Viera Voice, September 2024

Parking tradition

2024 SCARECROW STROLL Coming October 3 to 17 See story, page 33

page 18

It's Time to build

’crows!

SEPTEMBER 2024

Vol. 16 Issue 8

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Veteran prepares for Women’s Amputee World Cup

BY MARIA SONNENBERG Picking up gold and silver medals in cycling and swimming and then pivoting to climb Mount Kilimanjaro and to enter a major soccer competition is a formidable achievement. But doing so after the amputation of a leg and part of the pelvis elevates this already outstanding accomplishment into the realm of the truly awe inspiring.

Viera resident Sarah Evans did just that.

The Citadel graduate was 27 years old and serving in Kabul, Afghanistan, when she started experiencing discomfort with her left hip. The diagnosis was Stage 3 bone cancer.

(Evans) also climbed Mount Kilimanjaro, the highest single free-standing mountain in the world, and participated in the Bataan Memorial Death March, which involved 14.2 and 26.2 mile courses.

“My only chance for survival was amputation,” said Evans, who had half of her pelvis and her entire leg surgically removed.

Evans’ degree of amputation, and the tremendous challenges it presents, is very unusual.

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“Only about 1 percent of amputees have this level of amputation, which removed all three weightbearing joints,” she said.

While recuperating at the Center for the Intrepid at Brooke Army Medical Center, Evans was introduced to adaptive sports, including surfing, competitive swimming and hand cycling, which utilizes a bike powered by the arms instead of the legs.

“Sports gave me focus and goals,” she said.

She enjoyed surfing, but really took to swimming, winning silver in the sport at the Warrior Games, a multi-sport event for wounded, injured or ill military service members

ATHLETE

Continued to page 6

VIERA VOICE Jill Blue

Viera veteran Sarah Evans is headed to the Women's Amputee World Cup in Barranquilla, Colombia in November.

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Iowa natives love, appreciate all that Viera lifestyle offers

BY CAMERON COUNTRYMAN Eric and Jennifer Roggatz sit in the front of their golf cart as they ride home from the Addison Village Club pool on a sunny Saturday morning.

Paige, 8, and Piper, 4, sit in the backseat, wrapped in towels while their blonde hair drips with water from the pool. Paige is enjoying her weekend off from third grade and Piper from preschool.

Eric and Jennifer Roggatz met while in school at Iowa State University. Both were studying to become engineers and noticed each other on campus and rode the same bus multiple times.

One night, they ended up sitting at adjacent tables and Jennifer’s friend passed Jennifer’s number to Eric.

They went on a date the next night.

“ You can't beat the lifestyle here.”

— Jennifer Roggatz

Jennifer is from Ames, Iowa, and Eric is from a small town near Sioux City, Iowa. Both of their families still live in Iowa, and they visit them as much as possible.

Eric’s engineering career brought the family to Viera. He accepted a job at Northrop Grumman in 2019.

The family moved to West Melbourne in May of 2020.

“There was a lot of stress going into that move,” Eric Roggatz said.

The Roggatz family lived in West Melbourne for a year, but “quickly decided that wasn’t the place for them.”

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Eric and Jennifer Roggatz have enjoyed living in Viera with their children, Paige and Piper.

getting to watch more than 200 rocket launches.

Jennifer Roggatz is a civil engineer for Jacobs Engineering. Like her father, she is in road design.

Jennifer mainly designs roads in Iowa, Wisconsin and Nebraska. However, she designed the roadway approaches for a future road on Merritt Island called Sea Ray Drive. “(Road design) is a way for me to create something

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Viera Voice | September 2024

without being creative,” Jennifer said, “I’ve always loved creating things.”

Paige is a Girl Scout and plays softball. Eric has coached her softball team for the past two seasons and hopes to continue coaching.

He owns a 3D printer and prints a keepsake for the softball kids every year. A 3D-printed Epcot, complete with color-changing lights, sits in their living room.

The family spends about one day a month at Disney World, and Jennifer Roggatz runs half-marathons at

Disney, occasionally making Eric tag along.

The Roggatz’s priorities are their children, their marriage, and going to church — Faith Viera Lutheran Church.

They miss Iowa, especially the seasons.

“I’d move back, but it would be hard to do so,” Eric Roggatz said. “It seems like we’d have to give up so much — the lifestyle here is so good.”

“You can’t beat the lifestyle here,” Jennifer Roggatz agreed. VV

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Viera Voice | September 2024

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321 Nest's milk bank is a lifesaver for premature babies

BY CAMERON COUNTRYMAN Viera resident Ashley Long — a mother of three, opens the trunk of her car to reveal two large coolers.

She lugs the coolers up the ramp of 321 Nest. Once inside, Long fills a chest Volume 16, Issue 8 freezer with the contents of her coolers — 600 ounces of ©2024 Bluewater frozen breast milk.

Creative Group, Inc. Long has been donating All rights reserved her breast milk to Mothers’ VIERA VOICE Cameron Countryman Milk Bank of Florida, a Bluewater Creative Group Ashley Long has given nonprofit organization that 321-242-1235 generously to 321 Nest. aims to provide safe human 7350 Shoppes Dr. Suite 102 donor milk for babies in Viera, FL 32940 their milk goes like a “pizza need, since her first child was media@bluewatercreativegroup.com tracker.” born.

Donated human milk is She found out about given to babies who have a Mothers’ Milk Bank of Florida Publisher physician’s prescription for it. from her friends who had Bluewater Creative There is a constant need for preterm babies who needed Group, Inc. human milk, and it is not easy donor human milk. to fill it.

Ninety-six percent of Managing Editor Approximately 10 % of Mothers’ Milk Bank of Jill Blue babies are born prematurely, Florida’s mission targets sick yet only 0.2 percent of Assignment Editor preterm babies. mothers who are breastR. Norman Moody If these babies do not feeding qualify to be a donor. receive human milk, they are Office Manager Mothers interested in likely to develop necrotizing Sylvia Montes donating can call the nearest enterocolitis (NEC). NEC is milk drop depot and then go Copy Editor a devastating illness that through a series of “nosy” Jeff Navin could lead to infants needing interviews and some lab significant surgeries or even testing to qualify to be a Sports Writer/SportsBlog death.

VIERA MEANS donor.

Carl Kotala Donor human milk is aBUSINESS “The hardest part is NETWORKING GROUP lifesaver for many premature Art Department getting all the paperwork in,” babies.

Jorjann Blake Long said.

VIERA MEANS “(Human milk) is not just If you are a mother who nice to have, it’s a need to Interns has more milk than your have,” Mothers’ Milk Bank N E T W Countryman ORKING GROUP Cameron baby needs, call 321 Nest at of Florida’s Director of 407-248-5050. It is located Writers/Reporters Community Engagement and VIERA VOICE Cameron Countryman at 360 Tangerine Avenue on Ernie Dorling 321 Nest volunteer Laene Ashley Long delivers her frozen breast milk to 321 Nest to be used for Merritt Island. VV Keith said.

Mike Gaffey sick, premature babies.

321 Nest is one of three Linda Jump dozen milk drop depots in Elaine Moody Florida. Milk drop depots are • Are you too nice and wish you could say Madison Resnick RECONNECT • REBUILD • RENEW VIERA MEANSoff BUSINESS NETWORKING GROUP “no” more often, but fear holds you back? places for mothers to drop Maria Sonnenberg VIERA MEANS BUSINESS NETWORKING GROUP their frozen breast milk and • Are you a people pleaser that always puts make room for ice cream in your needs last? the freezer.

Brevard County welcomedANS B Dr. Gloria Rivera King • Want to start setting boundaries but don’t U E S 321 Nest in February 2020.

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Long’s N The entire contents of this newspaper are E U 321-956-9477 TW O copyrighted by VIERA VOICE with exceptional 600-ounce I’m just a phone call or click away.

O R R KIN G G BUSINESS drgloriariveraking.com all rights reserved. donation alone will provide VIERA VOICE is not liable for errors or omissions 1,800 first feedings.

2328 Medico Lane, Melbourne 32940 in editorial, advertorial or advertising materials.

“We have been overjoyed Distribution of this newspaper does not constitute Corner of Stadium Parkway and Wickham Rd. (Located inside the Professional Center) an endorsement of products or services herein. and overwhelmed with the Reproduction or use without permission, of support for donor human editorial or graphic content in any manner is prohibited. milk on the Space Coast,” Keith said.

321 Nest is a standalone building but many milk drop depots are in hospitals.

Milk is stored in a freezer at depots and then sent to Mothers’ Milk Bank of Florida in Orlando.

At the milk bank, milk is processed and distributed to babies who need it. About 90 % of the milk goes to Facebook LIVE neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) babies in hospitals LOCATED IN THE HEART OF VIERA! all around Florida. Long appreciates that donor mothers can track where P

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Viera Voice | September 2024

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Brevard pays tribute — 9-11 ceremonies and remembrance Brevard County will remember 9-11 with various Patriot Day tributes and ceremonies being held throughout the county.

It is the 23rd Patriot Day, a time to remember the nearly 3,000 lives lost in the terrorist attacks of Sept.

11, 2001 and others lost as a result of war and illness related to the attacks.

SEPTEMBER 7 Rockledge 9 a.m. — The City of Rockledge will hold a 9-11 Remembrance Ceremony Sept. 7 at the Civic Hub at 530 Barton Avenue. The ceremony will include guest speakers and music.

Melbourne Melbourne 9/11 Memorial 5K 7:30 a.m.

Eau Gallie Square 1453 Highland Ave.

SEPTEMBER 8 Palm Bay 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb 4 p.m. — gates open 5 p.m. — Step-off Join the Palm Bay firefighters and climb 110 stories in remembrance of the heroes lost on 9/11.

Heritage High Stadium 2351 Malabar Road

SEPTEMBER 11 Merritt Island 5:30 p.m. — 23rd Anniversary Memorial Tribute and Patriot Day Ceremony at the Brevard Veterans Memorial Center Plaza at 400 S. Sykes Creek Parkway on Merritt Island.

The event is sponsored

by Club 1013, retired NYPD officers and FDNY firefighters, many of whom were in New York City on Sept. 11, 2001.

It is also supported by the Veterans Memorial Center and Military Officers Association of America Cape Canaveral chapter’s Good Deeds Foundation.

Citizens of Brevard are asked to join in remembering the firefighters, police officers, civilians and military who lost their lives in the terrorist attacks.

Palm Bay 8:30 to 9:30 a.m. — Patriot Day Remembrance Ceremony The ceremony will begin at 8:30 a.m. sharp. It will feature guest speakers.

Veterans Memorial Park 2201 Port Malabar Blvd. NE Viera 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. — Guests are welcome to pay their respects for the lives lost on

September 11, 2001, at The Avenue Viera’s World Trade Center memorial site. The site has part of a steel beam

from the World Trade Center, across from AMC Theatres.

Guests can visit any time during operating hours.

Flowers and flags available for guests to leave at the site or take with them in memory of the fallen. VV

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Viera Voice | September 2024

5

“Sports gave me focus and goals.”

— Sarah Evans

VIERA VOICE Jill Blue

While recuperating at the Center for the Intrepid at Brooke Army Medical Center at Fort Sam Houston in Texas, Sarah Evans was introduced to adaptive sports.

ATHLETE

Continued from 1

VIERA VOICE Jill Blue

Sarah Evans, a graduate of The Citadel, was 27 years old when she was diagnosed with Stage 3 bone cancer.

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Viera Voice | September 2024

and veterans. She also gravitated to hand cycling, and so excelled in the sport that she traveled to London as part of Team USA for the inaugural Invictus Games, the international multisport event first held in 2014. Evans left London with a gold medal for her cycling.

Oh, yeah, she also climbed Mount Kilimanjaro, the highest single free-standing mountain in the world, and participated in the

The American Amputee Soccer Association welcomes tax-deductible donations to help the women’s team participate in the Women’s Amputee World Cup. For more information, visit usampsoccer.org.

Bataan Memorial Death March, which involved 14.2 and 26.2 mile courses.

How did she manage all this with only one leg? She credits her freedom to SideStix forearm crutches. The custom-fit, carbon fiber mobility aids provided Evans with the support and comfort she needed to continue her journey. The spirit to compete is 100 percent her own.

A year ago, Evans was encouraged to try out for Team USA at the inaugural Women’s Amputee Soccer World Cup. “I absolutely loved it,” said Evans, who was part of the U.S. Women’s Amputee Soccer team that competed against Poland in the first international women’s amputee soccer match in 2023. This year, she is heading to Barranquilla, Colombia, where 12 teams from around the globe will compete in the Women’s Amputee Soccer World Cup this November.

“Sarah is an astonishing example of how far perseverance and dedication can take you” noted the American Amputee Soccer Association.

When not competing, Evans is busy as a trainer at Trinity Fitness in Indian Harbour Beach and being a mother to active eight- and six-year-olds, born to Evans and helicopter pilot husband Joe after her amputation.

“To be honest, I don’t think about the amputation,” she said. VV

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HOW THOUSANDS OF BREVARD RESIDENTS HAVE FOUND BACK PAIN RELIEF Are you tired of living with back pain that won’t let you do the things you once enjoyed?

Have you tried everything and found no relief?

It is time to consider an alternative that has worked for thousands of other Brevard county residents. Dr. Andrea Izquierdo, LAc, of Bodhi TCM Acupuncture, offers an innovative approach to healing.

Imagine waking up free from back pain. You are able to enjoy your life, have more energy, sleep better, and do the things you love. These are the types of results and success stories patients at Bodhi TCM experience each week.

Success stories like Sher K. from Melbourne:

Continuing to struggle with chronic pain does not have to be part of your life. Even after years of finding no hope, going through surgeries, steroid shots, prescriptions and even procedures like kyphoplasty, patients are still able to obtain great results. Like Rachael G. of Viera who shares:

"After three days of severe back pain, I was ready to go to the ER. I couldn't sit, stand, or lie down without pain. Luckily, I got a lastminute appointment with Dr. Andrea. With her course of treatment, I felt significant relief. My back is stronger than ever, and even "She has given me results after my shoulder pain and foot tingling just a few sessions, whereas other have improved. I highly recommend doctors have literally just shrugged anyone in pain to see her." at me and said they didn't know what else they could do for me These amazing results are due to beyond a prescription. She is their personalized treatment thorough and truly listens.” protocols, which address the root cause of back pain by blending Continuing to live in pain is not Traditional Chinese Medicine with only frustrating but also costly. The their own Cellular BioModulation time and the emotional toll of Therapy. ongoing pain adds up. It is proven that chronic pain becomes worse “Everyone is different, even if two over time, making it harder to patients have the same back pain treat.Delaying treatment means diagnosis, the approach needs to extending your suffering. be unique to truly address the root cause.” - Dr. Andrea explains Don’t waste another day of your “Thats why all of our protocols are life in pain. Take the first step personalized. During our and call today to setup a comprehensive consultation we go consultation and find out how over medical history, lifestyle and you can too be pain free! health goals. If I can help, I will tell the patient exactly what it takes to help them achieve their health goals.”

Dr. Andrea continues: “Once we get started, the best part is that our treatments are very relaxing. Most patients fall asleep and do not want to leave the office.”

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Meet the DOCTOR Dr. Andrea Izquierdo, LAc. Started Bodhi TCM Acupuncture in 2017 with the purpose of bringing a different type of healing to the Space Coast.

She completed her Premedicine studies at the University of Florida, and her Acupuncture Physician degree at FCIM in Orlando. She is nationally Board Certified and has studied overseas at the 301 hospital in Beijing China as well as Tibet.

Having performed over 15,000 treatments at her practice, she has helped thousands of Brevard County residents with seemingly hopeless Chronic and complex conditions.

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Viera Voice | September 2024

7

p U p a r SPORTS W VIERA VOICE Courtesy of Tony Gulla

After having only one pure quarterback in the program last year, the Viera Hawks now have six. Pictured from left to right are freshman Sebastian Troyan; sophomore Robbie Blalock; junior Eric Nelson; QB coach and JV offensive coordinator Steve Blackmore; freshman Mikkel Zades; freshman Luke Moss and freshman Grady Tipps.

Being flush with quarterbacks is nice problem for Hawks to have

BY CARL KOTALA Talk about a nice problem to have.

Last year, Viera High had just one pure quarterback in the entire program.

Now, the Hawks have six. And four of them are freshmen.

“It’s definitely different

to me,” sophomore Robbie Blalock said. “I’ve never been around that many quarterbacks. It’s cool to teach them and learn from them. Everybody’s good at different things.”

Blalock, who transferred to Viera from Winter Park, is one of two quarterbacks on this year’s varsity roster.

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Junior Eric Nelson is the starter.

Last year, when Viera quarterback Chase Cromartie was injured in the final game of the season against Titusville, Nelson moved from wide receiver to fill in as the Hawks’ emergency quarterback.

With Cromartie announcing he was moving to Georgia last spring, Nelson has embraced the role of Viera’s new signal caller, working with a quarterback trainer and throwing to his receivers during the summer.

“It’s a big learning curve, but I knew I needed to step up to help the team win,” Nelson said. “What I think I’ve developed my best is my throwing. Obviously, in the Titusville game, I threw an interception and a completion.

“From then to now, I think my throwing has been my greatest improvement. I obviously can still run. I’ve been able to read defenses … play quarterback like a quarterback should play, not just be a runner getting thrown in there. It’s been great.”

While Viera will certainly rely much more on its

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Viera Voice | September 2024

“Going into next spring, we’ll start really evaluating (freshmen quarterbacks).

But right now, we’re just developing.”

— Tony Gulla, Viera football coach

running game with Nelson at quarterback, his 30-yard completion to wide receiver Cooper Keith in the Viera Kickoff Classic against Palm Bay should be a warning to opponents who don’t respect Nelson’s ability to throw the ball.

Blalock, on the other hand, is more of a pure passer who can run when he has to. Viera coach Tony Gulla said the Hawks will have some spread formation packages for Blalock this season, which will create headaches for opponents facing Viera’s versatile offensive sets.

How well Nelson and Blalock improve during the course of the season will go a long way in determining how far the Hawks will go this year, but there’s an excitement in the program that hasn’t been felt in a while.

A big reason for that is the quartet of Sebastian Troyan, Mikkel Zades, Luke Moss and Grady Tipps, who are all freshmen quarterbacks who will be playing on the JV team.

“The problem isn’t so much the varsity, because we’re OK,” Gulla said. “Eric is No. 1 and Robbie is No. 2. The problem is going

to be how are we going to get enough playing time for all of the four freshmen quarterbacks. But that’s up to (QB coach/JV offensive coordinator) Coach (Steve) Blackmore.”

Gulla, who has a lot of experience as a quarterback coach himself, said that while there will obviously come a time when a pecking order will be established among the four … that time is not now.

“You can’t tell what’s going to happen to a ninth grader between ninth grade and 10th grade,” Gulla said. “My thing, and Coach Blackmore’s thing … we tell them all the time … right now, we’re not evaluating them as quarterbacks. We’re just trying to develop them.

“Going into next spring, we’ll start really evaluating them. But right now, we’re just developing.”

With a number of talented wide receivers also on the JV team, and 46 freshmen and 32 sophomores among the 127 kids in the program overall, the future of Viera football is looking bright.

“There’s going to be some fun stuff coming down the pipeline,” Gulla said.

VV

Neighbors of Suntree kick off its 40th anniversary Join the Neighbors of Suntree as it begins the 2024-2025 season on Thursday, Sept. 26 with a celebratory Welcome Coffee at the Suntree Country Club.

Meet fellow neighbors and learn more about planned activities. The organization consists of more than 300 members.

RSVP at neighborsofsuntree.org. The cost is $15 a person.

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Join Us!

Sept. 18, 2 - 4 p.m.

July 11, 2 - 4 p.m.

Rhodes Law, PA Elder Law Seminar Movie Matinee RSVP RSVP required.

One Senior Place, 80858085 Spyglass Hill Road One Senior Place, Spyglass Hill Road Viera, 321-751-6771 Viera, 321-751-6771

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July 17, 10 a.m.

Estate and Medicaid Planning — Get Your Plan in Order!

Oct. 16, 10 a.m.

This seminar will discuss the basics of estate and Rhodes Law, PA Elder Law Seminar Medicaid planning. Presented by Ruth C. Rhodes, RSVP Esq. and Jackie McManus. RSVP One Place, 8085 Spyglass Hill Road OneSenior Senior Place, 8085 Spyglass Hill Road Viera, Viera,321-751-6771 321-751-6771

SENIOR LIFE • JULY 2024 2024 Viera Voice | September

59

Viera football will be powered by strong defense, new-look offense

BY CARL KOTALA There’s a very simple, but important philosophy that has permeated the Viera High School football program under head coach Tony Gulla.

“It all goes back to, hey, we have no superstars here.

We’ve got a bunch of kids who are going to work real hard and do what they have to do to help us win games,” Gulla said.

With a veteran defense that returns nearly every starter from last season and a new-look offense powered by one of the biggest offensive lines the Hawks have had in quite some time, Viera could be in a position to win enough games to get back into the playoffs for the first time since 2021.

Junior Eric Nelson has moved from wide receiver

VIERA VOICE Courtesy of Nichole Aehle

The Viera Hawks have a number of versatile players on their roster this season, including senior tight end/halfback Jack Hancock, who is a very skilled blocker in addition to being a solid receiver.

VIERA VOICE Courtesy of Nichole Aehle

The Viera Hawks have always been known as a team that likes to throw the ball … a lot. But this year, expect to see Viera relying much more on its running game with the help of senior running back Kimahre Ingram, center.

to quarterback, giving Viera more of a run-based attack rather than in years past

when the Hawks would throw easily between 30 to 40 passes a game. However, with

sophomore transfer Robbie Blalock — who is more of a traditional passer — expected to see time this season (with Nelson moving back to receiver), there will still be times when the Hawks will look to spread out opposing defenses.

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Viera Voice | September 2024

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That combination could make the Hawks a tough team to prepare for down the road.

Senior running backs Ryan Boobar and Kimahre Ingram will lead Viera’s ground game behind an offensive line that includes sophomore Coby Wallace (6-foot-4, 265 pounds); senior left guard Mike Najdawi (6-5, 345); senior center Finn Goldinger (6-0, 250); sophomore right guard Sam Cardona (6-0, 260) and sophomore right tackle Max Kukuljica (5-10, 210).

Senior Cooper Keith will be at wide receiver along with senior Nnamdi Osuorah, junior Jonah Woodruff and freshman Tim Sedaros. Senior Jack Hancock will be the tight end/H-back.

Viera’s defensive line will feature seniors Isaac Hungerbuhler and Jaylen McCray on the outside with junior Sal Orlando and sophomore Dillon Price on the inside with help from senior Johnny Arroyo.

The Hawks have one of the best linebacker duos in the county in junior James Olson and sophomore Noah Renes. Senior Dominic Leoni will play a hybrid linebacker/ safety position backed up by senior Robbie Caruso.

Keith and senior Bobby Meyer are on the corners with Osuorah at free safety backed up by sophomore Dimitri Jean. Senior Robbie Aehle is the nickel back and junior Blake Thomas will rotate in at linebacker while also being one of the best long snappers in the country for first-year kicker Dane Boss. VV

September Football Schedule 9/6 • 7 p.m.

VHS @ Rockledge 9/13 • 7 p.m.

VHS vs Titusville

9/20 • 7 p.m.

VHS vs Tohopekaliga 9/27 • 7 p.m.

VHS @ Melbourne Central Catholic

vieravoice.com

girls respect her right away.

She cares so much about the game. She cares so much about succeeding and getting better and pushing herself and pushing her teammates.

She’s going to be a huge strength for us.

“And then, the girls really like each other, which is a good thing. It doesn’t always happen. There’s respect across the board … it’s a very collaborative (group).”

Junior returner Natalie

Ruberte steps into the libero roll for the Tigers while sophomore Kylie White is a defensive specialist and sophomore Taylor Yochim starts in the middle. Other key Tigers include: sophomore Jolie Iten (middle blocker); junior Sydney Arnold (setter/ Opp); sophomore Brooke Ellingson (outside hitter); senior Effie Emigh (setter) and sophomore Ella Morton (defensive specialist). VV

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VIERA VOICE Courtesy of Scarlett Thurmond

With seven returners, the Holy Trinity volleyball team should be pretty formidable under new head coach Kylie Kutzner. The Tigers have won 10 of the past 11 district championships

Space Coast Deck Coatings Decorative Concrete Specialists

Kutzner takes over at Holy Trinity, eyes program’s 11th district title in 12 seasons

BY CARL KOTALA The Holy Trinity volleyball program may have a new coach, but the No. 1 goal is still the same.

And the Tigers have the firepower to make it happen.

“Our No. 1 goal every season is to win districts and then to see where we go from there,” said first-year coach Kylie Kutzner, who has taken over the program following the resignation of Pete Klonowski.

“I would love to get beyond regionals. That’s been a challenge the past couple of years. Just to have a winning record would be really good. That is my goal

as a coach.”

Kutzner returns to Holy Trinity after spending the previous two seasons as an assistant coach at her alma mater, Edgewood. Previously, the 28-year-old had been Klonowski’s assistant for three seasons.

She takes over a program that has won back-to-back district championships and 10 titles in the past 11 years.

“It’s going well,” Kutzner said. “Of course, it’s a transition that’s still happening. They all know me and that’s helpful. It would have been hard for someone on the outside to come in and take over, so it’s easier than it could have been.

“Pete’s a really hard coach to follow, so (I’ve got some) really big shoes to fill.”

With seven returners, including senior middle blocker Isabelle Clark; sophomore setter Julie Watt; outside hitters Audrey Herbert (junior) and Gracin Borboroglu (sophomore) and senior opposite hitter Becca Smith, the Tigers have plenty of experience coming back.

“Having all the returners is definitely a strength,” Kutzner said. “They’re all used to playing at this level. Having Isabelle is definitely one of the best things about this team. She’s an incredible leader, an incredible motivator, and the

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Like all medical not patients are temperature suitable for for theselected treatment. A qualified practitioner is solely re Like all medical procedures, not all patients are suitable for the treatment. A qualified practitioner isThe solely responsible for25mm, evaluating subject’s suitability undergo Small 10mm, 18mm, 30mm,each and 60mm handpieces andto the FlexSure™ Applicators provide heatingprocedures, for the purpose ofall elevating tissue treatmentThe and for informing beingfor treated about any risks associated with the treatment, pre- and pos conditions such as temporary relief relevant of pain, muscle spasms,Individual and increase in local circulation. massage device those is indicated the temporary reduction in the treatment and for informing those being treated about any risks associated with the treatment, pre-medical and postoperative care, and any other information. vary andincluding are not urologic, guaranteed.

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VIERA VOICE Carl Kotala

Former Holy Trinity volleyball coach Pete Klonowski won 10 district championships in his 11 years at the school. He resigned just before the start of this season.

Klonowski steps down as volleyball coach after building Holy Trinity into powerhouse

BY CARL KOTALA

head coach.

“After 10 district championships He built the Holy Trinity volleyball in 11 years, Coach Klonowski has program into one of the best in decided to step down as head coach Brevard County, but just before his of Holy Trinity Volleyball, marking 12th season was about to begin, Pete the end of a truly remarkable and Klonowski has decided to step down. successful career,” Holy Trinity Klonowski, who declined to athletic director James Phillips wrote say why he resigned, went 184in an email.

94 in 11 seasons with the Tigers “His teams were always a joy to and his teams won 10 district watch, and his influence extended championships, including eight in a beyond the court, with several of his row. players advancing to the next level The Tigers also made four and numerous coaches, including consecutive regional finals between Coach Kylie Kutzner, benefiting from 2015 and 2018 and went to his mentorship. five overall under Klonowski’s "As we turn the page to the next leadership. chapter of HT volleyball, I’m excited Kylie Kutzner, who had just to see the continued success of our returned to Tigers’ volleyball staff, program with Coach Kutzner at the has been named Holy Trinity’s new helm.” VV

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Viera Voice | September 2024

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As a Virtuoso Travel Advisor, I have exclusive rates and amenities for most cruises and all river cruises. Call me today!

Upcoming Trips Annual Key West Holiday Trip — Dec. 1 - 4

$817pp based on double occ., single occ. $1,170. Trip includes roundtrip motorcoach, two lunches, one dinner and breakfast daily plus sunset sail that includes drinks and finger foods (another dinner).

Deposit is $100 pp due now. Final payment, Oct. 1.

The bus is over half sold out so send in your check today!

Voyager of the Seas — May 3-16, 2025

Sailing from Port Canaveral to Barcelona visiting Azores, Malaga, Cartagena and Palma de Mallorca.

Interior rooms starting at $758pp, Oceanview starting at $849pp and balconies starting at $1,222pp based on double occupancy.

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Dining Out & Events Sept. 4

"The Story of Water Concert" Sept. 4 and 5 7 - 9 p.m.

Presented by the Melbourne Community Orchestra 625 E. Hibiscus Blvd.

Melbourne, 321-285-6724

Sept. 5

Brevard Critique Group 10 a.m. - 1 p.m.

If you are an author and would like others to read your work and possibly make suggestions, bring in your work and join this group.

Suntree/Viera Library

902 Jordan Blass Drive Suntree, 321-255-4404

777 E. Merritt Island CSWY Merritt Island, 321-417-4309

Sept. 6

Melbourne Train Show 9 a.m. - 2 p.m.

More than 100 vendor tables with many train scales and running layouts.

AZAN Shriners Center 1591 W. Eau Gallie Blvd.

Melbourne, 321-805-7963

Dinner Dance Doors open at 5 p.m.

Dinner and dance featuring the Dynamics.

Italian-American Club of South Brevard 1471 Cypress Ave. Melbourne, 321-242-8044

Sept. 7

MetaFest #7 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.

A day of family fun, education, raffles, gifts and entertainment.

Merritt Square Mall

Sept. 8

Live Jazz 2 - 4 p.m.

The Mickey Freeman quartet presented by the Space Coast Jazz Society.

Brevard Veterans

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Card Readings By Melinda 35 years experience

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Viera Voice | September 2024

MUSIC ON THE PATIO at Hook &Eagle Tavern Lacey On Stage

Sept 7 6-9

Al James

Sept 14 6-9

International Singer

sept 21 6-9 Martin Gallagher sept 28 International Singer 6-9 Denise Turner

2300 CLUBHOUSE DR. Rockledge www.HOOKANDEAGLE.COM

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Memorial Center 400 S. Sykes Creek Pkwy.

Merritt Island, 321-960-4897 Fall Audience Favorites Concert 3 p.m.

Music of Sousa, Williams, Rodgers and more presented by the Community Band of Brevard.

Merritt Island High School 100 Mustang Way Merritt Island, 321-258-5580

Sept. 11

Scots-American Society of Brevard Gathering 11 a.m.

Lunch and a celebration of Scottish Heritage and song as we honor and remember those lost on 9/11.

Beef O’Brady’s Melbourne 3030 Lake Washington Road Melbourne, Facebook.com/ scotsamericansociety

STEMpower Day 10 a.m. - 3 p.m.

A celebration of science, technology, engineering and mathematics designed for K-12 students and their parents.

Registration required.

Florida Tech 150 W. University Blvd.

Melbourne, event.fit.edu/ stempower/

Sept. 15

Bridgerton Royal Society Tea Party 1 - 2:30 p.m.

Bridgerton-inspired attire is highly encouraged.

Eau Gallie Civic Center 1551 Highland Ave. Melbourne, 321-608-7400

Sept. 20

Movie in the Park – “Wonka”

7:30 - 9 p.m.

Outdoor lawn movie, bring lawn chairs or blankets.

Travis Park, 2001 Michigan Ave. Cocoa, 321-633-1874 Brevard County Candidate Forum 9 a.m. - 3 p.m.

Space Coast Health Foundation 1100 Rockledge Blvd.

Rockledge, 321-768-6800 Up-Rev second annual Hackers Bash 8:30 a.m.

Golf tournament to benefit Shriners Hospital for Children.

Baytee National Golf Links 8207 National Drive Suntree, 321-821-4918

Offices: Viera (5 Years) • Ormond • Jacksonville • The Villages

Day Trips, Motor Coach Tours, Group Cruises & Luxury Travel

Departs from Cocoa and Viera

Sept. 12

Fall Kick-Off Dance Concert 7 p.m.

Presented by the Melbourne Municipal Band.

Eau Gallie Civic Center 1551 Highland Ave. Melbourne, 321-724-0555

Sept. 13

Beachside Strummers 9:30 - 11:15 a.m.

A group of ukulele players and enthusiasts.

Satellite Beach Library 751 Jamaica Blvd.

321-779-4004

Sept. 14

Turtle Krawl 5K Race 7:30 - 9 a.m.

Benefit for The Sea Turtle Preservation Society.

Nance Park 201 N. Miramar Ave. Indialantic, 321-676-1701

Private Lessons Private Lessons • Piano • Voice • Violin • Piano • Voice • Violin • Harp • Guitar • Ukulele • Harp • Guitar • Ukulele

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Annual Walk to End Alzheimer’s 8 a.m. - noon Fundraiser to raise awareness about Alzheimer’s programs, services and research.

Cocoa Riverfront Park 401 Riveredge Blvd. 386-748-8527

Join The Fun Tours 60+ Travel Group

Sept. 21

Green Gables Harvest Festival 9 a.m. - 3 p.m.

Platinum Space Coast Amateur Society Ham Radio group 9 a.m. - noon Suntree/Viera Library 902 Jordan Blass Drive 321-255-4404

Vendors, food trucks and activities for children.

Green Gables 1501 S. Harbor City Blvd.

Melbourne, 321-306-8635 Space Coast Latin Festival 2 - 10 p.m.

Live entertainment and Latin food vendors.

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Nov. 9 - 16, 2024 — Christmas in the Smokies, ARK encounter Dec. 2 - 6, 2024 — Myrtle Beach Christmas Dec. 16 - 20, 2024 — Beau Rivage, Biloxi Christmas Experience 2025 Motor Coach Tours 10-Day — Branson 5-Day — Cherokee & Lake Lure Tour 5-Day — Myrtle Beach Christmas & Shows 10 Day — San Antonio Christmas

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Viera Voice | September 2024

15

Viera’s defense will be key to winning fourth straight district championship

BY CARL KOTALA After winning three consecutive district titles, three straight regional titles and appearing in back-toback Class 6A state volleyball championship games, there are probably a few people out there who expect the Viera Hawks to take a step back this season.

Clearly, the Hawks have other plans.

“The goal’s always the same, but how we go about it is going to be different,” Viera coach Sarah Wayne said. “We’re going to be very

defensively minded this year.

We have some really good defensive players.

“Our team goal is to continue the tradition and win districts, win conference and move on as far as we can.

“There’s more than one way to win a volleyball game.

Last year, we were really offensive. This year, I think we’re going to surprise a lot of people.”

Viera returns four players from last year’s team, including two starters — senior Haley Beigh (opposite hitter) and junior Brennan Turner — along with senior

middle/outside hitter Taylor Christensen and junior outside hitter Victoria Chen.

Freshman Olivia Sosa is expected to have a huge impact as a libero/defensive specialist and is coming off a summer in which she was VIERA VOICE Courtesy of Desiree Angelle Photography LLC not only selected to The Viera Hawks will be more of a defensive-oriented team this season as they chase play libero for the their fourth consecutive district title, fourth straight regional title and third straight trip USA Volleyball Team to the Class 6A state championship game.

Florida U15 team, but she was selected all-tournament for her Senior Leah Fox, a defensive consecutive district titles. She performance in Des Moines, specialist, transferred to will also be a big factor on Iowa.

Viera after winning a state offense along with Chen on the championship at Immanuel outside.

Christian High School last Any doubts about what season. the Hawks can accomplish The Hawks have three this season can be expected setters on the roster this to motivate the players to season — senior Kendall succeed.

Pierce and sophomores Allie “It already has,” Wayne said.

Brown and Haley Christensen.

“We’ve already seen it, just Other key players on the in the few practices that we roster include sophomore have had with the mentality outside hitter Brooke Pickel; that the girls have. They’re junior defensive specialist Ella in a really good head space.

Brand; sophomore middle They’re really eager. blocker Shaylee Wreggit and “We’re young. We have freshman Lilly Lorca-Lloyd. four sophomores and two Beigh, a four-year starter freshmen mixed in with some for the Hawks, has a chance of our returning players to become the first player in leading the way. It’s a really program history to win four good mix.” VV

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Viera Voice | September 2024

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Four fencers place in junior olympics SPECIAL TO VIERA VOICE

Photos courtesy of Space Coast Olympic Fencing

Arianna Choi, who competes for Space Coast Olympic Fencing, won her fifth golf medal in three years on July 30 at the 39th annual AAU Junior Olympics in Greensboro, North Carolina. The 10-year-old Choi, who is ranked No. 3 in the United States in her division, has been featured on the “Jennifer Hudson Show.”

The sister and brother duo of Lauren Burkott and Alexander Burkott each won silver medals in the Y8 and Gold Y6 categories, respectively. Lauren Burkott is the reigning Sunshine State Games champion.

Vishnu Chopra won a silver medal in the Y14 division.

The Burkott siblings have been fencing for 11 months. Chopra took up the sport five months ago.

Charlie Williams is the head coach of the club, which is based out of Rockledge. Williams is an AAU (Amateur Athletic Union) National Veterans bronze medalist and a semifinalist at the Sunshine State Games. For information on joining the club, call 321-276-3967. VV

Alexander Burkott, left, and Lauren Burkott each won silver medals in the 39th annual AAU Junior Olympics held in Greensboro, North Carolina.

Arianna Choi, who is ranked No. 3 in the United States in her division, recently won another gold medal in the 39th annual AAU Junior Olympics.

Vishnu Chopra, left, won a silver medal in the Y14 division in the 39th annual AAU Junior Olympics.

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WWW.SPACECOASTTRIMLIGHT.COM Viera Voice | September 2024

17

Viera, Holy Trinity seniors paint the way to memorable year

BY MADISON RESNIK PHOTOS BY JILL BLUE High school seniors left their mark with colorful art on their parking spaces at Viera High School and at Holy Trinity Episcopal Academy. It's a tradition that is repeated at high schools throughout Brevard County and elsewhere.

On the last Friday night of summer vacation, Viera High School's senior students gathered for a colorful tradition: painting their parking spots.

The parking lot buzzed with excitement as students and their families, paintbrushes in hand, eagerly participated in this rite of passage.

Over the weekend before their senior year, the students transformed the concrete outside VHS into a vibrant display of the individuality and bright futures of the Class of 2025.

Viera High seniors used their parking spaces as an opportunity to showcase their values, interests and personalities.

The senior parking area is once again a personalized tribute to these students as they embark on their final stretch toward graduation.

Dalton Passmore, inspired by Pink Floyd’s album “The Wall,” used his parking spot to reflect his vision for himself and his classmates.

“I love both the music in that album and the message within it,” Passmore explained, stating that his spot represents “trying to break down walls. I feel like it’s going to bring a lot of good changes to both my life and

the world, with this new generation of kids coming out of senior year. It’s going to be different.”

Amid the laughter, chatter and music, a sense of camaraderie filled the air. For these seniors, this event was more than just an opportunity to paint, it was a chance to bond with classmates and reflect on their time in K-12 education.

The enthusiasm buzzing throughout the parking lot denotes the students’ collective excitement about senior year — the culmination of all their hard work throughout their educational journeys.

“Being there with all my friends and seeing everyone’s ideas come to life was a really cool experience to start off our senior year,” Viera High's Bella Champion said.

Hope and positivity also permeated the event, as the seniors looked ahead to their futures.

The parking lot, now a patchwork of personal expression, symbolizes the diverse and vibrant community of Viera High's senior class.

At Holy Trinity, the mood was festive on a Sunday morning as some of the seniors painted their parking spaces.

“Senior year (is the) end of an era for me and it’s kind of like closing a chapter in my life so I can move onto other things,” Olivia Durgin said. “...

I’ve been the same for like 18 years, so I’m ready to make changes in my life.”

Each morning, these students will arrive at a spot that reflects who they are — a colorful start to what promises to be a memorable final year of high school. VV

Reha Patel and her parents, Hetal and Kavita, enjoy a family moment at Holy Trinity.

Olivia Durgin of Holy Trinity paints Buc-ee, a popular mascot.

Savannah Schulz of Holy Trinity and her mom Theresa bond over the project.

18

Sienna Shelton of Viera High School paints a famous Japanese painting with her sister Mariah Shelton and friend Hugo Baron.

Micah Wiggins of Viera High School paints with his mom Audrey and his sister Finley.

Keira and Keegan Caster of Viera High School paint everything awesomeness with their mom, Jennifer.

Leighton Hartwell of Viera High School has fun creating an image to remember.

Dalton Passmore of Viera High School paints Pink Floyd's "The Wall."

Leo Solis-Salinas is a senior at Viera High School.

Emily Potts of Viera High School paints with her younger sister, Camryn Potts.

Holy Trinity senior Charlie Robbins paints Daku.

Jadeyn Webb of Holy Trinity enjoys the day with her mom Jamie Castellon and Amy McIntosh.

Natalie Doig is a senior at Holy Trinity.

Ashlee Mullen of Holy Trinity works hard on decorating her parking spot.

Viera Voice | September 2024

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Annual Fall two-part event Presented By

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HARMONY FARMS EQUINE-ASSISTED THERAPY

Scarecrow Stroll Oct. 3 to 17 • 10 am - 4 pm

Stroll and vote in Viera, Suntree, Rockledge Visit the Crows on the Stroll and vote for your favorite The Scarecrow Stroll map and voting ballot in the Viera Voice October issue ENTER YOUR VOTING BALLOT FOR A CHANCE TO WIN PRIZES The Viera Voice Scarecrow Stroll is an annual event where businesses and other organizations craft designer scarecrows for display, viewing and auction for charity.

Scarecrow Silent Auction at the Harvest Festival

Sat., Oct. 19 10 am - 2 pm

BID on and BUY your favorite Crow for a good cause 100% of the proceeds

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Under the trees at

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Free Viera Harvest Festival Saturday, Oct. 19 • 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Penny Creek Bluegrass Band 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Dancing all day

Kids Mini-Crow Building Contest

Bring your Crow between 10 to 10:30 a.m.

Judging 11:30 p.m. Rules at vieravoice.com

Kids Costume Contest — 12:15 p.m.

Judging at 12:30, Two age groups

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Scarecrows on display and up for auction SILENT AUCTION — BID on and BUY a crow 30 Designer Scarecrows.

Vote for your Favorite for Best of Show

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KIDS PAGE VIERA/SUNTREE

AUGUST 2024

Build your own spacecraft!

Kids Mini-Crow Building Contest promises to be competitive

How would you like to be the chief engineer for an important NASA mission? In this activity, you get to design the latest and greatest satellite. Your satellite could help study things happening on Earth, take pictures of planets in our solar system, keep an eye on our sun, or even find planets elsewhere in the universe. You get to decide how to make your satellite — its all up to you.

OK kids, again time of the satellite, year Whileit’syou arethat building your though, keep in mind that your satellite must have a couple of basic things:

to get creative and artistic and come up Container: Your satellite needs some sort of container to hold all of the with your ingenious designs for your MiniCrow. gizmos together and keep its instruments safe.

Never built one before? Don’t worry — Power Source: You will need something to give your satellite electricity so just have fun with your creative design and that it can run all of its high-tech gizmos. Solar panels or fancy batteries show it off at the Viera Harvest Festival on are two options.

Oct. 19.

Scientific Instruments: This is why you launched your satellite in the first The Mini-Crow division in the Viera Voice Scarecrow Stroll and Viera Harvest place. Instruments can take pictures of faraway galaxies or planets right Festival has been a huge hit for the past here in our Solar System, measure chemicals in Earth’s atmosphere or several years. This year, it promises to keep a close eye on our Sun’s activity. It’s your decision. provide even more fun and entertainment.

Communication Device: You will need some way to communicate with Children who wish to build a scarecrow Earth. Antennas (shaped like dishes or poles and rods) are a good way to of their own and bring it to the Kids 'Crow Building Contest at the start of the Viera do this.

Harvest Festival can win cash prizes.

Orientation Finder: Make sure you have something that lets your satellite Remember, Mini-Crows can be no taller know where it’s pointed and which way is ‘up.’ Something that looks at than 3 feet tall and they must incorporate the stars (a star tracker) or the sun (a sun tracker) would work. straw or hay.

Here’s the plan: All Mini-Crows must be on site and The idea to make your own Park satellite (safe) materials you feel like using. The only requirement is that it must ready forisdisplay at Woodside by using whatever child's property.

10 a.m.

Saturday, Oct. 19 when the Viera have the five basic things mentioned above. Here some ideas for what to use.to They are just suggestions. Be creative and find Theare Mini-Crow division was created Harvest begins.

There is no entry children a chance edible, to participate in the new waysFestival to build your satellite.

You can alsogive make your satellite if you so desire. fee for the two age groups — 5 to 8 years crow-building event, Viera Voice publisher Ediblewinner Ingredients: Non-edible Ingredients: old and 9 to 14. The first-place in Jill Blue said. Many of the children who each age group will earn•$15.rice Thecrispy second-treats have participated in the past are already at • juice boxes or other small boxes place winner will take home $10, and the Signature Event • toothpicks • sugar wafers work on this year's entries. third-place winner willBuilding receive $5.

“I’m excited to see what the kids come Kids Mini-Crow Contest • graham crackers • chopsticks Traditional ’Crows will be at businesses up with this year,” Blue said. “It will be a lot • pretzels • plastic cups and bowls and organization locations across the of fun at this year’s Viera Harvest Festival.”

• from gummy • popsicle sticks greater Viera/Suntree area Oct. 3worms/candy Children are encouraged to use hay and through 17 before they are moved to the • straws • licorice twists recycled items, where possible.

Viera Harvest Festival at •Woodside Park at frosting • screws, nuts and bolts Rules and a registration form can be 1705 Crane Creek Blvd., •off Murrell Road. found online at vieravoice.com/scarecrow_ • paperclips brownies

The Mini-Crows will be on display at stroll.

Builder registration forms will also • construction paper • toothpicks (don’t eat the Saturday, Oct. 19 event at Woodside Sponin sored

by October issue of the be available the these, just use Viera themVoice. to For more information, call • balloons Park. Unlike the traditional scarecrows

in the event, the Mini-Crows will not be • CDs or DVDs keep the food together.)

321-242-1235. VV auctioned for charity. They will remain the • shiny paper

Viera

Rules and registration at Vieravoice.com

Kids Mini-Crow Building Contest

CALLING ALL ROBOT BUILDERS Can you name all eight planets in order?

Signature Event

Sponsored by

All images sourced from Shutterstock, NASA

22

Viera Voice | September 2024

rubber bands sponges velcro Elmer’s glue tape

If you and your school's robotics team want to be a part of our inaugural Viera Voice Robots Carrying Pumpkins, give us a call at 321-242-1235 or email media@bluewatercreativegroup.com

Teams will have the opportunity to showcase their robots and must demonstrate what it can do. It might encourage other students to consider STEAM programs at their schools.

Mercury, Venus, Earth, Mars, Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, Neptune

Viera

• • • • •

vieravoice.com

State research project studies threatened sandhill cranes

BY CAMERON COUNTRYMAN previous 24-hour movements to the computer.

Florida sandhill cranes — “The radio tags are pretty those big gray birds with redsophisticated these days,” and-white faces — take their Avian Research Biologist Ron time strutting across the street, Bielefeld said. “They’ve got often halting traffic. built-in GPS receivers, and they Some might call sandhill log a point every 30 minutes, cranes pesky; some might so we’re getting a heap load of love them. Regardless of one’s data from individual birds.” feelings about these birds, The radio tags can track Florida sandhill cranes must when the birds are flying, be protected. how high they are in the There are only about 4,600 air and how fast they Florida Sandhill cranes left, are going. making them a threatened and About 100 birds protected species. The sandhill are tagged with cranes’ main threat is habitat color bands. loss due to the draining of The bands wetlands and the urbanization give different of uplands. information They use wetlands for about the nesting, foraging and roosting birds. Blue and uplands for foraging and bands indicate loafing. However, the sandhill adult sandhill cranes are adapting to urban cranes. Green life. bands indicate an The Fish and Wildlife adult bird with two Research Institute (FWRI) juveniles, and a white began marking adult sandhill band over a red band cranes with radio tags and/or indicates two adult sandhill color bands in 2017 to “better cranes. understand survivorship, Citizens are asked to report productivity and habitat use any color-banded sandhill along the urban gradient.” cranes they see to the FWRI for The project has been research. worthwhile.

Avian Research Biologist “This project has really Miranda Watford often does given us insight into a lot of reviews of information different aspects of urban life of tagged birds to better and the survival and breeding understand the sandhill cranes’ and movements among the use of different areas. different habitats and also “Dots on the map don’t the threats that they’re facing,” always explain why the birds Avian Research Biologist Tim are using these areas,” Watford Dellinger said. said. “I’ll also do health checks The radio tags sit on to make sure our equipment one of the upper legs of the isn’t impeding the birds’ cranes and do not hinder movements and that they their movement at all. They haven’t had any run-ins with are 3D-printed cellular cars, fishing lines and that kind transmitters, so each morning of thing.” they can send the birds’

The project has been beneficial to Florida’s sandhill cranes.

Dellinger said, “This project has really given us insight into a lot of different aspects of urban life and the survival and breeding and movements among the different habitats

and also the threats that they’re facing.” VV

VIERA VOICE Elaine Moody

Sandhill cranes are a threatened species due to the draining of wetlands and the urbanization of uplands. They are often seen crossing roadways in Brevard County.

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www.theblindspot.com Viera Voice | September 2024

23

The internet is a factor in 90% of Florida sex trafficking cases

BY LINDA JUMP

“We need to educate ourselves about Imagine teen sex trafficking, and most think of the dangers online a pretty bouncy cheerleader and know as a charmed by a friendly woman, parent your child’s given a drug in her water bottle, then forced into a television and white van of lecherous older social media use.” men never to be seen again.

Think again.

More likely the danger is in your child’s cell phone. Most gaming and social media apps have a chat component, and your child could secretly be talking with someone they don’t know, posing as their age. “Ninety percent of the cases (of human trafficking) in Florida have some type of online aspect,” said Michaela Darty, a criminal justice coordinator with the Central Region’s Florida Department of Children and Families (DCF).

A victim’s average age is 10 to 13 “and consistently, that age is going down,” according to Ezri Damschroder of Paving the Way Foundation, an Orlando nonprofit. “We need to educate ourselves about the dangers online and

— Ezri Damschroder

know as a parent your child’s television and social media use.”

Leah Nepro of Palm Bay became a victim of sex trafficking starting at age 13.

An A student, popular and confident, she joined a group of female competitive dancers and chaperones in a North Carolina hotel in 2016 and met an older boy.

“We used Snapchat every day for four months and I believed he was my boyfriend,” she said. “If I disagreed with my parents, he’d tell me he’d never treat me that way.”

On Dec. 14, after a family argument, she texted him to pick her up in his car and moved into his apartment

near her school. “At first, everything was fine. He drove me to and from school,” but slowly increased control over her phone, clothing, makeup and activities, feigning jealousy. He isolated her from friends and family. She did sometimes visit home, but returned “because I loved him.”

When he gave her his real name, admitting that he was 27 years old and that he used and sold drugs, “I was so betrayed, but stayed because I thought he was the only one who would ever love or value me.” Then, she was still a virgin.

The next month, he kept her from school for a month, bringing in buyers and prostitutes who glamorized their lifestyle.

“I was too young to work, but he controlled me. Once I was in it, it was awful, not glamorous.”

On April 2, 2017, Nepo said her boyfriend was high and paranoid, accusing her of calling the police because a cruiser sat in front of their hotel.

“I told him it was because I missed school and I’d go out and tell them I was OK, but I really called a friend to pick me up and take me home.”

Her trafficker sent threatening messages. “I was scared out of my mind every day and dealt with guilt.”

Without telling anyone all that happened, she begged her father for a new start with extended family in Philadelphia. After her suicide attempt, they moved, and her healing began. Still, she said, it wasn’t until she was a Florida Tech college student studying child advocacy that she acknowledged the extent of abuse.

These days, she praises her family for their support and finds purpose as a domestic violence prevention specialist with Serene Harbor, a center in Melbourne. “I can hear victim’s stories and not give them crazy looks because I know what they’re talking about. … I hope they can see that I’m not a junkie, not in a bad relationship and my strength can be an example.”

VV

SOCIAL MEDIA SAFETY SUGGESTIONS: Go to the American Academy of Pediatrics website for appropriate use for children and teens.

• Set a good example with your social media use.

• Know your child’s cell phone passwords and the apps they use.

• Periodically, talk with children and teens about what’s normal and appropriate to post and what isn’t. Let them know they can talk to you, including about any posts that make them uncomfortable or if they are asked for compromising photos.

• Not only block posts that are inappropriate or threatening, but report them to the app so they’ll be taken down.

• Review account settings on cell phones, tablets and computers. Make sure social accounts are set as private.

Area groups work together to combat human trafficking

BY LINDA JUMP

Throughout high school, Connie Rose’s father combined her incest with sex sales. Once free, healed and educated, the Tampa woman created Victims2Survivors, a multi-service program to help other sex trafficking victims regain purpose.

“I acted out and stole on purpose because nobody noticed the abuse. I was hidden in plain sight in an esteemed Christian family.

Imagine if you had to turn in a parent, a best friend, a boyfriend,” she said.

Dozens of groups like Rose’s work to end human trafficking and serve victims.

More than 200 legal and health professionals and

volunteers gathered last month at Eastern Florida State College’s Cocoa campus to discuss ways to cooperate at a symposium sponsored by U.S. Rep. Bill Posey.

Human trafficking can happen to anyone, speakers noted, and victims need non-judgmental, consistent, honest support and individual counseling to thrive. A more victim-based approach, increased funding for safe houses and support services combined with awareness would help.

Human trafficking means force, fraud or coercion for services, labor or a commercial sex act, and victims include newborns. U.S. Attorney Roger B. Handberg said only a tiny percent

involve kidnapping.

A third of the cases, like Rose was, are children and teens misused by a family member.

Florida ranks third, behind California and Texas, in trafficking, and it is prevalent in Brevard and surrounding counties. No specific numbers were cited at the symposium, but Ezri Damschroder of Paving the Way Foundation said Brevard’s proximity to theme parks, the ocean and population growth create plenty of potential victims.

“There are lots of programs, but not enough, especially not enough safe houses,” said Maegan Heller, the victim

TRAFFICKING Continued on page 30

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Viera Voice | September 2024

VIERA VOICE Linda Jump

On the screen is Connie Rose, a sex trafficking survivor, who founded and serves as executive director of Victims2Survirors. Panelists Andreena Harriman, Roger Handberg, Alan Wilkett and Maegan Heller participated in a symposium on human trafficking. Michaela Darty, not pictured, was also a panelist.

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p o o c BUSINESSS

Like-minded CEOs vow seamless credit union transition

BY MIKE GAFFEY

Brevard County-based Launch Credit Union and Community Credit Union of Florida plan to merge, combining more than $2.7 billion in assets and serving more than 143,000 members with 22 branches in Brevard and Volusia counties.

Pending regulatory approval and a membership vote, the merger is expected to be approved in July 2025, the credit unions announced Aug. 16.

“This collaboration demonstrates the credit union philosophy of ‘People Helping People,’ because together our combined resources and shared commitment enable us to offer enhanced products and services to our members while maintaining the high level of personalized service our members have come to expect,” said Joe Mirachi, Launch’s president/CEO. Laurie Cappelli, the president/CEO of Community Credit Union, stated that the merger “will create a stronger, more resilient financial institution” dedicated to excellence.

“We’re definitely very like-minded,” she said.

“We’re committed to our members, committed to our employees and committed to our communities. So, we’re very excited about this new partnership and our new future.”

The merger comes after extensive talks and will combine both credit unions’ strengths, offering enhanced products and services for members and expanding local community outreach, Mirachi said.

“What’s happening now with credit unions is that we’ve seen these multi-billiondollar credit unions moving into the market,” Mirachi said.

“And by combining forces, we’re really going to be able to more effectively compete against that new competition coming in, which really ultimately means now we can keep the headquarters of our credit union based here in Brevard.”

As member-owned cooperatives, and under National Credit Union Association guidelines, merger approval is contingent upon member approval.

After the merger’s anticipated approval next

vieravoice.com

VIERA VOICE photos

Joe Mirachi, left, the president and CEO of Launch Credit Union, will become the combined credit union's president and CEO. Laurie Cappelli, the president and CEO of Community Credit Union, will retire and serve as a consultant during the merger.

receive their new cards,” she said.

A name for the new credit union has not been chosen yet, Mirachi said. A branding firm likely will be hired to determine the name, he said.

The merger will help the new credit union to become more involved in the community, Mirachi said. As Community Development Financial Institutions, the companies can obtain grant monies to help underserved areas, he said.

“We’ll remain committed to the school systems in both counties” with financial assistance and volunteer labor

for various events, Mirachi added.

The new credit union likely will consider expanding into other areas in a few years, Mirachi said. “Indian River County would be a likely area that would be high on the list,” he said.

Public reaction to the planned merger has been mostly positive, both CEOs said.

“It’s been gratifying to see how quickly the bulk of the membership sees the benefits,” Mirachi said.

For more information, go to LaunchCU.com and ccuflorida.org. VV

summer, Mirachi will become and their existing cards the combined credit union’s wouldn’t expire until they president/CEO. Cappelli will retire and serve as a consultant during the merger process.

Both credit unions will keep members updated on the merger process through their websites and other communication channels.

The two credit unions have Open enrollment for grades 6 to 11 a long history in Brevard. for the 2024-2025 school year Established in 1953, memberowned, not-for-profit financial shiningstarrlearningacademy.com cooperative Community 1535 Cogswell St., Suite C24, Rockledge, FL 32955 Credit Union of Florida was 321-522-6331 formed under a state charter by 10 teachers in Titusville Non-discriminatory Policy - Shining Starr Learning Academy Inc. does not discriminate against any student on the basis of gender, race, color, religion, sex, age, national or ethnic origin, political beliefs, marital status, handicapping condition, and originally was known as sexual orientation, or social and family background. the Brevard County Teachers Credit Union.

Launch Credit Union was established in 1963 at Kennedy Space Center and has expanded into Volusia County.

Launch was recently named to Newsweek’s “America’s Best Regional Banks and Credit Unions” for 2024.

Once the credit unions merge, officials will evaluate whether to combine branches that are close to each other, Mirachi said.

“We might consolidate two branches together, but I think we would take that as an opportunity to perhaps open a new branch somewhere else where we don’t have coverage,” he said.

There are no plans to reduce staff, Cappelli said.

“Our goal is to keep everyone on board as long as they’re in good standing and continue to carry forward with supporting them and their career paths,” she said.

Members’ current debit and credit cards will continue to be valid until the credit unions’ systems are integrated, Cappelli said. “There is a potential of card reassurance, but the main focus would be to make sure that it’s seamless

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Viera Voice | September 2024

25

Viera cardiologist plans to open new medical complex

BY MIKE GAFFEY

Four years after cardiologist Dr. Hany Guirgis built his own office near Viera Boulevard and Murrell Road, he is adding a 10,000-square-foot medical facility on adjacent property.

The as-yet-unnamed building will have four 2,500-square-foot rental offices available for doctors, said Guirgis, the owner of Prestige Cardiology Consultants, LLC, at 1765 Berglund Lane.

“It’s an opportunity for

other physicians to kind of join forces,” Guirgis said. “We just got permits and we're about to start breaking ground in the next couple weeks.”

Several physicians have already inquired about the new office space, said Guirgis, a native of Egypt who earned his medical degree from Cairo University and came to Viera in 2011. The facility should open by spring 2025, he added.

Board-certified in six different specialties, Guirgis moved his practice from

VIERA VOICE Courtesy of Prestige Cardiology

Dr. Hany Guirgis came to Viera in 2011.

a rental office on Spyglass Hill Road to his current location, which opened in January Strong 2020 just before the Covid-19 pandemic.

“We literally built the office and had no patients,” he Strong Communities recalled.

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Dr. Hany Guirgis, the owner of Prestige Cardiology Consultants, LLC in Viera, is adding a 10,000-square-foot facility for physicians next to his office.

endovascular interventions, venous ablation and varicose veins management, and preoperative risk assessment and clearance assistance.

“We do all kinds of testing for the heart, including nuclear testing as well as monitoring of peripheral vascular disease,” Guirgis said. “We like to treat the patient as a whole, not just looking at one thing and focusing on it.”

Guirgis is recruiting his

staff to come up with a name for the new facility.

“I like to involve my office staff in every decision we make,” he said. “So we have a contest between the office staff for the best name. So we're working on that.”

Office hours are 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. For more information, call Prestige Cardiology Consultants, LLC at 321-421-7544 or go to prestigecardiology.com. VV

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Viera Voice | September 2024

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SUDOKU SUDOKU

Edited by Margie E. Burke

Difficulty: Easy

6

3

8

5 7 2 6 8

2 4

7 3

4 1 2 3 7

HOW TO SOLVE:

9 4 1

5 2

Each row must contain the numbers 1 to 9; each column must contain the numbers 1 to 9; and each set of 3 by 3 boxes must contain the numbers 1 to 9.

Solution on page 38

(Answer appears elsewhere in this issue)

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The perfect companion Solution to Sudoku:

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We are here to help!

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Viera Voice | September 2024

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LIC. & INS. 18-AL-CT-00011 Viera Voice | September 2024

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CROSSWORD PUZZLE 1

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TRAFFICKING

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Social media is a major factor in some human trafficking cases.

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1. Help at a heist 5. In a snit 9. Weep 12. Surf’s sound 13. Is beneficial 14. Brown, e.g.

15. Drives 17. Serve to be re-served 18. Sylvester, to Tweety 19. ___ -nous 21. A lot 24. High school breakout 26. Modus operandi 27. Whoop 29. Kind of salad 33. Mouth piece 34. “So long” 36. Unruly crowd 37. Not busy 39. Proceeds 40. Bossy remark?

41. Roll call calls 43. Like some milk

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ACROSS

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Continued from page 24

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45. Pursue 48. Spell-off 49. Cut down 50. Sworn statement 56. Make known 57. Pursue 58. Spare change?

59. Meddle 60. Overly sentimental 61. Purpose DOWN 1. Escort’s offering 2. “You stink!”

3. Have something 4. Played out 5. Squabble 6. Meal source 7. Bar order 8. Museum Folkwang locale 9. Sediment 10. Completed 11. Memory unit

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16. Chekhov title character 20. After-tax amount 21. Night fliers 22. Give 23. Dittography, e.g.

24. Handle 25. Congeal 28. Barely beat 30. BB’s and bullets 31. Hip 32. Reed section member 35. Stitched 38. Functioned as 42. Brewer’s need 44. Qualifying rounds 45. Fella 46. Prince of Wales, e.g.

47. Off 48. Two-wheeler 51. Small number 52. Late ___ 53. Through 54. Tick off 55. Golf ball prop

Solution, page 38

services coordinator for the FLITE Center and the Space Coast Human Trafficking Task Force.

Andreena Harriman of Devereux Florida’s Delta Program of Viera said she often waits for services.

“There is no one size fits all.

We have to help (victims) see that they’re enough,” she said.

Alan Wilkett, a retired sergeant from the Pasco County Sheriff’s Department, noted that the “demand side of the triangle, the buyers, seem to get a pass.” He urged crafting bills and statutes to hold those buying trafficked sex equally culpable.

He and Handberg said

victims often distrust police and officials. “The evidence in this case is a human being.

You don’t set them on a shelf for nine months like you do drugs in a drug case.”

Handberg added, “A number of victims were previously defendants in a case, so there’s skepticism.”

He said a court case can take many months but requires a stable victim to undergo questioning.

Michaela Darty, a crime justice coordinator for Florida’s Central Region Department of Children and Families, agreed. “We have to gain their trust and be there even when they’re yelling at us.”

The national hotline is 1-888-373-7888 or text HELP to 233733 BEFREE. VV

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Viera Voice | September 2024

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Ford’s Garage restaurant — how it came to be an iconic brand

BY CAMERON COUNTRYMAN

Complete with an old-fashioned Ford car that hangs over the bar and blows smoke every half hour, Ford’s Garage restaurant is now part of the Viera community.

It is decorated creatively with unique automobilethemed items. Even the napkin rings stick to the theme.

Ford’s Garage serves up a classic American menu such as the Estate Burger, the BBQ Brisket Burger, Bison Burger, Sesame Crusted Ahi Tuna, Ford’s Original Nachos and much more.

Tampa-based 23 Restaurant Services opened the first Ford’s Garage in Fort Myers in 2012. At the time, the company did not have the licensing rights to Ford Motor Company’s logos and insignia, so it changed small details of the logo to avoid legal issues. If Ford Motor Company was unhappy with that, the name of Ford’s Garage would have been changed to Henry’s Garage.

After two more Ford’s Garages opened in Cape Coral and Estero, Ford Motor Company reached out to the restaurant because it loved the concept.

Two years of negotiations later, Ford’s Garage and

VIERA VOICE Courtesy of Health First

Stefanie Hoffman, a Health First certified nurse midwife at Cape Canaveral Hospital who works at Viera Hospital, plans to have her second child — a boy — at the new Labor and Delivery Unit in October.

VIERA VOICE Jill Blue

Ford's Garage staff member Emma greets Liam Wood, one of the restaurant's youngest customers.

Ford Motor Company were licensed partners. Part of the agreement was that current or past employees of Ford Motor Company would get a 10-percent discount at Ford’s Garage.

“For us, it’s all about partnering with iconic brands and really elevating their name, as well as ours,” said Jennifer Paci, the director of new store openings.

Ford's Garage in Viera opened in July.

23 Restaurant Services also owns Yeoman’s Top Golf Swing Suite, Arnold Palmer’s CenterCup, Don the Beachcomber, Tiki Docks and more themed restaurants.

Like Ford’s Garage, Don the Beachcomber is packed with history. It is a re-creation of the first tiki restaurants opened by Donn Beach in the 1930s. When Beach died, his restaurants died with him, so 23 Restaurant Services bought the rights to the name and reopened the restaurant how Beach would have opened it.

Tiki Docks is in the same vein as Don the Beachcomber and is set to open near Ford’s Garage in VIERA VOICE Jill Blue Viera. It is a colorful, beachy, vibrant restaurant that Viera Charter School Principal Dr. celebrates Florida’s “diverse Julie Cady, Big Blue, the school's food and beverage flavors.” mascot, and Ford's Garage staff celebrate the restaurant's opening. VV

vieravoice.com

Officials, community celebrate Viera Hospital's new labor and delivery unit

BY MIKE GAFFEY

Health First’s Viera Hospital has several reasons to celebrate.

Officials had a ribbon-cutting ceremony Aug. 16 for the hospital’s new, stateof-the-art Labor and Delivery Unit and offered public tours, just days after the hospital learned it had earned a coveted 5-star overall rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) for the second consecutive year.

“It doesn't get any better than that,” said Lance Skelly, the systems director, corporate communications with Health First.

In addition, the first baby has been born in the new labor and delivery unit.

The new unit, which officially opened on Aug. 21, handles the labor and delivery care from Cape Canaveral Hospital while a new hospital and medical complex on Merritt Island is built about four miles west of the 62-year-old beachside hospital.

Additionally, Health First Medical Group will open its new Vidina Obstetrics and Gynecology office on Vidina Drive just south of the hospital.

Stefanie Hoffman, a Health First certified nurse midwife from Cape Canaveral Hospital now working at Viera Hospital, is thrilled to have her second child — a boy — at the new Viera unit in October.

“I’m excited about the upgrades that we did and the things that we thought of when designing this unit,” Hoffman said. “It’s very friendly for people like me who want to birth naturally. The room is big. The shower is big.”

Another special delivery arrived on July 31, when Viera Hospital learned it was one of only 381 U.S. hospitals — and one of only 15 in Florida — to earn a top 5-star rating in CMS’ Overall Hospital Quality Star Ratings for 2024.

CMS annually assigns star ratings to U.S. hospitals based on 46 hospital quality measures, divided into five quality categories: patient experience, safety of care, mortality, readmission rates, and timely and effective care.

“This accolade is a culmination of all the hard work, dedication and passion each and every one of our associates brings to the table, day in and day out,” hosptial administrator Dustin Boring said. VV

Viera Voice | September 2024

31

Going beyond septics for the Lagoon We have some 80,000 conventional septic systems in Brevard County. Their numbers ballooned during the construction bloom following World War II. These systems were designed for sanitary (human waste control) purposes, not for pollution control.

Conventional septic systems (see figure) allow solids to sink to the bottom of the tank, grease and fats float to the top and the liquid wastewater to be dispersed directly into the soil of a drain field. If the system is properly designed and maintained, the microbes in the soil kill the bacteria and viruses in the liquid before it reaches the groundwater. Solids and grease should be pumped out periodically.

Conventional systems, at best, remove only 30 % of the nitrogen pollution that harms the Indian River Lagoon.

There are 53,000 such systems in the Brevard IRL watershed, allowing nearly 400,000 pounds of nitrogen pollution to seep through our sandy soil into the IRL annually. They are the third largest contributor to the problem.

Leaders realized that to restore the IRL, we needed to stop adding more conventional septics and to begin removing the existing systems. Brevard County took the first step in 2018 by prohibiting the construction of new conventional systems near the IRL and its tributaries. Beginning July

VIERA VOICE Courtesy of BIRLC

This graphic shows how a conventional septic system works.

Lagoon Straight Talk

From the Brevard Indian River Lagoon Coalition

30, 2023, the State prohibited the permitting of new conventional systems within our IRL watershed.

They took an even bolder step as well. They mandated that all existing conventional septic systems within the IRL watershed must be connected to sewer or replaced by advanced, high performing (at least 65% pollution removal) systems by July 1, 2030.

The Save Our Indian River Lagoon (SOIRL) programs have grant programs for septic to sewer connection (brevardfl. gov/SaveOurLagoon/

SewerProjects) and for replacing conventional units with advanced systems (brevardfl. gov/SaveOurLagoon/ SepticSystemUpgrades). The State is making additional funding available for these efforts.

Septics helped make our current community possible, but it is time to move beyond conventional septic systems in order to restore and preserve "Our Piece of Paradise" — Our Indian River Lagoon.

Healing the IRL takes each of us. It takes all of us. It takes you and me! For more, visit helpthelagoon.org/ and facebook.com/BIRLC/. VV

Katherine LaPenna has been named the operations manager of Florida Wildlife Hospital in Melbourne.

LaPenna, who completed a Ph.D. earlier this year and started at the Wildlife Hospital as a front desk technician, was soon moved into her new role as operations manager.

In 2014, she started volunteering at the Auckland Zoo in New Zealand, where she grew up. There, she fell in love with Burma, the Asian Katherine LaPenna elephant.

LaPenna moved to Ireland in 2017, where she undertook a doctorate degree at Trinity College Dublin. In her spare time, she volunteered at the Dublin Zoo. While studying in Dublin, she met her husband and followed him to the United States.

As operations manager, LaPenna oversees the nursery, where the hospital rehabilitates its youngest patients.

Jeanette White has been named the Health and Wellness Advocate in Brevard County for Aging Matters in Brevard.

White was honored during an open house at the Sunflower House in West Melbourne, where Aging Matters celebrated National Senior Citizens Day on Aug. 21.

“This is really a great honor,’’ said the 67-yearold White, who teaches Sit and Get Fit classes each Jeanette White Wednesday and Friday at HAPPY the Martin Andersen Senior Center in Rockledge. “The Sunflower House offers so many Activities of Daily Living (ADL) services. Seniors helping seniors — it feels good OUR to comeFAMILY out and support FROM these agencies.’’

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Join the fun, design a scarecrow for the Scarecrow Stroll SPECIAL TO VIERA VOICE Fall is almost here and the 12th Viera Voice Scarecrow Stroll will get underway Oct. 3 through 17, culminating with the Harvest Festival from 10 to 2 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 19 at Woodside Park off of Murrell.

“This year’s festival will be in a large open grassy area with a lot of trees,” said Jill Blue, the CEO of Bluewater Creative Group, which publishes the Viera Voice, Senior Life and the The Boomer Guide. “We expect that this venue will bring out lots of families to this fun event that will benefit a worthwhile cause.”

Businesses are invited to build a scarecrow to generate foot traffic along a mapped route across the greater Viera/Suntree area, the public coming to view and vote on the unique creation for the People’s Choice top award trophy and bragging rights for the year. The handcrafted 'Crows will be sold at silent auction during the Viera Harvest Festival to benefit Harmony Farms Equine Assisted Therapy, which helps disabled individuals

vieravoice.com

VIERA VOICE Jill Blue

This year's Harvest Festival will be held at Woodside Park in Viera.

of all ages improve their physical, mental and emotional well-being.

"Creating a scarecrow is a fun, team-building exercise that gives employees an even greater sense of pride in their workplace," Blue said.

“When all the ’Crows come together it creates a colorful scene and makes everyone laugh. This is great for businesses to show off their artist abilities. Each 'Crow is different and the names can be quite clever. As you view all the 'Crows, think about the one you would like to bid on and buy. Remember, all funds benefit a worthy cause.”

Viera Voice is building

Woody from “Toy Story.”

"We invite everyone to come out and have fun at the free family-friendly event. The business you

patronize and care about in the community will be supporting a local charity by their participation in this event."

A pull-out map in a special section that will be published in October's Viera Voice is also a ballot, showing readers where to go to see the scarecrows and get a secret code as proof you visited. The more scarecrows they enjoy, the more valuable the prizes that are up for grabs when they drop off their ballots at locations in east, west, north and south areas of greater Viera, Suntree.

Schools will also

create schoolcrows, to be displayed at a sponsoring business location along the route for viewing, voting and a silent auction. The People's Choice award trophy will go to the 'Crow with the most votes on the Stroll. The scarecrows and schoolcrows will be moved to the Harvest Festival for judging for Best of Show and a $300 prize sponsored

by Viera Voice, and placed up for silent auction to benefit either the charity or the school.

Continuing with

SCARECROW

Continued on page 37

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

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Trusted Legal Advice

Viera Voice | September 2024

33

National Women's History Month

Hello September

Hello September

See yo

1

8

SUNDAY SUNDAY

National Forgiveness Day

2

MONDAY MONDAY

Labor Day and National V-J Day

Monday Night Trivia 9 p.m.

Hosted by Stacy Rodriguez.

Island Root Kava Bar 7954 N. Wickham Road Suntree, 321-622-6854

National Grandparents Day

Space Coast Jeep Club Meetup 1 - 3 p.m.

Second Sunday of each month. For all Jeep enthusiasts.

BeachFly Brewing Company 513 Barton Blvd.

Rockledge 321-305-6865

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9

TUESDAY TUESDAY

5

Tea Party: Tea and Health Insights 11 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.

ClinCloud offers a chance to ask medical professionals questions Story Time about women's health.

9 a.m.

RSVP One of Dr. Seuss’s many Magnolia Hall iconic stories is read 5 Rosa L. Jones Drive aloud.

Cocoa, 321-751-6771 Chick-fil-A 8300 N. Wickham Road Viera, 321-751-0801

Viera Park Market 4 - 8 p.m.

Viera Regional Park Viera, 321-759-3713

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Space Coast Modern Quilt Guild 9 a.m. - noon Monthly meeting.

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

Third Thursday 5 - 8 p.m.

The Avenue Viera 2250 Town Center Ave. Viera, 321-634-5390

3

Tuesday Trivia 4 - 6 p.m.

Family friendly trivia, free to play.

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

Dietician Series: Meal Planning 1 - 2 p.m.

A seminar on diet and nutrition-related topics.

One Senior Place 8085 Spyglass Hill Road Viera, 321-751-6771 Space Coast Photographer Meetup 6 - 8 p.m.

Olive Tree 2270 Town Center Ave. Viera, 321-631-0188

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Scam Prevention Seminar 4 p.m.

Launch Credit Union presents an educational class on what to look for and what to avoid when you suspect fraud. RSVP required.

Shell Harbor 2855 Murrell Road Rockledge 321-252-1224

Wife Mayflower Day Appreciation Day Bunco for Boobies Scottish Country Veterans Benefits 1 p.m.

Dancing Seminar Fundraiser for the 6:30 - 9:30 p.m.

10 - 11 a.m.

American Cancer Springs of Suntree Presented by elder law Society’s Making Strides 8300 Holiday Springs attorney William A. event to raise awareness Road Johnson, PA in the battle of Breast Suntree, 321-427-3587 Must RSVP Cancer.

One Senior Place Wickham Park Senior Books are Always Better 8085 Spyglass Hill Road Center Book Club Viera, 321-751-6771 2785 Leisure Way 6:30 - 7:45 p.m.

Melbourne Suntree/Viera Library 321-255-4494 902 Jordan Blass Drive Suntree, 321-255-4404

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National Centenarian's Day Ghost Plushie Brevard Zoo Legacy Golf Salsa Dance Night Workshop Outing 4:30 - 9 p.m.

Noon - 2 p.m.

Noon - 7 p.m.

Beginner salsa lesson Thrive Local Suntree Country Club followed by open Latin 2291 Town Center Ave., One Country Club Drive dancing. #111 Suntree, 321-254-9453 Tuscany Grill Viera, 321-720-7121 6630 Colonnade Ave. Speed Trivia Viera, 305-970-9022 6 - 9 p.m.

Presented by Winterhawk.

8260 N. Wickham Road Viera, 321-242-1200 Gold Star National Love Mothers and People Day Family Day Monthly Journaling and Bone Builders Planner Meetup 9:30 - 11 a.m.

2 - 4 p.m.

Delay or prevent Informal gathering osteoporosis with gentle of journaling, paper, exercises using light hand crafting enthusiasts. weights.

Lighthouse Paper Co. Central Brevard Library 3600 N. Wickham Road, 308 Forrest Ave. #105 Cocoa, 321-806-3796 Melbourne 321-622-6944

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4

FRIDAY FRIDAY

National Newspaper Carrier Day Sit-n-Stitch 1 - 3 p.m.

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

Sit and Get Fit 6:30 - 7:30 p.m.

Martin Andersen Senior Center 1025 S. Florida Ave. Rockledge 321-631-7549 National Hug a Teddy Bear Day

WEDNESDAY THURSDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY

Patriot Day

World Trade Center Memorial Visit the memorial of the World Trade Center.

The Avenue Viera 2261 Town Center Ave. Viera, 321-634-5390

6

National Day of Commuy Service

7

National Salami Day

9/11 Remembrance Ceremony 9 - 10 a.m.

Rockledge Civic Hub 530 Barton Blvd.

Rockledge, 321-221-7540

Free Yoga Class 8:30 a.m.

Bring your own towel AARP Driver Safety and yoga mat.

Program One Senior Place 9 a.m. - 4 p.m.

8085 Spyglass Hill Road Safety program for senior Viera, 321-751-6771 drivers.

Suntree/Viera Library 902 Jordan Blass Drive Suntree, 321-255-4404 National Eat a Natl. Chocolate Uncle Sam Day Hoagie Day Milkshake Day

14

Breast and Body Surgery Thimble Girls in Viera East Farmers Seminar Friendship (TGIF) Market 5 p.m.

9 a.m. – 1 p.m.

10 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Hosted by Dr. Adam Bring your project.

Woodside Park Kinal. RSVP Suntree/Viera Library 1705 Crane Creek Blvd.

Bassin Center 902 Jordan Blass Drive Viera 1705 Berglund Lane Suntree, 321-255-4404 Viera, 407-851-3888 2024 Mental Health Fair 9/11 Memorial Tribute Senior Health Friday 8:30 a.m. - 1 p.m.

5:30 p.m.

Sit and Get Fit 10 - 11 a.m.

Speakers, breakout Brevard Veterans Center 6:30 - 7:30 p.m.

One Senior Place sessions and mental 400 S. Sykes Creek Pkwy. Martin Andersen 1025 S. 8085 Spyglass Hill Road health resources.

Merritt Island Florida Ave. Viera, 321-751-6771 Suntree United 321-453-1776 Rockledge 7400 N. Wickham Road 321-631-7549 Suntree, 321-255-7378 Air Force Birthday Free Liver Scans 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Presented by ClinCloud.

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

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Talk Like a Pirate Day

A Taste of Shell Harbor 10:30 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Enjoy piano music and hors d’oeuvres. RSVP Shell Harbor 2855 Murrrell Road Rockledge, 321-2521221

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20

National Pizza Day

National Pancake Day

21

National Dance Day

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National Good Neighbor Day

Catholic Comedian 15th annual Eagle Pride Karina Fabian 5K, 1 Miler and Soaring 8 p.m.

Eagle Challenge A night of clean and 7 a.m.

Catholic-centered Benefit for Ascension comedy featuring Catholic School comedienne Karina Wickham Park Fabian with opener Billy 2500 Parkway Drive Moglia.

Melbourne St. John’s Parish Hall Runsignup.com 5655 Stadium Parkway Viera, 321-637-9650

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National Chocolate Milk Day Elder Law Series Part 1 Viera East Travelers Club Cuban Dinner and 4 - 5 p.m.

Meeting Conversation Part one of an 6 p.m.

6 p.m. eight-week series of Kim Foy of Collette Tours Fundraiser to benefit presentations. will present 2025 tours. Cuban partner Part 1: How Estate Plans Viera East Golf churches.

Protect You & Prevent Resident’s Club Suntree United Exploitation. One Senior 1964 Golf Vista Blvd.

7400 N. Wickham Road Place Viera, 321-890-3522 Suntree, 321-255-7378 8085 Spyglass Hill Road Viera, 321-751-6771

Enjoy August SUNDAY SUNDAY

MONDAY MONDAY

TUESDAY TUESDAY

Rachmaninoff 3 7 p.m.

Presented by the Space Coast Symphony Orchestra.

Scott Center at Holy Trinity 5625 Holy Trinity Drive Suntree, 855-252-7276

WEDNESDAY TH WEDNESDAY TH

Saturday, Sunday, Sept.

August14 11 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

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Viera Voice | September 2024

National Cheese Pizza Day

SATURDAY SATURDAY

Holiday Inn Melbourne-Viera Conference Center 8298 N. Wickham Rd. Viera

FREE ADMISSION

Sports Cards, Pokemon

BUY • SELL • TRADE

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National Coast Guard Day

Bingo Fundraiser 2 - 5 p.m.

Benefit for Life Recaptured.

5

6

National Root Beer Float Day

7

National Lighthouse Day

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4:30 - 6:30 p.m.

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Viera Voice | September 2024

35

Viera Cookbook Carrots, squash, zucchini makes a tasty, healthy combination

BY ELAINE MOODY It is healthier for an overall daily diet to eat more fruits and vegetables.

This is an easy recipe for a colorful and healthy addition to your meals. It consists of white onions, carrots, yellow squash and zucchini.

All of these vegetables are low in fat, no cholesterol or sodium.

Zucchini is usually thought of as a vegetable but is actually considered a fruit. It’s a great source of fiber, vitamins A, C, B6 and thiamine. It also includes manganese, potassium, magnesium and phosphorus.

It may help with blood sugar levels from spiking after meals and may aid in lowering the risk of type 2 diabetes.

VIERA VOICE Elaine Moody

Vegetables such as carrots, squash and zucchini are healthy options to consider.

Yellow squash is another super-food, as it’s high in fiber, manganese, vitamins C, B6, riboflavin and potassium. Manganese is

also thought to promote bone strength and help process carbohydrates and fats in our bodies.

Carrots are a great

source of fiber and rich in vitamins A, K, calcium and beta carotene, not to mention, they are low in calories.

White onions are full of vitamins, minerals and fiber and can aid in digestion.

They may also help with reducing inflammation and strengthening your immune system. White onions are milder and give a very nice flavor to other vegetables.

When cooked together, you have a delicious, healthy and colorful addition to your meals.

Ingredients:

1 carrot 1 zucchini 1 yellow squash ¼ white onion Salt and pepper (to taste) Bacon bits (optional) Olive Oil ( 1 tablespoon)

Water (2 tablespoons)

Wash and peel carrot, cut into thick circles or strips.

Slice white onion.

In a 10-inch skillet, add olive oil and heat to medium. Add onion and carrot and cover the skillet.

Lower heat to medium low and sauté until the carrots just start to soften.

Add sliced zucchini and squash. Add salt and pepper to taste. Stir the vegetables together, add water and cover. Continue to cook until zucchini and squash are tender.

If desired, sprinkle bacon bits on top for added flavor and cover for a couple of minutes.

Serve with your favorite fish or meat.

Makes two to three individual servings.

Enjoy. VV

Reducing food waste provides a win-win-win solution for everyone Food waste makes up 24% of landfill waste and 22% of combusted solid waste, according to the U.S. EPA. Most of that waste, 21% of it according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), comes from households, while 10% comes from consumer-facing

“I alone cannot change the world, but I can cast a stone across the waters to create many ripples.”

— Mother Teresa

businesses.

To help tackle that problem, the EPA created a toolkit that assists

organizations interested in reducing wasted food from households to implement a small-scale Food: Too Good

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Viera Voice | September 2024

Hours: Mon - Fri 9AM - 5PM

BEYOND the CURB Marcia Booth

President & Founder, Recycle Brevard

to Waste campaign. The goal of the campaign is to raise awareness of the food wasted in households and connect that with the money lost, hoping that it motivates families to review their habits and consequently reduce food waste over time.

Another important device created to facilitate the reduction of food waste is the Good Samaritan Food Donation Act of 1986 that protects “a person or gleaner who donate in good faith apparently wholesome food or apparently fit grocery products to a nonprofit organization for ultimate distribution to needy individuals. The act also provides protection against civil and criminal liability to the nonprofit organizations that receive such donated items in good faith,” according to the USDA. That act protects businesses and organizations that donate foods to the ones in need, benefiting those individuals and helping divert good food from the landfill.

Those are excellent alternatives, but while traveling I became aware of yet another solution: Food To

Save, a win-win-win approach to curb food waste.

Food To Save, created in 2021, is an app that connects food establishments (grocery stores, restaurants, bakeries, cafes and food shops) to consumers, offering foods that are close to the expiration date for up to 70% off the original price. Establishments post the number of food bags they have available in certain categories (general groceries, produce, bakery, sweet, savory or mixed) at a certain price and consumers select the bag according to their preference and the price they are willing to pay. The bags can be picked up within an agreed time window or delivered for a fee.

The big twist is that consumers do not know the exact food they will be receiving in their surprise bag — food establishments guarantee that the total value of food included in their bags is of at least a certain amount and under the category selected, but that is all. This makes the whole experience more interesting and fun.

I tried the various categories from different food establishments and they were all extraordinary, both the amount and quality. As far as delivery and pick up, they were both efficient and worked without hiccups. The experience offered an added

FOOD WASTE

Continued on page 39

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VIE R A

VIERA MEANS

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

Trey Baruti stands in the walk-in humidor at Fairway Cigar Lounge. Baruti was the venue sponsor.

VIERA MEANS

In August, the Viera Means Business networking group met at the Fairway Cigar Lounge in The Avenue Viera for breakfast and coffee.

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.

David Charitat was the guest speaker.

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BUSINESS

Rose Bobier, Erikka Williams

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Dustin Schiff, Kathy Sorrell, Liz Taylor

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Andrea Wheeler, new member, Cartama RamosCrafton and Jessica Lynn Silva

Andrea Wheeler, Joseph Grutta, Michelle Walker, Kristine Rosenfeld, Cheryl Clark

Vincent Romero, James Brassard, Anjanette Wicks

Christian Vargas, Diana Douty

Celestial Krzyston, Jenee Krzyston, Angie Higgins, Dixie Patel and Jesse Scianno

SCARECROW

Continued from page 33 tradition, the kids' MiniCrow building contest is open to children in 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 which 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, and enjoy other free activities, such as live music, a pumpkin patch and food trucks.

The Penny Creek Band will return to entertain everyone at the festival. The modern bluegrass band based out of Melbourne has played more often than not at most of the Harvest Festivals through the years.

The band, in existence since 2005, is comprised of Chris Paganoni (guitar), Susan Pounds (bass), Fritz Kraemer (mandolin) and John Apfelthaler (banjo).

The Penny Creek Band says its music has strong elements of bluegrass, as well as Americana, classic country, Irish, folk, oldies and original songs.

“The Penny Creek Band is back,’’ Blue said. “This bluegrass band puts

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Part of the VMB group gathered on the back patio after the meeting.

2024-2025 SEASON VIERA VOICE Jill Blue

Colorful Scarecrows come in all shapes and sizes.

everyone in the harvest mood — dancing, singing along, and getting into the pumpkin spirit.

The Pumpkin Patch returns with miniature pumpkins. There will be hay bale horses ready for photos with the children.

Doctors from the Ted E. Bear Clinic will be ready to diagnose all the ills of children’s stuffed animals.

Certificates will be given for the furry friends after being given a clean bill of health.

Sponsors also are needed for the two-part event. For information, call the Viera Voice at 321-242-1235 or go to vieravoice.com. VV

Hina Khuong-Huu, violin Epic Tchaikovsky

AJ Swearingen and Jayne Kelli Fire & Rain: Folk Anthems of the ‘70s

Starry Nights

Tickets on sale September 13th at kingcenter.com

Michael Andrew, vocalist Sounds of the Season

Christopher Confessore Music Director Director

Viera Voice | September 2024

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s w e N SENIOR 6 3 8 SUDOKU

Edited by Margie E. Burke

Difficulty: Easy

HOW TO SOLVE:

Couple have a long history of pilots and nurses inmust the family Each row

BY ERNIE DORLING

5 7 2 6 8

the way, they produced four children, a boy and In 1955, Billy and His three girls; along with Comets led the Billboard 15 grandchildren and top 30 songs with their hit, four great-grandchildren.

“Rock Around the Clock.”

Among the ranks of those Tennessee Ernie Ford children are eight nurses was close behind with his and eight pilots; soon to trademark song, “Sixteen be nine pilots if you count Tons.” It was the same year their son-in-law who is that Ed and Pat Lankenau currently in flight training. of Suntree started dating “I think many of our after graduating from high children and grandchildren school on Long Island, New found a calling into the York. “We met when we same professions Ed and were 13,” Pat Lankenau I were in,” Pat Lankenau said, “but we never dated said. “I think many of the until he came home on kids gravitated to flying leave from the Air Force after hearing me talk about Academy in his uniform. my days as a pilot,” Ed After that, fuhgeddaboudit,” added. “I left the Air Force she added, emphasizing after seven years and went her inner New York Italian. to work for TWA while “I was hooked.” remaining in the Air Force Ed and Pat started reserves.” dating and, for the next “I Puzzle flew for 33 years,” Copyright 2024 Syndicate four years, Ed attended the by The Ed Lankenau said. “Things U.S. Air Force Academy, were so much easier and becoming a pilot and fun then, and long before flight instructor. Pat 9/11. During my entire Lankenau continued her career, we almost never education, becoming a dealt with the serious nurse working in every issues pilots deal with aspect of the nursing now. The one time I had profession, including as an a problem was on a flight emergency room nurse and from Stockholm to the U.S. a psychiatric nurse, during when over the Atlantic we her career. got word that there was a In 1959, they married bomb on board the plane. and have remained married for 65 years. Along We had to divert to Goose

4

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contain the numbers 1 to 9; each column must contain the numbers 1 to 9; and each set of 3 by 3 boxes must contain the numbers 1 to 9.

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Bay, Labrador. Luckily, it was a false threat.”

Ed and Pat Lankenau are now 86 years old.

When they’re not visiting their 23 children and grandchildren, they enjoy cruising. “We’ve been on 48 cruises,” Ed Lankenau said.

He is also an antique car enthusiast and participates in various antique car shows. “I like to show my 1953 Packard — it’s a beautiful car.”

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“… we never dated until he came home on leave from the Air Force Academy in his uniform.

After that, fuhgeddaboudit.”

(Answer appears elsewhere in this issue)

2

— Pat Lankenau

Pat Lankenau loves dancing and has come in third place in three Dancing with the Stars competitions on cruise ships. She even won a dancing competition doing the Cha-Cha. “I love dancing,” she said. “I still dance with the Golden Steppers at the

VIERA VOICE Jill Blue

Ed and Pat Lankenau have been married for 65 years and have a large family that includes many pilots and nurses.

yes dear to her every question.” Pat’s answer was more direct and simpler, “God is the glue,” she said. VV

Cocoa Village Playhouse.”

When asked what the secret is to their long-term marriage, Ed Lankenau said laughing, “I answer,

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Crossword Solution

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vieravoice.com

Viera retiree helps Faith Place participants through faith, connection

BY CAMERON COUNTRYMAN When Susan Wiedeman moved to Viera in June 2023, she was unsure of how she wanted to get involved in the community and where she wanted to volunteer.

As a retiree, Wiedeman does not take commitment to volunteering lightly because, once she makes a commitment, she sticks to it.

“I knew I wanted to volunteer for something, but I knew I wanted it to be something with a purpose,” she said.

Wiedeman has always had a soft spot for seniors and decided six months ago that Faith Place, a ministry of Faith Viera Lutheran Church (FVLC), where she is a member, was the place for her. She also volunteers quarterly on FVLC’s altar guild and often helps

FOOD WASTE

Continued from page 36 plus: I had the chance to try foods that I would not have otherwise. And when I received too many items or the items were really not of my taste, I simply donated to others. I saved, had fun with my surprises and made others happy, too.

After using Food To Save,

with her grandchildren’s transportation.

“You’re serving others, instead of people serving you … that’s what Christ has called us to do,” Wiedeman said.

Faith Place is a ministry of FVLC’s congregation that is designed for older adults to come and have fellowship with other older adults.

FVLC’s Family Counselor and Interim Director of Faith Place Dr. Douglas Fountain said that Faith Place is where seniors can do moderate chair exercises, Bible study, listen to presentations and music, eat snacks and spend time with friends. There is no fee.

“Our primary focuses are connection and faithfulness,” Fountain said.

One thing that Wiedeman loves about volunteering at Faith Place is the diversity of guests and volunteers. The

guests range from ages 37 to 101, and the volunteers range from ages 16 to 80-something. Some people come from the Midwest, some come from Barbados, Montserrat, Grenada and other islands and some have always lived in Brevard County. Some are Lutheran and some are of different religions. Each guest and volunteer has a multitude of great stories to tell, as well as a listening ear to hear others’ stories.

“Everyone at Faith Place loves and respects each other and enjoys the time spent in fellowship,” Wiedeman said.

Faith Place is held from 1 to 4 p.m. Tuesday and Thursday. She also has Bible study on Thursday mornings and brings the leftover snacks to Faith Place.

“At least for that one day a week, I have a purpose. I have a schedule,” she said.

I searched for other apps that I could perhaps use locally and found Too Good To Go. Founded in 2016 in Copenhagen to fight food waste, Too Good To Go (toogoodtogo.com) has grown to more than 95 million registered users and 160,000 active business partners across 18 countries in Europe and North

America. It reports having been able to help “save over 330 million meals from being wasted, the equivalent of 873,500 tons of CO2e avoided.”

Impressive results, but to my disappointment, upon checking participating food establishments in Brevard County, only a couple were listed. As I see it, this has potential. We can get more

Classifieds For Sale • Wanted • Senior Services Employment • Real Estate • Rentals and more Call today 321-242-1235

VIERA VOICE Cameron Countryman

Susan Wiedeman, left, a volunteer at Faith Place, chats with participants Jean Bourne, Ana Julia Schafer, Erma O’Brien, Simon O’Brien and Joshua Kent at Faith Viera Lutheran Church.

Volunteers must be members of FVLC and undergo a background check.

Guests, however, do not have to be members of FVLC. The only thing required of guests is that they can get around without assistance and use

Brevard food establishments on the map and increase the amount of good food diverted from the landfill, helping businesses and residents to save some money while making a positive impact on the environment.

So if you own or know someone who owns a food establishment, check out this app and start making a difference today.

the restroom on their own.

Faith Place is strictly social and not a medical facility.

“I could come to Faith Place everyday!” 101-year old Marjorie Frank said.

Faith Place is in Building E at 5550 Faith Drive. VV

Why not check out store.toogoodtogo.com/ onboarding/create-account to find out more and join? 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.

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Viera Voice | September 2024

39

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Get 10% off any order of $1,000 or more. 20% off two or more Closets or Garage Centers of $3,000 or more.

Not valid with any other offer. Expires Sept. 30, 2024

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Viera Voice | September 2024

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