Discover the SpaceCoast Magazine - 2018 - Discover Brevard

SpaceCoast LIVING ® Magazine Presents

DISC VER

brevard an authentic experience

LIVING... on florida’s space coast

™

                

Shelter Mortgage Company LLC | 7341 Office Park Place, Suite 106 | Melbourne, FL 32940 | 321.757.6600 | www.sheltermortgagefl.com

WHERE FOOD MAKES MEMORIES

SAVOR

THE AVENUE VIERA Bean Sprout Asian Cuisine & Sushi Bar | Bold Cup Coffee House Bonefish Grill | Chili’s | Cold Stone Creamery Five Guys Burgers and Fries | For Sweets Sake LongHorn Steakhouse | Moe’s Southwest Grill Olive Tree Greek Grill | Panera Bread | Pizza Gallery & Grill Planet Smoothie | Pollo Tropical | Redberry Frozen Yogurt Steak ‘n Shake | Tequila Azul | Thai Hana | The Melting Pot Which Wich? | World of Beer

MORE THAN 85 STORES AND RESTAURANTS 2261 Town Center Ave. | Melbourne, FL 32940 | AvenueViera.com

Harbor Pilot at Port Canaveral

2018 Contents 5 Introduction 10 Brevard County(map)

13 Communities 22 Education 25 Colleges & Universities 26 Health Care 30 Senior Living 33 Economic Development Commission 49 Community Outreach

50 Brevard County Government 53 Dining & Nightlife 64 Parks & Recreation 65 Wildlife 66 Beaches 67 Surfing 69 Golf 70 Tennis 71 Port Canaveral 72 Kennedy Space Center 73 Brevard Zoo 74 Performing Arts 75 Maxwell C. King Center for the Performing Arts 76 Art Districts 77 Shopping

80 Final Thought

On the Cover

nts G ® Magaz ine Prese Space Coast LIVIN

DISC VER

brevard an authentic experience

™

space coast LIVI NG... on florid a’s

4 | 2018 | Discover Brevard

Photo by Jason Hook Model: Megan Fitz-Simmons

Kennedy Space Center

WELCOME

Although NASA retired the Space Shuttle program, Shuttle Atlantis (pictured here) is now on display at Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex.

Discover a place like no other.

As hundreds of spacecraft have soared from the Cape to the cosmos for over 50 years, Brevard County is recognized worldwide as NASA’s launch headquarters.

Dubbed the “Space Coast” in the 1980s, the area stands proud of its significant mark on the world’s space adventures.

Dubbed the “Space Coast” in the 1980s, the area stands proud of its significant mark on the world’s space adventures.

For those of us who are lucky enough to really know the Space Coast though – that is, those of us who live, work and play here – we know it is so much more than simply “the place for space.”

We know that Brevard County is comprised of a culturally rich population that has taken great measures to perfectly blend a simplistic past full of natural wonder with an accelerated future focused on high-tech innovations.

For those of us who live here, we know that the Space Coast is a place where college students come to embark on studies to become pilots and engineers, where career-oriented parents settle down to raise happy children and where seniors flock to retire and spend their golden years in paradise.

For those of us who work here, we know that Brevard County is a place where the demands of progressive companies call for an ambitious workforce, where the next generation of manned spaceflight is coming to fruition and where world-class tourist attractions allow for a thriving hospitality industry.

And for those of us who play here, we know that the Space Coast is a place where sandy beaches and complex ecosystems provide a landscape for locals to enjoy idyllic year-round temperatures that many people only experience while on tropical vacations.

Look around you. This is the Space Coast. It’s time to make your own discovery of a place like no other.

SpaceCoastLiving.com | 2018 |

5

TURNING 65 OR NEED HEALTH INSURANCE? Health Insurance • Medicare Long-term Care & More

Highest AAA rated • A+ Superior Carriers • Low price guarantee • Tax free retirement & lifetime income strategies • Life insurance with living benefits • Don’t overpay for your medications

THE VALUE PROPOSITION FOR INDIVIDUAL, FAMILY & GROUP INSURANCE SOLUTIONS 8265 N Wickham Road Ste A Melbourne, FL 32940

321-961-5930 www.baapa.us FL License #L093224

Corrie Borde

Borde & Associates P.A. and their licensed agents are not connected with or endorsed by the U.S. Government or the Federal Medicare program.

Insurance Agent

Editorial

DISC VER

brevard

™

Managing Editor Mallorie Ann Ingram Production Assistant Alyssa Anelli Graphic Designer Tanya Mutton EDC Insert Graphic Designer Nevin Flinchbaugh Contributing Photographers Ursula Dubrick, Carol Hansen, Steven Hicks, Jason Hook,Tanya Mutton

Publisher SCB MARKETING

5131 Industry Drive, Suite 107, Melbourne, FL 32940 Tel: (321) 622-5986 SCBMarketing.com

President of Publishing Division Eric Wright Publisher Steven R. Hicks, Ed.D.

Advertising Director of Sales Lori Reader Lori@SCBMarketing.com

6 | 2018 | Discover Brevard

Discover The SpaceCoast® is a registered trademark of Space Coast Business, LLC (“SCB”).

The contents of Discover The SpaceCoast®, associated websites, and any other print or electronic publications published by SCB or related to the brand, including advertisements, articles, graphics, websites, web postings, photographs and all other information (“content”), are for informational purposes only, are protected by copyright law and may not be reproduced, distributed, transmitted, displayed, published, broadcast or modified in any way without the prior written consent of SCB, or in the case of third party content, the owner of that content. You may not alter or remove any trademark, copyright or other notice from copies of the content. SCB does not necessarily endorse, verify, or agree with the content, and makes no warranties or representations, express or implied, as to the accuracy, completeness, timeliness, or usefulness of any content. SCB shall not be held liable for any errors or omissions in the content. ©2018 All rights reserved. Any reproduction, in whole or in part, is prohibited without written permission from the publisher.

LISTING PRICE

$1,199,000 Quick River Access Private In Law Living Quarters Best Priced Luxurious Residence

Meili Viera, BROKER ASSOCIATE

321.848.7344 Meiliviera@hotmail.com Waterman Real Estate, Inc. 2390 Minton Road, Melbourne, FL 32904 321.215.2100

BEACHSIDE

UPHOLSTERY & DESIGN C R E AT I N G U N I Q U E & B E A U T I F U L I N T E R I O R S

Utilities TELEVISION, TELEPHONE & INTERNET Spectrum (spectrum.com) is the region’s largest cable provider, also offers digital telephone and Internet services in Brevard County. Other providers, including AT&T (AT&T.com) and DirectTV (DirectTV.com) also serve the local market with television, telephone and Internet services.

CONNECTING ELECTRICITY Florida Power and Light (321) 723.7795

Don’t Replace… RECOVER! CUSTOM FURNITURE ■ HEADBOARDS ■ BEDSPREADS WINDOW TREATMENTS ■ THOUSANDS OF FABRIC SAMPLES

Visit Our New Showroom – In Stock Furniture & Accessories

321-779-0084

596 D. Sherwood Ave., Satellite Beach, FL BeachsideUpholsteryAndDesign.com

is the premier lifestyle publication in Brevard County Subscribe today to stay connected to our community’s most fascinating people

Just $24.95/year

CONNECTING GAS Florida City Gas Gas Service 1-800-993-7546 (321) 632-1734 (new homes), FloridaCityGas.com WATER AND SEWAGE Sewer, water and trash rates vary throughout Brevard County.

TITUSVILLE Titusville City Hall, 555 Washington Ave., (321) 383-5791 MIMS Utilities Finance Office, 2262 High Drive (321) 264-5130 COCOA & CENTRAL BREVARD Cocoa City Hall, 65 Stone Street (321) 433-8400 MELBOURNE Melbourne City Hall, 900 E. Strawberry Avenue (321) 727-2900 WEST MELBOURNE West Melbourne City Hall, 2240 Minton Road (321) 727-7700 PALM BAY Palm Bay City Hall, 120 Malabar Road (321) 952-3420 WASTE COLLECTION & RECYCLING N. Brevard - (321) 636-6894, WM.com Central and South Brevard - (321) 7234455, WM.com Titusville Solid Waste Management (321) 383-5755, Titusville.com

Phone: 321.622.5986 www.spacecoastliving.com

8 | 2018 | Discover Brevard

City of Rockledge (321) 690-3961, CityofRockledge.com

BREVARD COUNTY MAP

Discover local landmarks

Falling within county lines are top high-tech and health care companies, leading educational institutions, various arts and shopping districts and stellar family friendly attractions.

Extending 72 miles along Florida’s East Coast, the north end of Brevard County is home to the pristine Canaveral National Seashore, while the south end is home to the Archie Carr National Wildlife Refuge and Sebastian Inlet State Park. The west end of the Space Coast is bordered by the St. Johns River system, and the east end stops at the Atlantic Ocean.

Brevard Zoo

Rd

da Pine y Csw

Wickham

192

518

Riv

In

SATELLITE BEACH

lie Gal Eau swy C

Downtown Melbourne

US1

rne bou Mel Cswy MELBOURNE BEACH

er

n dia

INDIALANTIC

Foosaner Art Museum

Patrick Air Force Base

Rd

404

Melbourne International Airport

PALM BAY

10 | 2018 | Discover Brevard

VIERA

Wickham

Ellis Rd

ven Ave Melbourne Square Mall

Florida Institute of Technology

Brevard County Courthouse

ie Blvd

New Ha

Hammock Landing

S John Blvd Rodes

Space Coast Stadium

School Board

Eau Gall

MELBOURNE

Brevard County Government Center

ORLANDO

TITUSVILLE

Planetarium COCOA

PORT ST. JOHN

Eastern Florida State College (EFSC), Main Campus University of Central Florida (UCF), Regional Campus Florida Solar Energy Center

528 20

5

ROCKLEDGE

US1

Cocoa Village

Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge

Merritt Square Mall MERRITT ISLAND

Banana River

ver ian Ri

Kennedy Space Center, Visitor Complex

COCOA BEACH

Ind

A1A Cocoa Beach Pier

Port Canaveral

Atlantic Ocean

72 miles of coastline SpaceCoastLiving.com | 2018 |

11

SUMMER LAKES

HIGHEST PRICED SALE (SINCE 2008) 3223 Bellwind Circle, Viera Listed, Marketed and SOLD

by Ellingson Properties

ROCKLEDGE RIVERFRONT

HIGHEST PRICE PER SQ. FT. (SINCE 2007) 5429 Robles Lane, Rockledge Listed and Marketed

by Ellingson Properties

ELLINGSON PROPERTIES xceptional Results by packaging and presenting your most valuable

asset to maximize equity for sellers. For buyers, we understand and match your values, aspirations and expectations with the home of your dreams.

RESULTS MATTER It doesn’t cost more to work with the best.

Give us a call and see how we put you first.

EllingsonProperties.com | (321) 794-6203

Discover...

COMMUNITIES

the perfect place to call home.

One of the best things about the Space Coast is that within its borders, you are sure to find a community that suits your lifestyle. Choose from secluded living or suburbia, woodsy or waterfront or reside in a family-friendly gated subdivision with A-rated schools and lush parks nearby. Living in Brevard County boasts all these options. Cast a fishing line from your backyard on a riverfront estate, or take a sunset stroll barefoot on the sand of the beaches that run along the Atlantic Ocean. The possibilities are endless and beautiful here on the Space Coast.

Exploration Tower Port Canaveral

North Scottsmoor

Brevard County’s northern-most community, Scottmoor, is located on the edge of Volusia County. It is also one of its oldest, having been settled in 1861. It remains mostly rural.

Mims A little over 7,000 people live in Mims, much of which also remains rural. However, in recent years, the area has attracted residents who prefer to live peacefully among a natural Florida setting, yet still enjoy easy access to Orlando and other larger communities.

Titusville With attractions like the Brevard Historical Museum, the Titusville Playhouse, Police Hall of Fame, and easy access to the Canaveral National Seashore and the Enchanted Forest Nature Sanctuary, it’s no wonder Titusville is an inviting place for nature enthusiasts, music lovers and history buffs alike. Its 44,500 residents also enjoy optimal healthcare at Parrish Medical Center and a historic downtown district with a nearby municipal marina.

Port St. John

One of Brevard County’s major family communities is Port St. John, an unincorporated area west of the Indian River.

A population of 12,000 residents enjoy the surrounding 192 - acre Fay Lake Wilderness Park, which features a fishing lake and Fay Park, which has sports fields and courts, and picnic areas.

Cape Canaveral

The city of Cape Canaveral has been referred to as “the space between sun and sea.” It is still a desirable entertainment destination thanks to neighboring locale Port Canaveral, which acts as one of the country’s premiere shipping and cruising ports. Close to 10,000 residents live in the humble beach town, which is also home to the Cape Canaveral Air Force Station and offers grand views of rocket launches.

SpaceCoastLiving.com | 2018 |

13

1542 S. Wickham Rd., W. Melbourne, FL

HOME • AUTO • BOAT • BUSINESS

- FREE QUOTE CALL 321-253-9000 or visit our website at NuVantageInsurance.com Call us today...

START SAVING TOMORROW Thomas Wienckoski President

North Central Cocoa

Cocoa is home to many of the finest restaurants, shops and art galleries in the area, located in the tree-shaded streets of Cocoa Village. Also home to the Historic Cocoa Village Playhouse, The Astronaut Memorial Planetarium, Riverfront Park and airboat rides on the St. Johns River, Cocoa is certainly a fun place to reside. It is home to the main campus of Eastern Florida State College (EFSC), which also serves as a regional branch of the University of Central Florida (UCF).

Merritt Island

Merritt Island has some of Brevard County’s most colorful history, having been founded as a citrus growing and cattle-raising community in the mid1800s and having become a home to 36,000 residents, many of which are aerospace workers, a century later. Merritt Island’s Tropical Trail boasts some of the most impressive waterfront estates in the area, and the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge occupies 140,000 acres on the northern part of the area, serving as home to sea turtles, osprey, alligators and bald eagles.

Cocoa Beach

Cocoa Beach serves as home to all things surf. It holds two major surfing festivals each year on Easter and Labor Day weekends and sports Ron Jon Surf Shop, the world’s largest surf shop. It is even home of the world’s greatest surfer, Kelly Slater.

Condominium-lined Cocoa Beach is a well-known tourist and surfer destination on the Space Coast,

with dozens of restaurants, shops, and some of the area’s finer hotels.

Rockledge

Rockledge is Brevard’s oldest incorporated community, dating back to 1887. The family oriented city homes about 25,000 residents boasts stately homes set among tall oaks along its riverfront. It also has a thriving recreational scene that includes various country clubs and serves as home to Wuesthoff Medical Center – Rockledge.

Viera

Viera was meticulously developed as a masterplanned community, providing carefully maintained subdivisions with their own features and amenities to approximately 21,000 residents of the cozy style town. It reaches east and west of Interstate 95 and is home to The Avenue Viera, an open-air shopping and dining destination, as well as Viera Health Park, Brevard County Government Center, Brevard Public Schools, Space Coast Stadium, the Brevard Zoo and various golf courses.

Suntree

About 20,000 residents live in one of the earliest of the region’s planned communities that continues to thrive, in homes ranging from cozy townhomes to multi-million-dollar mansions. It has a full-service country club, Suntree Country Club, and access to some of the area’s better restaurants and shopping, not to mention an easy ride to the beach over the Pineda Causeway.

SpaceCoastLiving.com | 2018 |

15

South Central Melbourne

About 76,000 residents call the 38-square-mile “Harbor City” home, from the rural west to the oceanfront. A great town for those who bore easily, Melbourne offers a plethora of things to do.

It houses Historic Downtown Melbourne, one of the region’s premier entertainment and shopping destinations, Eau Gallie Arts District and also Eastern Florida State College’s Maxwell C. King Center for the Performing Arts, which hosts diverse, top-notch performances. Museums, galleries and festivals complete the area’s cultured atmosphere.

Two institutions of higher learning, Eastern Florida State College’s Melbourne campus and Florida Institute of Technology, as well as many hightechnology companies are located here as well.

West Melbourne

West Melbourne has seen a boom in residential construction in recent years that coincides with its commercial growth. New Haven Avenue is one of the area’s busiest shopping districts, populated with numerous restaurants and retailers. The area is also home to Hammock Landing, a newly built open-air shopping and dining destination.

The Avenue Viera

SpaceCoastLiving.com | 2018 |

17

Se Habla Español

Have you been injured by someone else’s negligence?

Contact the local experienced professionals at Alpizar Law to see if you can be compensated for your loss.

Auto/Motorcycle Accidents • Trucking Accidents • Wrongful Death • Catastrophic Injury Pedestrian/Cycling Accidents • Watercraft/Boating Accidents • Maritime/Jones Act Claims Alpizar Law, LLC has been representing injury victims in Brevard County since 1978. We strive to be a reflection of local, personal professional service. As natives of Brevard County, we have proudly dedicated our professional lives to helping our friends, neighbors and visitors in our community who have been injured due to the fault of another person or company. Our credentials speak for themselves. More importantly, we are here for our clients to provide them with sound, competent, sensible legal representation and advice.

Contact us today for a free consultation 321-676-2511 • www.AlpizarLaw.com 1528 Palm Bay Road, NE • Palm Bay, FL 32905

Top: Scott and David Alpizar, Attorney Bottom: John Alpizar, Attorney

Boardwalk at Satellite Beach

Indian Harbour Beach

Beaches Satellite Beach

Satellite Beach was named by people who arrived here during the dawn of the Space Age. Nestled between the beach and the Indian River Lagoon, Most of the approximate 10,000 residents are retirees and young families who enjoy its shops, restaurants and surf. The area also is home to a 35-acre sports and recreation park as well as various beach parks.

Indian Harbour Beach

Only about two square miles, Indian Harbour Beach boasts some of Brevard County’s most luxurious properties, including the private enclave Lansing Island, as well as luxury condominiums and beachfront homes. It also has Kiwi Tennis Club, one of the top facilities of its kind in Florida, and public parks and beaches.

Indialantic

Only about a square mile, Indialantic is an eclectic city with lots of history as a surfing hot spot. Is also is an upscale residential and shopping community. The Fifth Avenue district, which ends at the beach, includes shops, galleries and bistros.

Melbourne Beach

Said to have been discovered by Ponce de Leon, affluent Melbourne Beach is historic and sedate, yet still offers its share of activities and attractions. Its pier is listed on the U.S. National Register of Historic Places, and its bright old “Pink House” now is a much-favored bed-andbreakfast called Port d’Hiver. Sebastian Inlet State Park also is in Melbourne Beach, offering an abundance of fishing, surfing, canoeing, kayaking and many other water-based activities.

SpaceCoastLiving.com | 2018 |

19

South Palm Bay

The most populated city in Brevard County, over 100,000 people call Palm Bay home. This remarkably diverse, 67-square-mile city has every imaginable type of housing. Palm Bay Hospital is located here, as are about 30 schools, including a campus of Eastern Florida State College (EFSC) with the University of Central Florida (UCF) offering several baccalaureate programs. Turkey Creek Sanctuary, one of the city’s 29 parks, is a favorite with nature lovers.

It has also established itself as a businessfriendly community with many mid- to largetechnology and manufacturing companies staking their territory here.

Malabar

Malabar retains its “Old Brevard” flavor. Malabar’s residents live - usually quite comfortable among tall oaks and pines, sometimes with cattle and horses as neighbors.

Grant-Valkaria

2016 marked the 10th year anniversary the communities of Grant and Valkaria became a single incorporated town, founded to control its growth and preserve its ecosystem. The town is home to the ever popular Grant Seafood Festival, Valkaria Airport and nearly 4,000 residents.

Turkey Creek Sanctuary

Castaways Point Park

20 | 2018 | Discover the Space Coast

holy trinity episcopal academy

Educating the Whole Child – Mind, Body and Spirit “There is more brain growth occurring in a child from zero to five years than any other time of life. It is essential to maximize this precious time as children learn to be self-reliant problem solvers, creative thinkers and to be emotionally resilient. At Holy Trinity, we address the developmental needs of the whole child in a safe, loving, spiritually rich environment with a strong academic focus.”

-Mary Ellen Williams, Holy Trinity Preschool Teacher Celebrating 1957 2017

call for your private tour today

years

WWW.HTACADEMY.ORG 321-723-8323

New Roof and Repairs Residential and Commercial Free Estimates Locally Owned, Family Operated Fully Licensed and Insured Integrity | Quality | Service We Keep You Covered

3810 Murrell Road, Suite 315 | Rockledge, Florida 32955 (321) 626-4420 | spacecoastroofingllc.com SpaceCoastLiving.com | 2018 |

21

EDUCATION

Discover... quality education for the next generation.

Over 73,000 young Brevardians attend the 112 institutions of learning administered by Brevard Public Schools (BPS), the largest employer in Brevard County. Inclusive of 20 special centers and 10 charter schools, they have excelled as a matter of course.

22 | 2018 | Discover the Space Coast

The district has received an “A” grade by the Florida Department of Education for nine consecutive years.

BREVARD PUBLIC SCHOOLS: THE NUMBERS ■■2014 ACT: All BPS juniors took the ACT, outperforming college-bound students in Florida.

■■BPS offers a comprehensive arts program; kindergarten through 12th grade.

■■BPS educates 2.6 percent of the student population in Florida and has 5.3 percent (3 year average) of the AllState Music Honorees and 15 of the state’s 18 Music Demonstration Schools.

■■Brevard Public Schools has more Professional Learning Community model schools than any district in the nation EXCELLENCE IN EDUCATION Brevard Public Schools have been ranked among “U.S. News & World Report” 2015 Best High Schools in the United States.

The top-scoring Brevard County school was West Shore Jr./ Sr., Edgewood Jr./Sr. High School in Melbourne which ranked 63rd in the U.S. and 8th in the State of Florida. Edgewood Jr./Sr. High School in Merritt Island also made it into the top 100 high schools, ranking 70th nationally and 10th in the state.

PRIVATE SCHOOLS Parents who wish to send their children to private or parochial schools also have a wide range of choices at every level, and those schools also have achieved their share of honors.

Eight Catholic elementary schools are located throughout Brevard County and serve students in Pre-K through grade 8. Melbourne Central Catholic High School, a 4-year college preparatory school, serves students in grades 9 through 12. All Brevard Catholic schools provide a comprehensive curriculum and diverse offering of extracurricular programs.

Visit BrevardCatholicSchools.org for more information.

Merritt Island Christian School is a co-educational day school, a ministry of the First Baptist Church of Merritt Island. Holy Trinity Episcopal Academy provides a challenging curriculum and spiritual atmosphere affording students an opportunity to pursue intellectual fulfillment, strengthen character, and develop lifelong morals and values from preschool through 12 grade. Brevard Christian School, operated by Bethany Baptist Church of West Melbourne, educates students from the preschool to high school levels, and offers many athletic programs.

Calvary Chapel Academy in West Melbourne is a nonprofit, nondenominational private Christian school accredited by the Association of Christian Schools International and offers a biblically integrated curriculum.

Florida Preparatory Academy, formerly Florida Air Academy, in Melbourne is one of the state’s premier co-ed college prep day and boarding schools for students in grades 6 through 12.

SpaceCoastLiving.com | 2018 |

23

STEALTH

Good for Soldiers, Bad for Business.

Without marketing, your customers will never know you are there.

Contact us at: 321-622-5986

EnTREPreneurialism & Ethical Capitalism

PRACTICAL HOW-TO’S AND TIMELESS WISDOM FOR THOSE WHO WANT TO DO BUSINESS RIGHT

FEATURING Jeff Piersall and Eric Wright

FOR MORE INFORMATION VISIT JEFFPIERSALL.COM OR DOGSDONTBARK.COM 24 | 2018 | Discover the Space Coast

COLLEGES & UNIVERSITIES

Discover... institutes of higher education.

The Space Coast is home to numerous remarkable colleges and universities that offer higher and continuing education that play important roles in the advancement of its residents.

Eastern Florida State College (EFSC) educates about 30,000 students annually on its Cocoa, Melbourne, Titusville and Palm Bay campuses and online. EFSC offers more than 100 degrees and programs, including Bachelor Degrees, Associate Degrees and specialized Certificate Programs.

Students who graduate with an Associate’s Degree from EFSC can transfer to the University of Central Florida (UCF) through the DirectConnect program. UCF operates satellite campuses on the EFSC Cocoa and Palm Bay campuses. For more information, visit EasternFlorida.edu.

Florida Institute of Technology: Florida Tech was founded at the dawn of the Space Race in 1958. The university was designated for the sixth consecutive year as a Tier One Best National University, as well as home to the most internationally diverse undergraduate student body in the nation, according to U.S. News & World Report’s “Best Colleges” 2016 rankings.

Based in Melbourne, Fla., Florida Tech offers undergraduate, graduate and doctoral programs. Fields of study include science, engineering, aeronautics, business, humanities, mathematics, psychology, communication and education.

Additional information is available at www.fit.edu Keiser University is a level VI, regionally accredited, private, not-for-profit university that offers degrees at the associate, baccalaureate, master’s, specialist and doctoral levels. Webster University is a private, nonprofit, accredited university offering a balance of arts, sciences and professional undergraduate and graduate degrees.

Barry University, Everest University, and Columbia College also operate higher and continuing education campuses in Brevard County. These colleges offer excellent opportunities for professional development.

Florida Institue of Technology

International Space Station experiments, pilotless aircraft and unmanned aerial vehicles, jet engines with improved performance are all examples of areas where Florida Tech researchers are advancing knowledge.

SpaceCoastLiving.com | 2018 |

25

HEALTH CARE

Discover...

Health First Cape Canaveral Hospital

superior health and wellness services.

The Space Coast offers top-notch health care services to patients through innovative live-saving technologies and new cutting-edge facilities located throughout Brevard County.

In Brevard County, patients receive treatment with the highest standards in health care.

The Space Coast offers top-notch health care services to patients through innovative live-saving technologies and new cutting-edge facilities located throughout Brevard County.

Each of Brevard County’s full-service hospitals is owned and operated by one of three area hospital systems. One is Parrish Medical Center, a not-forprofit public 210-bed acute care hospital in Titusville, as well as a Healthcare Center at Port St. John. Health First operates Health First’s Cape Canaveral Hospital in Cocoa Beach; Health First’s Holmes Regional Medical Center in Melbourne, the county’s only Level II trauma center; and Health First’s Palm Bay Hospital.

In addition, Health First’s Viera Hospital is part of the Health First Health Park, which includes a Medical Plaza, as well as the state-of-the-art Pro-Health & Fitness Center.

The Space Coast is also home to a growing number of specialty facilities. Devereux Florida has provided residential treatment programs to young people with mental illness and developmental disabilities in Viera since the 1980s. Kindred Health Care’s long-term acute care hospital in Melbourne. Arnold Palmer

26 | 2018 | Discover the Space Coast

Hospital for Children opened pediatric specialty services offices in Melbourne, offering a comforting environment and the most advanced technology available.

Specialized treatment organizations and facilities also abound on the Space Coast.

Health First Cancer Services and Space Coast Cancer Center, two leading cancer care providers on the Space Coast, joined together in 2015 to become the Health First Cancer Institute. The Health First Cancer Institute provides a full continuum of services needed for inpatients and outpatients fighting cancer and features Brevard County’s only female fellowship-trained breast cancer surgeon. In 2016, Health First expects to open a new breast center featuring prevention, early detection, genetic testing, diagnostics and treatment for women’s breast health.

Other cancer treatment organizations include Cancer Care Centers of Brevard, a comprehensive cancer center of Brevard and TEPAS Breast Center which specializes in breast cancer treatment. All organizations employ the latest technology in the fight against cancer.

Recently Opened Parrish Healthcare Center, Port Canaveral

The Heart Center at Holmes Regional, part of Health First’s family, surpassed all other hospitals in the state of Florida in reducing readmission rates for coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) patients according to Florida Hospital Association. It also features a state-ofthe-art Valve Clinic and Level II Trauma Center.

Steward Health Care provides all aspects of heart care, including prevention, diagnostics, treatment, open-heart surgery and rehabilitation and received the dual gold seal of approval for coronary artery disease.

The area also has its share of large, well-respected medical practices, like Health First Medical Group, Brevard’s largest multi-specialty physician group; Steward Physicians, a multi-specialty group acquired

by Steward Health Care; OMNI Healthcare, Brevard’s only Multispecialty Medical Group providing affordable healthcare for primary care, urgent care and specialty care; as well as Medical Associates of Brevard (MAB) also a multi-specialty group with over 40 physicians.

The Brevard County Medical Society (BCMS) aims to enhance the practice of medicine and serve as a

trusted resource for individuals seeking information on local health care professionals and organizations.

Physical therapy and rehabilitation services also are prevalent in Brevard County, with organizations like the five-office Beachside Physical Therapy, as well as those at or affiliated with hospitals and other independent practices. HealthSouth Sea Pines Rehabilitation Hospital has received the gold seal of approval and is one of the region’s premier institutions of its kind, accredited by the Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations (JCAHO).

Meanwhile, Consulate Health Care Services operates five skilled-nursing and short-term rehabilitation facilities throughout Brevard County. Melbourne Terrace Rehabilitation Center in Melbourne provides compassionate care and dedicated rehabilitative services to people in need.

For more information on Brevard County’s health and wellness offerings, visit SpaceCoastLiving.com

SpaceCoastLiving.com | 2018 |

27

Tim Data Integration Manager

We are Brevard We are Health First More than 80 years ago, community members and clinicians joined together to make health care local.

This tradition continues today with our nearly 9,000 associates who are committed to improving the health of Brevard. In the past five years alone, Health First has improved national quality outcomes by 65% and given $637 million back to Brevard in charitable investments.

One Community, One Health First Brevard’s Local Healthcare System Embraces Shift That Addresses Customers’ Unique Needs, Tailoring Care Unique to Each Person Whether making a retail purchase online or dealing with a business in person, customers have grown to expect to get what they want, on their terms.

That’s the future Health First is working toward.

Health First is embracing this consumer-driven shift and is leading the way in delivering the health care that patients and the community need – and deserve.

Ever-advancing technology continues to not only help healthcare organizations do this, but do it in a way that’s tailored to each individual patient.

From this comes a new vision for the integrated delivery network (IDN) – One Health First.

It’s about you, the care you need, the variety of methods in how we deliver that care, and the community of which we’re all a part.

We strive to do this because we feel strongly – We are one. We are Brevard.

During the next 5 to 10 years, expect health care to morph into an experience that is unique to each patient. Having an IDN that connects all the segments of your health care helps streamline it.

When hospitals, care providers, health plans and outpatient services converge, you get what you need more quickly. It also allows these providers to coordinate the multiple aspects of your care.

We’re also dedicated to making each experience you have with Health First a wonderful one.

One Health First will harness evolving technology, which we’ve already folded into our existing services. HF Now online check-in and scheduling services allow patients to book sameday appointments at a time and facility – either an emergency department or urgent care center – that works for them.

Telehealth services will also continue to expand, with patients having the ability not only to communicate with their care team through patient portal messaging, but through virtual visits via video chat.

Health First has been a part of Brevard County for more than 80 years. We’ve seen our share of changes – and have utilized them to improve our IDN and community. The purchase and integration of MIMA in February 2013 with Health First Physicians – now Health First Medical Group – illustrates our dedication and success. Interlinking all of these services only enhances and accelerates care for patients.

Visit HF.org for information about Health First SpaceCoastLiving.com | 2018 |

29

SENIOR LIVING

Discover... stress-free living for seniors.

The Space Coast has become a haven for seniors and visiting adults as the area offers many opportunities for elderly adults to enjoy fun and active lifestyles.

Due to the beautiful nature, weather and beaches of the Space Coast, many elderly citizens prefer to come here for a lifestyle they know they can appreciate. Retirees continue to flock to the condominiums and local assistedliving communities continue to raise the bar to appeal to seniors who seek active, independent lifestyles.

30 | 2018 | Discover the Space Coast

The Brennity in Viera is a luxury retirement community that offers spacious homes, independent and assisted living villas and apartments and amenities such as a clubhouse, restaurants, a memory care specialty center, putting green and a wellness center. Also in Viera is The Town Square, built with traditional neighborhood appeal, it is replete with all the comforts of home, offering an array of services to seniors including a hair salon, game and billiards room, a postal facility, exercise classes and more.

Heritage Isle in Viera is a “55-plus” 478-acre age restricted master planned community that includes multiple associations structured to provide services to the residents including a replete of group activities and amenities.

Buena Vida Estates in West Melbourne is a Continuing Care Retirement Community (CCRC) that offers a vibrant community filled with a wide range of independent living apartments and all levels of health care and other services. Buena Vida offers lifestyle options that fulfill the changing needs and desires of active, healthier, “more youthful” seniors.

Further south, The Fountains of Melbourne is an assisted-living facility where residents live in fully-equipped apartments and are offered a variety of services and amenities, including multiple on-site restaurants, a holistic wellness program and transportation to many events throughout the county.

For seniors dealing with memory loss, there are certain assisted-living communities on the Space Coast that specialize in caring for seniors with Alzheimer’s and dementia. La Casa Assisted Living & Memory Care, located on Merritt Island for example, offers an elegant and relaxing atmosphere, and operates a memory-care facility on site.

Sonata at Melbourne also offers award-winning memory care through its Serenades program. For seniors requiring a lesser level of care, it also offers The Viva, an independent living program, as well as The Harmony, an assisted living program at its resort-style property.

The Visiting Nurse Association (VNA) Space Coast and Granny Nannies are ideal organizations for seniors who don’t want to leave the comfort of their own homes. Both are available to offer home health care by certified nurses and aides, tailored to individual needs.

And for seniors who are not sure what they’re looking for, or have questions about everything from health care to assisted living to tax issues, One Senior Place in Viera offers “one-stop shopping” and a resource library for elderly residents and their families.

For more information on assisted living communities and health care services for seniors, visit SpaceCoastLiving.com SpaceCoastLiving.com | 2018 |

31

NOW AVAILABLE Dogs don’t bark at parked cars. They only chase moving objects and if you pay attention to them and slow down...you got it...they can bite. For dogs, stationary objects like fire hydrants and mailboxes have a completely different purpose in their universe.

“This book is about more than entrepreneurship and business - it is about life and life’s lessons.

So, read, reflect, and apply. But mostly, simply enjoy.”

J. Stanley “Stan” Payne C-Level Executive, Attorney and Corporate Strategist

“This book delivers useful insights from highly successful business leaders who had the courage to face the barking dogs. This is a must-read for those who desire to succeed and lead. I have read many books on success and business management and have found none that captured my interest like this one. Just read it and see!”

Joseph Duda, CEO and Chairman, A. Duda & Sons (Retired)

ORDER YOUR COPY NOW! WWW.DOGSDONTBARK.COM

COMMUNITY OUTREACH

Discover... a community helping those less fortunate.

In 2015, the Internal Revenue Service reported just over 2,100 nonprofits in Brevard County. This number includes a diverse group of organizations ranging from hospitals and human service organizations to advocacy groups and more.

From animal-rights organizations to community development outreach to child care and mentoring programs, there are tons of nonprofit organizations on the Space Coast that need help, not only financially, but also through volunteerism.

Learn more about services in the community at 2-1-1 Brevard. This 24hour a day, 7-day a week free service is available simply by dialing 2-1-1.

Information on health, human services and governmental programs available to Brevard County residents can also be accessed through 2-1-1. The organization also offers a comprehensive resource database online at 211Brevard.org.

United Way of Brevard is the “leader in mobilizing the caring power of the community.” In 2015, the organization’s annual fundraising campaign set a goal of $6.45 million to assist local health and human care agencies to help fund critical programs. Each annual campaign’s impact far exceeds the actual dollar mark due to matching funds from state and federal funding sources and grants.

For more information on United Way of Brevard, visit UWBrevard.org.

SpaceCoastLiving.com | 2018 |

49

BREVARD COUNTY COMMISSION District 1 - Commissioner Rita Pritchett North Brevard south to State Road 406 and west to the St. Johns River south of State Road 520

District 2 - Commissioner Jim Barfield (chair) Cocoa Beach, Cape Canaveral, Merritt Island and portions of Cocoa and West Cocoa

District 3 - Commissioner John Tobia Southeast Brevard (including Melbourne and Indialantic), West Melbourne, parts of Palm Bay, Malabar, Micco and Grant

District 4 - Commissioner Curt Smith (vice chair) North from Aurora Road in Melbourne to the northern boundaries of Rockledge.

All of Rockledge, Suntree, Viera, Palm Shores and North Melbourne and, west of Interstate-95, Lake Washington north of Lake Washington Road. The district also includes Satellite Beach, South Patrick Shores and South Tropical Trail below the Pineda Causeway

BREVARD COUNTY GOVERNMENT

Discover... leadership at the local level.

Residents of Brevard County live within 16 municipalities, each of which has its own governing body, and in unincorporated areas governed directly by the county.

The county is governed by elected commissioners from five geographical districts who establish ordinances and set policies, and are administered by a county manager, Stockton Whitten.

50 | 2018 | Discover the Space Coast

District 5 - Commissioner Kristine Isnardi From Aurora Road to New Haven Avenue in Melbourne and areas west of Melbourne and in western Palm Bay, and east to the Indian Harbour Beach area Brevard County Government Center Although the county seat is located in Titusville, many functions take place at the Brevard County Government Center in Viera. The Brevard County Sheriff’s Office, which handles law enforcement in unincorporated areas and some cities and towns, has multiple precincts and stations around the county, as does Brevard County Fire-Rescue.

For a complete listing of government offices, cities, municipalities and more, visit BrevardCounty.us

WHERE LIGHTING, DESIGN & FASHION COLLIDE.

1034 S. Harbor City Blvd., Melbourne, FL 32935 | (800) 541-3048

THEHouseOfLights.com

Tequila Azul

DINING & NIGHTLIFE

Discover...

delicious dining & lively nightlife.

The dining and nightlife scene continues to be on the up-swing, with plenty of restaurateurs tempting the palettes of Brevard County residents and out-oftowners. And thanks to a flourishing nightlife scene, there’s plenty to do after dinner, too.

The north end of the county is home to Dixie Crossroads Seafood Restaurant, which has become a local landmark due to its heaping servings of rock shrimp and fresh fish catches.

The Cove, Port Canaveral’s entertainment district, is home to casual waterfront restaurants.

Favorites such as Fishlips Waterfront Bar & Grill and Rusty’s Seafood & Oyster Bar are also some of Brevard County’s most popular drinking and dancing spots.

Riverfront restaurants oftentimes serving American and seafood classics, like River Rocks and Grills Seafood Deck & Tiki Bar, dot north Melbourne. Further inland, Viera also offers plenty of options like Tequila Azul for tasty eats, particularly at The Avenue Viera.

Beachside restaurants run the gamut from local surfer hangouts, such as Long Doggers and Coconuts on the Beach, to more upscale steakhouses, such as Djon’s Steak & Lobster House, and sushi restaurants.

Downtown districts namely Cocoa Village and Downtown Melbourne are lined with locally owned restaurants and cafés, as well as bars.

Downtown Melbourne specifically offers some of the area’s best dining such as Meg O’Malleys and Matt’s Casbah.

At the south end of the county, certain riverfront restaurants, such as Yellow Dog Café and Chart House, cater to the fine-dining crowd.

SpaceCoastLiving.com | 2018 |

53

Pizza Gallery

El Leoncito Meg O’Malleys

Check out these local favorite restaurants!

RIVER ROCKS/THE DOCK AT RIVER ROCKS Located waterfront on the beautiful Indian River Lagoon, River Rocks is Brevard County’s premier waterfront venue. The warm and inviting dining room is the backdrop for contemporary American cuisine focused on fresh local seafood.

Open daily for lunch and dinner.

Sunday brunch features omelet and waffle stations along with a variety of other selections. The Dock Bar and Grill is open daily for lunch and dinner, featuring a casual seafood menu and handmade frozen cocktails. 6485 S. U.S. Highway 1, Rockledge. (321) 757-7200.

MEG O’MALLEY’S From an Irish breakfast to bagpipes and traditional Irish food, the experience at this local gem is like no other. It is a great time for everyone. One of the legendary favorites, their corned beef, is sliced and ready to enjoy after hours of preparation. Those partaking in the fun and tasty cuisine are sure to see more than one leprechaun to be sure, likely carrying a pint of Guinness. 812 E. New Haven Avenue, Melbourne, (321) 952.5510.

TRADEWINDS AT DURAN GOLF CLUB Overlooking the breathtaking greens of the Duran Golf Club, the Tradewinds Restaurant is one of Viera’s best kept secrets.

Open daily for lunch in the dining room from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., with a limited bar menu from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., and for Sunday brunch from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. 7032 Stadium Parkway, Viera. (321) 504-7776.

PIZZA GALLERY & GRILL It isn’t just a pizza gallery anymore.

From gourmet pizza to braised short rib over goat cheese risotto to the Mediterranean catch, cobia over a Mediterranean bruschetta with a balsamic reduction, it’s safe to say this menu will satisfy all cravings. Don’t miss out on Sunday brunch with a custom omelet bar, mimosas and Bloody Marys, and, of course, gourmet pizza, biscuits and gravy, and even a blackened grouper over some cool Caribbean rice. 2250 Town Center Ave. Viera (321) 633.0397 EL LEONCITO With a kitchen menu prepared fresh daily, everyday is filled with tasty treats from the Churrasco, a nice Angus steak with a touch of Chimichurri, to the classic Enchiladas Rancheras and then the Mojarra, a whole snapper with a cilantro sauce. El Leoncito features Mariachis walking through the restaurant on the 2nd and last Wednesdays of each month. 5360 Stadium Parkway, Viera. (321) 349.3494

Pineada Crossing Bar & Grill

Squid Lips

SQUID LIPS Start with some amazing appetizers such as Baja fish tacos, baconwrapped plantains (in a spicy orange chipotle glaze), crunchy fish fingers and Joe’s conchy chowder.

Perfect salads feature seafood toppings like shrimp, mahi-mahi and grouper, and signature entrees include an oak-grilled grouper basted in honey-lime sauce. Cajun seasoning or jerked are available.

Try the excellent Caribbean-spiced catch with toasted coconut over a coconut pan sauce. Squid Lips also features a well-stocked raw bar.

1477 Pineapple Avenue, Melbourne (321) 259.3101 TEQUILA AZUL There are a variety of specialties here to try, such as the tableside guacamole. All margaritas are fresh squeezed -- made with fresh lime juice -- and premium tequilas.

Tequila Azul features Avion tequila, which won “The Best Tasting Tequila” at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition. It is one of the world’s best tequilas. Don’t miss out on the salsa, all homemade, as well. 6630 Colonnade Ave., Melbourne (321) 636.3291.

CHARLIE AND JAKE’S BREWERY GRILLE An original favorite in the Suntree area since 1996, offering craft beer, brewed in many styles, right in front of your eyes in the on-site brewery. Now celebrating their 20th anniversary, combining great beer with tasty barbecue has been the recipe for success since its opening. 6300 N. Wickham Road #137, Melbourne. (321) 752-7675 LONG DOGGERS RADICALLY RELAXED GRILL & BREW Enjoy great food and great fun in a totally casual environment. Eat inside and experience the surf shop atmosphere or eat outside to enjoy the great Florida weather.

Long Doggers has all sorts of appetizers and snacks, salads and entrees, as well as frankfurters in various forms. 2870 Post Road, Melbourne, (321) 751-4448; 4260 Minton Road, Palm Bay, (321) 951-8884; 890 N. Highway A1A, Indialantic, (321) 725-1115. 1201 S Patrick Drive, Satellite Beach, (321) 773-5558. 1970 Viera Blvd., Viera, (321) 433-1116

CHART HOUSE Situated on the stunning banks of the Indian River Lagoon, Chart House delivers seafood with style, delighting guests with one-of-akind cuisine, attentive service and a touch of class. Famous for its early bird and happy hour specials, Chart House is conveniently located near some of Melbourne’s hottest nightlife spots along New Haven Avenue. 2250 Front Street, Melbourne. (321) 729-6558 PINEDA CROSSING BAR & GRILL Has been serving the area for years and is known as “The Home of the Casual Gourmet,” which means classic comfort food with a gourmet twist. Some favorites include seafood arriving fresh from the Port and steaks cut from aged midwestern choice beef. Back in the day, the restaurant was called The Little Shack, with a plywood bar and formica top. Over the years, it’s been updated with oak and maple and to this day, is a staple in the restaurant. Don’t miss out on happy hour here, where everyday has Happy Hour. US1 & Pineda Causeway, 2515 Roberts Road, Melbourne. (321) 259.7760

For more information on Brevard County dining and nightlife destinations, visit SpaceCoastLiving.com and click on the Eat & Drink tab.

SpaceCoastLiving.com | 2018 |

55

El Leoncito Viera is growing in Brevard and still offers its famous combination of Mexican and Cuban flavored cuisine with of course, their refreshing Margaritas.

Our food is always cooked from scratch and never frozen. Some popular favorites include the Churrasco, a nice Angus steak with a hint of Chimichurri and the Enchiladas Rancheras, Don’t miss out on our Mariachis, appearing the 2nd and last Wednesdays of each month.

Meg O’Malleys authentic Irish cuisine and pub offers everything from the famous corned beef cuban to mouth-watering nightly specials and Sunday brunch. Meg O'Malley's is the place to be for enjoying the latest trends and specials in town.

We offer Sunday Brunch 11:00am-2:00pm Catering Please call us for a quick response for your catering needs at 1-321952-5510

Pizza Gallery is the place where food becomes art, from white pizza named after the master of black and white MC Escher to a Mexican pizza with salsa sauce named after the master of Southwestern landscapes, Georgia O’Keeffe. Enjoy a wide variety of menu items such as signature calzones, juicy burgers, tasty greens and more.

We are located at The Avenue Viera, Suite 113, directly across from Books-A-Million.

Hours

Hours

Monday 11AM–10PM Tuesday 11AM–10PM Wednesday 11AM–10PM Thursday 11AM–10PM Friday 11AM–11PM Saturday 11AM–11PM Sunday 11AM–10PM

Monday 10:30AM–10PM Tuesday 10:30AM–10PM Wednesday 10:30AM–11PM Thursday 10:30AM–12AM Friday 10:30AM–1:30AM Saturday 10:30AM–1:30AM Sunday 11AM–12AM

321.349.3494

321.952.5510

321.633.0397

321.259.7760

Location

Location

Location

5360 Stadium Parkway Viera, FL

812 E. New Haven Avenue, Melbourne, FL

2250 Town Center Ave. Viera, FL

Location US1 & Pineda Causeway 2515 Roberts Road Melbourne, FL

56 | 2018 | Discover the Space Coast

Hours

Pineda Crossing Bar & Grill has been serving the area for years and is known as “The Home of the Casual Gourmet,” which means classic comfort food with a gourmet twist. Some favorites include seafood arriving fresh from the Port and steaks cut from aged midwestern choice beef. Back in the day, the restaurant was called The Little Shack, with a plywood bar and formica top. Over the years, it’s been updated with oak and maple and to this day, is a staple in the restaurant. Don’t miss out on happy hour here.

Monday 11AM–9:30PM Tuesday 11AM–9:30PM Wednesday 11AM–9:30PM Thursday 11AM–11PM Friday 11AM–11PM Saturday 11AM–11PM Sunday 11AM–8:30PM

Hours Monday CLOSED Tuesday 11AM–10PM Wednesday 11AM–10PM Thursday 11AM–10PM Friday 11AM–10PM Saturday 11AM–10PM Sunday 4–9PM

For a unique dining experience, Squid Lips is the place in town.

With locations in three spots - Cocoa Beach, Melbourne & Sebastianit’s easy to find some tropical tranquility nearby.

Whether you’re visiting by boat or car, the goal is for each person to relax and enjoy some fresh, mouthwatering cuisine. From grilled foods prepared over an open oak wood fire to zero pre-breaded products found in the coolers to ensure each dish is prepared fresh.

Live entertainment is always on the agenda to make the atmosphere a fun place to hang out.

Hours Monday 11AM–9PM Tuesday 11AM–9PM Wednesday 11AM–9PM Thursday 11AM–9PM Friday 11AM–10PM Saturday 9AM–10PM Sunday 9AM–10PM Check website for all location hours

For a few rounds of Fresh-Lime Squeezed Margaritas, visit Tequila Azul- a premier Mexican restaurant and tequila bar offering classic Mexican dishes, such as tacos, fajitas and enchiladas.

Enjoy some refreshing drinks to accompany the meal including lip-tingling micheladas, Some menu favorites are the signature slow-cooked Carnitas, vegetarian dishes tacos with grilled fish, beef or chicken. For traditional Mexican food and an atmosphere and live music to match, there is no better place than Tequila Azul. Available for private events.

Hours Monday 11AM–10PM Tuesday 11AM–10PM Wednesday 11AM–10PM Thursday 11AM–10PM Friday 11AM–11PM Saturday 11AM–11PM Sunday 11AM–9PM

321.259.3101

321.636.3291

Location

Location

1477 Pineapple Avenue Melbourne, FL

6630 Colonnade Ave. Melbourne, FL

space oast

Premier Photographer Call for a consultation or to book an appointment today!

TEL: 321.622.5986 SpaceCoastLiving.com | 2018 |

57

WELCOME TO PARADISE

Custom Riverfront Builds Custom Oceanfront Builds Custom Homes on your own lot

Visit Our Model Home 8320 Serrano Circle Viera, FL 32940 321.254.0997

www.Joyal-Homes.com

Joyal Homes

Building Luxury Custom Homes on the Space Coast For Over 45 Years.

Now Build in Vale ing of Add ncia Villageison Viera! in

Experience the G & G Roofing Difference

&

COMMERCIAL RESIDENTIAL R O O F I N G

[residential]

[commercial]

Outstanding Warranty

Financing Available

Same Day Service

Proudly Serving Florida since 2002

24 Hour Emergency Service

Evening & Weekend Service Available

844-989-ROOF (7663) • CFLRoofing.com

Bob Kurlander Owner / Broker Bob@LandmarkFL.com 954.684.3647

Centrally Located | Build to Suit | Retail or Business Space Crossroads Village is located at the SEC of

N. Wickham Road and Pineda Causeway in the demographically superior Viera/Suntree, and Merritt Island, trade areas of Brevard County, Florida. Locate your business at the center of Brevard’s five causeways; at the shortest distance and quickest trip between I-95 and the Beaches in all of Brevard County.

A regional, high profile, meticulously maintained office location with county-wide access to all clients and associates.

Join Our Regional & National Tenants:

www.MyCrossroadsVillage.com | (954) 684-3647 | Bob@LandmarkFL.com

TRUE VISION DOESN’T JUST SEE THE FUTURE. IT CHANGES IT. 2018 LEXUS LS 500

ELEVATE YOUR EXPECTATIONS

SALES HOURS:

SERVICE HOU RS:

Mon. – Fri.: 8:30 am – 7:00 pm Sat.: 8:30 am - 6:00 pm Sun.: 12:00 pm - 5:00 pm

Mon. – Fri.: 7:30 am – 6:00 pm Sat.: 8:00 am – 2:00 pm Sun.: Closed

LEXUSOFMELBOURNE.COM | 888.635.6367 | 6927 Bromley Dr., Melbourne, FL 32940

FF

E

L ER P W PEO O T R N OU O F I AT TO OR UP L P EX ION ISS M AD

O 1 $

TWO Attractions, ONE Location, TWICE the Fun! Port Canaveral is a world-class gateway offering more recreational activities than all Florida seaports combined. We invite you to experience the fun and adventure at Exploration Tower & Jetty Park Beach.

PortCanaveral.com/Recreation

PARKS & RECREATION

Discover... pristine & awe-inspiring parks.

Living on the Space Coast means enjoying the great outdoors year ‘round at the various parks, beaches and nature centers that offer recreational activities and environmental education.

64 | 2018 | Discover the Space Coast

The county’s Department of Parks and Recreation manages more than 17,000 acres of Environmental Endangered Lands (EEL), sanctuaries and conservation areas, as well as 108 parks, three campgrounds, three golf courses, six nature centers, 42 beach access sites, and 13 school athletic sites.

Many parks preserve the area’s sensitive ecosystem and threatened species of wildlife.

Educational programs at the department’s nature centers focus on outdoor awareness and environmental preservation.

Specific parks are a haven for bird watching, while others offer venues for golfing, camping, horseback riding, fishing and boating, beach and lake swimming, as well as water sports.

Other active sports, as well as Little League soccer and baseball, can also be enjoyed at many locations. And for those looking for passive enjoyment, picnic pavilions and playgrounds are also a staple at many Brevard County parks.

For more information, visit BrevardCounty.us/ParksRecreation

BOBCAT

MANATEE

GREAT HORNED OWL, PHOTO BY URSULA DUBRICK

NATURE & WILDLIFE

Discover... a nature lover’s utopia.

There are countless ways to enjoy the magnificent beaches, wild animals and unspoiled landscapes of the Space Coast. Take for instance the many opportunities to dive into nature related activities such as nature hikes, guided tours, kayaking trips, bird watching, sailing and more.

Bordered by the Atlantic Ocean and home to the Indian River Lagoon and St. Johns River, Brevard offers nature lovers up-close encounters with a rich array of rare and endangered plants and animals.

Birding is hugely popular in Brevard County and is home to one of the country’s most popular bird-watching festivals, the Space Coast Birding and Wildlife Festival. The area is strategically located on a major birdmigration corridor and more than 330 species of birds have been spotted here.

The 140,000-acre Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge is home to more than 1,500 species of plants and animals and offers a variety of recreational opportunities. It’s also home to Black Point Wildlife Drive, a sevenmile drive on a dike road that weaves around several shallow marsh impoundments and through pine flatwoods, and the Archie Carr National Wildlife Refuge which is a designated protected habitat for nesting loggerhead sea turtles and the most significant green turtle nesting area in North America. The St. Johns River is home to a variety of wildlife while the Indian River Lagoon is a critical habitat for the endangered manatee.

Protected Animals & Land

Brevard County has been called the hub of the East Coast manatee population, with a large number of manatees, including the endangered West Indian (Florida) manatee, in Brevard County waters throughout the year. Sixty species of plants and animals in Brevard County are classified as “imperiled,” including the Florida scrub jay, the gopher tortoise, the bald eagle and the panther.

In 1990, the Environmentally Endangered Lands (EEL) program was established to protect the natural habitats of Brevard County by acquiring sensitive lands for conservation, passive recreation and environmental education.

SpaceCoastLiving.com | 2018 |

65

BEACHES

Discover... bountiful beaches.

With 72 miles of pristine coastline, the Space Coast beaches are a beach lover’s paradise.

Mixing relaxation, recreation and other amenities, Cocoa Beach, Satellite Beach and Indialantic are popular with the locals and are sprinkled with beach parks, as well as beachfront restaurants and shops. At the south end of the county, the shores of Melbourne Beach are rarely crowded and maintain popular spots for nesting sea turtles. The Canaveral National Seashore offers stretches of beaches in their purest state.

Cocoa Beach Pier

A Brevard County landmark, the Westgate Resorts Cocoa Beach Pier has been entertaining residents and visitors since 1962. Located at the end of Meade Avenue, it’s here where you can eat and drink, shop, play volleyball, cast a line and watch world-class surfers hone their skills.

The pier is a great launch-watching site and towers above a beach on which many of the area’s festivals and events, such as the NKF Surf Festival, New Year’s Eve celebrations, as well as various concerts and shows, take place.

The fishing pier is open daily with rod-andreel rentals available. Beach-goers can rent boogie boards and beach chairs, too.

The Westgate Cocoa Beach Pier also has multiple restaurants including Mai Tiki Bar, which extends 800 feet over the ocean. For more information, visit WestgateResorts.com/Cocoa-Beach-Pier

66 | 2018 | Discover the Space Coast

PHOTO BY CRYSTAL COOPER COCOA BEACH PIER

PHOTO BY CRYSTAL COOPER

SURFING

Now commonly known as one of the East Coast surfing capitals of the country, the sport of surfing has become a wildly popular pastime amongst residents of all ages, who can surf year ‘round due to the county’s amazing weather and are inspired by the success of numerous other local surfers turned pro.

Beginners and tourists flock to Cocoa Beach where waves are small yet consistent and board rentals are easy to come by. For more advanced surfers, Sebastian Inlet is home to world-class waves.

As you drive along coastal State Road A1A, you will find a surf shop on just about every corner, many of which can supply you with the best selection of new and used boards, the latest fashions, and all the necessary equipment you need to catch waves.

If you prefer to make a day of your surfing excursion, the Indialantic Boardwalk is the perfect place. The corner of A1A and 192, known as Fifth Avenue to locals, is home to surf shops like Longboard House, as well as restaurants and Nance Park outfitted with picnic pavilions.

Before making the trip to any of these spots, make sure to check the cams and reports found on Surfline.com and SurfGuru.com

Discover... bountiful beaches.

Waves breaking off the shores along the Space Coast have helped mold some if its regular local surfers into world famous surfing champions. The most famous thus far who have honed their skills at many of the area’s famous breaks include 11- time professional world champion surfer Kelly Slater and the famous top tier surfing competition champions the Hobgood brothers, C.J. and Damien.

Ron Jon Surf Shop

More than 2 million people visit the distinctive art deco surf palace in Cocoa Beach every year and marvel at the 52,000 square-foot facility with its own waterfall and glass elevator. The local retailer stocks everything from boards to bikinis, souvenirs and resort wear. Be sure not to leave without one of the world-famous Ron Jon T-shirts and decals. The world’s largest surf shop is open 24 hours per day, seven days a week on the corner of State Roads 520 and A1A in Cocoa Beach. Visit RonJonSurfShop.com for more information.

68 | 2018 | Discover the Space Coast

Discover...

GOLF

a golfer’s utopia.

The perfect year-round climate of the Space Coast coupled with the beauty of its natural surroundings lends itself to a golfer’s paradise. With 24 public and private courses providing a variety of challenges, the area has emerged as one of the best and most affordable golf destinations in the country.

North THE GREAT OUTDOORS NATURE AND GOLF RESORT, TITUSVILLE Par-71, 18-hole course LA CITA GOLF AND COUNTRY CLUB, TITUSVILLE Par-72, 18-hole course. Private.

SAM EXECUTIVE GOLF COURSE, SHARPES Par-56, 18-hole course SHERWOOD GOLF COURSE, TITUSVILLE Par-71, 18-hole course WALKABOUT GOLF AND COUNTRY CLUB, MIMS Par-72, 18-hole course WILLOW LAKES RV PARK AND GOLF COURSE, MIMS Par-29, 9-hole course

North Central BAYTREE NATIONAL GOLF LINKS, MELBOURNE Par-72, 18-hole course COCOA BEACH COUNTRY CLUB, COCOA BEACH Three 9-hole courses DURAN GOLF CLUB, VIERA Par-72, 18-hole course, and a par-3 lighted 9-hole course INDIAN RIVER COLONY CLUB, VIERA Par-72, 18-hole course. Private.

MANATEE COVE GOLF COURSE, PATRICK AIR FORCE BASE Par-72, 18-hole course. Private.

THE ROCKLEDGE COUNTRY CLUB, ROCKLEDGE 18-hole course. Private SUNTREE COUNTRY CLUB, SUNTREE Two 18-hole courses. Private.

THE SAVANNAHS, MERRITT ISLAND Par-72, 18-hole course TURTLE CREEK GOLF CLUB, ROCKLEDGE 18-hole course. Private.

VIERA EAST GOLF CLUB, VIERA Par-72, 18-hole course

South Central CRANE CREEK RESERVE GOLF COURSE, MELBOURNE Par-71, 18-hole course MALLARDS LANDING GOLF COURSE, MELBOURNE Par-72, 18-hole course PALM GARDENS GOLF COURSE, MELBOURNE Par-61, 18-hole course

South BAREFOOT BAY GOLF COURSE, BAREFOOT BAY Par-60, 18-hole course JO DADDY’S LIGHTED EXECUTIVE GOLF COURSE, PALM BAY Par-29, 9-hole course MAJORS GOLF CLUB, PALM BAY Par-72, 18-hole course SPESSARD HOLLAND GOLF COURSE, MELBOURNE BEACH Par-67, 18-hole course THE HABITAT, VALKARIA Par-72, 18-hole course SpaceCoastLiving.com | 2018 |

69

TENNIS

Discover... world-class tennis facilities.

Brevard County is home to various tennis complexes, leagues, and first-rate instructors offering group and private lessons. In summer of 2015, Eastern Florida State University opened the new Titan Tennis Center on Eastern Florida State College’s Melbourne campus, open for alumni, college-wide and public use and has gained national recognition for their women’s tennis team.

North

FAY PARK - Port St. John ISAAC CAMPBELL SR. PARK - Titusville

South Central BALLARD PARK - Melbourne

LA CITA COUNTRY CLUB - Titusville

DESOTO TENNIS AND RACQUETBALL COURTS, Satellite Beach

SINGLETON COURTS - Titusville

KIWI TENNIS CLUB - Indian Harbour Beach

YMCA OUTBACK RACQUET CENTER - Titusville

EAU GALLIE YACHT CLUB - Indian Harbour Beach

North Central NANCY HANSON RECREATION COMPLEX Cape Canaveral KIWANIS ISLAND TENNIS - Merritt Island INDIAN RIVER COLONY CLUB - Viera MCLARTY PARK - Rockledge PROVOST PARK - Cocoa RACQUET CLUB OF COCOA BEACH - Cocoa Beach Country Club ROCKLEDGE PARK TENNIS - Rockledge SUNTREE COUNTRY CLUB - Suntree SWISS INN AND TENNIS CENTER - Rockledge VIERA REGIONAL PARK - Viera 70 | 2018 | Discover the Space Coast

JIMMY MOORE TENNIS COMPLEX - Melbourne CRANE PARK COMMUNITY CENTER - Melbourne FEE AVENUE TENNIS COURTS - Melbourne BRYANT ADAMS PARK - West Melbourne

South HOOVER TENNIS - Indialantic FLUTIE ATHLETIC COMPLEX - Melbourne Beach TENNIS AT AQUARINA - Melbourne Beach WEST OAKS PARK - Palm Bay VETERANS MEMORIAL PARK - Palm Bay BAYSIDE LAKES COMMUNITY TENNIS - Palm Bay

Discover...

a cruising & entertainment destination.

Port Canaveral is a hot spot tourist destination in its own right. Offering a new Exploration Tower and Cove harbor-side dining and retail area, Port Canaveral has plenty of amenities to entertain visitors and is still continuing to grow. Plans are currently underway for new redevelopment of the area, set to include 250,000-square-feet of restaurants, retail, outdoor amphitheater and an upscale hotel. It remains one of the world’s busiest and most popular cruise ports, serving millions of cruising passengers each year.

Cruise Ships That Call Port Canaveral Home: Carnival Cruise Line Carnival Liberty Carnival Magic Carnival Sunshine Carnival Valor Carnival Victory Disney Cruise Line Disney Dream Disney Fantasy Disney Magic

PORT CANAVERAL Port Canaveral has seen exciting developments over the years with the Carnival Cruise ship Victory replacing Carnival Sensation and introducing Carnival Magic. Royal Caribbean introduced the Oasis in the Seas, as well.

Victory Casino Cruises offers an authentic Las Vegas-style gambling experience that takes passengers on five-hour excursions with tons of onboard gaming and entertainment.

Port Canaveral’s 22,000 squarefoot visitor exploration center gives guests the most spectacular views of observation decks, inside or outside.

Visit the theater and watch an actionpacked movie, specially produced for the Exploration Tower’s guests.

The Cove, the port’s entertainment district, features numerous shops, waterfront restaurants and lounges, many that stay open late, allowing patrons to drink, dance and enjoy the music of local bands and musicians.

Port Canaveral also is home to the 35-acre Jetty Park featuring a 4.5-acre family beach, cabins and the 1,200-foot Malcolm E. McLouth Recreation Pier; and 4-acre Rodney S. Ketcham Park, which is a stop on the Great Florida Birding Trail. All three parks have picnic pavilions spectacular views. In addition, six marinas are located within and immediately surround Port Canaveral’s harbor, and many offer chartered saltwater fishing excursions.

Royal Caribbean International Enchantment of the Seas Freedom of the Seas Oasis of the Seas Norwegian Cruise Line Norwegian Spirit Victory Casino Cruises Victory 1

SpaceCoastLiving.com | 2018 |

71

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER

Discover...

an escape to outer space.

The reason Brevard County is nicknamed the Space Coast, and why the main area code consists of the count down numbers “321” lies in the fact that it is home to the now retired Space Shuttle program. It is also home to the famous Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex (KSC), everthriving and inspiring to children and adults alike.

KSC offers unique space-related experiences not available anywhere in the world – from the 10-story high rockets on display in the Rocket Garden, to IMAX space films shown on gigantic five-story screens that show dramatic footage shot by astronauts on actual space missions.

It is also the permanent home of Space Shuttle Atlantis, showcasing the priceless, historic spacecraft that tells the incredible story of NASA’s 30-year Space Shuttle program. Space Shuttle Atlantis is displayed as only spacewalking astronauts have seen – rotated 43.21 degrees with payload doors open and its Canadarm (robotic arm) extended, as it has just undocked from the International Space Station.

KSC Up-Close guided tours of the launchpad, the launch control center and the Vehicle Assembly Building allow visitors to get up close to restricted areas and receive in-depth information on the operations of Kennedy Space Center. The Shuttle Launch Experience allows visitors to participate in space-flight simulations, while the Astronaut Training Experience (ATX) is a half-day program that immerses visitors in the preparation required for space flight. Guests may also partake in Astronaut Encounter or Lunch with An Astronaut, which offers rare opportunities to meet space explorers faceto-face.

Future generations of space explorers will be engaged and inspired like never before as Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex is organized into Mission Zones where attractions and tours are grouped by chronological era. From the dawn of space exploration to current and ongoing missions, you can get an upclose, hands-on feel for the story of humans in space.

72 | 2018 | Discover the Space Coast

Continuing the Space Coast Legacy Kennedy Space Center/Cape Canaveral Air Force Station is still home to thrilling unmanned rocket launches which can be viewed at the space center, as well as at many other spots around the Space Coast.

BREVARD ZOO

Discover...

interesting animals & aerial adventures Brevard Zoo deems itself “a small zoo that does big things.” True to form, what guests can experience here is rarely experienced anywhere else. With adventures that range from kayaking, train rides and ziplining excursions as well as a myriad of exotic animals such as giraffes, white rhinoceroses, giant anteaters, jaguars, cheetahs, parrots, monkeys and more, visiting Brevard Zoo truly offers an escape from the ordinary. According to TripAdvisor, Brevard Zoo is ranked number 1 of 54 things to do in Melbourne, ranked 14 out of the 25 best zoos in the United States and also received the 2015 Traveler’s Choice award.

More than 550 animals representing 165 species from Florida, Central and South America, Africa, Asia and Australia reside in five habitats that loop out from the main visitor area of the zoo.

One such loop, Paws On, offers water play, an aquarium and a petting-zone area that is popular with children.

Brevard Zoo offers guests the opportunity to kayak around an animal exhibit – the 10-acre Expedition Africa featuring cheetahs, lemurs, giraffes and impalas. Visitors also have the opportunity to paddleboat around the 22-acre restored wetlands area in the Wild Florida loop, ride the Cape to Cairo Express train and feed the birds in the free-flight aviary.

Treetop Trek Aerial Adventures, is an exciting obstacle course and zipline attraction (with a separate admission) comprised of three exhilarating courses, each suited for various age groups and physical-fitness levels. The most challenging of the three courses, the Treetop Challenge, includes a series of aerial obstacles 40 feet above the ground, a 700-foot zipline across the zoo’s wetlands and a wild ride over alligators and crocodiles.

In celebration of its 20th birthday, the zoo opened Meerkat Hamlet. Located in Expedition Africa, these precious, precocious and entertaining mammals represent a thoroughly different kind of resident than what is currently at the zoo.

For more information, visit BrevardZoo.org or call (321) 254-9453.

SpaceCoastLiving.com | 2018 |

73

PERFORMING ARTS

Discover...

captivating theater groups & musical ensembles.

The local arts community sizzles on the Space Coast as numerous theater groups, two ballet companies, professional orchestras and dozens of theatrical, dance and musical ensembles perform throughout the year, ensuring there’s plenty of opportunity to be entertained.

Theaters & Theatrical Groups THE HISTORIC COCOA VILLAGE PLAYHOUSE, Cocoa Village TITUSVILLE PLAYHOUSE, Emma Parrish Theater, Titusville THE SURFSIDE PLAYERS, The Community Theatre of Cocoa Beach HENEGAR CENTER FOR THE ARTS, Historic Downtown Melbourne MELBOURNE CIVIC THEATRE, Le Gallerie, Historic Downtown Melbourne GLEASON AUDITORIUM, Florida Tech Campus, Melbourne THE BREVARD THEATRICAL ENSEMBLE

Musical Ensembles BREVARD SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA performs at the Maxwell C. King Center for the Performing Arts BREVARD SYMPHONY YOUTH ORCHESTRA performs throughout the county BREVARD YOUTH CHORUS performs throughout the year at various venues CENTRAL FLORIDA WINDS performs throughout the county The Community Band of Brevard performs at Merritt Island High School’s auditorium FLORIDA TECH’S PERFORMANCE ENSEMBLES perform on Florida Tech’s campus and other venues throughout the county

COCOA VILLAGE PLAYHOUSE

Brevard Cultural Alliance Brevard Cultural Alliance’s mission is to build and sustain a dynamic and vibrant arts and cultural sector integral to Brevard County’s quality of life. Brevard Cultural Alliance (BCA) provides artist residencies in numerous public schools, has a thriving Art in Public Places temporary exhibitions program, helps build collaborative working groups on issues of importance to the sector, supports the development of cultural destination, and holds capacity-building workshops for artists and cultural organizations.

MELBOURNE CHAMBER MUSIC SOCIETY performs at St. Mark’s United Methodist Church, Indialantic MELBOURNE COMMUNITY ORCHESTRA performs at the Melbourne Auditorium

Can’t decide on which shows to see this season? Check out county-wide events through the BrevardCountyEvents.com 74 | 2018 | Discover the Space Coast

MAXWELL C. KING CENTER FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS

KingCenter.com allows you to pick your seats, pay for your tickets and print your order. Tickets can also be purchased by calling the King Center Ticket Office at (321) 242-2219.

Discover... the county’s premier performing arts venue

One of the most popular sources of entertainment on the Space Coast, this six story 126,000-squarefoot facility located on the Melbourne campus of Eastern Florida State College is the county’s premier performing arts venue, offering educational, cultural and community-related showcases. The center features a 2,016-seat main theater and an intimate Studio Theatre that seats 250. It also offers a members-only mezzanine Crown Club, monthly art exhibits at the art display area in the lobby and a spacious Rotunda area available for receptions, weddings and corporate functions.

Artistic Expressions ■■ Broadway musicals ■■ Plays ■■ Drama ■■ Symphonies ■■ Blues ■■ Jazz ■■ Dance ■■ Children’s theater ■■ Comedy ■■ Ballet ■■ Pop ■■ Lectures ■■ Country ■■ Family Brevard Symphony Orchestra The Brevard Symphony Orchestra (BSO) has been designated as the “Orchestra in Residence” at the King Center for the Performing Arts. This fully professional orchestra is recognized as one of the leading arts organizations in Central Florida. The BSO performs several subscription series concerts throughout the year, a free family concert every fall and, in partnership with the Brevard County School District, an annual concert for every fifth grade student in the county.

Space Coast Ballet Under the direction of former Kirov Ballet dancers Boris Chepelev and Janna Kirova, the Space Coast Ballet performs at the King Center. The company’s production of “The Nutcracker” has become a memorable Christmas tradition in Brevard County, featuring internationally acclaimed principal dancers, elaborate sets and elegant costumes.

SpaceCoastLiving.com | 2018 |

75

Eau Gallie Arts District

Viera Art Gallery

ART DISTRICTS

Discover... art-centric communities.

The Space Coast represents a wide array of mediums, from galleries, museums, festivals and other art venues that showcase not only the incredible talent of local artists, but also the talents of famed artists from around the country.

Historic Downtown Melbourne

Home of the Henegar Center for the Arts, the Melbourne Civic Theatre and the Strawbridge Art League, charming, busy Downtown Melbourne also boasts a number of galleries. The big, juried Melbourne Art Festival takes place in Downtown Melbourne each spring, while the Melbourne Main Street Fall Art Festival is held in November. Other shows and events take place throughout the year as well.

Eau Gallie Arts District

This arts district has been home to a number of artists and galleries for years. EGAD, as it’s called, is home of the Foosaner Art Museum, as well as numerous artists’ studios and galleries, and puts on a First Friday Art Walk in which art vendors, shops and restaurants stay open late and exhibitions and art demonstrations are presented in the heart of the district. The area also hosts ArtWorks Eau Gallie Art Festival, a “plein air” art show and EGAD In Bloom, a flower and garden festival and a food truck bazaar.

76 | 2018 | Discover the Space Coast

Historic Cocoa Village

Historic Cocoa Village is a hidden gem in the Central Florida arts community. Boasting a bright and vibrant atmosphere, each nook and cranny features artists’ work studios and galleries. The best times to check out the artistic community in Historic Cocoa Village is during the Arts & Craft Fairs held four times per year featuring local artists and crafters, or during the village’s twice per year “Shop Small Sip and Stroll” events that showcase the village’s artists and galleries among a night stroll through the village streets with music, wine and fine food being offered at various stops along the walk.

Historic Downtown Titusville

The number of artists in Titusville’s historic downtown district is growing and monthly special events take place to celebrate them. Titusville Art Walk promotes cultural awareness by allowing residents and visitors the opportunity to stroll through the district and view art at galleries, restaurants and studios.

SHOPPING

Discover... retail extravagance

Brevard County is home to multiple indoor regional malls and open-air shopping destinations replete with dining and entertainment, some engaging downtown shopping areas, not to mention stand-alone boutiques, smaller shopping centers with “bigbox” retail stores and plenty of home décor and furniture retailers, as well.

The Avenue Viera

Indoor Shopping Malls

Anchored by Dillard’s, Macy’s and JCPenney, Melbourne Square Mall is situated along the busy shopping corridor west of Babcock Street on 192.

Further north, Merritt Square Mall on Merritt Island represents Dillard’s, Macy’s, JCPenney, Sears, as well as a Cobb Merritt Square 16 movie theatre.

Open-Air Shopping Destinations

The Avenue Viera represents a new wave of shopping venues, with over 415,000 square feet of open-air shopping space. The Avenue Viera has over 70 stores, including Belk and World Market, as well as restaurants, like the Melting Pot, Bonefish Grill and an AMC Cinema movie theater.

Meanwhile, Hammock Landing on Palm Bay Road in West Melbourne is a popular shopping and dining destination with stores like Kohl’s and ULTA, and restaurants.

Downtown Shopping Districts Merritt Square Mall Hammock Landing

Downtown Titusville at the north end of the county is a restored gem, home to arts and crafts, gift and hobby shops, as well as popular restaurants.

Meanwhile, in Historic Cocoa Village, walk along tree-lined streets while you shop and enjoy the relaxing atmosphere of a nostalgic riverside community. Shoppers can find sellers of fine jewelry and antiques, apparel and home furnishing boutiques. The Eau Gallie Arts District is mainly lined with art galleries and studios, but also has specialty shops. Perhaps the most bustling of the downtown districts, Downtown Melbourne is lined with art galleries, antique stores, specialty shops, trendy apparel boutiques and a myriad of restaurants and bars. And while not precisely a downtown district, Fifth Avenue in Indialantic boasts fine restaurants, as well as longtime local retailers, like Longboard House.

For more information, visit SpaceCoastLiving.com and click on the fashion and beauty tab.

SpaceCoastLiving.com | 2018 |

77

MUSEUMS

Discover... history housed in marvelous museums Considering the notable achievements and rich history of the Space Coast, it’s no wonder that many prestigious museums are sprinkled throughout the county. Here’s where to get your fill of local history.

Rossetter House American Police Hall of Fame and Museum

78 | 2018 | Discover the Space Coast

Airforce Space and Missile Museum

North HARRY T. AND HARRIETTE V. MEMORIAL PARK AND CONFERENCE CENTER located on the property of the original Moore family home site in Mims features Brevard County’s civil rights heritage.

The Moores were leading national activists who were murdered on Christmas night in 1951 for their involvement in the civil rights movement.

U.S. SPACE WALK OF FAME, located in downtown Titusville, features space exhibits with special emphasis on the workers associated with the space program.

AIR FORCE SPACE AND MISSILE MUSEUM at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station preserves both the hardware and the spirit of U.S. space ventures, highlighting the Air Force as a major participant in America’s space program.

VALIANT AIR COMMAND WARBIRD MUSEUM in Titusville houses exhibits, displays, artifacts and vintage warbird aircraft from World War I through the present.

AMERICAN POLICE HALL OF FAME AND MUSEUM in Titusville was founded in 1960 as the nation’s first facility of this kind, honoring all federal, state, county and local police officers. The museum is home to more than 10,000 artifacts, simulators, interactive displays and an indoor gun range.

NORTH BREVARD HISTORICAL MUSEUM offers photographs, records, clothing and artifacts preserving the history of North Brevard.

South GRANT HISTORICAL HOUSE, also known as Bensen house, was built in 1916 and belonged to Clara Christensen Bensen who arrived by riverboat from Jacksonville. In 1984, the family donated Grant’s first home to the Grant Historical Society which developed plans to ensure the preservation its history.

MCLARTY TREASURE MUSEUM is located at the south end of Sebastian Inlet State Park in Melbourne Beach and features treasures and artifacts of the 1715 Spanish Plate Fleet. Meanwhile, SEBASTIAN FISHING MUSEUM honors the early fishermen of the Indian River Lagoon.

South Central LIBERTY BELL MEMORIAL MUSEUM in Melbourne showcases an exact, uncracked replica of the Liberty Bell.

Operated by Honor America Inc., the museum is just one of the organization’s projects promoting the honor and respect of the American flag.

HISTORIC ROSSETTER HOUSE MUSEUM & GARDENS, located on Highland Avenue in the Eau Gallie Arts District, is compromised of the 1908 Rossetter House and Gardens, the 1892 Roesch House and the 1865 Houston Cemetery. The Rossetter House Museum is home to a collection of antiques.

Historical tours are conducted daily and ghost tours take place the first Friday of every month.

Valiant Air Command Warbird Museum

North Central EASTERN FLORIDA STATE COLLEGE PLANETARIUM & OBSERVATORY IN COCOA features exhibit halls housing hands-on science and historical facts from human spaceflight. A 70foot domed planetarium theater reproduces the starry sky using a first-of-its-kind dual projection system combining Minolta Infinium and Digistar star projectors. Its rooftop observatory features one of the largest telescopes in Florida to view the real night sky.

BREVARD MUSEUM OF HISTORY AND NATURAL SCIENCE in Cocoa encourages visitors to learn about history, science and culture, with an emphasis on Brevard County and East Central Florida.

COCOA BEACH SURF COMPANY is home to the East Coast Surfing Hall of Fame, dedicated to the history of East Coast surfing and those responsible for its development and growth.

SpaceCoastLiving.com | 2018 |

79

A BUILDER FOR YOUR

EXCEPTIONAL

L ifeStyle

LIFESTYLE HOMES IS THE LEADING BUILDER OF SOLAR-POWERED “ E L E C T R I C - B I L L - F R E E ” H O M E S O N T H E S PA C E C O A S T

(321) 727-8188 I www.BuildingALifeStyle.com

FINAL THOUGHT

Discover... yourself on the space coast.

With all the offerings the Space Coast affords its residents, many consider the area to be a paradise, virtually embodying all that word signifies. Yet unlike many other coastal communities, Brevard County has remained an affordable place to live, work and play.

80 | 2018 | Discover the Space Coast

PHOTO BY CRYSTAL COOPER

The Space Coast continues to be applauded for its contributions to modern technology, yet it carries on as a community grounded by down-to-earth values that conserve and protect its innate beauty.

Its united population made up of all ages, cultures and family dynamics will continue to possess a collective positive spirit that celebrates its achievements and looks toward the future with optimism. And with its friendly demeanor, Brevard County will always be known as a welcoming community to all who want a taste of its warmth and vibrancy. â—†