The Penny Creek Band, a bluegrass band led by vocalist and bass player Susan Pounds, guitarist and vocalist Chris Paganoni, mandolin player and vocalist Fritz Kraemer and vocalist and banjo player John Apfelthaler, will entertain the Viera Harvest Festival crowd from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Oct. 18 at Woodside Park.
Taliyah Basped, a senior at Viera High School, put the finishing touches on the
the help of her mother Jessica Basped and her sister Tamia Basped.
BY R. NORMAN MOODY
As they do each year, seniors at Viera High School and Holy Trinity Episcopal Academy began showcasing their personality and choices
of
in the colorful painting of their parking spaces.
It is a tradition in which seniors leave their mark on the parking spaces they are assigned for their final year of school.
and schools
VIERA VOICE Matt Clark
painting
her parking space with
VIERA VOICE Klinton Landress Woody the Crow Boy posed in last year's Harvest Festival.
BY NICHOLE YUAN
One thing that most Viera residents can attest to is the sincere sense of community. It’s a common sight to see families biking together or taking walks, fishing in the ponds or even playing at one of the many parks.
Neighbors often help without hesitation and there’s a certain pride that residents have for the area that has become a cornerstone of the area. And for the Rodriguez family, that’s exactly what drew them here.
Alain and Stephanie Rodriguez, along with their three children Lucas, 13, Mila, 11, and Luna, 7, sought a better home away from the busy city of Miami.
Having lived in Viera for a year so far, they relayed a recent event that really solidified their notions of the area. Stephanie explained how her car wasn’t starting one morning and how neighbors came to the rescue. One neighbor ran to the store for her to get a Key Fob battery, and another neighbor loaned their car for her to use.
“I was going to be late to the kids’ orientation,” Stephanie Rodriguez recalled. “(The neighbor) goes ‘no, no, no, I’m working from home all day, take my car.’ And I was like what? What do you mean? No, I can’t take your car, that’s crazy! (But) she’s like ‘no, take my car. It’s totally OK.’
And so I borrowed her car and made it to the kids’ orientation.”
“It was beautiful,” Alain Rodriguez said of the experience.
But the Rodriguez’s gratitude doesn't stop at neighborly kindness. They express a lot of admiration for the staff at Viera Elementary School where
their children attend school.
“There’s a sense of feeling that every teacher that walks through that door, it’s like they want to be there,” Mila said.
Even Lucas, the eldest child, has a determination to continue doing well at school, especially since this is his last year at Viera Elementary School.
“I was really proud of (getting As and Bs) and I’m
trying to do that this year,” Lucas said.
This family’s spirit really shines and it’s evident that they definitely feel at home here in Viera.
As they watch the area grow, they truly feel that they made the right choice in moving here and continue to look forward to more new shops, restaurants and activities coming soon. VV
VIERA VOICE Nichole Yuan
The family really loves their neighbors, who have helped them immensely.
Wildlife Hospital sets record caring for thousands of animals
BY SUE DEWERFF
It was 1973 when Brevard County naturalists
Carlton and Gladys Teate launched a makeshift facility to treat wounded and displaced wildlife creatures — operating from a wooden trailer filled with hand-me-down animal
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cages. They first partnered with the Brevard Humane Society.
It was a place where people could bring orphaned baby squirrels, wounded tortoises and birds with broken wings to be nurtured back to health and released back into their environments.
After going through location and management changes, and a 1998 anonymous donation, the Florida Wildlife Hospital opened on the current site in Palm Shores.
A new hospital was built in 2003, and it has matured through the past decades from its humble beginnings to a state-of-the-art wildlife rehabilitation facility with full-time staff and a growing network of volunteers.
To date this year, the hospital has seen more than 5,000 patients.
“It’s a record-setting accomplishment,” said Tracy Frampton, the executive
director. “Our mission is a labor of love. We depend on volunteers and staff dedicated to rehabilitating every animal we take in and returning them to their natural habitat. That’s our end game.”
Now celebrating 52 years, the Florida Wildlife Hospital continues to rely on community donations, grants, memberships and fundraisers, offering educational programs for schools and other groups to cover the costs of caring for the resident animals and travel-related expenses.
From pulmonary issues to lacerations and pelvic fractures caused by both human intervention and their environment, the list of species and unique situations of each can be as complicated as they are to cure.
The facility now houses many ambassador animals that have suffered blindness or injuries to the extent that require long-term and extensive rehabilitation. They reside in the many bird aviaries and extended housing in the rear of the main building.
Patients now are receiving scientifically determined food and medicines. And there is an on-site full-time veterinarian. A special section dedicated to imaging on-site has become vital for the hospital’s ability to X-ray animals for immediate treatment.
Skyler Snyder, a veterinary tech, is part of the staff who works to solve multiple problems to facilitate positive options for birds such as pelicans,
VIERA VOICE Sue DeWerff
Terri Herst holds Wink, an owl who is blind in one eye, at the Florida Wildlife Hospital.
New urgent care clinic opens at Viera VA Clinic
BY CHRIS BONANNO
Area veterans now have urgent care at the Viera VA Clinic where they can be treated quickly.
The Orlando VA Healthcare System has opened a new urgent care clinic at its Viera location.
“As a system, this has also been a priority,” said Ismael Cubero, the urgent care medical director.
“We want to take care of veterans where they are as opposed to having them drive to different VAs around our area. Viera is one of several urgent cares that the Orlando VA has opened over the last year, year and change.”
Brandan Wormsbacher, the chief medical officer Viera/Palm Bay, noted that the opening comes at a crucial time from a health perspective in the community, though Cubero said the original idea started in the spring of 2023.
“In our community, we had an emergency room, Rockledge Hospital, and so the need of our veteran population is high for acute care problems,” Wormsbacher said.
“We’ve been informed by Health First that their emergency room is definitely oversaturated. So to be a community partner and to care for our veterans, this was the most logical step as well as a service we identified a while ago actually to care for our veterans. And the timing just worked out wonderfully to where we can actually meet that need in a more fulfilling way.”
The urgent care clinic is open from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. Cubero indicated there are hopes it will expand into evening hours in the future.
“We’re seeing between 40 and 50 patients a day,” Cubero said. “These are patients that could have
gone to the community. These are patients that otherwise may have had to wait a longer time to be seen, so that’s a big impact for both the patient and the system. We also think and research supports it that VA care is better care for veterans.”
that’s less than 10 minutes. We’re really proud of that,” Cubero said.
Those interested in more information about the services provided at the clinic should check out
— Diana Castaneda
Wormsbacher expanded upon the types of treatment veterans are receiving.
“We’ve had quite a few fractures that we’ve been able to diagnose and intercept immediately,”
Wormsbacher said. “Also, a lot of skin, whether it’s someone who has a laceration and needs repair or it’s a suspicious mole that started doing something different and they needed immediate treatment."
According to Diana Castaneda, the nurse manager for the emergency department and urgent care, there are four patient rooms, two resuscitation rooms and one triage room at the clinic.
“Common things are common. A lot of veterans come in with complaints of musculoskeletal pain like back pain and knee pain,” Cubero said. “We’re getting revved up now for the respiratory virus season, so we expect to see a lot of flu, Covid, influenza-type illnesses.”
The urgent care clinic is located on the VA Clinic’s west end (located to the left of the main entrance) and visitors are encouraged to park in that area and walk through the entrance on that side of the building.
“From the time they hit the door, to the time a provider picks up their case,
va.gov/orlando-health-care/ locations/viera-va-clinic/ Veterans who are already in the system, don’t have to have anything with them, Cubero added.
“You can come same
day — all of our records are here.’’ Cubero said. “Part of why having the urgent care at different areas is advantageous is because it all feeds into the same medical record.”
BY CARL KOTALA
With an upgraded offense and a young, but fast defense, there’s plenty to be excited about with this year’s Viera High School football team.
The Hawks, coming off a 4-7 season that saw them make the playoffs for the first time since 2021, will have a lot of new faces on the field in 2025.
During the team’s Kickoff Classic, a 52-20 win at Palm Bay, there were 10 players making their varsity debut for the Hawks. Some were transfers. Some were up from the Junior Varsity. And every single one of them made an impact.
Combine that with the hard work of Viera’s returners and the Hawks have a chance to be even better than last season. How that all translates remains to be seen.
“Things are looking OK,” Viera coach Tony Gulla said. “We’re definitely in a better situation than last year. But we’ll see.”
Senior quarterback Eric Nelson, now in his second year at the position after moving over from wide receiver, looks to be in complete command of the offense and has also improved as a passer.
WrapUp
Viera has speed, power and depth at running backs in junior transfer Duke Butler, freshman Derek Schmadeke and sophomore Jake Boobar.
Juniors Slade Pulliam and Dylan Arroyo are the wide receivers with seniors Jonah Woodruff and Gabe Freeman, a transfer from South Carolina, also expected
to make a big impact.
Sophomore Royston Goldinger is the tight end.
Then there’s senior Shaun Hartman, who transferred back to Viera and will be used in every possible way –H-back; tight end; receiver; punter; returner and backup QB.
The offensive line got a big boost with the transfer
of senior Chase Kramer, who will play left tackle with junior Coby Wallace sliding inside to guard, junior Max Kukuljica shifting to center, junior Sam Cardona back at right guard and sophomore Tyler Wu at right tackle.
Defensively, the Hawks return only three starters and three players who saw time on varsity last season. While this unit is young, it’s faster than last year’s defense, and there’s definitely some talent.
Up front, Viera has a couple of young sophomore transfers on the outside in Jason Harp and Brian Veal (South Carolina)
with returning veteran Sal Orlando at nose tackle and junior returner Dillon Price and sophomore Jaxson Rhude at the other tackle spots.
Four-year starter James Olson is back at inside linebacker along with fellow senior Blake Thomas.
Junior Paul Hanna steps into the nickelback role with sophomore Yanni Jean taking over at one corner spot and senior Will McClure on the other side. The safeties are juniors Dimitri Jean and Daniel Jolly. Senior Dominick Maxwell will do the kicking with help from sophomore Brady Kramer. VV
VIERA VOICE Matt Clark
Viera's Shawn Hartman, far right, tries to round the corner during the Hawks' 52-20 victory against the Palm Bay Pirates in the Kickoff Classic held at Palm Bay High School on Aug. 15.
VIERA VOICE Matt Clark
Shaun Hartman has transferred back to Viera High School.
VIERA VOICE Matt Clark
Since taking over as quarterback last season, Eric Nelson has improved as a passer for Viera.
Viera volleyball should be in mix for fifth straight district title
BY CARL KOTALA
The Viera High School volleyball team may have a young roster that needs to be molded by head coach Sarah Wayne.
But as the 20-year veteran has proven, she’s a heck of a sculptor.
“The culture has always been there, so even though they’re trying to figure out the chemistry and the balance with each other, they know what the expectations are,” Wayne said early in the preseason.
“I’m pleased with the progress I’ve seen in just a week’s time and I’m excited to see where we are at the end of the year.”
Four players graduated from last year’s team — including four-year standout Haley Beigh — which won its fourth consecutive district title and reached the Class 6A regional final.
Additionally, Viera lost two more players — one to a move, the other to injury.
But with a mix of players coming up from JV, three impact transfers, and some key returning veterans, expect the Hawks to make a run at a fifth-straight title.
“We’re working on balancing,” Wayne said.
“That’s kind of our word this year — balance. We’re working on balancing new players and old, balancing our defense with our offense. This squad is internally a little bit more quiet, so we’re working on being really loud and communicating a lot.”
Senior defensive specialist Ella Brand, who tore her ACL at the end of last season, has been cleared to return to action, which should give Viera a big lift.
Other returners include setters Allie Brown (junior) and Hayley Christensen (junior) and middle blockers Brennan Turner (senior), Shaylee Wreggit (junior) and Lily Lorca-Loyd (sophomore).
Outside hitter Brooke Pickel (junior) and defensive specialist Gia Deligato (sophomore) are also back.
Sophomore transfer Emery Hart is an outside hitter who is expected to have a big impact for the Hawks.
Another transfer,
sophomore Brighton O’Brien, can play in the middle or at opposite hitter. Sophomore transfer Libby Williams is a setter.
Other newcomers include sophomore outside hitter Addison Casey, junior defensive specialist Brooke Bordwine and junior opposite hitter Elly Cordaro.
Unlike last year’s team, which relied more on its defense, this year’s group is more offensive minded.
With a challenging, frontloaded schedule, the Hawks may start slowly — just as last year’s group did —
while Wayne tries to figure out what to fix before the postseason.
One player whom Viera will miss is senior Victoria Chen, who sustained a season-ending knee injury last season, worked hard to get back to the team, then injured her other knee just prior to this season.
“We have a different outlook on this year,” Wayne said. “We’re not taking anything for granted. We know every practice matters and every match matters. We’re kind of playing for Vicky this year.” VV
VIERA VOICE Courtesy of Desiree Angelle Photography
The Viera Hawks have a nice mixture of veterans, transfers and players brought up from last year's JV team. The team will be spending the early part of the season working on its chemistry, but should be a strong contender to win its fifth straight district championship.
Tigers favored to win 12th district title in 13 seasons
BY CARL KOTALA
The Holy Trinity volleyball team has got some big goals for this season ... and it’s easy to see why.
While the Tigers have a big hole to fill with the graduation of last year’s leading hitter, Isabelle Clark, they have nine returners and two newcomers that could make them one of the top programs in Brevard County.
The No. 1 goal, as always, is winning a district title. If they can do that, the Tigers will have won four in a row and 12 out of the last 13.
But this team wants more.
Holy Trinity has not gotten out of the first round of the regional playoffs since 2020, when the Tigers went to their fifth regional final. Will this be the year they end that drought?
“I think this year, we have a really good chance of moving beyond (the first round) just because we’re a very talented and experienced team,” coach Kylie Kutzner said. “This will be a good year to test that out.”
Junior Taylor Yochim
WILDLIFE HOSPITAL
Continued from page 4
who often become victims mistakenly hooked by local fishermen.
“This is a common occurrence, and we are fortunate to be able to have these resources to help bring them relief,” Snyder said.
The hospital is open year-round, seven days a week. It is located at 4560 N. U.S. Hwy. 1, just south of the Pineda Causeway.
Workshops for all ages and other fundraising events can be found on the website.
Senior Audrey Herbert is an outside hitter who has been hitting heavy balls and improved her serve/receive game. On the opposite side, juniors Gracin Borboroglu and Brooke Ellingson are competing for the starting spot.
Senior Natalie Ruberte is back at libero and has looked stronger and quicker. The Tigers will also rely on her
leadership.
Junior Julie Watt is the setter.
“In my opinion, she’s the best setter in the county because her offense is just as good as her defense, her setting ability and her serving,” Kutzner said of Watt. “She is a tool for us and she’s peaking at the right moment.”
Junior Ella Morton is
competing for the defensive specialist spot with junior Chloe Houston and junior Kilee Whyte. Senior Sydney Arnold will back up Watt at setter.
“I think this will be a really fun season for us,” Kutzner said. “The kids are really determined to be No. 1 in the county. That’s something we’ve really been talking about.” VV
steps into Clark’s role as a middle blocker and, though she’s just a junior, she’s already proving she will be a problem for opponents.
“She’s very quick and aggressive,” Kutzner said of Yochim. “She takes chances
“(Taylor Yochim is) very quick and aggressive. She takes chances on offense. She’s smart about it.” — Kylie Kutzner
on offense. She’s smart about it. But she hits the ball and is aggressive more often than some of the other kids, who are a little more safe with their shots.
“It’s nice to have that in the middle. That doesn’t tend to happen. Aggressive middles are really a big thing to have on a team. It makes a difference on offense.”
Sophomore Reena Kahlon is up from JV to play alongside Yochim and has been making an impact in practice.
“We are honored to be the recipient of this year's upcoming fundraiser for the Viera Harvest Festival," Frampton said.
Frampton said she is unsure what kind of scarecrow her crew will build for this year’s Harvest Festival next month, but past entries have included an Opossum Scarecrow and a Scary Black Crow.
“We look forward to sharing our mission and educational resources at the October 18 event at Woodside Park in Viera.”
For more information, check out floridawildlifehospital.com VV
VIERA VOICE Courtesy of Gabbie Mommers
Holy Trinity's volleyball team has nine returners and two key new players this season
Club 321 wins baseball tournament in Cooperstown
BY CARL KOTALA
The Club 321 Baseball 12U travel ball team has won tournaments before.
But this one was special.
This one was something 12 kids from Brevard County — and beyond — will probably never forget.
Club 321 traveled to Cooperstown, New York during the summer to take part in a week-long tournament at the All-Star Village that featured 84 teams from around the country.
And in the end, Club 321 was the champion.
“The first thing I would say is it’s something the kids will never forget,” Club 321 coach Jason Dehler said. “That experience … being on campus, basically, where you’re staying in the bunkhouses (which are) like dorms, and you’re meeting the kids from other teams from all over the country and other countries, too.
“Pin trading is a big thing up there. Every team has one or two custom pins made and kids trade them. It was awesome.”
This year’s Club 321 roster includes players from Cocoa, Palm Bay, Melbourne and Viera along with a player from Jacksonville, another from
Clermont, and two from South Carolina.
Their names are Ty Evans; Jayse Hines; Jazziah Harris; Declan Brooks; Dougie Garlick; Marcus Williams; Jace Howard; T.J. Keossy; Mason Galluccio; Liam Comer; Dangelo Acosta and Drake Dehler.
All teams were guaranteed six pool play games with the top finishers advancing to
the next single-elimination bracket. The players and coaches also got to tour Major League Baseball’s Hall of Fame.
Club 321 went 5-1 in pool play, losing only to a team from Chicago with a pitcher whom Jason Dehler said left the tournament to meet up with Team USA’s 12 team that was heading to Taiwan for the Baseball World Classic.
Entering the bracket portion of the tournament, Jason Dehler and assistant coach Brandon Howard’s
group were seeded 11th overall. The team won its first three games pretty easily before finding itself locked in a 5-5 tie with a team from New Jersey.
A single by Harris and a two-run homer by Comer on a full count put Club 321 into the finals where a familiar opponent was waiting — the team from Chicago.
Howard homered twice and drove in four runs and Acosta had three hits — including two homers — and drove in two as Club 321 won
the championship game 14-7.
Harris homered and had two RBI, while Comer also homered and brought home three. Drake Dehler and Evans (who along with Williams had homered in the previous game) also drove in a run.
The players are expected to move up to 13U next season with an impressive resume.
“They’ve all been playing together for a while,” Jason Dehler said. “We went to Pigeon Ford, Tennessee last summer and won that tournament, too.” VV
VIERA VOICE photo
The 321 Baseball Club, which features 12U players from Cocoa, Palm Bay, Melbourne and Viera, went to Cooperstown, New York in July and won a tournament that featured 84 teams from around the country.
VIERA VOICE photo
Members of the 321 Baseball Club celebrate after winning an 84-team, 12U tournament.
Pickleball enthusiasts want courts built at Mahon Park
BY MIKE GAFFEY
A group of Suntree residents want the Suntree Master Homeowners Association Board to build new tennis and pickleball courts at Jack Mahon Park to replace a tennis/ pickleball court that was closed in 2024.
About 30 pickleball enthusiasts, who are members of the Suntree Pickleball Association, want 50 to 100 residents to attend a future Suntree Master Homeowners Association Board of Directors meeting to push for the new courts.
“Suntree Master Homeowners Association is one of the biggest homeowners associations in Florida, and yet we have no public facilities to play pickleball,” said Jim Brang, a group member and a resident of The Villas of Suntree.
Invented in 1965, pickleball is a racket or paddle sport in which two or four players use a paddle to hit a hollow, perforated plastic ball over a 34-inch-high net. Pickleball has seen a surge in popularity and is recognized as the fastest-growing sport in the U.S.
A tennis/pickleball court built in 2017, north of the pavilion at Jack Mahon Park at 7550 Spyglass Hill Road, has been closed permanently since December due to noncompliance with Brevard County Code Enforcement and nearby residents’ complaints about noise during pickleball play.
“Pickleball started taking off pretty good around 2021 or 2022,” Brang said. “And the more people played, the better they got. The harder you hit the ball, the louder the noise.”
As a solution, the group suggests that two fenced-in courts be built at the west end of the park’s youth soccer field, Brang said. One court would be a tennis court that can be converted into two pickleball courts. The other would have two pickleball courts.
“If you put courts there, you'd still have enough room for at least three youth soccer fields,” said Brang, who added that the soccer fields have rarely been used since the 2020 Covid pandemic and since public
parking was banned on the south side of Spyglass Hill Road across from the park.
Brang said the new courts would be farther away from homes than a site at Suntree Interlachen Park at 490 Interlachen Road. The HOA board reportedly is considering building a multisport facility at the park if a temporary pickleball court set up at the park’s basketball court proves to be popular.
Because of pickleball’s popularity, group members have had trouble finding available courts in nearby cities, Brang said.
“All the facilities are so full,” he said.
Board members have said little about the tennis/pickleball court since it was closed, Brang said. Kaye McKinney, a general manager of the Suntree Master Homeowners Association, said there’s been no change in the court’s status.
At a SMHA Construction Committee meeting July 16, committee members discussed quotes received for two pickleball courts at Interlachen Park. Members also considered choosing a project manager for construction of the courts and an equitable method for scheduling court use for games.
Brang said pickleball builds community camaraderie, encourages fitness, offers safe, outdoor fun for all ages and teaches newcomers a lifelong sport.
“Let’s remind SMHOA what Jack Mahon Park used to be — a place full of life, laughter and friendly competition,” Brang stated in a Facebook post. “Let’s bring it back.” VV
VIERA VOICE Mike Gaffey
Suntree pickleball enthusiasts want new tennis and pickleball courts built at Jack Mahon Park to replace a court that was closed in December.
SEPT. 3 & 4
"The Grand Departure"
7 p.m. Presented by the Melbourne Community Orchestra. Melbourne Auditorium 625 Hibiscus Blvd. Melbourne 321-285-6724
Dining Out & Events
SEPT. 5
September Dinner Dance 5 to 10 p.m. Featuring Janice and Renee.
Italian American Club 1471 Cypress Ave. Melbourne 321-242-8044
•
•
•
•
SEPT. 6
The Hindman Wall Golf Scramble
7:30 a.m.
Golf tournament and helicopter golf ball drop. Indian River Colony Club 1936 Freedom Drive Viera, 321-209-3391
•
Melbourne Fire Department 9/11 Memorial 5K 7:30 a.m.
All proceeds will benefit firefighters in need and the local community.
Merritt Island High School 100 Mustang Way Merritt Island 321-258-5580
SEPT. 12
Annual Blingo Movie Night Fundraiser 5 to 11 p.m.
Fundraiser for West Shore
Junior/Senior High School.
Music/dancing after games.
Eau Gallie Civic Center 1551 Highland Ave. Melbourne, 321-223-8282
Thimble Girls in Friendship (TGIF) Quilting group. 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Suntree/Viera Library 902 Jordan Blass Drive Suntree, 321-255-4404
SEPT. 16
iPhone and iPad User Group 5:30 to 7 p.m.
Tutorials on specific apps and beginner guides. One Senior Place 8085 Spyglass Hill Road Viera, 321-751-6771
SEPT. 17
MMB Concert: "Sway with Us" 7 p.m.
Melbourne Auditorium 625 E. Hibiscus Blvd. Melbourne, 321-724-0555
SEPT. 18
Brevard Authors Critique Group 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Bring your story for useful advice and inspiration. Suntree/Viera Library 902 Jordan Blass Drive Suntree, 321-255-4404
SEPT. 19
Cocoa Beach Friday Fest 6 to 10 p.m.
Live music by Saylor and the Captains, food trucks and vendors.
Downtown Cocoa Beach 225 Minutemen Causeway Cocoa Beach, cocoabeachmainstreet.org
SEPT. 20
Girls in Aviation Day 2025
10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Free event for young girls celebrating the world of aviation. Static displays, hands-on activities and speakers. Shetair 140 S. Apollo Blvd. Melbourne 321-956-8695
WAYS Golf Tournament 2025 8 a.m.
Each ticket includes breakfast, lunch and beverages.
The Habitat Golf Course 3591 Fairgreen St. Grant, 321-204-4577
Casino Night Fundraiser
6 to 10:30 p.m.
Fundraiser for the Titusville Playhouse. $80 ticket includes: $100 in PLAYhouse money and dinner.
Titusville Playhouse
301 Julia St. Titusville, 321-268-1125
"Beethoven’s Triple"
7 to 9 p.m.
Concert presented by the Space Coast Symphony. Scott Center 5625 Holy Trinity Drive Suntree, 855-252-7276
SEPT. 22
NASA Presentation on IMAP Program and Falcon 9 Launch 4 to 6 p.m.
Cape Canaveral Library 201 Polk Ave. Cape Canaveral, 321-868-1101
SEPT. 27
2025 Running Wild 5K
7:30 a.m.
Benefit for the Florida
Wildlife Hospital. Wickham Park 2500 Parkway Drive Melbourne, runsignup.com
VFW Post 4206 annual Car Show 10 a.m.
Car show, live music, door prizes and an auction table.
VFW Post 4206 3201 Dairy Road Melbourne, 321-724-4121
Second annual Friends of the Poor 5K Run/Walk 8 a.m.
Raises awareness. Supports local outreach center food pantry.
Church of Our Saviour 5301 N. Atlantic Ave. Cocoa Beach. 321-799-3677 Melbourne, 321-724-4121
Atlantic City Boys
7:30 p.m.
A tribute to Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons, the Beach Boys and the Bee Gees.
Merritt Island Moose Lodge #2073
3150 N. Courtenay Parkway Merritt Island 407-252-3536
SCHOOLNews
Viera is Launchpad Preschool’s second center in Brevard
BY MIKE GAFFEY
A locally owned early childhood education center is scheduled to open its second Brevard County facility in Viera by year’s end.
Launchpad Preschool plans to welcome up to 170 children ages six weeks to 4 years of age around December at 7970 N. Wickham Road, the former site of Steward Family Medicine.
“We are committed to excellence and maintaining the highest standards in every aspect of our program,” said Madison Austin, the director of Launchpad Preschool. "All of our teachers are so caring and work so well together. “It's really a positive environment and I think all of our parents are extremely happy.”
The year-round Viera location will mirror
Launchpad’s facility at 3980 Sarno Road, Suite 101 in Melbourne. At the two-year-old center, about 160 students receive ageappropriate instruction aligned with federal and state standards, with a curriculum by FrogStreet, a research-based program that incorporates STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Math).
A dual-language program meets the needs of diverse learners. The Melbourne location has about 20 employees and the Viera location will have about 20 to 25 instructors, Austin said.
“We maintain ratios that are lower than state requirements, allowing for more individualized attention,” said Austin, who has been Launchpad’s director since 2024.
“I have a lot of kiddos here who have struggled at
other centers. Then, they come here and they have just thrived. Especially, kiddos with any kind of developmental delays.”
Renovations are underway at the 11,000-square-foot Viera preschool, which will have nine classrooms, a commercial-grade kitchen, a fenced-in playground, a warm breakfast and coffee available to parents each morning.
A security officer on site will monitor cameras, manage building entry and oversee safety. There will be a first responders’ room where on-duty law enforcement personnel can stop by, relax and have a bite to eat, according to Austin.
right, is the director of
Ebony
is the assistant director. The preschool is opening its second Brevard County location at 7970 N.
“There should be a healthy law enforcement presence at that building,” she said. “We take security very seriously. I think we're the only preschool in Brevard County that has security on site at all times at the door from open to close.”
Road, the former site of Steward Family Medicine.
Open Thursday, Friday, Saturday 10 a.m. - 8 p.m. or by appointment
NOW OPEN
Sept. 6 and 20
SEPTEMBER STARRY NIGHTS
Earth, Wind & Fire music video plus a star-worthy art-theme project. $35 pp. Wine and snacks.
Sept. 12 and 26
STILLNESS AND STROKES
Simple, guided meditation and Balli Ho rhythmic music. Paint mandala art on canvas. $35 pp. Wine and snacks.
For artist bios and additional classes and events go to artcreatedwithsoul.com
Weekly tuition rates at the Viera center have not yet been set, Austin said. At the Melbourne facility, weekly rates are $300 for infants and $310 for walkers.
Part-time rates for 2 year olds are $240 and full-time rates are $290. It’s $230 part time for 3 year olds and $280 full time. Care for 4 year olds is $250. VPK is free, while VPK wraparound care, which can cover the rest of the school day or even a full day, is $200. Educators, first responders and military personnel get a 5% discount. Regular operating hours for both locations will be 8 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., Austin said. Before-care hours for
children up to school-age level are 6 to 8 a.m. at $20 a week. After-care hours are 5:30 to 7 p.m. at $30 a week and include an extra snack. Launchpad’s owners had been looking for a northerly location for a new preschool, Austin said.
“A few of our parents are happy that we're going to open a center north because we do have quite a few families that drive quite a bit and refuse to go anywhere else,” she said. “We plan to open quite a few more, so they should pop up all over Brevard.”
For more information or to schedule a tour, go to thelaunchpadpreschool. com, Launchpad Preschool’s Facebook page or call 321-237-2340. VV
VIERA VOICE Jill Blue
Madison Austin,
Launchpad Preschool, and
Carter
Wickham
is usually done in the days before the start of the school year. It’s a time when the parking lots at high schools are abuzz with excitement as students, some under
canopies and large umbrellas to shield them from the summer heat, paint their spaces.
Some of the parking space paintings included maps of former home states, logos of colleges and flowers. Others depicted cartoon characters, sayings and geometric designs.
Many of the students had help or at least support from siblings and parents.
There was chatter, laughter and music as the students in the Class of 2026 painted and transformed their pieces of pavement into works of art. VV
VIERA VOICE Jill Blue
Cassey Nguyen enjoyed a fun afternoon while seniors at Holy Trinity Episcopal Academy painted their parking spaces at the school.
Code Ninjas adds Robotics Academy to inspiring offerings
BY NICHOLE YUAN
With the age of technology accelerating so quickly, it’s no surprise that more technology-based skills are available for younger generations to learn.
Schools, libraries and independent facilities now offer classes where children can learn abilities that will help them understand and grow as science continues to evolve.
At Code Ninjas, children learn to navigate the complex world of coding and programming through fun, age-appropriate activities.
The classes are designed to engage and inspire children while simultaneously teaching them tools such as JavaScript and C#.
Learning skills such as these allow children to really let their imaginations come to life in a digital setting by making artificial intelligence tools and even creating their own video games.
Now, with the addition of their own Robotics Academy, children will be able to pair the digital aspects of
computer science with a physical form.
“So (children will) be going through the (LEGO) Essential program and the (LEGO) SPIKE Prime and then we’re also adding VEX GO. So there’s three different levels that they’ll move through,” said Laurie Whittaker, the owner of Code Ninjas in Viera.
In a world that’s becoming increasingly dependent on automation, teaching children lessons on coding and robotics is surely a fantastic way to set them up for success.
In the Code Ninjas Robotics Academy, not only are children solving problems on computers and tablets, they’re also working
with their hands.
As the growing popularity of robotics soars, Whittaker considers the possibility of eventually having a competitive robotics team in addition to the Robotics Academy.
“We’re not planning a LEGO FIRST competition team this school year, probably. But we’ll see if the
interest is there to form a team next year,” Whittaker said. And while the robotics classes are designed for children eight years old and older, she assures that no prior coding nor robotics experience is necessary, making it easy and inviting for all children wanting to learn. VV
Administrators, students excited about the new school year
The goals for the school year are set as administrators, teachers and students in Brevard County settle in for the 2025-2026 school year. Several Viera/Suntree area school principals shared their thoughts about their school’s commitment to making it a great year for their students. Compiled BY Chris Bonanno
“It is with great excitement and joy that I welcome back our Viera Charter School Panther families! We are especially happy to celebrate that VCS is ranked by the state as the No. 1 elementary/middle school in the district — a reflection of our students’ hard work, our dedicated teachers and the unwavering support of our Panther families and community.
"The start of the school year is such a special time for all of us as it offers each of us a new beginning and the opportunity to grow both personally and academically. I look forward to the amazing things our students will accomplish this year and the wonderful friendships that they will make.”
“We are super excited to welcome our Cranes back to school. We are on the road to success this year as we help students to learn, grow and achieve. That’s our whole focus this year — the road to success. We’re A graded and we’re just really excited to keep propelling our Cranes forward.”
On the A grade: “It’s a great grade and we’re really proud of it, and we’ve made some incredible gains in science and math and we want to continue those efforts while raising our ELA (English Language Arts) proficiency.”
“As the Manatee Elementary staff look ahead to the 20052006 school year, our goals are centered on fostering a school culture where students are inspired to grow. We’re committed to strengthening academic achievement and deepening partnerships with our families and community.
“I couldn’t be more excited for the year ahead. The energy on campus is already building and I’m looking forward to welcoming our students back with open arms and high expectations. Together, we’re going to make this a fantastic year.
“As the principal of Quest Elementary School, I am thrilled to kick off another incredible year at Quest Elementary. Our campus is buzzing with energy as students, families and staff come together to build a community of curiosity, creativity and kindness.
"We are committed to excellence and providing our Quest Explorers with the best educational programming and experiences to support their growth as learners and leaders!”
“At Viera Middle School, fostering relationships with our school community is one of our priorities.
This year, our theme is Owl for One, emphasizing our commitment to working together to support our students growing personally and academically.
“I am most excited to welcome our students and families back to school and to begin the year with established expectations, processes and furniture!”
“Our campus is buzzing with energy as students, families and staff come together to build a community of curiosity, creativity and kindness.” — Kerry Castillo
VIERA VOICE Nichole Yuan
As students at Code Ninjas progressed in rank and ability, they colored in a dragon scale.
VIERA VOICE Nichole Yuan
Code Ninjas is equipped with everything children need to hone new computer skills.
Susan Schroeder, principal Ralph Williams Elementary School
Julie Cady, principal Viera Charter School
Karry Castillo, principal Quest Elementary School
Shannon Daly, principal Manatee Elementary School
Catherine McNutt, principal Viera Middle School
“There’s a certain sound and feeling that the Penny Creek Band brings to the harvest time of year,” said Jill Blue, the publisher of the Viera Voice. “It’s not a true Harvest Festival unless they are playing.”
Woodside Park and its eight acres of nature trails for walkers and bicyclists will be the site for the second consecutive year. The park is located off Murrell Road at 1703 Crane Creek Blvd. in Viera.
Before being held at Woodside Park for the first time last year, the Viera Harvest Festival had been held at The Avenue Viera.
For two weeks prior to the gathering at Woodside Park, the 13th Scarecrow Stroll will
be conducted from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. from Oct. 2 to 16 at businesses throughout Viera, Suntree and Rockledge.
Businesses will build a scarecrow to generate foot traffic to their businesses along a mapped route across the greater Viera/Suntree area. The public will view and vote on the unique creations for the People’s Choice and Best of Show — along with other awards.
More than 23 handcrafted 'Crows will be sold at a silent auction during the Viera Harvest Festival to benefit the Florida Wildlife Hospital. It has been selected to be the event’s charity of choice. Florida Wildlife Hospital will also build a scarecrow.
The businesses in the Viera and Suntree area never cease to amaze Blue.
"All the businesses have
been wonderful designing colorful and creative ’Crows,” Blue said. “We have returning builders who have been making scarecrows for several years. We also have some newcomers who are joining in the fun. Last year, we introduced a new category called Best ’Crow Name. Confetti Betty won that award.”
A pull-out map in a special section will be published in October's Viera Voice. It also will serve as a voting ballot, showing readers where to go to see the scarecrows and get a secret code as proof of the visit.
“This year, we are working to support the Florida Wildlife Hospital,” Blue said. “We love what they do to help injured wild animals in Brevard County. Their staff and volunteers are true humanitarians. They have built some wonderful ’Crows
through the years. They always have a cool nature theme based on rescued animals.”
Schools are urged to build schoolcrows to be displayed at a sponsoring business location along the route for viewing, voting and the silent auction.
The People's Choice award trophy will go to the ’Crow with the most votes collected during the two-week Stroll.
The scarecrows and schoolcrows will be moved to the Viera Harvest Festival for judging for Best of Show, Best Use of Hay, Most Whimsical and Best Name.
The scarecrows will be placed up for silent auction to benefit either the charity or the school.
Continuing with tradition, the kids' Mini-Crow building contest is open to children in two categories — ages 5 to 8 and 9 to 14. The mini crow can be any character that includes
hay in its design, be no taller than 3 feet and can be carried by the child.
The Viera Harvest Festival is where the public can stroll to see the best of all the scarecrows all in one place. They can enjoy free activities such as a costume contest, face painting and kids’ crafts.
The Pumpkin Patch returns with miniature pumpkins. There will be hay bale horses ready for photos with the children.
Local physicians from Orlando Health will represent the Ted E. Bear Clinic and will be on hand to give full exams for bears and other stuffed animals brought by children. Certificates of wellness will be offered after the exams.
For information about the Viera Harvest Festival or the Scarecrow Stroll, call 321-2421235. VV
Viera Free Harvest FESTIVAL
& Scarecrow Auction
Annual Signature Event
Saturday, Oct. 18
10 a.m. - 2 p.m.
Woodside Park 1703 Crane Creek Blvd., Viera
More than 23 Scarecrows up for auction
Bid on and Buy a crow at the Viera Harvest Festival
Children’s Costume Contest
Presenting Sponsor
Harvest Hay Maze • Art & Craft Vendors
Face Painting • Kids Crafts
Fall Scene Photo Area • Hay bale horses
Bid on and Buy Scarecrows
Mini Pumpkin patch
Drink drug-test coasters could reveal illegal drugs in drinks
BY EMILY WARNER
There’s so much to love about the City of Melbourne. It’s not surprising why so many people endearingly call it home.
Whether the 321 area has been your humble abode for many decades or only a few
months, everyone deserves to feel safe where they live.
The Zonta Club of Melbourne is working diligently to ensure that safety is easily placed in the hands of as many Melbourne residents as possible, most especially the younger, college-age crowd. Zonta
SUNDAY
Club is introducing a new type of coaster to the area — one that is capable of detecting if an illicit drug has been placed in a drink.
Using the drug detector, which can easily be kept in a purse, pocket or wallet, is as simple as adding a drop of your drink to the coaster
9:15 a.m. Adult Bible Study (Bldg. E)
10:45 a.m. Sunday School (Bldg. C) children and adults
WEDNESDAY ALL CLASSES ARE
VPK - 2nd (Room 3)
3rd - 5th (Room 1)
Confirmation (Main Area)
Post-Confirmation (Youth Room)
Adult (Room 2)
7:05 p.m. Closing Prayer (Sanctuary)
WEEKLY STUDIES
Monday 7 p.m.: Men’s Bible Study
testing spot, gently smearing it and letting it dry.
Depending on the color the test area turns, users will be able to identify whether a drug is present or if their drink is safe.
Tuesday 7 p.m.: Gospel of Matthew Thursday 9:30 a.m.: Women of the Word When you are
“What we’re trying to do is protect the public,” Donna Melcher said.
Melcher, who is the vice president and treasurer of Zonta Club Melbourne, wants to bring visibility and awareness on how easy it is to tamper with someone’s drink. Once a drink has been spiked and someone unknowingly consumes it, there can be any number of concerning consequences, from disorientation and losing consciousness to theft and assault.
Wanting to lower the chances of this occurring in Melbourne, Melcher has been inspired by a recent law passed in California. As of July 1, the Golden State now requires bars and nightclubs to supply customers a drink lid on request and have a drug-testing kit available.
Zonta Club would like to have a similar law passed for the local area and has already received positive feedback about the coasters.
Many individuals and prominent members of the Melbourne community are in favor of these coasters, but a few local bars have already
“We want these in the hands of the right people. Zonta wants to talk about what others don’t want to talk about.” — Sandy Michelson
pushed back and stated their disinterest of having them in-house, viewing the coasters as a liability.
Although opposing views of something new in the community may be natural, this addition should be an easy consideration — it’s better to be part of a solution than to ignore a problem.
“We want these in the hands of the right people,” said Sandy Michelson, the previous president and current board member of Zonta Club of Melbourne.
“Zonta wants to talk about what others don’t want to talk about. We want to make noise and bring awareness.”
To learn more about Zonta Club of Melbourne or to donate to this campaign of bringing safety to the community through drugtesting coasters, you can contact the club at zontaspacecoast.org. If you, or someone you know, would like coasters, reach out to zontaclub.melbourne.fl@ gmail.com VV
VIERA VOICE Nichole Yuan
According to a study by a professor at the University of South Carolina, one in 13 college students report having had their drink spiked, with many incidents occurring in high-risk settings such as bars, clubs and parties.
Tuna Patties provide healthy fatty acids, good for heart, brain VIERA
BY ELAINE MOODY
This month, I’m sharing an inexpensive, low calorie, protein-packed recipe that
your family is sure to enjoy. Did you know that tuna is rich in Omega-3 fatty acids, which are good for heart and brain health? It’s
also a great source of highquality proteins, vitamins and minerals. (Some Albacore tuna can contain higher levels of mercury, so
Tuna Patties (makes 4 to 5 patties)
2 5-ounce cans of tuna packed in water
1 Tbsp lime juice
1 Tbsp of water saved from tuna
2 Tbsp chopped chives or onion
1 small sweet red pepper (finely diced)
1 raw egg
Begin by draining two cans of tuna packed in water. Set aside several tablespoons of the water. Place the tuna into a mixing bowl, blend lime juice, bread crumbs, salt and pepper to taste and chopped onion and sweet pepper. Beat one egg and add to mixture along with 1 to 2 tablespoons of the tuna water and olive oil. Mix well. Separate the mixture into equal amounts, roll into balls then flatten into patties.
Place the patties onto a baking pan covered with parchment paper. Cover the patties with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. Remove plastic wrap (leave the patties on parchment paper) and place the baking pan in the oven preheated to 400 degrees. Bake for 10 minutes, turn patties over and bake for another 10 minutes. If you
consume in moderation)
The good thing about the patties is they can be prepared ahead of time and refrigerated until you’re
ready to cook them. They can be baked or fried. VV
prefer, you can also fry or air fry the patties. Before serving, let the patties cool for approximately five minutes.
What really adds a little zing to the patties is my special sauce. In a small mixing bowl, combine two tablespoons of Dijon or stone ground mustard, one tablespoon mayonnaise and one tablespoon ketchup. Mix well. This can be spread on top of patties or used for dipping. (Double the mixture for additional servings).
I recently made tuna patties for our dinner, with a side dish of mashed potatoes and a fresh medley of vegetables.
Serve with your favorite sides and enjoy. VV
ScoopBUSINESS
Dave & Buster’s bringing games, food, fun to Viera in early 2027
BY MIKE GAFFEY
Game on, Viera.
Dave & Buster’s, a popular restaurant and arcade venue, plans to open its 11th Florida location in early 2027 on Napolo Drive near Walk-On’s Sports Bistreaux.
The 26,000-plus-squarefoot Viera location will offer visitors more than 100 of the latest arcade games, a chef-crafted menu and a full-service bar, according to a press release from the Dallasbased business.
“We’re excited to bring our first Brevard County location to the community,” Christopher Sofranko, the director of new store openings for Dave & Buster’s, stated in an email.
In addition to a mix of classic arcade, tabletop and video games, Dave & Buster’s location will offer immersive premium games such as UFC Challenge, Hot Wheels Victory Lap and Top Gun: Maverick simulators.
Menu items include steaks, burgers, wings, protein bowls, appetizers and soft drinks, alongside handcrafted cocktails, beers, and specialty drinks.
Gamers and foodies also can earn game play status, game chips and food or beverage offers through the D&B Rewards loyalty program by downloading an app and becoming a member.
Sports fans can catch all the athletic action on a massive 40-foot screen and 30 oversized, high-definition televisions with stadium sound.
The Viera location will employ about 160 workers at a variety of positions, including servers, bartenders,
hosts, line cooks and game techs, according to the press release.
Founded in 1982, Dave & Buster's Entertainment, Inc., owns and operates 176 Dave & Buster’s in 43 states, Puerto Rico, Canada and India, and 61 Main Event entertainment and dining venues in 22 states.
The closest Dave & Buster’s to Brevard County is in Orlando. Other Florida locations are in Daytona Beach, Fort Myers, Gainesville, Hollywood, Jacksonville, Miami, Panama City Beach, Port St. Lucie and Brandon.
“Dave & Buster’s is the ultimate destination to eat, drink, play and watch sports — all under one roof,” Sofranko stated.
“It’s a go-to spot for birthdays, family outings, date nights, watch parties and everyday fun.”s
For more information, go to daveandbusters.com VV
VIERA VOICE Courtesy of Dave & Busters
Classic arcade games, tabletop and video games, and immersive premium games will challenge all gamers at Dave & Buster's.
The Avenue Viera welcomes four new businesses
BY CHRIS BONANNO
Four new businesses opened at The Avenue Viera in August as the shopping complex welcomed Let’s Plant It!, Southern Tide, Tommy Bahama and Air & Anchor.
Let’s Plant It!, which also has a downtown Melbourne location, is described as a “oneof-a-kind interactive plant store.”
“The idea behind it is to get your hands dirty,” said Jeanette Anzaldi, the manager at Let’s Plant It! “So you can come in any time and create terrariums, dish gardens and you can replant any of our plants into our planters which we have novelty planters from astronauts to zebras. You can come in any time, no appointments. We also have the candle bar where you can come in and customize your own scented candle. We also have a room in the back where you can host a private party or event.”
Store owner Laura Cage said the store fits in well with The Avenue Viera.
“They saw the concept and they loved it and I really think that (The Avenue) wants to become a place where they have experiences. I think they like that they can come in and have an experience here,” Cage said.
Southern Tide, which describes itself as selling classic, coastal apparel, has opened a store at the shopping complex.
“You’re going to see coastal, casual clothing,” said Nathan Morris, the store manager. “We really have anything for everything. From beach
to bar, boardroom, all the good things. … We're most known for our birdie shorts. So, they’re an eightinch short and they have all the good features.”
Tommy Bahama, which sells casual clothing and accessories, also has opened its first Brevard County location, according to district manager Joe Jefferson.
“We’d love for you to feel as soon as you walk into the store you escaped the Americas and you are out on an island,” Jefferson said.
“Everything for us, Tommy Bahama, is island inspired. We want you to feel like you’re on vacation at all times when you’re wearing our brand.”
Air & Anchor is a jewelry brand that is known for “factory-made, customizable designs.” It has opened its first Florida retail store at The Avenue Viera.
“Our goal has always been to slow things down — to give people the chance to connect with how things are made,” the co-founder of Air & Anchor Rachael Alaj said in a press release. “This store brings our factory experience to life. You can pick your chain, choose your charms, get hands on or watch our makers build it for you, right on the spot." VV
VIERA VOICE Chris Bonanno Southern Tide sells coastal and casual clothing.
VIERA VOICE Jill Blue Tommy Bahama boasts island-inspired clothing.
VIERA VOICE Jill Blue
Air & Anchor sells unique jewelry.
VIERA VOICE Jill Blue
Let's Plant It! opened a new store in Viera. It also has a store in downtown Melbourne.
World’s largest cruise ship begins voyages from Port Canaveral
BY CHRIS BONANNO
The largest cruise ship in the world, Royal Caribbean’s Star of the Seas, has begun sailing from Port Canaveral.
Star of the Seas is almost 1,200 feet long, the length of more than three football fields.
The ship is almost 220 feet wide with a draft of 29 feet. It can hold up to 5,610 guests (with double occupancy) in its 2,805 state rooms, with a total capacity for 7,600 passengers.
Additionally, Star of the Seas has 20 total decks, the equivalent height of an 18-story building and features 2,350 crew members.
The ship comprises a host of neighborhoods, according to Jo Cotterman, the strategic account manager with Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines.
“We have the Thrill Island neighborhood which is made up of six water slides,” Cotterman said. “They are complimentary. We have slides that go off the side of the ship. There are racer slides, mat slides, we have duo slides. We’ve got a Chill Neighborhood, which is seven pools throughout five different decks so there’s a pool for every day of the week. We’ve got Central Park with over 13,000 living plants. There’s an entertainment place where we’ve got our AquaDome. We’ve got the ice skating rink and, then of course, the theater where we’re featuring the full Broadway show of ‘Back to the Future.’ ” Additional attractions on board include but are far from limited to: a rock climbing wall, miniature golf course, basketball/ pickleball court and fitness center. There are also an array of places to eat and drink on board ranging from Sorrento’s, a pizza establishment, and Hooked Seafood all the way to a
Sprinkles ice cream and Starbucks areas.
“We do have availability,” Cotterman said. “We actually brought the ship in earlier than anticipated from the shipyard, so we added some short voyages which are four and three nights in length. But, the ship really settles into a seven-night rotation as her annual itinerary. So she does a series of eastern Caribbean itineraries, which will take you to St. Thomas, St. Marten, St. Kitts and Nevis. Each itinerary stopping at Perfect Day CocoCay and then our western itinerary is going to take us to Roatan, Cozumel, Costa Maya and Perfect Day CocoCay.”
Hundreds gathered as part of a “Wave-Out” at Jetty Park at Port Canaveral. Onlookers waved to passengers on board the maiden voyage of the ship as it departed Saturday, Aug. 16 along with other ships that also went out
to sea that day.
Additionally, a naming ceremony was held on board on Wednesday, Aug. 20 that included a sample of the swimming and diving show, Torque, along with a musical performance by the City of
Mount Dora Pipes & Drums Band.
“It’s beautiful, isn’t it? I wish I was going on it,” said Grace Birb, a member of the band.
Kellie Girardi, a research commercial astronaut and payload specialist who flew on a sub-orbital flight with Virgin Galactic, served as the ship’s godmother. The ceremony also concluded with a traditional breaking of a bottle over the ship’s hull. VV
VIERA VOICE Courtesy of Royal Caribbean
Royal Caribbean's Star of the Seas, the world's largest cruise ship, is longer than the length of three football fields. The ship has 20 decks and 2,350 crew members.
VIERA VOICE Chris Bonanno
Royal Caribbean's Star of the Seas has variety of fun slides for people of all ages.
Rental home development getting underway in Viera
BY MIKE GAFFEY
A rental home community under construction in Viera should welcome its first tenants by year’s end.
The Landings at Viera, a 207-unit development on 49 acres at Pineda Boulevard and Stadium Parkway, offers families who are not ready or can’t afford to buy a home in Viera a chance to live in the growing master planned community.
“We expect to have the first move-ins before the end of the year,” said Chip Bryan, the managing director of Condev Communities LLC, a family-owned real estate development company in Winter Park.
The subdivision will have 154 two-story townhomes with one- or two-car garages and 53 single-family detached homes with twocar garages. The houses, which will be situated around a man-made lake, will be constructed by Viera Builders under contract with Condev.
Homes will range in size from 1,300 to 1,900 square feet, with two to four bedrooms, private driveways and fenced-in backyards. Monthly rents will be from the low $2,000s to the mid-$3,000s, Bryan said.
The rentals will feature an “old Florida coastal style” architectural design and will blend in with nearby homes, Bryan said.
“When you're going to drive through it, you're not
going to be able to tell any difference between it and a community with homes for sale,” he said. “The home sizes, the look and the feel of it, the way the landscape packages are done. You can already see the landscape buffers and the signage that are in. It’s all being done to the same standards that Viera imposes community wide.”
As homes grow more expensive, Built to Rent communities such as The Landings are springing up across Florida, Bryan said. “There is a demand,” he said. “It’s become a very viable housing segment.”
Potential renters could be people relocating to Viera who need time to figure out what neighborhood they want to live in, or homebuyers who
must wait many months until their new home is built, Bryan said.
“You see both of those things, what we call the test drive and the waiting period resident,” he explained. “And then you get people who are, for whatever reason, not wanting to commit to a home purchase. And so they rent and they’re referred to as renters by choice. And that’s a growing segment of the population and that’s across all demographics. You see that with young, single professionals. You see it with early-stage married couples, you see it with families and you see it with empty nesters just choosing to rent.”
A professional management company with an onsite office will install and maintain all home appliances and handle landscaping, Bryan said. Trash pickup is included in the monthly rent, and amenities include a clubhouse with an airconditioned gathering room, a community pool, a large lanai, an outdoor kitchen, a tot lot and a dog park.
“We're really excited about the location,” Bryan said. “You’ve got Del Webb at Viera across the street.
You’ve got Rise Viera senior living apartments cattycorner. You’ve got Viera Elementary School here, a fire station across the street and a charter school and daycare.
“The whole section here in south Viera is really blowing up and I think it's going to be a great area. It’s also very quick and easy to get to Interstate 95.”
Bryan, who said The Landings is Viera’s first single-family home community for renters, foresees success for the new development.
“It's definitely something you're going to see around for the long term, not just in Viera, but everywhere in Florida and nationwide,” he said. “With the current cost of housing, it's not quite as easy for people early in their career to purchase a home. So I think you’ll see people spending longer periods of time in a rental setting. You get all of the benefits of owning a home without having to actually purchase it.” For more information, go to condevfl. com or call 407-679-1748. VV
Jewelry Appraisals for Seniors
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.
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• Over 50 years of experience
Estate & liquidation guidance
• Accurate valuations for insurance coverage
• On-site & in-home services available
• Estate & liquidation guidance
Guiding you with Expertise and Integrity
VIERA VOICE Mike Gaffey
The Landings at Viera rental community will feature 207 single-family homes and townhomes on 49 acres at Pineda Boulevard and Stadium Parkway.
VIERA VOICE Courtesy of Condev Communities LLC
Rental homes at The Landings at Viera will feature an old Florida coastal style architectural design.
PEOPLE ON THE MOVE
Meeta Gandhi has been named the chief operations officer for Orlando Health Melbourne Hospital.
Gandhi will oversee the hospital's operations, providing leadership in the development of programs and services that meet the
Mariela Brown has been a sales specialist at Urban Prime Marketplace & Restaurant at 2435 Metfield Drive in Viera for the past two months.
Rachel Langenohl is a certified End of Life Doula (companion) with Sacred Time.
Langenohl offers companionship and presence; advanced planning; spiritual support; education and resources; legacy projects; vigil and bereavement for people
needs of patients, physicians and team members in Orlando Health’s East Region.
Gandhi joined Orlando Health earlier this year from Novant Health Presbyterian Medical Center in Charlotte, North Carolina, where as director of operations she led various growth and renovation projects, as well as the management of ancillary services.
Currently pursuing her doctorate in Health Administration from the Medical University of South Carolina, Gandhi is an active member of the American College of Healthcare Executives (ACHE) and has served as a board member and volunteer in community organizations. VV
“I help with the catering, gift baskets and being a curator for inviting people to hold their events with us,’’ said Brown, a native of Maryland who has lived in Viera for the past 18 years. “I like to put together and host office banquets and employee lunches. It’s fantastic being an event planner.’’
She loves working for Ercan Ekinci, the owner and chef of Urban Prime.
“Ercan has an amazing passion for everything at Urban Prime,’’ Brown said. “He has his finger in everything with such a passion for food and his customers.’’ VV
nearing the end of life with a terminal illness.
“I feel humbled and privileged each time I can walk alongside someone who is terminally ill and help them and their loved ones find peace and even joy in this journey,’’ Langenohl, a Brevard County resident wrote.
Prior to receiving a certificate as an End of Life Doula from the University of Vermont’s Larner College of Medicine, Langenohl worked as a hospice volunteer coordinator. She trained and supervised volunteers and matched them with patients.
For information, call 608-577-5076, email sacredtimefl@gmail.com or check out sacredtime.net VV
VIERA MEANS BUSINESS
For an invitation to the September VMB meeting, call 321-242-1235.
In August, the Viera Means Business networking group met at the new Fifth Third Bank in Addison Square.
The Viera Means Business networking group meets at 8 a.m. the second Thursday of each month at various locations. Join business colleagues in Viera and the surrounding area to network.
VIERA MEANS BUSINESS
SUDOKU
NE
HOW TO SOLVE A SUDOKU PUZZLE:
Each row, each column and each 3 x 3 square must contain the numbers 1 to 9 in any order. The solution is on page 34.
Rachel Langenohl
Mariela Brown
Meeta Gandhi
Ron Burford, Jeff Law
Kelly Riese, Mariela Brown
Jill Blue, Robert Allen
Eva Rey, Teri Hirsch, Dana Vinci, Carmen Vastola
Jenee Krzyston, Ariel Hodges, Anastasia Regnier, Laura Sayer
Employees from the Fifth Third Bank enjoyed hosting VMB.
Hello September
1 2
Summer Jazz 4 p.m. A concert by the Brevard Brass Quintet.
Rockledge Presbyterian Church 931 Rockledge Drive Rockledge, 321-482-6948
Kids Fall Workshops 9:30 - 11 a.m. For kids 3 to 10 years old. The topic is Bird Nerds. Florida Wildlife Hospital 4560 N. Highway 1 Palm Shores, 321-254-8843
Painting with Pearl 10 a.m. - noon An instructor-led watercolor or acrylic painting class. Cocoa Library 308 Forrest Ave. Cocoa, 321-806-3760
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Butterfly Appreciation Day
10 a.m. - noon Presentations and a guided walk to look for butterflies, caterpillars and chrysalis. Brevard Discovery Garden 365 Lake Drive Cocoa, 321-633-1702
Sip & Smoke 5:30 p.m. Cigars and spirits on the patio.
28 North Gastropub 2250 Town Center Ave. Viera, 321-241-1159
Paint it Purple: A Night for Alzheimer’s 5 - 7 p.m. An evening of painting, supping and raising funds. One Senior Place 8085 Spyglass Hill Road Viera, 321-751-6771
Day
Friday Night Karaoke 6 - 10 p.m. Hook & Eagle Tavern 2300 Clubhouse Drive Viera, 321-639-3487
September Starry Nights Earth, Wind & Fire music video plus a star-worthy art-theme project. $35 per person includes wine and snacks.
Galleria of Art and Photography 7720 N. Wickham Road, Suite 107 Suntree, 321-338-9787
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Grandparents Day
Sunset in the Hollows
6 – 8 p.m.
Walk the trails around the old basins and have a chance to observe Gopher tortoises and other animals.
Hundred Acre Hollows 1170 Rock Spring Drive Suntree, hundredacrehollows.org
The Bear Necessities: A Black Bear Talk
2 - 3 p.m.
Presentation by the Brevard Zoo. One Senior Place 8085 Spyglass Hill Road Viera, 321-751-6771
Monday Fun Run
6 p.m.
Two-mile run, or walk.
Pizza Gallery 2250 Town Center Ave. Viera, 321-633-0397
Ikebana
1 - 3 p.m.
Japanese flower arrangements. Suntree Viera Library 902 Jordan Blass Drive Suntree, 321-255-4404
Caft Cocktail Clash 4: Surf & Turf/Gray Whale
Gin
6 - 9 p.m.
Brevard's best bartender battle.
28 North Gastropub 2250 Town Center Ave. Viera, 321-241-1159
World Trade Center Memorial 10 a.m. - 7 p.m.
Flowers and flags will be provided for guests to leave at the site or take with them in memory of the fallen. The Avenue Viera 2261 Town Center Ave. Viera, 321-634-5390
Stillness and Strokes Simple, gilded meditation and Balli Ho rhythmic music. Paint mandala art on canvas. $25 per person includes wine and snacks.
Galleria of Art and Photography 7720 N. Wickham Road, Suite 107 Suntree, 321-338-9787
Politics, Religion and Society 11:30 a.m. An expert panel hosted by the League of Women Voters. Suntree Country Club 300 Country Club Drive Suntree, 440-665-4782
Viera East Farmers Market
10 a.m. - 2 p.m. Woodside Park 1705 Crane Creek Blvd. Viera, Facebook.com
National Pet Memorial Day
Talk to a Master Gardener
1 - 3 p.m.
Master Gardeners will be on hand in the lobby with answers, hints, tips and brochures.
Cocoa Public Library 308 Forrest Ave. Cocoa, 321-633-1792
National Double Cheesburger Day
Flower Heads
Multimedia Painting Class 5 - 7 p.m.
Galleria of Art and Photography 7720 N. Wickham Road, #107 Suntree, 321-338-9787
Guacamole Day
The Launchpad of Tomorrow with The Space Coast EDC 10 - 11 a.m.
Presentation on the EDC’s mission to secure the economic future of Brevard County. One Senior Place 8085 Spyglass Hill Road Viera, 321-751-6771
Plan Ahead for Peace of Mind: Legal Steps for the Dementia Journey 10 - 11 a.m.
Presented by Ruth Rhodes P.A., elder law attorney. One Senior Place 8085 Spyglass Hill Road Viera, 321-751-6771
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Painting with a Purpose 6 - 8 p.m. Fundraiser The Arc of Space Coast 1700 Cedar Street Rockledge, 321-690-3464
Third Thursdays 5 - 8 p.m. The Avenue Viera 2261 Town Center Ave. Viera, 321-634-5390
National Centenarians Day
Bunco for Boobies
1 - 4 p.m.
100% of the proceeds go to the American Cancer Society. Wickham Park Senior Center 2785 Leisure Way Melbourne 321-255-4494
Scottish Country Dancing
6:30 – 9:30 p.m.
Springs of Suntree 8300 Holiday Springs Road Suntree, 321-427-3587
Early Bird Trivia
4 - 6 p.m.
Pizza Gallery 2250 Town Center Ave. Viera, 321-633-0397
Coin Talk
6 - 8 p.m.
Talk to our local American Numismatic.
Suntree/Viera Library 902 Jordan Blass Drive Suntree, 321-255-4404
28 29 30
"Finlandia: Songs of Heart and Homeland"
3 p.m. Presented by the Central Florida Winds.
Suntree United Methodist Church 7400 N. Wickham Road Suntree, 321-405-2359
POW/ MIA Recognition Day
Pepperoni Pizza Day Air Force Birthday
Beethoven’s Triple 7 - 9 p.m.
Concert presented by the Space Coast Symphony. Scott Center 5625 Holy Trinity Drive Suntree, 855-252-7276
Platinum Coast Amateur Society 9 a.m. - noon.
Suntree/Viera Library 902 Jordan Blass Drive Suntree, 321-255-4404
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Daughters Day
Pancake Day National VFW Day
Make and Take - Roll on Perfumes 1 - 2 p.m.
Make and take home three roll-on perfumes. All ingredients provided, recipe and guidance, fun and informative.
Suntree/Viera Library
Book Club
10 - 11:30 a.m.
The book being discussed is Lula Dean’s "Little Library of Banned Books" by Kirsten Miller.
Suntree/Viera Library 902 Jordan Blass Drive Suntree, 321-255-4404
Estate Planning 10 a.m.
Presented by elder law attorney William A. Johnson.
One Senior Place 8085 Spyglass Hill Road Viera, 321-751-6771
Cuban Dinner and Conversation 6 p.m.
Fundraiser for Cuban partner churches, with music and keynote speaker.
Suntree United Methodist Church 7400 N. Wickham Road
Suntree, 321-242-2585
Denim & Gold 2025 6:30 p.m.
Buffet dinner, drinks, casino games, live music and raffles. This event benefits Central Florida children battling cancer. Space Coast Convention Center 301 Tucker Lane Cocoa, 321-302-6011
National Love People Day
Introduction to Meditation 2 p.m.
Learn easy-to-follow techniques you can use daily to enhance your mental and physical health.
One Senior Place 8085 Spyglass Hill Road Viera, 973-607-7996 Gold Star Mother's and Father's Day
Suntree/Viera Library 902 Jordan Blass Drive Suntree, 321-255-4404
Publix files permits for store across from Costco in Viera
BY MIKE GAFFEY
Plans for a fifth Publix Super Market in the VieraSuntree area await approval from a state environmental agency.
Publix filed permits Aug. 14 with the St. Johns River Water Management District to build a 54,964-squarefoot store on 20.21 acres at Pineda Causeway and Lake Andrew Drive, across from Costco Wholesale in southwest Viera.
Developed by the St. Peterburg-based Sembler Company, the single-story supermarket would be the anchor for Pineda Promenade at Viera. The shopping plaza would include a 2,100-square-foot Publix Liquors store and five smaller retail businesses, according to the permits. The permits did not include the project’s construction start date or its estimated completion date.
Publix already has one supermarket in Suntree and two in rapidly growing Viera: Publix Super Market at Suntree Square at 7777 N. Wickham Road; Publix at Stadium Corners at Viera at 5380 Stadium Parkway, No. 100; and Publix at
Addison Center at Viera at 7655 Stadium Parkway. The Addison Center Publix opened in April 2024.
In February, Publix announced plans to build a fourth Viera-Suntree location at Murrell Road and Berglund Lane, just south of Viera Boulevard and east of a Winn-Dixie and a planned Whole Foods store.
The 50,325-squarefoot grocery store, which would be the 27th Publix in Brevard County, will be part of Viera Promenade retail plaza, which also will feature a 2,100-square-foot Publix Liquors, two 1,200-squarefoot retail units and an
outdoor seating area, according to Orlando-based real estate agency Crossman & Co.’s website. The plaza is set to open July 13, 2026, according to the website.
Lakeland-based Publix Super Markets operates 1,412 stores throughout the Southeast. Florida has the most stores with 880, according to the Publix website.
Other Publix stores are in Georgia, Alabama, South Carolina, Tennessee, North Carolina and Kentucky.
The supermarket chain employs about 260,000 people and is the largest employee-owned company
in the U.S. Publix is one of the 10 largest-volume supermarket chains in the U.S., with retail sales of $59.7 billion in 2024. VV
After 26 years of working inside my office, I have decided to move my office home, which means I will be providing a concierge service to you, my clients. We can meet at your clubhouse, home, a library near you or via zoom. It will be business as usual, but I will come to you instead of my office.
- Jean Paugh
Queen Elizabeth — Jan. 20 - 29, 2026
Nine night Caribbean cruise sailing to Montego Bay, Belize, Cozumel and Costa Maya. Includes bus round trip to Miami. Rates starting at $1144 pp based on double occupancy.
America’s Greatest Treasures — July 3 - 11, 2026
Celebrate America’s 250th Birthday with Jean in South Dakota. Trip begins in Rapid City, SD with a visit to Mount Rushmore, Crazy Horse and onto gold rush country. Festivities include fireworks at Mount Rushmore and Deadwood, a town in the Black Hills. Then to Cody and onto Yellowstone National Park and the Grand Teton to Jackson and finish in Salt Lake City. This trip will sell out fast.
Explora Journeys Luxury Cruises
Feb. 17 to March 1, 2027
Experience unmatched elegance with an exclusive suite upgrade and up to 25% savings on your next ocean voyage. Discover the world in true luxury. Join Jean for a stunning group journey from the Amazon to San Juan — an unforgettable cruise you won’t want to miss!
VIERA VOICE R. Norman Moody
A Publix Super Market is planned for the intersection of Pineda Causeway and Lake Andrew Drive. It will be across from Costco Wholesale.
Grades: 4 to 5, 6 to 8 and 9 to 12
VIERA/SUNTREE AREA
Go to RelationSkillsforLife.org to find out what day your Viera/Suntree school has our van at dismissal. Scholarships available
Proven to:
•
•
•
CROSSWORD
ACROSS 1. Kind of position 5. Interjects 9. Sticker 12. The America's Cup trophy, e.g. 13. Purely academic 14. Kind of deposit 15. Perfume
United
Hullabaloo 19. Rand McNally product 21. Utter
24. The "C" in U.P.C. 26. Sister Prejean, for one 27. First-rate
Come together 33. Ancient
Hot stuff 36. Econ. statistic
Cleanse
Dollop 40. "Flags Of Fathers"
41. Change for a five 43. Ill-fitting 45. Prepare for winter takeoff 48. Commotion 49. Artificial conception 50. Removes surgically
56. Garden whistler?
57. Frost lines
58. Choir attire
59. Strive
60. Cashless deal
61. Chapter 11 issue
DOWN
1. The "p" of m.p.h.
2. Have a tab
3. Was ahead 4. Wear 5. "You said it, brother!"
6. Mafia boss
7. Med school grad
8. Place
9. New Year's Day game
10. Fertilizer ingredient
11. Roulette bets
16. Turkish money
20. Pro
21. Winter forecast
22. Waikiki wiggle
23. Expires 24. Honeycomb segments
25. buco
28. Zoo feature
30. Full of zeal
31. Tight
32. Lively
35. Monastery head
38. Ad
42. Some tides
44. Cy Young, e.g.
45. Tabloid fodder
46. In any way
47. Uncertain
48. Rear
51. Do some yard work
52. Prankster's projectile
53. Little piggy
54. Subside
55. Place
Ms. Senior America pageant includes two IRCC contestants News
BY LINDA JUMP
Jane A. Hodges and Bobbie Greenawald are practicing their runway walks and defining their philosophy of life as they prepare to compete in the
2025 Ms. Senior America this month.
“This isn’t a traditional beauty contest. We were judged on our dignity, maturity and inner beauty,” said Hodges, 77. Although the women
live at Indian River Colony Club in Viera, Hodges will represent Hawaii, where she taught school. Greenawald will represent her ancestral home of Louisiana.
Both at-large contestants said those states lack
ADVENTUREAWAITS
Viera East Traveler’s Club
Thursday, September 25 • 6 p.m. Refreshments served
Brianna Keaney with Collette Tours will share our 2025-2026 Trips
VIERA EAST GOLF COURSE
Residents Clubhouse 1964 Golf Vista Blvd., Viera RSVP REQUIRED
JOIN OUR CLUB! It’s FREE and SAVE 5% OFF the Land package. RSVP 321-890-3522
state contests, so they will work to find sponsors and contestants to initiate pageants.
“I hope to go to two fairs to see if they can start a state pageant there,” Greenawald, 78, said.
Florida canceled this year’s pageant for lack of competitors.
“I said, ‘Let’s have a Florida pageant in my living room with friends' and we did, in the neighborhood clubhouse on April 8. My
husband (Dave Hutton) was the emcee. Our Ms. Senior Floridians IRCC Princess party in memory of Sybil Yocum was taped and sent to national,” Hodges said.
Based on the recording, Greenawald was invited to be an at-large contestant. Hodges was invited in 2023, after her first competition. Both women were
MS. SENIOR AMERICA
Continued on page 35
VIERA VOICE C ourtesy of Jeremiah Zeleny Viera residents Bobbie Greenawald, left, and Jane Hodges will compete in Ms. Senior America.
Counter negative effects of AI through environmental footprint
Artificial intelligence (AI) is rapidly transforming industries, making processes more efficient and even helping create plant-based alternatives to meat.
Yet, while AI has great potential for sustainability, it also comes with a cost. Training large AI models requires immense computing power, which in turn consumes huge amounts of electricity and water. Data centers rely on millions of gallons of water each day to cool servers, straining local resources in droughtprone areas. As AI use grows worldwide, so too does its environmental footprint.
This raises an important question: how can we balance the benefits of AI with the need to reduce harm to our planet?
One practical answer lies in our daily choices — specifically, what we eat. Shifting toward plantbased diets is a proven way to lower greenhouse gas emissions, conserve water and protect ecosystems. In fact, adopting vegan practices can help counterbalance some of the resource use tied
MS. SENIOR AMERICA
Continued from page 34
inspired by Yocum, who also lived in IRCC and was a longtime supporter of the Ms. Senior America program. She mentored Hodges, who is mentoring Greenawald.
The national contest for women at least 60 years old will be held Oct. 5 to 10 on the boardwalk of the Tropicana Casino and Resort in Atlantic City. During a preliminary round, contestants are scored from one to ten based upon an interview, their philosophy of life, evening gown modeling and talent. The top 10 scorers become finalists. The winner earns a small cash prize and travel stipends for appearances in children’s hospitals, schools, veteran’s facilities and groups.
“My platform is financial literacy for the elderly. Sixty percent of seniors lose their bank accounts and 67 percent are scammed out of their brokerage accounts from unscrupulous family members, caregivers and even their brokers and bankers,” Hodges said.
Her talent is Hawaiian dancing.
Greenawald plans a dramatic dialogue about her life travels.
“Life is not a dress
BEYOND the CURB
to AI and other high-tech industries.
Even small steps, like participating in Meatless Monday — skipping meat just one day a week — can make a measurable difference. Livestock farming is one of the most water- and energy-intensive industries; cutting back reduces both our personal carbon footprint and the strain on water supplies. When combined with careful technology use, lifestyle shifts such as these can create a healthier balance between innovation and sustainability.
Beyond environmental benefits, vegan diets offer significant health advantages. Studies, such as The China Study, show that plant-based eating lowers cholesterol, blood pressure and the risk of heart disease. It can
rehearsal. You must be prepared to reach out and grab the dream or possibilities before they pass you by,” she said.
Denise Russo-Caizzo, one of the co-founders of the national pageant, agreed. “Do it. Don’t let age hold you back.”
Joyce Chautice, 87, now of Cocoa Beach, was Ms. Senior America in 1999.
“It was such a terrific experience. I especially enjoyed going into nursing homes to see all the smiles I could give to residents who might not have visitors.”
After attending a Texas modeling school while teaching, Greenawald taught for the Department of Defense for 28 years in Korea, the Philippines, Italy and Belgium. She is the president of Army Women’s Club and a fundraiser for veterans programs.
Hodges earned two doctoral degrees, her second at age 68 from Emory University School of Law. She has traveled and worked in more than 90 countries, after starting her career as an elementary teacher in Hawaii. She was a university professor and consultant and later a public relations director for NASA, assisting with 50 launches. She is also an author of workbooks integrating aerospace into curricula and a published photographer VV
support weight management, stabilize blood sugar and reduce the risk of certain cancers.
Nutrient-rich vegan meals are typically higher in fiber, antioxidants and vitamins while being lower in saturated fats — contributing to both personal well being and long-term health.
Balance is a key here, too. Just as AI needs responsible oversight, a vegan diet simply benefits from variety and awareness. A mix of fruits, vegetables, legumes, grains, nuts and seeds provides all the essentials for long-term health. Nutrients such as B12 or vitamin D can be easily
obtained through fortified foods or supplements — something many people already use regardless of diet. With mindful choices, vegan eating is both simple and rewarding, offering profound health and environmental benefits. This fall, Recycle Brevard is offering an opportunity to explore intersections like these, of technology, health and sustainability, in a group setting.
Join us for “A World of Health: Connecting People, Place and Planet” — a discussion course scheduled for October and November at the Brevard Zoo. The course
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
PET HEALTH
Use Happy Jack® KetoWipes for dual-action antibacterial and antifungal properties — ideal for managing skin conditions in dogs, cats, and horses without steroids.
Amber Acres Feed. Call 321-632- 3333
No license required. If you have a kind heart, clean-driving record and a clear background, this could be the dignified, rewarding, low-stress opportunity you’ve been looking for.
Viera, FL 32940 — Call 321-253-6336
will be from 6 to 8 p.m. for seven Thursdays starting Oct. 2. To learn more and register, check out a-world-of-health. eventbrite.com/
Together we will reflect on how personal choices, from the food we eat to the technologies we use, connect to the health of our communities and our planet. VV
Email Marcia Booth at Marcia@RecycleBrevard.org
Recycle Brevard is an independent nonprofit organization 100% run by volunteers focused on reducing waste and promoting sustainable living.
