculates cooling water from the data center. According to the EPA, the system reduces the facility's reliance on potable groundwater by an estimated 138 million gallons each year (EPA,

2023). Nature, on the other hand, does all that naturally. Wetlands, for example, can absorb and slow floodwaters, help control erosion and filter pollutants. Protecting natural systems, such as wetlands, forests, floodplains and healthy soils, helps maintain the Email Marcia Booth at landscape's ability to store Marcia@RecycleBrevard.org and cycle water (EPA, 2018). Recycle Brevard is an Are we taking steps to independent non-profit help conserve that water organization 100% run and preserve the water by volunteers focused system that will provide it on reducing waste and tomorrow? promoting sustainable living. Every action counts and Recycle Brevard Fix It can be the push we need to practice more reuse and less Free Immunization Assessment by our Pharmacy Team landfilling. On Saturday, Nov. 14, the Make your immunization make a world of difference. event will Shingles, pneumonia, and more available now! bring people Seniors Day is the first Tuesday of each month. together to repair, reuse *20% off Regular Price Merchandise with bonus points 55+ with Balance Reward Card and give *Some restrictions apply new life to

Dream. Explore. Discover.

High prices paid!

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

Employment • Rentals • And more

Deadline is the 15th of the month.

DELIVERY DRIVER

Nicole McCanna

Independent Agency in the Avoya Travel Network

Travel Advisor

Travel Designed Around You .

“My Services are Free”

Call 321-323-9414

sunstonevoyages@gmail.com

Now Hiring

Newspaper Delivery Driver Deliver to business locations only. Once per month delivery. Must have reliable transportation and insurance. Call 321-242-1235 for details

DOCUMENT SERVICES Prestige Document Services

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

ANTIQUES WANTED TO BUY

For Sale • Senior Services

Call today 321-242-1235

items that might otherwise be discarded. Registration opens Oct. 1. Participating can be a unique opportunity in your own reuse journey to extend the life of something you own, and rethink the habit of replacing things when they could be fixed. Learn more and register at bit.ly/ RBFixItEvent. Some may call this a reuse revolution. Join us! VV

AY ANY D OF T HE WEEK

FREE AT HOME VALUATIONS Over 25 Years’ Experience in Antiques

321-634-2647

PAINTING Schedule Your Fall Work Now!

FREE Pressure Cleaning of Driveways and Walkways with any exterior painting Call for details

CHOOSE ANY 2 PASTA DINNERS FOR

ONLY $26

Each dinner comes with a salad & 3 knots MUST present coupon with purchase Expires 10/31/26 Not valid with any other coupon or discount.

321-536-7134

Licensed & Insured Lic.# 11-PT-CT-0032

ktcustompaint@gmail.com

Viera Voice OCTOBER 2026

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

Buy 1 Get 10% OFF or Buy 2 Get 15% OFF Plus FREE Installation

Get 10% off any order of $1,000 or more. 15% off two or more Closets or Garage Centers of $3,000 or more. Not valid with any other offer. Expires October 31, 2026

Viera Voice October 2026

vieravoice.com