Space Coast LIVING - Flavors of the Space Coast

space coast

JAN 2020

FLAVORS

of the Space Coast

JAN 2020

$4.95 USD

Quality Furniture & Interior Design

Quality Furniture & Interior Design

Our Vision is Your Vision for 2020 and Beyond

321.984.3200

Melbourne I

Suntree I

Merritt Island

www.BrevardEye.com

EXCEPTIONAL SERVICE, EXCEPTIONAL RESULTS FOR SALE

$1,099,000 3607 Cappio Drive

$899,900 4355 N. Highway 1

Coming Soon

8163 Old Tramway Drive

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

(321) 794-6203 | EllingsonProperties.com 5815 Hwy 1, Suite 3, Rockledge, FL 32955

BREVARD’S CHOICE

Auto/Motorcycle Accidents • Trucking Accidents • Wrongful Death Catastrophic Injury • Pedestrian/Cycling Accidents Watercraft/Boating Accidents For over 40 years, Alpizar Law has been the name Brevard County knows and trusts for help following a car crash. As one of Brevard’s oldest and most respected personal injury law firms, we are dedicated to providing local, personal service to help our friends, neighbors and visitors in our community who have been injured due to no fault of their own. Our lawyers have built a strong reputation and relationship with our community and are committed to provide our clients with sound, competent, sensible legal representation and advice.

Contact us today for a free consultation No Recovery – No Fees Se Habla Español

321-676-2511 • www.AlpizarLaw.com 1528 Palm Bay Road, NE • Palm Bay, FL 32905

Life happens. And you want to be ready when it does.

Let us help you take care of what matters most Getting to know you and what you care most about — planning for college, taking care of an elder family member, passing a legacy to future generations, buying a second home — is so important. Once we understand your priorities, together, we can help you pursue the goals you’ve set for yourself and your family. Call to learn more today.

Merrill Lynch Merrill Lynch Riverview Tower 6525 3rd St Ste 505 Rockledge,, Florida 32955 321.242.4002 www.fa.ml.com

Merrill Lynch Wealth Management makes available products and services offered by Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith Incorporated, a registered broker-dealer and Member SIPC, and other subsidiaries of Bank of America Corporation.

Banking products are provided by Bank of America, N.A., and affiliated banks, Members FDIC and wholly owned subsidiaries of Bank of America Corporation.

Investment products:

Are Not FDIC Insured Are Not Bank Guaranteed

May Lose Value

© 2019 Bank of America Corporation. All rights reserved. | AR76MH5H Vault-BA1340 | MLWM-129-AD | 471089PM-0119 | 01/2019

JANUARY 2020

COVER CREDITS: On the cover: Masa Taqueria Y Cantina Photography by Harmony Lynn Goodson

IN EVERY ISSUE

62 RETAIL & FOOD DIRECTORY 66 THE SCENE 72 BREVARD COUNTY EVENTS

SPECIAL FEATURES

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COVER FEATURE

SOMETHING OLD, NEW, BORROWED AND BLUE

MASA TAQUERIA Y CANTINA PUTS A MODERN TWIST ON ITS AUTHENTIC, MEXICAN CUISINE.

THE SEASON OF DRINKING: RIVER ROCKS’ WINTER DRINK MENU BRINGS A COOL TOUCH TO FLORIDA’S WARM WINTER MONTHS.

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THE FIRST ANNUAL SPACE COAST WING BATTLE

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BEER AS IT SHOULD BE: BEACHFLY BREWING COMPANY IS BRINGING A COLORADO BREWING STYLE TO THE BEACH.

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PLANNING A ROMANTIC GETAWAY IN PHILADELPHIA

ONCE UPON A THEME PARK: DISCOVER THE LESSER-KNOWN FOOD AND DRINK OPTIONS AT WALT DISNEY WORLD.

JAN UA RY 2020: 9

New Year, New You! 35% off TruSculpt ID non-surgical fat reduction & 30% off any laser hair removal package (4 treatments minimum) if purchased by 1/31/2020.

SERVICES OFFERED:

Traditional Family Medicine

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Medical spa: Cutera Secret Radiofrequency Micro-needling Nonsurgical fat reduction Cutera Xeo Laser hair removal Laser skin resurfacing & rejuvenation Vaginal rejuvenation Botox, Dysport & Restalyne Facial fillers 321-253-3944 2 Suntree Place Melbourne, FL 32940 familypracticeofsuntree@gmail.com

Family Practice of Suntree and Viera on Facebook FamilyPracticeSuntreeViera.com

The First 2020 Toyota Supra Arrives in Brevard.

Toyota of Melbourne Celebrates with a $30,000 Donation to the Haven for Children.

24 N Harbor City Blvd, Melbourne, FL 32935 (321) 426-9420 • ToyotaofMelbourne.com

JANUARY | VOLUME 17 | NUMBER 1 SpaceCoastLIVING.com Eric Wright, Publisher

EDITORIAL Sara Santora, Managing Editor Heather Motro, Jr. Assistant Editor

PRODUCTION & DESIGN Cheyenne McCully, Director of Creative & Print Operations Sarah Smith, Designer

PHOTOGRAPHY Harmony Lynn Goodson, Jason Hook, Stephen Leininger, Jess Mack, Stephen Oliveira , Lindsey Thompson, Moth and Moon Studios

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Caroline Ryan Cunningham, Harmony Lynn Goodson, Jess Mack, Erika Maeda, Yasmeen Noelle, Darcy Maeda Manning, Lindsey Thompson, Chloe Williams LOCATED IN HAMMOCK LANDING

4311 Norfolk Pkwy#114 West Melbourne FL 32904 321-339-1576

SKIN AND BODY CLINIC

RefineryMedspa.com

Facials Microneedling Chemical Peels Bodywrapping Retail Skin Care

ADVERTISING & SALES Lori Reader, Director of Sales lori@spacecoastliving.com Jessica Benitez, Director of Business Development jessicab@spacecoastmagazines.com Natalie Guzman, Account Manager natalie@spacecoastmagazines.com

ADMINISTRATION Helen Reyes, Director of Operations & Human Resources Michael Kane, Distribution Manager

MARKETING Tasha Macri

BOARD OF DIRECTORS Joseph Duda, Eric Wright For general inquiries call (321) 622-5986.

Botox and Dysport Dermal Fillers Laser Hair Removal Laser Facials Whole Body Cryotherapy

Wellness Injections

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TO SUBSCRIBE: Subscribe online at SpaceCoastLIVING.com or send $27.95 for a one-year (12 issues) or $39.95 for a two-year (24 issues) subscription to Space Coast LIVING, 335 Pineda Ct. Ste. 101-104, Melbourne, FL 32941-0901. Please include name, mailing address, city, state, zip code, phone number and email. Please allow 4-6 weeks for subscription to start.

A LOOK BACK AT 2019 WITH JACKIE GRIFFIN TEAM

at Florida Lifestyle Realty

310 Properties Sold 110 Open Houses Hosted Became a Business Partner with Cape View Elementary Participated in the Sophisticated Bridal Show in Melbourne Recognized as a Nextdoor Neighborhood Favorite An Agent Joined Our Team & Another Completed their GRI Designation Hosted an Awesome Customer Appreciation Party Recognized as Best of Zillow Attended 5 Real Estate Conferences Donated Over $6,000 to Housing For Homeless

We're hiring and want to hear from you!

To apply, please send your resume to careers@livingflr.com

321-613-5922

6500 N. Atlantic Ave. Ste. C | Cape Canaveral, FL | 32920

CHANGE OF ADDRESS If you are moving or changing the mailing address for your subscription, send your complete old address (where the magazine is currently being mailed), your complete new address, including zip code, to info@spacecoastmagazines.com

BREVARD PROPERTY MANAGEMENT & REALTY GROUP, LLC

BACK ISSUES $10.00 each. To purchase call (321) 622-5986 or email info@spacecoastmagazines.com

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PROPERTY MANAGEMENT

• We advertise on MULTIPLE LISTING SERVICE, our website, signs and national rental websites • COMPUTERIZED ACCOUNTING FOR MONTHLY AND YEAR END STATEMENTS • TENANT SCREENING to include criminal, credit, job income, eviction, and residential verification • Move-in/Move-out PHOTOS, INSPECTIONS AND ATTORNEY APPROVED LEASES 901 JORDAN BLASS DRIVE, SUITE 101 MELBOURNE, FLORIDA 32940

321-752-0460 | BPMREALTYGROUP.COM

REPRINTS Reprints and commemorative plaques may be ordered from That’s Great News. Contact www.thatsgreatnews.com.

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Space Coast LIVING 335 Pineda Court, Suites 101-104, Melbourne, FL 32940 Tel. (321) 622-5986 SpaceCoastLiving.com ®

Space Coast LIVING® is a registered trademark of Space Coast Magzines, LLC (“SCM”). The contents of Space Coast LIVING, associated websites, and any other print or electronic publications published by SCM 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 SCM, 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. SCM 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. SCM shall not be held liable for any errors or omissions in the content. ©2020 All rights reserved. Any reproduction, in whole or in part, is prohibited without written permission from the publisher.

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Masucci: Happily Ever After DEFINING YOUR

When it comes time to plant roots in Brevard County whether it’s committing to a marriage or committing to a home-

the Masucci name is one you can trust Your Ring

· Your Home · Your Jeweler · Your Agent

Danielle Masucci, Realtor

Jack Masucci Jewelers 262 E Merritt Island Causeway Merritt Island, FL 32952

(321) 452-6537 (321) 307-6907

www.LiveSpaceCoast.com

BEST JEWELER

FLAVORS of the Space Coast

Cocoa Village’s Coffee Community: River Road Coffee and Popsicles delivers high-quality coffee and love to its community.

By Sara Santora, Managing Editor Photography by Moth and Moon Studios Facebook: Moth and Moon Photography | Instagram: @mothandmoonphotography

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he world practically runs on caffeine. And many prefer their caffeine in the form of a morning cup of coffee, an afternoon latte or at post-dinner espresso. To meet this increasing demand, independent stores have popped up everywhere across the country, and more and more people are investing money into their own homebrew methods. But, whether you’re great with a Chemex or have your own milk pitcher, it’s still nice to go out and enjoy a craft cup of coffee at a local shop. This ability to spend hours upon hours in a coffee shop each week was something Elizabeth Fiegle, owner of River Road Coffee and Popsicles, loved most about her college years.

“I fell in love with coffee in college,” Fiegle shares. “I lived up in Mississippi and there was a local coffee shop up there called ‘Cups,’ and they probably own 5 or 6 different locations now, but it’s very much the same feel we have [at River Road].

“It was a comfort to me, with also really great coffee,” she continues.

Like most who are in college, coffee became her lifeline and it was at this time when Fiegle was able to learn more about the art of coffee. She learned about pour-over methods, and the differences between lattes and cappuccinos, and her love for both the taste and the craft became a passion that motivated her as she navigated life after college. Of course, when moving back to the Space Coast, she was worried about the lack of coffee culture.

“There were so many local shops [in Mississippi],” Fiegle shares, “And they were really on a renaissance of putting in more and more local businesses and reviving the small businesses in the area that had died out. So, when I was moving back here, I was like, ‘okay, there’s no coffee there, there is just a Starbucks,’ and

that hurts!

“I literally had my sister sending me coffee from my shops up [in Mississippi].”

Though she had never been a barista, she knew she loved coffee and wanted to work in the industry but getting her foot in the door was initially a bit of a challenge. After she moved back home, she applied to a few different local shops, as well as different Starbucks locations, but no one got back to her. Finally, once Bold Cup announced its opening in Viera, she reached out and secured a job, and it was there where she learned, not only more of the artistic side (latte art, brew methods, etc.) but also the administrative and financial sides of owning your own business.

“My first shift – the first time I was ever officially a barista – I was like, ‘okay, there is nothing else I want to do, I love this so much,’” she shares.

“It was a year and half of honing in skills, doing a lot of research on coffee and how to make it the best and how to pour latte art and what combinations work really well, observing what people like and don’t like … it was a long year of studying and observing a lot.”

As she delved deep into her love of coffee, she realized the only option left for her was to open her own shop. She began looking and when she found her current location, she knew it was the one. She shared that, luckily, the rent was in an affordable range, and she had an easy time finding the right furniture and the proper machinery, passing her health inspection and, most importantly, finding the right group of baristas.

Elizabeth Fiegle

JANUA RY 2020: 19

When talking about her now shop she says, “I couldn’t have made it better if I had built it from the ground up. It was a ‘too good to be true’ type of deal.

“When you think about building a small business, everybody says, ‘don’t do it, it’s a lot of work, you have to commit your whole life to it,’ which it is so true, I’m here every day and I’m committed to it … but at the same time, I really do feel like I was in a passenger’s seat and things were just working. Even just doing all the logistical stuff with putting everything into place, I’ve never really met a wall … I didn’t expect that when I started out with the business,” she continues.

River Road is a beautiful, spacious shop with wooden tables, comfortable couches and art on the walls. The art, as well as the merchandise, are all created by local artists, and customers are invited to appreciate (and buy) the art when they visit. And, with so many rooms, you’re invited to spend the afternoon working or studying – like Fiegle did at Cups when she lived in Mississippi – or come and catch up with a loved one.

“The whole point of doing this was not necessarily to open a business but more so to provide a space for community to happen, using coffee and popsicles as the thing,” Fiegle shares.

And, this community is built, not only through the friendly atmosphere and rooms of comfortable seating, but through the shop’s partnerships and events. Customers can enjoy workshops, learn more about brew methods (with beans roasted from a local roaster), visit Sarah’s Flower Truck and enjoy live music nights. Fiegle has truly made it a point to do whatever she can to support the local talent on the Space Coast.

“As much as I preach ‘support local,’ I really want to live that out,” says Fiegle. “So, our produce is local, our roaster is local, or tea is from Tampa so it’s as local as Florida can be, and I really do try and keep [everything at the shop] as local as possible, even if it means it costs a little more.”

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When asked about her favorite part of the job thus far she said, “Meeting all of the people and watching my baristas grow organically and get along and really just seeing them function together. They have taken this as their own and have really owned it all together, which has just been the greatest thing to watch … and just seeing life happen here and seeing the community take us in has been such a gift.”

9 Rosa L Jones Dr, Cocoa, FL 32922 (321) 626-6935 riverroadcp.com Facebook: River Road Coffee and Popsicles Instagram: @riverroadcp

WHERE TILE BECOMES

HD DIGITAL PORCELAIN LINEN TILES

2418 S. Harbor City Blvd.

321.676.1563 www.IslandTile.com

HOME | AUTO | UMBRELLA | JEWELRY | COLLECTIONS | WATERCRAFT | PRIVATE AIRCRAFT

Policy Packaging in all 50 States with A.M. Best Rated Private Client Insurers 817 Beachland Blvd Vero Beach, FL 32963 (772) 231-2828 6905 N Wickham Rd, Suite 501 Melbourne, FL 32940 (321) 757-8686 bbinsurance.com

JANUA RY 2020: 21

FLAVORS of the Space Coast

The Season of Drinking River Rocks’ winter drink menu brings a cool touch to Florida’s warm winter months

By Sara Santora, Managing Editor Photography by Harmony Lynn Goodson, Contributor Website: harmonylynn.com | Instagram: @harmonylynngoodson

F

inding the right restaurant or bar to enjoy a nice drink after a long day or a long weekend is important. Think: some of the most popular sitcoms of all time contain a bar, restaurant or coffee shop where the main characters spend most of their evenings. There is MacLaren’s Pub from How I Met Your Mother, Cheers from Cheers, and a whole host of other fictional bars and coffee shops where fictional characters work out their problems and spend their free time. It just goes to show that good friends and great drinks are some of life’s simplest pleasures.

For many on the Space Coast, River Rocks seems to be that MacLaren’s Pub or Cheers. On any given weeknight or weekend, there are groups sitting at the bar, or laughing over drinks at a table. Of course, this isn’t a shock, as the view is great and the drink menu is diverse. Those behind the bar know how to deliver high-quality fun to their customers, which can be seen in the smiles of all who visit.

How is this fun delivered? Well, there are a few factors that play into it. First and foremost, the bartenders and bar manager, Danny Holman, have years of experience, so not only are they friendly and knowledgeable, but they know how to create the perfect drink. And secondly, because they’ve perfected the classics, they can create their own recipes, and seasonal drink menus are offered to those wanting to experiment and try something new.

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Wanting to know what was coming for the winter months, we visited River Rocks on a Thursday evening, and Holman walked us through the four cocktails that will only be available for a limited time. We had a great time laughing, drinking and enjoying those delicious cocktails that can only be found at River Rocks this winter.

6485 S. US-1, Rockledge, FL 32955 (321) 757-7200 riverrocksrestaurant.com Facebook: River Rocks Restaurant Instagram: @riverrocksrestaurantfl

Mistletoe Margarita Tequila Triple Sec White cranberry juice

'

Finished with: salted rim, fresh cranberries and rosemary garnish

SPONSORED

S’mores Cocktail

⊲

Tito’s vodka Dark Creme de Cacao Bailey’s Melted down marshmallows Finished with: chocolate and graham cracker rim and two toasted marshmallows

Candy Cane Martini

Candy cane syrup (made in house) Tito’s vodka White Creme de Cacao

⊲

⊲

Finished with: candy cane rim

Jack Frost Martini Tito’s vodka Pineapple juice Cream of coconut Blue Curacao

Finished with: coconut rim JANUA RY 2020: 23

FLAVORS of the Space Coast

Your Local Vegan Kitchen Visit Paisley Vegan Kitchen and enjoy a home-cooked comfort meal straight from the garden.

By Yasmeen Noelle, Writer Photography by Jason Hook

Facebook: Jason Hook Photography Instagram: @jasonhookphotography

n the outskirts of our beloved Cocoa Village O lies Paisley Vegan Kitchen. Printed in bold white letters on the front window reads the words,

“delicious plant-based comfort food.” Is it possible these two opposing food categories coexist with another? It would seem so, because if you look closely, you’ll find full-grown adults licking their plates. According to owners Alyssa Dorer and Michael Martin, this has happened more than once.

Though I am not vegan, I tried Paisley on a friend’s recommendation. And while I was nervous before entering, my nerves were immediately calmed when I entered the quaint, comfortable restaurant, and was greeted by the friendly staff.

When you first walk into the restaurant, you’ll find a wall couch paired with rustic wooden tables while a shower of twinkle lights spelling out “Paisley” shines in the background. Cozy date atmosphere? Check. Kid friendly? Check. Established in 2016, Dorer and Martin longed for a space where vegans and non-vegans alike could come together and enjoy a feel-good appetizer or meal. Dorer explained her goal to be “as welcoming 2 4: SPAC E COA ST L IV IN G | S PACECOAST L I V I N G .CO M

as possible to anyone off the street.� Of course, I experienced this goal firsthand, as I immediately felt welcome when vising Paisley for the first time.

cashew sauce due to mass fluctuating market prices and allergy cautions, has allowed them to be more creative in the kitchen.

The menu offers a large variety of dishes for everyone.

House favorites consist of the Lasagna Rollatini, The Veggie Sandwich and Piled High Nachos.

First timers tend to gravitate towards The Veggie Sandwich, as it does not utilize any meat substitutes.

The Veggie Sandwich allows you to taste the wide array of veggies packed into the large sandwich in each bite, and it is paired with a side of avocado slaw or white rice and beans. You can also find gourmet salads, quinoa rice bowls, macaroni and cheese and more comfort food favorites on the menu. Personally, I gravitate towards the Deviled Potatoes appetizer during each visit.

Paisley strives to be mindful of those with allergies and gluten sensitivities and offer alternatives and substitutes as well.

Unlike other vegan restaurants, Paisley does not use cashew sauce in any of its dishes. Though this is one of the most popular food and cheese substitutes, Paisley still boasts a large menu. Despite what might seem to be a disadvantage, no longer carrying

Be sure to keep a look out for their new Melbourne location and frequent Movie Night events. I know I’ll be finding myself yet again, licking the plates, after a stroll through the Village.

You can find Paisley Vegan Kitchen at 630 Brevard Ave, Cocoa, FL 32922.

(321) 305-5767 paisleyvegankitchen.com Facebook: Paisley Vegan Kitchen Instagram: @paisley.vegan

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FLAVORS of the Space Coast

Discovering the Deliciousness of Umami Sushi Bar and Restaurant Experience an array of flavors that will leave you wanting more.

Article by Sara Santora, Managing Editor Article and Photography by Harmony Lynn Goodson, Contributor Website: harmonylynn.com | Instagram: @harmonylynngoodson

U

mami Restaurant and Sushi Bar is a traditional Japanese restaurant with progressive techniques. If you are looking for something innovative for your palate, look no further. Owner and chef, Chris Chern, uses his own spin on his menu for something truly different, making Umami a local favorite for many. Growing up, he worked at his parents’ restaurant, and he took the lessons learned there, along with his love of complex flavors to his own restaurant.

According to The New Yorker, Umami is a word that is often referred to as “the fifth taste,” meaning the taste that is not sweet, salty, sour or bitter. Roughly translated, the word means “deliciousness,” and – according to the

same article found in The New Yorker – was coined by a Japanese chemist named Kikunae Ikeda. Turns out, there is an entire scientific methodology behind the word, but for our purposes, that “fifth taste,” that “deliciousness,” is what matters here, as these terms perfectly define what you’ll find at Umami Restaurant and Sushi Bar. Chef Chris uses only the highest quality and freshest food on the market with a constant rotation of rare fish and shellfish. Everything on the menu is a must-try from the sushi to the hot plates. The menu is truly an array of flavors for all the senses. You will go home surely having tried something new and out of the box.

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Chef Chris served us a feast of everything so we could really get the breadth of the menu. For starters, we tried the ceviche with white fish, shellfish, peppers, radish,

onion, tomato, avocado, citrus and cilantro. An incredible mixture of flavors all while still being light and delicate. The Kalbi appetizer of marinated and grilled bone-in Korean style short ribs were perfectly done. If it’s seafood you like, you absolutely must have the U10

Scallops which are

cooked sous vide for a tender, melt in your mouth finish.

And if sushi is what you’re after, you’ve come to the right place. The fresh fish is absolutely fabulous, and each roll is a piece of art.

Umami is a small restaurant dedicated to excellent service for its individual guests. You will get personal attention from start to finish. The dim lighting and relaxing atmosphere lend themselves perfectly to date nights and work lunches alike. Just make sure you are visiting before 2:30 or after 4:30. And, if you are planning a visit during dinner hours, be sure to make a reservation.

3042 W New Haven Ave, West Melbourne, FL 32904 (321) 676-5159 myumamisushi.com Facebook: Umami Restaurant & Sushi Bar Instagram: @umamisushi_brevard

JANUA RY 2020: 27

FLAVORS of the Space Coast

Cocoa Beach’s Crowning Jewel Café Surfinista helps locals step back in time and enjoy the simplicity of the surf lifestyle.

By Yasmeen Noelle, Writer Photography by Sara Santora

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o many locals and passersby, Surfinista stands out as a Space Coast staple. As soon as you walk into the café, it is apparent that Café Surfinista is as much an art display and tribute to Florida’s history as it is a restaurant. You will find yourself wandering through room after room, each different from the last. One room is filled with sunlight, another dim and intimate, but all are alike in that they contain surf memorabilia and speak to Kelly Slater’s incredible career.

“Surfinista feels like home for me,” shares local lifestyle writer, Abby McHenry. “It is the first place I want to go when I come home from college.”

Many of the items on the menu take on the name of infamous surf spots, including my go-to order, The Frisco gourmet bagel. You choose the bagel (I always choose the everything), which is then topped with cream cheese, spinach leaves, avocado slices, tomato and sprinkled with a cracked pepper seasoning.

Of course, Surfinista’s acai bowls tend to take the spotlight.

These large smoothie bowls are topped with granola, fresh fruit, and depending on the bowl, finished with coconut, honey or bee pollen. A couple years ago, acai arose to be one of the most popular health superfoods. Full of antioxidants with a universal taste that can be paired with any other fruit, Surfinista led the charge in making these bowls both delicious and picturesque.

Each of the breakfast or lunch items pair well with Surfinista’s coffee selection. More often than not, I pair my bagel with a hot caramel latte. The Sumatra blend is my recommended blend, and for those who prefer to avoid dairy, milk alternatives are offered too, including a rare find, mocha hemp milk.

Café Surfinista also offers its own gift shop. Surf boards, logo T-shirts and tanks, coffee mugs and other miscellaneous merchandise are available for purchase. And, in the corner of the surf shop, 10 mini retro televisions sit stacked upon one another, all playing surf videos. You can hear the hum of the static when you get close. The nostalgia is real.

Cocoa Beach is famous for its simplistic surf lifestyle, and it is apparent that this popular imagery so often associated with the area was the inspiration behind Café Surfinista.

You can enjoy fresh foods as classics from The Beatles and The Mamas and The Papas play overhead and be reminded of a simpler time.

You can find Surfinista at 86 N Orlando Ave, Cocoa Beach, FL 32931.

(321) 613-3864 Facebook: The Surfinista Instagram: @cafesurfinista

ROCKLEDGE COUNTRY CLUB

PICKLEBALL JOIN THE GAME!

Come play with us on our newly installed, lighted pickleball courts!

Public Welcome

Open Play: Tuesday - Sunday, 8AM-5PM

1591 S Fiske Blvd Rockledge, fl 32955

CALL FOR MORE INFORMATION

Special Events Under the Lights 321-636-6022 MEmbershp@rockledgecc.com www.rockledgecc.com JANUA RY 2020: 29

FLAVORS of the Space Coast

Southern Comfort

Hell ‘N Blazes Brewing Company’s new menu is as enticing as its brews.

By Erika Maeda, Contributor Photography by Stephen Oliveira, Contributor Website: stephenoliveira.com | Instagram: @focusstephen

T

here is only one direction the Hell ‘N Blazes Brewing Company (HNB) is going, and that is up. Hell ‘N Blazes Brewing Company is stepping up its game in the kitchen, pairing its best local brews with American southern fare.

The 16,000-square-foot brewery is housed in an 1898 historical landmark building in downtown Melbourne and features a full-service kitchen offering the comforts of All-American bar food, plus quality homecooked, southern meals for all ages and palettes, including vegetarian and vegan entrees.

Hell ‘N Blazes Brewing Company is a watering hole for beer connoisseurs as it is a family-friendly gathering place.

And that’s exactly how Owner Don Difrisco envisioned his establishment.

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“This place is super family-oriented. We really care about each other here,” said Hell N’ Blazes Chef Drew Campbell. “I want the food to reflect all the care, love and hard work that has gone into the building and have it live up to the high standards that our beers have set.”

Campbell pours her creativity and passion for food into each entree, creating recipes in-house with most dishes made from scratch. She has enjoyed infusing Brewmaster Todd Furbeck’s award-winning beers into her cooking.

Melbourne native Furbeck, who grew up with the company’s general manager Andy Pinkerton, Difrisco’s nephew, considers himself a true-to-style brewer and crafts his brews to reminisce tradition and simplicity whilst dancing with the southern gastro pub flavors of Campbell’s menu. Furbeck recommends pairing Glory Days IPA with the bacon-wrapped jalapeno brisket-stuffed poppers dressed in habanero brew infused garlicmolasses BBQ sauce. Or, give the 32901 IPA a try with the chicken cobb salad. The refreshing Palm Bay IPA pairs nicely with almost everything - HNB’s

signature candied maple bacon strips to the grilled vegan Beyond Burger dressed with a delightful BBQ house bistro sauce.

Among the expanded vegan/vegetarian menu items is the kid-approved, plant-based, soy-free chicken nuggets made from bamboo. To the unsuspecting 9-year-old and 30-something-year-old, these crispy battered tenders with the house BBQ sauce were nearly identical in flavor to what one would find in a happy meal.

Campbell is dedicated to creating dishes that stay true to HNB’s identity and atmosphere. “I cook what I would want to eat at home. We want people to be comfortable and hang out. We aren’t interested in flipping tables. There is a hunting-outdoorsy vibe going on and I didn’t want to be another BBQ place.

I wanted to do southern without the heavy fried and gravy items. I don’t want menu items that fill people to the point of competing with the beer.” Think complimentary pairings, my friends.

First-timers may seek comfort in the beer flights.

The brews are all inspired by history, the city of Melbourne, or both. Core beers include the Causeway IPA, Northern Flow Lager and Huggins Hefeweizen. Newer releases are the Smoked Pumpkin Habanero amber ale, Mabel’s Monster Mangos and Palm Bay IPA. This 122-year-old building has elements of historical charm throughout. Take a walk down memory lane on your way to the game room where you’ll also pass the 10-barrel brewhouse. Old photos adorn the walls outlining the building’s unique history from its inception in the 1800s as the first and only bank between Miami and Jacksonville, then came the addition of a mortuary, Huggins Hardware Supply and a furniture store.

When opening in 2015, the Difrisco family wanted to preserve the historical elements of its past. Original

hardwood floors, awnings, windows and artifacts displayed throughout bring the 100-year-old building alive. Sit with the friendly spirit of Mabel Huggins by Mabel’s piano near the front of the building. Visit The Vault, which can be reserved for private events, on the opposite side of the brewhouse and you will find the original bank vault door restored to its original glory.

The main tap room and game room are bordered with flat screen TVs streaming ESPN and the news. Country music faintly plays in the background.

The next time you find yourself in downtown Melbourne with an empty stomach give HNB a shot. Bring the entire family for good food, beer and shuffleboard.

1002 E New Haven Ave, Melbourne, FL 32901 (321) 821-4052 hellnblazesbrewing.com Facebook: Hell 'n Blazes Brewing Co. Instagram: @hellnblazes JANUA RY 2020: 31

FLAVORS of the Space Coast

Thoughtfully Curated and Created Fat Snook provides fresh, locally sourced food for the Space Coast.

Article and Photography by Harmony Lynn Goodson, Contributor Website: harmonylynn.com | Instagram: @harmonylynngoodson

F

at Snook is a casual, seafood-centric restaurant in Cocoa Beach. Its doors have been open since 2007, and the restaurant can be described as a scratch kitchen with a Caribbean vibe – a perfect addition to our infamous beaches.

Owner, Mona Foy, prides herself on a kitchen full of the freshest locally sourced ingredients. Foy is also dedicated to supporting local vendors and sources ingredients from vendors such as Garden Path, Outpost, Wahoo Coffee Co., among others. Each dish is thoughtfully and artistically created and plated with care to bring delicious flavor to guests. You can also taste wine and local beer or try their seasonal over-the-top Sunday brunch with a morning cocktail. (You can learn more about Fat Snook’s brunch from our May issue!)

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The entire menu is a must-have feast but if you must choose, try the fresh catch entrees: scallops and grilled oysters.

The oysters are served with habanero butter, cilantro and grilled limes. Or take a bite out the Bombay seafood pie and taste a little of everything with smoked Mahi, scallops and shrimp, coconut turmeric bechamel, toasted spice mashed red bliss potatoes and mango chutney.

You are sure to be greeted with a smile from the wonderful staff at Fat Snook and extra cared for during your dining experience. The ambiance is fun, from the living plant life wall to the shark wall. This place is perfect for families and for date night.

2464 S. Atlantic Ave. Cocoa Beach, FL 32931 (321) 784-1190 Facebook: The Fat Snook Restaurant Instagram: @thefatsnook

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682-0919

JANUA RY 2020: 33

FLAVORS of the Space Coast

Beer as it Should Be BeachFly Brewing Company is bringing a Colorado brewing style to the beach.

By Sara Santora, Managing Editor Photography by Harmony Lynn Goodson, Contributor Website: harmonylynn.com | Instagram: @harmonylynngoodson

C

raft beer is sweeping the nation. With over 7,000 craft breweries across the country, it is obvious that people want something different than the draft beers with which they grew up. Craft breweries also offer a different atmosphere than your local bar. Because these breweries are typically where the beer is made, guests can feel like they’re a part of the experience.

BeachFly Brewing Company understands that both taste and experience are important when operating a craft brewery.

So, its owners and head brewer are going above and beyond to bring a true craft experience to the Space Coast.

BeachFly is owned and operated by Mother-Son team Zach Featherstone and Lisa Freismuth. The two opened BeachFly on Thanksgiving Day in 2018, an interesting business move to say the least.

“We opened for four-six hours,” says Featherstone. “We didn’t do any advertising; we just posted on Facebook that we were open, and people came in after their Thanksgiving dinners.”

Neither Featherstone nor his mother Freismuth are from the Space Coast originally. Freismuth moved to the Space Coast seven years ago, Featherstone following suit five years later. Featherstone shares that he was raised in Indiana but moved to Colorado after graduation. And it was during this time in Colorado that his love for craft beer began to blossom.

However, he also had a job that he admits bored him. So as he struggled with that to do, his uncle — who owned his own

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microbrewery in Colorado — asked him, “You know how to home brew, so why don’t you try brewing for a bit? Your mom’s area is dying for another brewery.”

Featherstone did like the Space Coast, so he followed his uncle’s advice and, after four years of hard work, BeachFly was born.

Six months before opening, Featherstone and Freismuth brought head brewer William Brant on board. Unlike the owners, Brant is a Satellite Beach native. His love for craft beer began when he was a college student in Tampa, so after graduation, he also decided to head to Colorado — Denver, to be exact. But, he and Featherstone would not meet until both were living in Brevard.

Like Featherstone, he moved (back) to the area two years ago. Written in the stars?

Definitely.

“I was excited for the prospect of craft beer in this area because I know it didn’t have it,” said Brant. While there are a number of places beachside that offer a variety of beers, BeachFly is the only real craft brewery on the beach.

“People say all the time, ‘We’re so thankful there’s [a craft brewery] on the beach, we don’t want to go over the bridge,’” shares Freismuth.

“Going over the bridge is not a very long distance, but it’s a principal,” jokes Brant. “If we don’t have to, we don’t want to.”

With the brewery, the goal of the owners was to bring a Colorado style craft beer to the area. Featherstone admits that this is what helps he and Brant to work well together — Brant has a deep understanding of Colorado style brews.

“Colorado craft beer is a little more adventurous, and it’s a little truer to beer roots,” says Featherstone. “In Florida, people are playing with citrus, which is a cool thing, but we want to do beer the way beer should be, while also playing with what makes the different styles the different styles.”

“Florida has never necessarily been a beer-centric area like maybe California, Oregon, Colorado, New York .. places like those,” continues Brant. He jokes, “But all those influences have Winter homes here, so the possibility of [craft beer knowledge] exists, but we do a lot of educating and a lot of explaining to people why we approach [craft beer] the way we do.”

Brant brews beers between two and six times a month, depending on the batch. BeachFly has six core beers that

remain on the menu year-round. These brews pay homage to the history and beauty of the area, one called Purple Porpoise — named after the popular bar that previously occupied their space — and Canova Sunrise Ale. There are also six beers that are kept on a seasonal rotation, and BeachFly releases a new small-batch beer each week, so be sure to check up on the changing weekly menu.

“There was definitely a foundation here from the breweries before us,” shares Featherstone. “We’re just adding something to that.”

1080 E Eau Gallie Blvd., Indian Harbour Beach, FL 32937 Phone: (321) 610- 3653 Website: beachflybrewing.com

JANUA RY 2020: 35

FLAVORS of the Space Coast | COVER FEATURE

Something Old, New, Borrowed and Blue Masa Taqueria Y Cantina puts a modern twist on its authentic, Mexican cuisine.

Article by Sara Santora, Managing Editor Article and Photography by Harmony Lynn Goodson, Contributor Website: harmonylynn.com | Instagram: @harmonylynngoodson

M

asa Taqueria Y Cantina is an authentic Mexican culinary gem in Indian Harbour Beach. The menu is diverse, and with offerings that include everything from street tacos to wet burritos, there is a little something for everyone to enjoy. We wanted to know more about the menu, so we sat down with Masa’s executive chef Nycole Promoe and owner Colin Jones to learn more about the source of their delicious ideas.

As the name implies, the story begins with the word, ‘Masa.’ In Latin American cuisine, Masa is the dough that is made from corn flour and used for tortillas, tamales, etc. After traveling to Mexico and other large food hubs across America including Austin, Texas and Denver, Colorado, owners Jones and Douglas Walker decided that they wanted to pay homage to the tradition of Mexican cuisine but also wanted to add modern techniques and a fusion style. To accomplish this, they began with the masa.

Masa sources its blue corn straight from Mexico. True to the art form of Mexican cooking, the kitchen sends it through a 24-hour process of soaking, dehusking and grinding with Molino stones before the tortillas are freshly pressed and served. “When it comes out fresh, and you can press and get it toasty and get that fresh bread or fresh tortilla smell, it’s fantastic,” said Jones.

The small street-style tacos are a must if you want to try Masa’s blue corn tortillas. The chefs have ensured that the flavors of the meats perfectly complement the flavor of the blue corn, and though the street tacos are small (we recommend getting three or four), they are mighty and packed with big flavor; homemade salsas and sauces can be tasted in every bite. Of course, for those who are not a fan of blue corn, Masa also offers white corn tortillas and flour tortillas. Both the process and the size of the tacos pay homage to more traditional methods of Mexican cuisine.

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SPONSORED

In regard to adding a more modern flair to the traditional methods, the chefs are allowed to experiment with flavor and bring something new to the table. Take their Chicken Mole for example: Chef Nycole, who shared she typically dislikes Mole, took the time to experiment with flavor to create something she would enjoy eating, and by extension, her guests. Masa’s Chicken Mole is not quite as sweet as traditionalists may be accustomed to, but it was a flavor more modern, and to some, more enjoyable. Even take a look at the street tacos, which contain fun sauces not typically found in traditional Mexican fare. Masa also offers Elotes (Mexican street corn) off the cob as a side dish, and while just as delicious as your typical Elotes, it’s much easier to consume.

If you love the idea of the street tacos but want something a bit bigger, we recommend the “fancy tacos,” as they are much larger than the street tacos and showcase Masa’s more modern techniques. If you want something tried and true, order their fajitas, which are big enough to share, though you certainly don’t have to. These larger dishes are packed with flavor to delight the senses.

Also be sure to order a margarita or cocktail from the delicious drink menu, and if you can, take your orders out on the back deck: A well designed lounge area with a gorgeous fire centerpiece and a breeze from the nearby ocean. However, if the weather is less than ideal, dine inside, where the lighting is dim, and the walls are decorated with fun and vibrant Mexican art.

There is truly no bad seat in the house.

Fun and flavorful, authentic and fresh, Masa offers the Space Coast a new (and in a way, old) take on Mexican cuisine.

445 E Eau Gallie Blvd, Melbourne, FL 32937 (321) 610-1462 masatacos.com Facebook: Masa Taqueria Y Cantina Instagram: @masataqueriaycantina JANUA RY 2020: 37

FLAVORS of the Space Coast

Sean Beck and Jake Schmalenberger

The First Annual Space Coast Wing Battle Local restaurants bring the heat and compete for the title of ‘champion.’

By Sara Santora, Managing Editor Photography by Stephen Leininger

Website: sl-lens.com | Instagram: @stephenleininger

W

hen it comes to food, wings tend to be a fan favorite.

“Almost everybody enjoys wings. And what pairs well with wings? Beer.”

This was among the first sentiments expressed by Sean J. Beck, co-owner of Battle Bros LLC, and co-host of the first annual Space Coast Wing Battle.

Before the full business plan had even come together, Beck thought of the company’s name, Battle Bros. Once it was decided that this would be the name of the company, the rest fell into place, and so they got to work planning the Wing Battle.

Beck and his brother-in-law, Jake Schmalenberger, started the business in 2019, though working together has been a long time coming.

“The point with this event is to engage the community with local restaurants,” said Beck. “We want to engage the restaurants in something that will be fun for them, offer the customers a lot of variety and give the restaurants the opportunity to come up with their own flavors.”

“We’ve talked about various business ideas over the years, but he didn’t live here,” said Schmalenberger. “He recently moved here and said, ‘This is what [the Space Coast] is missing – fun events. We both love wings and we both love beer, so, we decided this would be the project to take on.”

In other words, restaurants are being given the chance to be as creative and unique as possible with a dish that everyone loves. And ticket holders get to enjoy wings of all flavors and heat levels, hopefully seeking out their new goto for wing night or Sunday afternoon football.

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SPONSORED

Restaurants from across the Space Coast are competing – 16, to be exact – and breweries from around Central Florida will be bringing special brews for customers to enjoy as they try to determine whose wings are the best. Because, that’s what the Space Coast Wing Battle is: a competition to settle, once and for all, which restaurant has the best wings on the Space Coast.

There will be two different awards given. One will be a people’s choice award, which will, of course, be given to the restaurant with the most votes at the end of the event.

The second will be the Space Coast Wing Battle Champion, which will be determined by a panel of accredited judges who will be present at the event. The event is all you can eat and drink, but this is in no way a contest to see who can eat or drink the most.

The Space Coast Wing Battle is being held on February 8th at Viera Regional Park. The live entertainment will be Coastal Breed. You must have tickets to enter, and you must be 21 or older.

The Space Coast Wing Battle is sponsored by: Carroll Distributing Company, Von Brooke Telecom, Soriano Med, SYSCO, United Rentals and Space Coast Magazines.

The Space Coast Wing Battle is also held in partnership with The Children’s Hunger Project, Inc., so part of the proceeds will be donated to help feed children across the Space Coast.

Visit SpaceCoastWingBattle.com for more information.

As mentioned, this will be the first annual Space Coast Wing Battle hosted by Battle Bros LLC. Once the Wing Battle is over, Beck and Schmalenberger will take the feedback from both the restaurants and the ticket holders as guidelines to plan their next event.

“All of our events will be food-based, but each time you come to one of our events, you’ll get something different,” said Beck.

Competitors: The Twisted Birch Sports Bar & Grill Buffalo Wild Wings Doghouse Pizza Gator's Dockside Melbourne Sandbar Sports Grill Double Tapp Grill Malabar Mo's Bar & Grill Hell 'n Blazes Brewing Co. Chumley's Depot Downtown Produce Slow & Low BBQ - Viera Haley's Smokehouse 4th Street Fillin Station Hemingway's Tavern Long Doggers The Shack Riverfront Restaurant and Tiki Bar

Brews and More: Florida Beer Company Pareidolia Brewing Co. Hell 'n Blazes Brewing Co. BeachFly Brewing Company Intracoastal Brewing Company Ellipsis Brewing Golden Road Brewing Veza Sur Brewing Co Drink Babe Cutwater Spirits Bud Light Seltzer

JANUA RY 2020: 39

FLAVORS of the Space Coast

A Modern Romance: A Boy, Hip Hop and Food Chez Quan’s delivers good tunes and even better food.

By Darcy Manning, Contributor Instagram: @makeupbydarcymm

Photography by Stephen Leininger Website: sl-lens.com | Instagram: @stephenleininger

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Q

“

uan rules everything around me” is the much more applicable version of Wu-Tang Clan’s hit song CREAM off their 1993 debut album Enter the Wu-Tang (36 Chambers).

It’s, in essence, what Thai/Latin restaurant on Aurora Road in Melbourne, Chez Quan’s, is all about.

Owner Adam Woodworth, 41, is the vessel and his mother and Co-Owner, Ounjit “Quan” Rutirasiri, is the soul of the restaurant. The local eatery is Rutirasiri’s dream presented with Woodworth’s flare and love of everything hip-hop, including graffiti art.

It was 2016, just two years after opening its doors, when the City of Melbourne mandated the fledgling restaurant remove the colorful graffiti artwork on the east side of its building. It was this single event that would put Chez Quan’s on the radar of Brevard eateries and become the catalyst for the business’ rapid growth.

“I didn’t expect the community to support us in the way they did,” shared Woodworth. “Look at me…I’m a big, brown tattooed guy. People were coming to our restaurant just to take selfies in front of the mural and were posting their support on social media to keep it.”

Even local respected collage artist, Derek Gores, then president of the Eau Gallie Arts District board of directors, expressed, in front of city council members, his support of the mural and reforming public art ordinances.

Although Woodworth ended up painting over the mural to show his respect (and to avoid the hefty fine), the hip hop in his heart and food remained a steady beat, and the restaurant has grown quite a cult following.

A strong urban identity permeates throughout the hip dining hot spot – from décor and merch, to the menu and Woodworth’s tagger style writing on to-go boxes. Magazine cutouts of rappers are decoupaged on the wall that separates the kitchen from the dining area and bright, bold, original artwork by local artists hang on equally colorful walls. KoolAid packs of almost every flavor sit behind the counter which children and nostalgic middle-aged customers alike appreciate and order with vigor. And, of course, the best ’90s hip hop streams overhead while patrons enjoy traditional and nontraditional Thai and Latin cuisine.

Chez Quan’s is definitely not yo mama’s Thai restaurant; it’s a brand. You can represent it with pride on your back or laptop.

Logo t-shirts donning a slightly modified version of the WuTang Clan logo and stickers featuring Woodworth and his mom as lego characters created by pop art Artist Jamie Meagher (@PetalandBone) are available for purchase. It’s almost as if wearing a Chez Quan’s t-shirt would mean you’re a part of an underground sub-culture of cool Brevardians.

“Everything tastes better when you’re listening to good music,” says Woodworth.

He goes on to describe his passion for music, specifically ’90s hip hop. “Let’s say your dish comes out a little too spicy. If you’re listening to good music and you’re in a good mood, it doesn’t matter that your mouth is burning.” Woodworth laughs aloud. Method Man with a side of Pad Kee Mow (Spicy Drunken Noodles), please.

It’s this kind of candor and originality that makes the restaurant what it is. Local married couple and diehard fans Mike and Kate have been dining at Chez Quan’s once a week every week since the urban Thai eatery opened in 2014. The Melbourne Police Department has been a fixture in the

Adam Woodworth

JANUA RY 2020: 41

restaurant since its inception. They were also the impetus for the restaurant’s growth from a take-out joint with six chairs to what it is today.

“Melbourne P.D. has been one of our regulars from day one.

They’d arrive for lunch in big groups of sometimes 13 people and I’d have to run to the back to pull out all the extra chairs I could find so everyone could sit and eat together.”

About a year after opening the restaurant expanded to double its size by acquiring the empty space next door. They tore down the wall that divided the two units of the strip mall and doubled in square footage.

More space meant more wall art for Woodworth to share his love of urban art. It’s like walking into an art gallery in Brooklyn, but with a mouth-watering aroma of garlic and Thai spices.

Art by local artists adorns every wall and most of it is for sale.

Woodworth is all about supporting the community that rallied with him and his restaurant in their time of need.

When asked about the design inspiration for his restaurant Woodworth quickly commented, “There’s no way I was going to put stuff from Marshall’s on my walls.”

So instead of meaningless chachkies, customers will experience authenticity in every regard when dining at Chez Quan’s. They will become deeply intimate with Woodworth’s love of street art, ’90s hip hop and his family. They will eat craveable Thai food and sip on Thai Iced Coffee while bumping their head to Nas, Tribe Called Quest and Mobb Deep. They will see “Mama Quan,” as she’s referred to by loyal customers, in her adorable hair net and big, beautiful smile. And, for the lucky ones, they may even know the secret Chez Quan handshake, earning them a discounted meal.

Everything on the menu are recipes from the family matriarchs on both sides – Woodworth’s Thai mother and his Puerto Rican mother-in-law. New patrons looking for a slam dunk might want to stick with Chez Quan’s most popular dish, the Spicy Minced Basil Chicken (two Zelda hearts on the menu means very spicy), the Sawadeezle, a clever combination of two Mama Quan

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popular dishes – Thai Beef Salad and Chicken Fried Rice (also two Zelda hearts on the spicy scale), wings (plain, medium, hot, sweet Thai chili, teriyaki, or sesame), or Woodworth’s favorite wok fried noodle dish Lad Na. Those feeling adventurous can explore the more exotic fried rice, noodle, curry or sandwich offerings. Those wanting Latin fare would enjoy the Picadillo or Pan Con Lechon.

Of the 12 employees at Chez Quan's, nearly half are relatives.

Woodworth’s eldest child of five, 21-year-old Aryanna, works there part-time alongside her beloved grandmother Quan.

Woodworth’s sister Soitip will pop in from time to time to help out, which, according to him, is when the restaurant really shines.

When asked about what’s in store for the restaurant’s future, Woodworth excitedly repositions himself on his stool and shares, “We’re going back to where it all began. We’re looking into opening a second location beachside in the building my mom’s first restaurant [Quan’s Wok n’ Roll] was in in the ’80s.

“I would like our restaurants to be big enough to one day pass down to my children. I would also like coming into work every day to be an option [not a necessity] for my mom. She sacrificed everything for me and my sister.”

At the rate it’s going, it seems Chez Quan’s will be serving up its Thai home cooking and Kool-Aid for years to come. Woodworth and Quan are unapologetically themselves – authentic to the bone – and the community has responded with open arms and bellies.

Chez Quan’s 1470 Aurora Rd., Melbourne, FL 32935 321.622.6979 IG: @chezquanthechef FB: Chez Quan’s Twitter: @chezquanthechef

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FLAVORS of the Space Coast

The Tastes of Italy

Antonio and Vittoria Italian Tavern brings authentic and fresh Italian cuisine to the Space Coast.

Article and Photography by Harmony Lynn Goodson, Contributor Website: harmonylynn.com | Instagram: @harmonylynngoodson

I

f you’re searching for a fresh Italian meal right here in town, look no further than Antonio & Vittoria Italian Tavern, a truly authentic Italian dining experience in Satellite Beach. You’ll feel as though you’ve entered an Italian home when you are greeted by Antonio and his friendly staff.

Raviolotto Del Prete

Antonio migrated here from Caserta, Italy bringing with him his knowledge of and passion for Italian cuisine. Caserta is situated 22 miles north of Naples in the Campania region – the region where the Margherita Pizza was first created.

Visiting Antonio’s restaurant reminded me of my travels to Naples and the delicious Neapolitan cuisine specific to that region. He focuses on importing high quality, healthy ingredients for his dishes which he takes absolute care in creating from scratch. An important part of his process is educating his guests on healthy products to enhance their own lifestyle and cooking at home. Their motto is to serve dishes with purely Italian recipes combined with fresh Trota Rossa Contadina

daily ingredients carefully selected for an unforgettable experience. His wines are also imported directly from Italy and sourced from small family vineyards. The menu is ever-changing so you can be sure to taste something new each time you go. Be sure to make a reservation and truly immerse yourself in the Italian culinary culture.

I sat down for lunch with Antonio and had a hearty selection from the November menu. Starting with the “Trota Rossa Contadina,” a fresh red filet of trout baked and topped with broccoli, cherry tomatoes and carrots in a white wine lemon sauce. The fish was one of a kind, fresh and cooked to perfection.

Next, was the “Raviolotto Del Prete” – a homemade beetroot ravioli pasta stuffed with pear and mascarpone cheese, laid on velvety butternut squash with crispy eggplant and topped with freshly grated cheese. The perfect balance of fall ingredients.

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And for dessert, the original tiramisu with a cappuccino. A must-have dessert every time you visit Antonio’s!

Antonio and Vittoria also own an Italian market, so if you enjoyed your meal (and we know you will) and want to recreate your dishes with the finest ingredients, you can shop around the market and bring home cheeses, meats, pastas and desserts imported from Italy, straight to your dining room table.

Thanks to Antonio and Vittoria, we don’t have to travel too far from home to enjoy the tastes of Italy.

Antonio and Vittoria’s Italian Tavern hosts food and wine classes, where you will learn how to cook a four-course meal, including pasta and dessert. At the end, you will enjoy a meal with the class. Reservations are required. For more information, visit their website or check their Facebook page.

Tiramisu

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Website: avitalianmarket.com 586 Florida A1A, Satellite Beach, FL 32937 (321) 978-2242

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JANUA RY 2020: 45

FLAVORS of the Space Coast

For the Love of Tea

Pam Hayhurst and Donna Masters of Tea World Cafe and Tea Room are spreading the joy of tea.

By Sara Santora, Managing Editor Photography by Jason Hook Facebook: Jason Hook Photography | Instagram: @jasonhookphotography

T

“

ea has started wars, you know,” says Donna Masters, “tea whisperer” at Tea World Cafe and Tea Room. Owned by Pam Hayhurst, Tea World is a delightful space, where a forgotten elegance and storied past is brought into the modern age. But don’t confuse elegance with stuffiness — there is none of that here. But, there is fine china, linen tablecloths and finger foods fit for a queen.

Before Tea World, Hayhurst was the manager at Dusty Rose Antique Mall. This is where she and Masters met. “I would go in and buy teapots from her,” shares Masters. And Masters worked at the Space Center with the Space Shuttle Program. Now, the two are practically conjoined at the hip, “tea soul sisters,” Hayhurst says.

The duo is passionate about tea, as one would expect from two women who own and operate a tea cafe. But they go a step further than most, as their aim is not just to provide a high-quality product and experience, but to educate guests about tea and its rich history.

As we toured the retail section, which boasts about 150 teas, Hayhurst and Masters taught us the fundamentals.

“All true tea comes from the same bush …

Tea comes from the Camellia sinensis, and your backyard flowering shrub is Camellia japonica,” says Masters. “Unlike flowers, tea is only made from the leaves. It has a flower, but it isn’t used in the tea.”

So, green tea, black tea, white tea, yellow tea, oolong, etc. are all made from the same bush.

But what makes them different?

“When they process tea, the first thing they do is crush it or roll it or press it to break the leaves and allow the juices to come out. And depending on how long that juice is allowed 46 : S PAC E COA ST L IV IN G | S PAC ECOA ST L I V I N G .CO M

to age or oxidize, determines the type of tea it will be,” continues Masters.

So, lightly oxidized tea is green, and the tea most of us are used to consuming (Lipton, for example) is black tea, which is fully oxidized.

Of course, when you add spices to tea, you get chai, and some teas aren’t really teas at all. Take, for example, Rooibos. This is a red leaf tea made from a bush that is indigenous to South Africa. Hayhurst shares that if you visit South Africa and ask for tea, this is the tea you will be given, unless you specify that you want English tea. “We call this the tofu of teas, as it lends itself well to flavors,” says Hayhurst.

The tea pictured is Tea World’s signature house blend: Honeymoon Lake. Honeymoon Lake is a real place on South Merritt Island. As its namesake implies, Honeymoon Lake was a popular honeymoon destination in the 1920s. It cannot be seen from the lagoon or South Tropical Trail, leaving it secluded and very romantic.

Rooibos is caffeine-free, has no real distinctive flavor and is high in amino acids, vitamins and minerals. Though this tea isn’t a “true tea,” you can still find it at Tea World, and it is a great alternative for those who need to avoid caffeine.

As we moved away from the retail space and into the shop, I was reminded of my great grandmother. There were many cabinets filled with fine china, and while there was a comfort to the dining area, there was also great attention to detail. It was obvious that these women cared about the presentation and elegance often associated with tea.

“We believe beauty is as essential as air and nourishment and sleep,” shares Masters.

The china is used for the traditional, full-service afternoon tea experience, which is done by reservation only. This afternoon tea is the same service as, what we refer to as, “high tea,” though Masters tells me that “high tea” is not the correct terminology.

“High tea is actually supper time,” explains Masters. “That was for the working man. He came home from the factory or the field, and he had a big honking pot of tea, and big pieces of kidney pie and steak and mutton and cheese — it was not a delicate meal at all. The reason it was referred to as ‘high tea’ is because it was served at a high table, dining room style.

“Low tea, or what we now call afternoon tea, was served at a table the height of a coffee table,” continues Masters. “That was the tea served with the delicate little sandwiches and ladies with gloves and hats sipping delicately. But because Americans equate ‘high’ with ‘good,’ and ‘low’ with ‘bad,’ they got it turned upside down. The hotels in London finally capitulated and said, ‘Well, if you’re going to call it high tea, we’ll call it high tea.’ So, we try to thread the needle and call it afternoon tea.”

But whether you enjoy afternoon tea or a simple lunch, you can feel fully cared for during your visit to Tea World.

“Some people will come in here and say, ‘it feels so good in here,’ shares Hayhurst. “My theory is that they come in here and feel the love.”

And speaking of love, Hayhurst and Masters were excited to share Tea World’s very own love story.

Their host Chad has been a longtime customer of Tea World. Near the beginning of his relationship with his thengirlfriend, the couple started visiting Tea World for lunches.

As their first anniversary quickly approached, Chad reached out to his mother, as well as Hayhurst and Masters, to help put together something special. He wanted to have an afternoon tea, but at the park where they had had their first date. His mother helped organize the date, and Hayhurst and Masters put together a three-tiered tray of finger sandwiches. Masters, who knew the tea preferences of his girlfriend, also blended tea for the occasion called, which she called “Summer Love.”

Now, a year and a half later, Chad and his girlfriend are engaged.

Hayhurst has done her part to ensure that all guests can feel comforted and relaxed when visiting Tea World. “The whole idea is to get off the merry-go-round and take a break from the fast pace outside.”

Hayhurst and Masters live by a simple saying: Where there is tea, there is love. And as Masters reminds all who visit, “We have a lot of tea here.”

3550 S Washington Ave Suite 3, Titusville, FL 32780 (321) 626-9089

teaworldone.com

Facebook: Tea World Cafe & Tea Room JANUA RY 2020: 47

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JANUA RY 2020: 49

TRAVEL

Philadelphia City Hall

Planning a Romantic Getaway in Philadelphia

Head to the City of Brotherly Love for a romance-filled weekend.

By Caroline Ryan Cunningham, Senior Digital Editor for Philadelphia Magazine

Philadelphia has become a major cultural hub. If you have been desperately wanting to get away with the one you love, consider Philadephia as your go-to destination. The Orlando Melbourne International Airport is now offering daily, nonstop flights to Philadelphia, making it easier for you to escape the routine to enjoy a weekend of romance, art and cheesesteaks.

See the City’s Murals via Train With over 3,000 murals, Philadelphia is something of a mural hotspot in America. Grab your someone sweet and settle in on the Market/Frankford El for this one-of-a-kind, two-hour tour that’ll take you past 50 rooftop murals in West Philadelphia. Created by graffiti writer and artist Steve Powers, the collection is known as A Love Letter For You, and with inscriptions such as, “If you were here, I’d be home now,” the works collectively illustrate the lines of a love letter. Tickets are $23; muralarts.org.

first-served — and throughout the center, you can learn more about the bell’s history through the abolition and women’s suffrage movements. After studying up on your American history, head to the nearby Bourse marketplace, Philly’s newest food hall with everything from warming Filipino comfort food to classic Philadelphia cheesesteaks to artisanal grilled cheese sandwiches. theboursephilly.com.

Tour and Taste at a Confectionery You know what’s better than a box of chocolates? A tour of an over 150-year-old confectionery, during which you’ll get to explore Shane’s adorable Old City storefront and kitchen, see the antique machinery at work, learn the history of candy and chocolate in America, and (of course!) taste some of the decadent sweets, fresh from the mixing bowl. Tickets are $10; shanecandies.com.

Visit the Liberty Bell, Then The Bourse What’s a trip to Philly without a look at Independence Hall’s famous cracked bell? The Liberty Bell has been on display in the glass-enclosed Liberty Bell Center since 2003.

Admission to see the bell is free — though it is first-come, 50 : SPAC ECOA ST L IV IN G | S PAC ECOAST L I V I N G .CO M

The Liberty Bell

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Take a Selfie, Then Ice Skate

LOVE sculpture

You can’t celebrate a day about love without snapping a selfie at Robert Indiana’s famous LOVE sculpture, the star of Philadelphia’s LOVE Park. You and your partner can grab a photo, then cross the street to visit Dilworth Park’s Rothman Ice Rink at the foot of Philly’s magnificent city hall.

Hold hands for a turn around the ice rink (which, bonus, is free throughout the month of February), then warm up with some spiked hot chocolate or craft beers inside the neighboring Rothman Cabin. centercityphila.com.

Unwind at the Four Seasons Spa For a true luxury experience, head to the 57th floor of the Comcast Technology Center skyscraper, where the elegant, brand-new Four Seasons spa sits overlooking the city. Enjoy breathtaking views of the city stretched below the floorto-ceiling windows as you indulge in individualized spa treatments. Alternatively, opt for the “Just the Two of Us” experience, featuring a 60-minute couples’ massage and 60-minute facials, followed by a relaxing trip to the couples’ suite for Champagne and pastries. fourseasons.com.

Eat Your Way Through Reading Terminal Market For a whole lot of Philadelphia cuisines under one roof, plan an afternoon at the bustling Reading Terminal Market, where a mass of bakeries, meat suppliers, deli counters, sandwich shops, produce stalls, and other local purveyors await. You’ll want to stop at DiNic’s for a classic roast pork

sandwich, Carmen’s for an iconic cheesesteak, Termini Brothers for a hand-piped cannoli, Beiler’s for the best doughnuts of your life, and Bassetts for some made-inPhilly ice cream. Good luck! readingterminalmarket.org.

Pour Candles at Wax + Wine For a cozy, hands-on activity, book a spot at Wax + Wine on Pine Street, where you and your special someone can learn the art of pouring candles. Since the shop’s a BYOB, you’ll want to bring along a bottle of your favorite wine (they’ll supply the glasses), then make your selections from the 75 different fragrances. Next, a Wax + Wine member will guide you through the candle-pouring experience, and at the end of the 75-minute visit, you’ll be set to take your completed candles with you. waxandwine.com.

Book American Airlines’ DAILY NONSTOP FLIGHTS from Melbourne to Philly at AA.COM

JANUA RY 2020: 51

TRAVEL

Orlando Brewery Tour:

A La Cart

Where to grab a beer on your next trip to The City Beautiful.

Article and Photography by Lindsey Thompson, Orlando-based blogger Website: LemonHearted.com | Instagram: @lemonhearted

O

rlando may not be top of mind when you think of cities with a bustling craft beer scene, but the growth over the past five years is undeniable. The City Beautiful is brewing up more local beer than ever before with breweries that focus on showcasing local talent on tap while offering beers from around the state. Better still are the thirstquenching taprooms with food for a fuller experience.

A La Cart While this hot spot in Orlando’s Milk District is not a brewery, it focuses on having beers from all over Florida and other regions on their 15 rotating taps. What makes this spot unique is that it has four to five dedicated food trucks on-site at all times, so you don’t have to look elsewhere for delicious local eats. You can hang out in the open-air bar, or under an umbrella on the lawn. The bar also regularly hosts beer dinners with craft beer from all over the Sunshine State that are then paired with a five-course menu. It’s the perfect blend for a foodie and beer lover adventure.

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Sideward Brewing

Tuffy’s Bottle Shop & Lounge Heading North in Sanford, you have your pick of local craft beer spots, but Tuffy’s is known for brewing local cider. While other local brews are on tap along with a small but mighty cocktail list, it is one of the few local places that focuses solely on making its own craft cider. While no food is available here, you will still want to stay awhile as there is a game room with a wall of flat screens and comfy chairs, and group games like darts and table shuffleboard. The back patio is spacious and offers fun and quirky seating areas, including inside an open vintage trailer and a reconstructed pontoon boat. A unique spot perfect for a day of “Sanfording.”

Tuffy's Bottle Shop & Lounge

Clermont Brewing Company Not all the action is happening in Orlando. If you drive out to the west side, you’ll find great brewery options in Clermont, including its own brewing company. It may feel more like a restaurant than a brewery because it is. You get the best of both worlds here complete with tv’s for the game of the day, and a large back patio make this a neighborhood favorite.

Crooked Can Brewing

Clermont Brewing Company

Crooked Can Brewing Sideward Brewing Sideward is one of the newer breweries in town, also located in the growing Milk District. The three owners, Mandy, Austin and Garrett, combined their expertise to open not just the brewery but an in-house kitchen as well.

During each visit, you can sober yourself up with their house made shareable items. On the weekend, add this spot into your brunch rotation. With a killer breakfast burrito, sandwiches and even Nitro coffee on tap, you get a full experience here.

Winter Garden’s downtown scene has never been more bustling thanks to the Plant Street Market and its popular craft brewery, Crooked Can. With over a dozen locally made brews from IPAs to hefeweizen, you are sure to find a drink you love. With an expansive patio, weekend entertainment and the rest of the market steps away with several food vendors, this is a full dining out experience. If you want to get closer to the action, you can sign up for a brewery tour and watch the hoppy magic.

JANUA RY 2020: 53

TRAVEL

Once Upon a Theme Park

Discover the lesser-known food and drink options at Walt Disney World.

Article and Photography by Jess Mack, Columnist Website: jessamack.com | Instagram: @jessamack_

W

e all know about Disney’s famous Mickey Premium Bar, Mickey Pretzel or Dole Whip, but I’m here to tell you about some lesser-known food and drink options that are some of my favorites.

Les Halles Boulangerie-Patisserie

so many more great choices. My go-to is the Einstok Icelandic White Ale from the small stand in front of the Norway pavilion. It’s light, refreshing and doesn’t taste like watered down beer. Do yourself a favor and explore the beer choices around the park.

Moving onto Magic Kingdom where Sleepy Hollow offers the Sweet and Spicy Chicken and Waffle Sandwich. If you like chicken and waffles, you really need to try this. It’s made with a Belgium waffle, crispy chicken in a delicious sweet and spicy glaze and a little bit of coleslaw. It’s very filling and can easily be split, but if you’re like me you won’t want to split it with anyone.

Everyone loves ice cream, right? Without a doubt, the best ice cream option on property is Ample Hills Creamery found at the Boardwalk Resort. Here you’ll find all kinds of fun flavors. You can enjoy a few scoops as well as milkshakes, ice cream sandwiches, sundaes, floats and flights. Yes, you can get a flight of ice cream here. My personal favorite flavor is Peppermint Pattie and I always get a milkshake because they are honestly the best milkshakes I’ve ever had.

First up is the Pissaladière from Les Halles Boulangerie-Patisserie in Epcot.

This is probably my favorite food item in all of Epcot. It’s basically a square slice of pizza with a French twist. I wish I could order a whole pie of it. I’ve probably eaten here more than any other quick service location on Disney property. It’s a good place to get something light to eat and it’s inexpensive. My husband and I can get a full meal there, including dessert, for about $20 total.

Let’s stay in Epcot for one of my favorite beers on property. People tend to lean toward Budweiser, Miller or Coors because they’re familiar, but Epcot offers 54 : S PAC ECOA ST L IV IN G | S PAC ECOA ST L I V I N G .CO M

And finally, I want to share my love for Baseline Tap House at Hollywood Studios.

Here, you can get craft beers for a very good price when considering theme park beer prices. A 22 oz. pour is only $10.50. You may think it’s crazy that I think that’s a good deal, but when you think about a 16 oz. Bud Light being about $9 from any old cart, it’s truly a steal. You can also get a black cherry craft soda here called Blue Sky with free refills for just $4.29!

Like I said, there are plenty of delicious food and beverage options around Walt Disney World aside from just the classics.

Don’t be afraid to try something different on your next trip!

Baseline Tap House

Animal Kingdom isn’t usually known for its drink offerings but you’re missing out if you don’t hit up Dawa Bar or the many drink carts around the park. My two favorites are the Leopard’s Eye (Snow Leopard Vodka blended with Kiwi-and-Mango Flavored Bibo) from Harambe Market and The Yeti (mango, lime & agave nectar, and strawberry margarita) from the Warung Outpost found just to the left of the Up: A Great Bird Adventure stage. Both of these frozen drinks are delicious and the best on really hot days.

And how about mixing booze and food?! At Scat Cats Club located at Port Orleans French Quarter, you can order Baton Rouge Beignets which come filled with your choice of Baileys, Kahlúa or RumChata. These surprisingly pack a mean punch but still keep that great beignet flavor.

My all-time favorite snack at Disney is the ever-elusive Cream Cheese-Filled Pretzel found at a small cart in front of the Chinese Theater in Hollywood Studios. It can also sometimes be found at Lunching Pad in the Magic Kingdom. From time to time Disney decides to take this pretzel away so you may not always be able to find it. But when it’s there, you should definitely give it a try instead of the normal Mickey Pretzel.

Cream Cheese-Filled Pretzel

My last two are specific locations that I think are too good to pass-up.

The first is Ale & Compass, specifically their breakfast. It’s the best deal on property and I don’t know why everyone isn’t talking about it. For just $23 you can enjoy their amazing breakfast entrees like the Salted Caramel-Apple French Toast, but you also get access to a buffet which includes cheeses, breads, biscuits and gravy, fruit and so much more. Honestly, I can’t stop talking about this food and we always want to go back.

JANUA RY 2020: 55

PET HEALTH

New Year’s Resolutions (For Our Pets!)

By Chloe Williams, DVM, Suntree Animal Clinic

M

aking New Year’s Resolutions are a common practice and tradition for many. Resolutions often include “eating right,” “losing weight” and “exercising more.” These are great goals for us to achieve, but they can also be important for the health of our pets as well. Pet obesity is one of the top 10 ailments that veterinarians see in the clinic on a daily basis, and it’s a challenging condition to treat. Pets who are overweight are predisposed to many other diseases, such as diabetes, joint disease, urinary issues and even skin infections. This New Year, if your veterinarian has discussed with you that your feline or canine companion may be starting to tip the scales, here are some tips to help get them back on track.

Eating right is the first step!

• Your dog and cat should receive 90% of their daily caloric intake from a pet food that is complete and balanced based on AAFCO (Association of American Feed Control Officers) standards. Ideally, the company manufacturing the food completes feeding trials prior to selling the food. Treats and other snacks should make up no more than 10% of the diet.

• If you need to give treats throughout the day for training, a good way to do this without feeding too much is subtract the amount of treats given from their dinner or breakfast meal. You can even use the pet food kibbles as the treats themselves. If they got 20 kibbles throughout the day for training, they should get 20 fewer kibbles at their nighttime feeding.

• Healthy snacks that are low in calories include fresh green beans, carrots, blueberries and pureed pumpkin. However, as with anything in life, these should still be given in moderation as they do have some natural sugars that can inhibit weight loss.

• Your veterinarian can help calculate the number of daily calories your pet should be consuming based on their current weight as well as their goal weight. It is important to not 56 : SPAC ECOA ST L IV IN G | S PAC ECOA ST L I V I N G .CO M

lose too much weight too quickly, so consult with your veterinarian on a weight loss plan for your pet.

Let's get moving!

• The next step to getting healthy is increasing activity.

This should be done slowly for a pet who is normally less active. Begin by increasing walking time by 10% each week. Other ways to make walks more interesting or to increase difficulty would be to walk on the beach and through water. The resistance of water means the dog must work harder and can burn more calories in a shorter distance. This can be great for strengthening hind end muscles as well. A few of our county beaches are dog friendly, including Canova Beach in Melbourne.

• Swimming is an excellent low-impact exercise for older dogs who become sore after long walks. If you have access to a pool and if your pup enjoys the water, encourage weekly swimming sessions to keep their joints lubricated and their bodies moving.

• Cats need exercise too! Feeding cats on the top of their cat tree requires them to climb in order to access their food (however, older cats may have trouble with this, so keep food easily accessible for them). If they enjoy laser pointers or other toys, use them to get them up and moving for at least a few minutes per day.

There are more benefits than just weight loss when it comes to keeping your pet active and fit. Oftentimes, the time spent together on walks and playing fetch can help to increase the bond with your pet while simultaneously keeping you active as well. So when you sit down this year to plan your New Year’s Resolutions, keep your dog or cat in mind as well!

COVER MODEL Find out the winner March 2020 spacecoastliving.com

JANUA RY 2020: 57

HEALTH

SPONSORED

Hope and Healing after Loss

By Sara Paulson, Health First

J

acob’s dad had been gone about eight years when the magnitude of his loss flooded him.

“I was starting to experience things in my life,” Jacob remembers of being 13. “Milestones in my life. And he’s not around.”

Luckily, Jacob knew he could turn to Bright Star, Health First’s specialized children’s program for grief and loss – and in particular, licensed clinical social worker Terry Musso.

“Ms. Terry has been just an unbelievable help in guiding me through being able to cope with death and understand how I grieve,” Jacob says. “I don’t talk about Ms. Terry and say, ‘She’s my grief counselor.’ I say ‘she’s a friend.’”

Having that “open ear” was just what Jacob needed as he entered his teen years – something he feels helped get him to where he is today.

Jacob was introduced to Bright Star at age five when he lost his father to esophageal cancer. Then, he says, Bright Star was more about learning to live with a sudden void than coping with indescribable grief.

But as time went on, Jacob’s needs changed — and Bright 58 : S PAC ECOA ST L IV IN G | S PACECOAST L I V I N G .CO M

Star’s social workers and volunteers helped him process his pain, connect with kids just like him and learn how to cope in one of the toughest of circumstances. He also enjoyed Camp Bright Star and considers it “somewhere where I can get away.”

The program helped Jacob through tough times and allowed him to see how bright his future could be. He Jacob Photo provided by Health First recently graduated from Bayside High and will be attending Florida Institute of Technology in the fall, with his eye on an aerospace engineering degree.

“It’s really hard to consider even how I would be dealing with the way that things are going in life if it weren’t for Bright Star,” Jacob says.

HEALTH

SPONSORED

Couple gets a New Lease on Life

Husband and wife peel off the pounds, thanks to camaraderie and determination

By Sara Paulson, Health First

A

ngelo Bizzarro gets a kick out of being unrecognizable.

As the manager of The Original Bizzarro, a New York-style pizzeria in Indialantic, he’ll have customers come in and ask for him, and then realize they’re actually talking to him. At a family funeral earlier this year, relatives asked his wife, Megan, “Where’s your husband?” Even though he was right next to her.

After you’ve lost 145 pounds, it happens.

“The shock is kind of funny,” Angelo said.

It’s hard to believe that a manager of an eatery known for dishing out gigantic portions of pizza could lose half his body size in nine months. But through determination, dedication and gastric sleeve surgery, both Angelo and Megan have embarked on a journey for a healthier life.

Three months after Megan’s procedure, she has lost 63 pounds.

“It does feel good when people notice,” Megan said. “It does make you want to keep going.”

But it’s more than that.

“Weight loss is just one part of the picture,” said Dr. Kenneth Tieu, a surgeon with Health First NewFit, which provides weightloss surgeries and support.

“There are numerous health benefits.”

For example, with gastric bypass, 75% of patients will leave the hospital with their diabetes resolved, Tieu said. Weight-loss surgery can also help eliminate sleep apnea, osteoarthritis, fatty liver disease and hyperlipidemia 80% to 90% of the time.

“It’s about quality of life, not just the number on the scale,” said Tieu, who is part of the bariatric team that includes Dr. Nathan Allison and Dr. Peter Walker. “Everyone loves to see that number come down. When they come in, and they’re off all their medications, really, I think that’s where the success is.”

Both Angelo and Megan have struggled with their weight for decades. Angelo has dealt with back pain, while Megan has suffered joint pain and hip issues since she was a child.

“I probably started dieting when I was about 10,” Megan admitted.

Angelo and Megan Bizzarro (before) Photo provided by Health First

Angelo and Megan Bizzarro (after) Photo provided by Health First

Angelo has been able to lose 85 pounds on his own in the past, but it always came back, especially after back surgery

and complications. He admits after going from 245 to 340, he became depressed.

Megan wanted to explore weightloss surgery. Angelo was against it.

“Don’t do it,” Megan recalls him saying. “I love you the way you are.”

The couple hope to start a family, but knew they needed to be healthy first. So, they went to a NewFit seminar and decided they were going to do this together – all or nothing.

JANUA MAY RY 2020: 2019 : 34 59

LEGAL

Billie Jo Hopwood and Tiffani Cole

Preparing for a Divorce:

What Platt Hopwood Russell & Cole PLLC want you to know before you file.

Group photography by Jason Hook Facebook: Jason Hook Photography | Instagram: @jasonhookphotography

T

here is a common statistic that says, “Half of all marriages will end in divorce.” Though this statistic is no longer true – according to TIME, the real rate is around 39% – divorce is still prevalent, and it’s good to be prepared.

Florida is a no-fault divorce state. This means that one spouse can end a marriage if he or she believes it is irretrievably broken. Whether the divorce is born from violent and/or dangerous circumstances, financial problems or simply because the couple was married too young, it is important to know your rights.

Billie Jo Hopwood and Tiffani Cole of Platt Hopwood Russell & Cole PLLC stress that before filing, you should meet with a lawyer for a free consultation. During this consultation, you will get a better understanding of your rights, how to plan and what to think about before filing.

“People have consulted us in 2014 and didn’t hire us until 2016, trying to get their ducks in a row,” shared Hopwood.

So, what do you have to get in order? There are a few things.

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1. Think about timesharing. Hopwood says that “Timesharing” is the new term for custody and visitation. Before filing, take into consideration your schedule, your spouse’s schedule and what’s best for your child(ren). She also reminded to think about any special needs or educational needs of your child(ren).

It is also good to ask yourself: do you need to protect your child(ren) from your spouse? Have a plan in place to make sure your child(ren) is safe and has access to everything they may need.

2. Review your assets and debts. Whatever assets and debts are in existence as of the date of filing are what the court is going to look at during your trial. “You might be in a rush to file for a divorce because the other side has a lot of assets, or you might specifically slow down the process or not file because you have all the assets and want to make your moves accordingly,” said Cole. During your free consultation, you will get a better understanding of what you can expect and formulate a plan for how you will support yourself after divorce.

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When looking at your assets and debts, there are some misconceptions that Hopwood wants you to be mindful of. Most people think that if the debt is not in their name, then they are not responsible for it.

She shared that, if your spouse has been running up credit cards and accumulating debt, it is still marital debt. You also need to know that school debt/student loans are also considered marital debt. Before filing, you need to determine what is marital debt and what is not.

3. Look at your beneficiaries. Before filing, you may want to remove your spouse as the beneficiary of your life insurance or retirement plan. Hopwood shared that there is an administrative order that goes into effect that will not allow you to change beneficiaries once you have filed and begin the divorce process. So, if necessary, make sure you change things around before filing.

4. Do not sign anything. Hopwood and Cole emphasized that you should not sign anything – whether it be a formal contract or a sentence on a napkin – unless you have consulted a lawyer. They shared that anything you have signed can be used against you in court.

5. Understand the process might last more than a year.

For cases filed as contested, the timeline for divorce can be long. Hopwood and Cole shared that the first thing you will do is exchange financial information so that both parties are aware of what the issues, debts and incomes are. Then, you will need to attend mediation. Unless you need emergency relief – for example, if your spouse took all your money and your water is cut off and you need them to pay immediately – a neutral third party will mediate between both parties. If both parties cannot come to an agreement during mediation, a court date will be requested and set anywhere from 8-12 months after mediation.

Though no one enters a marriage expecting a divorce, divorces can and do happen. It is important to be prepared and be knowledgeable, in case divorce becomes your only option.

175 E. Nasa Boulevard, Suite 300, Melbourne, Florida 32901 (321) 725-3425 | platthopwoodattorneys.com

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Garage Experts of Brevard

5585 Schenck Ste #10 Rockledge, FL - (321) 878-8065 The leading lifetime warranty, epoxy floor coating, cabinet and organization company. They install the highest quality lifetime warranty epoxy floor systems as well as custom cabinets and other storage solutions. Garage Experts of Brevard is a local, independently owned franchise with Garage Experts. Call them today for a free estimate on how they can help transform your dirty, dingy garage into an extension of your home.

Central Coast Refinishing (321) 294-7824

Is your bathtub or shower aged and losing its original color? That can change in a matter of 1 day. With a proven product that has been around for over 60 years, your tub/shower will have a brand new look with a finish that lasts. The Kott Koatings process is used throughout the world with its award winning products. Call for a free estimate.

Tactful Textiles Events & Design Palm Bay, FL 32907 - (321) 418-9754

Tactful Textiles specializes in decorating home interiors, weddings and birthday parties. You aren’t sure how to pull that room together, but you know it needs a little TLC. We can assist, design is a visual story woven together with the right mix of texture, tone and colors. Our gift is to create beautiful spaces that reflect uniqueness, being distinctive to your style. Contact us and discuss how we can take your space from house to retreat.

Sunrise Facial and Oral Surgery

1325 Pine Street, Suite 102, Melbourne - (321) 725-5377

Dr. Rick Schmid has been practicing oral and maxillofacial surgery in Melbourne, Florida since 1983. He is one of only two surgeons in Brevard County that has earned Board Certification as a Diplomate of both the American Board of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery and the National Dental Board of Anesthesiology. Sunrise surgeons, Drs. Schmid, Kim, and Kossak practice a full scope of oral and maxillofacial surgery with expertise ranging from corrective jaw surgery, trauma and dental implants to wisdom teeth removal. Website: SunriseOralSurgery.com

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Glamour Lounge

635 S. Wickham Suite 101 West Melbourne, FL - (321) 220-0023 The Glamour Lounge is about more than just creating beautiful hair. Our mission is to help you discover your inner glamour and let it shine through. Our team specializes in creating custom-tailored top trending cuts and color for our clients.

We believe in sustainable hairdressing and are a Green Circle salon.

Hours: Monday 10 am - 3 pm, Tuesday-Thursday 9 am - 8 pm, Friday 9 am - 6 pm and Saturday 9 am - 4 pm.

Melbourne City Dance Center

1600 Sarno Rd Unit 106, Melbourne, FL - (321) 425-0111

Melbourne City Dance Center offers Ballet, Ballroom, Jazz, Contemporary, Tap & Musical Theatre programs for all ages and levels taught by world renowned dancers and Artistic Directors of the Melbourne City Ballet Theatre, European and World Champion, Ekaterina Vaganova and Premier of San Francisco Ballet and Vaganova Academy graduate, Artem Yachmennikov in Melbourne, FL! Offering open enrollment throughout the year. Sign up for your trial class today! www.melbournecitydance.com

Sunrise Facial and Oral Surgery 7155 Turner Road, Suntree - (321) 255-7724 Dr. Kim, a respected Board Certified Facial Cosmetic Surgeon, has extensive training in facial cosmetic procedures from Botox to facelifts. He is offering a $3/unit Dysport special until the the end of March 2020. Drs. Schmid, Kim and Kossak practice a full scope of oral and maxillofacial surgery with expertise ranging from corrective jaw surgery and dental implants to wisdom teeth removal. Visit SunriseOralSurgery.com.

Burke Consignment & Gallery

327 N. Babcock St., Melbourne, FL - (321) 917-2815

We offer quality collectibles like Waterford and Lladro, as well as costume and fine jewelry, and original art work. With us, you can find brand name furniture like Drexel, Henredon and Tommy Bahama, that is in such good condition that local interior designers purchase from us. We also buy individual items or whole estates with highend items, which is a great solution for HOA’s that don’t allow estate sales. “Once You Visit, You’ll Keep Coming Back.” Hours of Operation: Wednesday-Friday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Saturday close at 3:30 p.m.

DIVINE MERCY MELBOURNE CENTRAL CATHOLIC ACADEMY CATHOLIC HIGH Jan 26 | 9 AM – 1 PM SCHOOL Jan 29 | 9 AM – 2 PM

Jan 27 | 9 AM – 2 PM

Merritt Island | (321) 452-0263

Melbourne | (321) 727-0793

Jan 26 | 9 AM – 11 AM Jan 28 | 9 AM – 2 PM

Jan 27 | 9 AM – 2 PM and 5 – 7 PM

ST. MARY CATHOLIC SCHOOL

HOLY NAME OF JESUS CATHOLIC SCHOOL

Rockledge | (321) 636-4208

Indialantic | (321) 773-1630

Jan 28 | 9 AM – 2 PM

ST. TERESA ST. JOSEPH OUR LADY OF LOURDES CATHOLIC SCHOOL CATHOLIC SCHOOL CATHOLIC SCHOOL Jan 28 | 9 AM – 2 PM Palm Bay | (321) 723-8866

Melbourne | (321) 723-3631

Titusville | (321) 267-1643

Jan 30 | 9 AM – 2 PM

OUR SAVIOUR CATHOLIC SCHOOL Jan 30 | 9 AM – 2 PM

Cocoa Beach | (321) 783-2330

ASCENSION CATHOLIC SCHOOL Jan 31 | 9 AM – 2 PM

Melbourne | (321) 254-1595

ACADEMIC ACHIEVEMENT | MORAL RESPONSIBILITY LEADERSHIP | FAITH FORMATION

† Tour campus and classrooms † Meet administrators and teachers † Receive admissions and financial assistance information

SERVING STUDENTS IN PRE-K3 & VPK4 THROUGH GRADE 12 | VISIT BREVARDCATHOLICSCHOOLS.ORG JANUA RY 2020: 63

L o c at e d w at e r f r o nt o n 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. River Rocks has full banquet facilities, specializing in weddings, receptions and corporate meetings.

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

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. A tradition since 1996, Pineda Crossing Bar & Grill is a 16 time Best of Brevard with dishes prepared by a Culinary Institute of America Chef that has been with them for 20 years. Don’t miss out on happy hour here where the locals go.

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

Watch the fishing boats pull up and unload the day’s catch while enjoying some of the freshest seafood on the coast. Open daily for lunch and dinner, Captain Butcher’s features a large deck overlooking the marina.

The happy hour specials at the waterfront bar always draw a crowd and are a local favorite. Inside, the inviting dining room is the perfect spot for a relaxing meal and includes private rooms to accommodate events of all sizes. Come join us!

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

The Dock Bar and Grill is open daily for lunch and dinner, featuring a casual seafood menu and handmade crafted cocktails. The 5,000 squarefoot covered waterfront deck is the perfect place to wile away an afternoon or enjoy live entertainment Wednesday thru Sunday evenings.

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

321.757.7200

321.259.7760

772.918.4229

321.757-0142

Location

Location

Location

Location

1732 Indian River Drive

6485 S. US-1 Rockledge, FL

6485 S. US-1 Rockledge, FL

US1 & Pineda Causeway 2515 Roberts Road Melbourne, FL

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Sebastian, FL

An Evening of Music with the Double D’s David Vincent William, Dillion Dixon and Friends!

Friday, February 28, 2020 at 6:00pm Rialto Hilton Melbourne

Contact Sandy Withers, Fund Developer (321) 729-6858 swithers@sceic.com For Sponsorship & Event Details

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• All of the right state of the art equipment for safety • Highly skilled, drug free & experienced employees

JANUA RY 2020: 65

Carol Schweitzer, Madeline Cales, Paula Antonelli

theSCENE

Scott & Holly Garlick

THE HAVEN FOR CHILDREN’S, FLY ME TO THE MOON EVENT

Eric Pagan and Madeline Cales

Held at a beautiful ocean front residence, Saturday November 2nd in Melbourne Beach, the evening included the finest food and dancing under the stars, to raise support for The Haven.

The Haven for Children provides therapeutic shelter care in a homelike environment for children from 0-18, who have been placed there because of neglect, abuse or abandonment.

Photography by Naomi Babilonia

John & Laura Curri

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Todd & Carol Schweitzer, Madeline Cales, Paula Antonelli

Nicole Stott

theSCENE

Space Coast Big Band

Donna Pirson, Brenda Sanchez & Alisha Dillon Space for Art Foundation Spacesuit Project

Ted & Jamie Garber

Jennifer Glass & Jeff Ridgeway

Dave & Lisa Farrall

Charcuterie display Party Elegance

JANUA RY 2020: 67

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Harbor City BIMDA Kids Club 'Party Train' at The Gala Jazz Band at The BIMDA Reception Harbor City Jazz Band at The BIMDA Reception Dr. Devin Datta, Incoming President of BIMDA in 2020 Derek Gores presents A Fashion Show

George Mikitarian, CEO and Parrish Medical Center, Platinum Sponsor Dr. Ashok Shah at podium, with Glad Kurian and Dr. Swetha Reddy

Dr. Dinesh Patel, Frank Letherby, GOLD Sponsor SVP Health First, Dr. Ritesh Patil, Roger Seaton

HEATHERS' Dance Studio Performers

Anjan & Reena Ghosal, Art afficionados

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theSCENE

Dr. Subhash Rege, Co-Founder BIMDA (L) and Dr. Aruna Marfatia (R) Derek Gores, Collage Artist with Fashion Show Team INFINITI of MELBOURNE, Luxury Car Sponsor

BIMDA HOLIDAY GALA

Community Credit Union, Sponsor at The BIMDA Gala

The Brevard Indo-American Medical and Dental Association celebrated its annual Holiday Gala on November 16th at the Hilton Melbourne Rialto Place.

The gathering of the medical community’s who’s who from across the county were treated to delicious Indian cuisine, a stunning fashion show and dance performance, along with BIMDA’s awards presentation.

Physicians and Spouses of BIMDA at The Gala

Photography by Amanda Stratford and Tim Shortt

The Reception at HILTON Melbourne Lobby

JANUA RY 2020: 69

theSCENE

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AMI Kids Fall Fundraiser Since 1988, the Melbourne Center for Personal Growth, operated

by AMI Kids Space Coast, has been dedicated to helping young people discover the potential within them, transform their lives and strengthen our community.

The AMI Kids Fall Fundraiser was held Sunday, November 4th at the Space Coast Convention Center and boosted 15+ local restaurants serving food, along with a live & silent auction.

Photography by Jason Hook

JANUA RY 2020: 71

Survive First Run for Responders 5k Run/Walk River Front Park, Cocoa Village January 4, 2020 6 p.m. – 8 p.m.

Cost: $30 Come show your support for first responders and our hometown heroes at the Run for Responders 5K benefiting Survive First on January 4, 2020! This will be an amazing evening of family fun, as you run the streets of historic Cocoa Village with police and fire vehicles lighting the way!

Let It SNOW! Downtown Titusville January 10, 2020 6 p.m. – 9 p.m.

Snow Flurries in Downtown Titusville? YES, and much more!

Come on down to experience a winter wonderland!

Downtown will be filled with local vendors, merchant specials, holiday music, entertainment and a fun Kid Zone!

Survive First is a nonprofit whose mission is to assist first responders and their families in need of mental health support from the impact of post-traumatic stress, depression, anxiety and substance abuse. For the last four years, more law enforcement officers have died by their own hand than line of duty deaths. We are nearing 200 lives lost to suicide this year alone, and we know that firefighter suicides are above 100 for this year.

Survive First works tirelessly to ensure they can reach first responders in need of help. Our mission is funded solely by contributions from the public and fundraisers throughout the year.

By joining us on January 4, you’ll show your local heroes just how much they mean to you and may even save a life.

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Medieval Weekend at Brevard Renaissance Fair Wickham Park January 11, 2020 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.

Cost: $10-$30 Gather one and all for the 5th Season of the Brevard Renaissance Fair in Forest of Wickham Park in Melbourne, FL. A full cast of colorful characters fill the lands with music, dancing and more. With over 70 stage shows daily, varieties of foods and treats and numerous artisan merchants with handcrafted wares, the Brevard Renaissance Fair invites guests to immerse themselves in a unique experience of History and Fantasy!

NewFit Weight-Loss Symposium

Brevard.

Holiday Inn Melbourne Viera Conference Center 8298 N. Wickham Rd. January 11, 2020 10 a.m. – 1 p.m.

Mara Bellaby, Executive Editor of Florida Today, will serve as honorary chairperson for the 2020 Health First Fight Child Hunger 5K on Saturday, January 11, 2020 at Viera High School.

“Within six weeks of having surgery, I no longer had sleep apnea or Type 2 diabetes. I feel like I hit the reset button on life.” – Ty, Surgical Weight-Loss Patient

We invite you to help us stomp out childhood hunger by joining us at this exciting event.

Happy New You! We want to make 2020 your healthiest year yet.

Concert: “Big Band Classics”

Join our NewFit team at our free symposium to see if weight-loss surgery is right for you and how you can get started to a healthier New Year with NewFit.

Melbourne Auditorium January 17, 2020 7:30 p.m. – 9:30 p.m.

FREE

Lunch will be provided.

A free concert by Swingtime. Come

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enjoy a variety of Big Band Themes made popular by Big Bands of the 1940’s and 1950’s. We guarantee your feet will be tapping all night long.

Swingtime, an ensemble of the Melbourne Municipal Band, also presents dances featuring jazz and Big Band standards. Swingtime’s dances have long been a favorite of local dancers and jazz lovers looking for a reasonably priced, toe-tapping evening. This 20-piece band is directed by Art Martin, a tenor and baritone saxophonist. Art has performed with the Jimmy Dorsey Orchestra, Dizzy Gillespie, and The Platters, to name just a few.

Time: 7:30 PM (pre-show at 6:30 by the Clarinetics)

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Health First Fight Child Hunger 5K Run/Walk Viera High School January 11, 2020 8 a.m. – 12 p.m.

Cost: $25 for adults/ $15 for children 12 and under The Health First Fight Child Hunger 5K is a joint fundraiser for The Children’s Hunger Project and Sharing Center of Central

JANUAMAY RY 2020: 2019 73 :2

The Incredible Hypnotist Richard Barker Iron Oak Post January 17, 2020 8 p.m. – 9 p.m.

Cost: $15 World-Renowned Celebrity Hypnotist Richard Barker presents his hilarious comedy hypnosis show. You have the opportunity to be a star or watch the antics from the audience. Richard has been featured on The Today Show, NBC, The Late Late Show, CBS and Entertainment Tonight.

Painting with a Purpose Benefiting THS Project Graduation Painting with a Twist, Cocoa January 23, 2020 7 p.m. – 9 p.m.

Cost: $38/$44

2020 HFGF Red Party American Muscle Car Museum January 18, 2020 6 p.m. – 9 p.m.

Cost: $100+ Wear red for bleeding disorders awareness at this inaugural fundraiser!

Events like the HFGF Red Party is one of the only ways to view the amazing display of 400+ cars at the American Muscle Car Museum in Melbourne, Florida. Cocktail attire!

Tickets are: $200 for VIP Private Tour by owner Mark Pieloch + Reception $100 for Adult Ticket to Reception Reception includes light hors d’oeuvres + live auction + access to museum 89% funds go back into serving the bleeding disorders community by sending HFGF kids to Camp Spirit, emergency financial assistance, scholarships, MedicAlert identifications, helmets, educational programming, and more.

Visit hemophiliaflorida.org/redparty to purchase tickets or sponsor.

Come enjoy an evening full of fun and friends and paint “Sunset Dreams” while helping a great cause! 50% of the registration proceeds benefit Titusville High School Project Graduation. There will be snacks and beverages (and you can bring your own as well) and great raffle opportunities. No painting experience necessary! $38 per person to paint a 16 x 20 canvas.

You can also paint this beautiful painting on a wooden shiplap pallet for $44 dollars per person.

Registration required.

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Steve Martin & Martin Short with Della Mae Concert Series Event The King Center for Performing Arts January 26, 2020 5:30 p.m. – 9:30 p.m.

Cost: $215 Florida Tech Alumni enjoy a special pre-concert cocktail reception and orchestra seating with purchase.

Reception starts at 5:30 PM, show begins at 7 PM.

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BREVARDCOUNTYEVENTS.COM There are many things to do on the Space Coast. Don’t miss out on the fun! Head to BrevardCountyEvents.com for a comprehensive list of events that are happening around the Space Coast. To be listed in our calendar, submit your event at www.brevardcountyevents.com.

SEE AND BE SEEN Sign up for the Brevard County Events e-newsletter. Specially developed to keep you up-to-date on all the latest news, announcements and happenings around the Space Coast! Sign up online at: SpaceCoastLiving.com.

JAN 2020

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DAVID VOLK

VOLK LAW OFFICES

INVESTING IN THE FINAL FRONTIER

PLUS!

Special Feature

SNEAK PEAK: Space Coast BUSINESS Cover Story

David J. Volk of Volk Law Offices Built to last, built to win [ By Eric Wright, Publisher ] Photography by Jason Hook

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SPONSORED

W

hether you are building a house, buying a car or hiring an attorney, there are certain things you look for. These include thoughtful planning, great materials and excellent craftsmanship.

to help them with a problem or opportunity,” Volk said.

“Then, you have to set high standards for the work performed. Which means you need a great team with great tools.”

Reflecting on these qualities, David Volk of Volk Law Offices commented, “I’m in my 33rd year of trying to get better and better at achieving what clients want and expect. My parents were entrepreneurs. I know what they wanted. I worked for them from the time I was 12 years old and had my nose in everything they did, because the main office was in our home. Tax returns, bills, agreements and letters were all there for me to see.”

Around the time he opened Volk Law Offices, Volk was given a manual from a client entitled Representing First Union (the banking giant that eventually merged with Wells Fargo). It was full of very specific guidelines, and like an engineer with a technical manual, Volk loved it. It caused him to ask a simple question, “Why don’t we have a manual like this to cause us to analyze and describe our standard procedures?”

That connection and admiration for entrepreneurs and business owners is a passion for Volk. “I know their life is not easy, but these are the people I love working with and never want to disappoint. In a sense, they are my heroes and I am just here to help ensure their success,” he said.

The experience inspired him to create his first procedures manual, which he continues to improve, adding other manuals as needed. “Every aspect of how you work will affect your outcomes,” he explained. “How we answer the phone and screen potential clients, to how our documents are electronically named and filed, to our methodology in preparing for a hearing or trial are among the written procedures. We want to standardize our work product, and this can include utilizing the combined experience of our veteran lawyers to sharpen procedures, so that we don’t have to reinvent the wheel on each case.”

Volk Law Offices is completing its 25th year in business and is on a rapidly ascending arc, mainly because of Volk’s disruptive approach to building a law business.

“To survive and thrive in changing economic times, you have to have certain foundational principals. First and foremost, embrace the fact that people are trusting us

Sharon Fitzpatrick, Barry Baker and David Volk

JANUA RY 2020: 77

SNEAK PEAK: Space Coast BUSINESS Cover Story

Back Row (L to R): Christian Anderson; Nicholas Gieseler; Steven Gieseler; David Volk; David Jones; Melisa Stetler; Sharon Fitzpatrick Front Row (L to R): Bryan Yarnell; Victoria Mack; Michael Dujovne; Barry Baker; Tracy Wales

Growing with the Client in Mind The wrong kind of growth can be as perilous for a business as no growth. “Adding more attorneys or paralegals or administrators to a bad organization just makes it more unmanageable,” Volk observed. Instead, Volk has focused his practice on assembling and creating a process driven team, rather than a loosely organized law practice which is simply a collection of sole practitioners sharing expenses.

Developing processes, regardless of what the business is, becomes a force multiplier. Why? Because it systematizes and accelerates certain work with the efficiency of an assembly line. With standard processes implemented, the team’s creative and analytical abilities can be focused on solving the more existential challenges.

“I have always asked, ‘Is there a better way to do this?’

Which used to drive my dad crazy when I worked for him back in West Virginia. He would say, ‘Just do it the way I said,’” Volk recalled. However, it was something he could never get away from. Once he started practicing law, the idea that a firm that didn’t systematize how a client’s case was analyzed, strategized and tactically built was astounding to him.

“Because we developed processes to work up cases, we are less likely to get lost in the discrete tasks and will strive to keep the view from ten thousand feet in mind,” 78 : S PAC ECOA ST L IV IN G | S PAC ECOAST L I V I N G .CO M

Volk said. “This also helps us evaluate if the case is likely to go to trial or can be settled fairly.”

Needless to say, any system’s success is dependent on the capabilities of the practitioners. For this, Volk looked for experience in the other members of his firm and not just availability and a law degree. At Volk Law, the team has been practicing lawyers are very experienced commercial law litigators with most having over twenty years’ experience.

From Practice to Game Day Law firms are often called a “practice.” However, what defines a lawyer’s reputation is when he or she moves from the practice field of legal knowledge to the actual game day experience in court or across a boardroom table in negotiations. Granted, a seasoned attorney like Volk will use all his skill to help a client equitably settle out of court, but it is his track record of success in the courtroom that often tips the scales in negotiating a settlement.

What is more, in commercial litigation, clients are paying for legal services by the hour, win or lose. Therefore, unless the representing attorney is motivated to be as cost conscious as possible, the only winner in this type of legal action can be the attorneys. “A cost benefit analysis is essential before pursuing any case and it should be done at each step in the process, with the question being, ‘How do I achieve value added?” Volk

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explained, adding that his family business history and undergraduate degree in accounting also causing him to intuitively think on those lines. But he said his greatest motivator is he does not want to let his client down. “I want them to know I did everything possible to win their case,” he said.

Believe it or not, representing clients can even be a little fun. Once, Volk was in a deposition involving a small business owner against a large corporation. The opposing counsel asked his client the same question repeatedly, for which he received the same answer. To add to the intimidation factor, the attorney claimed he had a bad back, so he stood during the proceedings, attempting to tower over the table and Volk’s client. As he became more agitated at the responses, he finally said, with appropriate dramatic bluster, “You won’t answer my question. Well, I am going to keep asking that question if we have to stay here all night!” Volk’s client was a pretty tough guy and unfazed by this display. Volk looked calmly at the attorney and said, “I don’t know about you, but my client and I are leaving at 5 o’clock.” He ultimately settled the case in his client’s favor perhaps because the other lawyer realized Volk and his client would persist regardless of what maneuvers would occur.

Another of Volk’s recent clients was a young married couple that had their first baby shortly before the eightday trial. His clients had purchased a riverfront house with a cracked foundation, which would have cost the client hundreds of thousands to repair. Volk won the case, including attorney’s fees to be paid by the seller.

“In the trial we showed a video of the couple’s weighted baby carriage and marbles rolling across the floor,” he said. “We just wanted the sellers to do the right thing.”

They ultimately had to.

Some of the cases he has won or settled have saved his clients millions of dollars. The real differentiator is not whether the case is large or small. It is the dedication he and his team have to clients’ interests from initial analysis to advising what their options and risks are to make the process understandable and ensuring regular communication. Volk Law’s thoughtful planning, extensive experience and craftsmanship in how a case is pursued proves Robert Frost often quoted maxim, “A jury consists of twelve persons chosen to decide who has the better lawyer.”

David J. Volk, Esq.

Barry K. Baker, Esq.

32 Years Business Litigation Experience

22 Years Litigation Experience

15 Years Board Certified-Business Litigation

6 Years Employment Law Experience

Michael E. Dujovne, Esq.

Bryan J. Yarnell, Esq.

28 Years Real Estate & Litigation Experience 12 Years Board Certified-Real Estate

Marine Corp jet pilot

23 Years Complex Commercial Litigation Experience Harvard Law, former Navy nuclear physics instructor

Brian D. Solomon, Esq. 31 Years Business & Civil Litigation Experience 16 Years Construction & Workers Compensation Experience 15 Years Board Certified-Construction

Steven G. Gieseler, Esq. 15 Years Constitutional Law & Property Rights Experience 22 United States Supreme Court cases

Michael P. Sapourn, Esq. 24 Years Insurance & Compliance Experience Certified Insurance Counselor Certified Risk Manager

Nicholas M. Gieseler, Esq. 12 Years Environmental Law & Land Use Experience 22 United States Supreme Court cases

David A. Jones, Esq. 34 Years Complex Commercial Litigation Experience JANUA RY 2020: 79

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Our Primary Focus is You By choosing a primary care provider, you are choosing a health advocate to assist with: Managing your medications Preventing and detecting potential diseases Overseeing the full picture of your health to ensure proper care

Find a primary care provider you can trust by calling 321.408.5256 or visit HF.org/pcp