Vision Vision Volume 22 Issue 1_2026

~ Patrick M.

DUDA

Founded in 1926 by Andrew Duda and his sons, DUDA began as a small celer y f 40 i Sl i Fl id d i f i h h d k d h

Foundedin1926byAndrewDudaandhissons,DUDAbeganasasmallcelery farmon40acresinSlavia,Florida,rootedinfaith,hardwork,andthe Americandream.Whilethecompanyhasgrowntoover45,000acresowned andleasedtodayacrosstheU.S.,withoperationsinagricultureandreal estate,DUDAremainsafifth-generation,family-ownedbusinesswithashared purposetomultiplyandshareGod’sblessings.

MISSION

DUDA’s mission is to faithfully cultivate sustainable growth – on our lands, in our communities, and with our people – for the benefit of current and future generations while remaining deeply rooted in our Christian faith and our core values.

VISION

To multiply and share God’s many blessings, to sow the seeds of sustainable growth on our lands, in our communities, and with our employees, and to make people’s lives better.

A family business rooted in faith, thriving for a century. Scan below to learn more:

ThepartnershipofA.Duda&Sonsis establishedaftertheysuccessfully produceandprofitablyselltheirfirst cropofcelery.

DUDA 100

Nowretired,in1937,AndrewDuda,Sr. donates40acresofhispersonalland holdingsand$90,000fortheLutheran HaventobeestablishednexttoSt. Luke’sLutheranChurch.

LandinCentral,EastCentral,andSouth Floridaispurchased,expanding farmlandforvegetableproductionto ZellwoodandBelleGlade,andadding pasturelandforcattleinCocoa.

Andrew’soldestson,John,patentsa mobilepackinghousedubbeda“mule train”toallowfieldpacking.Similarfield packingequipmentisstillusedtoday.

DUDAtransitionstothird-generation leadership,enters sodproduction,and expandsvegetableproductionto California.

DUDAsellsitsZellwoodfarm,Western vegetablesareexpandedtoinclude Yuma,Arizona,landisleasedinLake Placid,Florida,foragoperations,and TheVieraCompanydonates56acresfor theBrevardZoo.

Thecompanybeginsexportingfresh produceinternationally,addssugarcane toitsdiversifiedproductline,and purchasesland forcitrusproductionin LaBelle,Florida. Themasterplan forViera,meaning faith inSlovak,isannouncedandgroundis brokenforthenewtowntobebuilt, ValleyOnionsinMcAllen,Texas,is acquired,andWesternvegetablesare expandedtoincludeOxnard,California.

In2006,VieraBuilders,awholly-owned subsidiaryofTheVieraCompany,is launchedandafresh-cutceleryplant opensinOxnard,California.

DavidDudaisnamedCEOandbecomes thefirstfourthgenerationfamily membertoleadthecompany.

VieraPools&OutdoorLivingis establishedin2021,SammyDudais electedCEO,andDUDAcelebrates100 yearsofstrength,family,andfaith.

Stephanie Byrd Former Editor-in-Chief

After many years at the editor’s desk, the time has come for me to begin a new chapter and this issue marks the end of a rewarding journey. I was involved with the publication quickly after being hired and wanted to cultivate the content and photography with internal teams and tell the stories about Viera that resonate with us all. As a resident myself, my personal story has become intertwined with the story of Viera, making it especially difficult to say goodbye. The connections formed over the years have become part of who I am. While I am excited for the road ahead and living closer to my children it is not easy to say goodbye to this role that has meant a lot to me for so long and is only a part of my professional journey.

I leave with deep gratitude for all the experiences, conversations, photoshoots, writers, editors, designers, and other staff that have been part of its success. Our thoughtful and loyal readers have sent me letters of appreciation, and we have won awards for our covers, unique content, and design layouts. We are grateful for our advertisers as they have seen the value we provide to the voice of the community.

The story of the community is continuous and far from finished with more exciting pages and stories still ahead. We have become a network of people connected by shared interests, values and experiences looking to make Viera one of the best places to live on the Space Coast.

In this issue we congratulate the graduates of 2026, the students who step forward another year in their educational journey, and their incredible achievements. We respect their hard work and perseverance in every step taken and for any goal they want to achieve. Our cover is devoted to the historical Artemis launch and next phase of growth reflecting the Florida culture and spirit that is unique to our community.

I look forward to being a reader and watching the growth from an unfamiliar perspective but will embrace it just the same.

With gratitude,

Todd J. Pokrywa

COO, Real Estate Group, Duda, and President of The Viera Company

Scott Miller

EXEC. VP SALES, MARKETING & COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT

PUBLISHER The Viera Company

Stephanie Byrd FORMER EDITOR-IN -CHIEF

STAFF EDITORS

Laurie Widzgowski, Todd J. Pokrywa, Scott Miller, Karen Esposito

SENIOR WRITERS

Maria Sonnenberg, William Ronat, Stephanie Byrd, Dana Vinci, Laurie Widzgowski

MAGAZINE DESIGN

Dana Vinci & Brandt Ronat & Co

COVER DESIGN

Dana Vinci & Brandt Ronat & Co

COVER PHOTOGRAPHY

Josiah Cuda & Stephanie Byrd

PHOTOGRAPHY

Photos provided by subject unless otherwise noted.

LEGAL

Mark Boyd

VISION IS

7380 Murrell Road Suite 201 Viera, Florida 32940

(321) 242-1200 VIERA.COM

Articles and advertisements printed in Viera Vision do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the publisher. The Viera Company and Viera Vision assume no liability for the content and shall not be held liable for any errors or omissions.

©2026. All rights reserved. Any reproduction, in whole or part, is prohibited without written permission from the publishers.

A Walk with Winners

Some people take a walk to enjoy the fresh air. Others take a walk and discover an entire world hidden in plain sight.

To better understand what makes birding so captivating, I joined 2025 Viera's Big Year champion Ethan Landreville and runner-up Brennan Landreville for an afternoon at the Ritch Grissom Memorial Wetlands. The father-and-son team has become well known among Viera's birding community, with Ethan claiming the top spot in the competition for the second consecutive year and Brennan finishing close behind in second place.

Before we even made it down the trail, Ethan handed me a pair of binoculars and pointed toward what looked like an ordinary utility structure far in the distance. Through the lenses, an unmistakable bald eagle came into focus. As we continued walking, I quickly realized that birding is about much more than simply spotting birds. Ethan and Brennan could identify species by their songs before I ever caught a glimpse of them, and every stop along the trail revealed another lesson about the incredible diversity of wildlife that calls Viera home.

Their reputation extends beyond the competition itself.

During our walk, another birder struck up a conversation and, upon realizing who Ethan was, immediately recognized him from his extensive contributions to eBird, the citizen science app used to document sightings during Viera's Big Year. It was a reminder that the contest isn't just about keeping score; it's about contributing to a broader understanding of the birds that make our community so unique.

Whether you're an experienced birder or someone who has never picked up a pair of binoculars, Ethan and Brennan's enthusiasm is contagious. Read on as they share how they got started, their favorite places to bird, memorable sightings, and tips for anyone interested in joining Viera's Big Year.

Viera's Big Year is open to all Brevard Residents and registration is year round! Join the competition today!

Register and view full details at cvcaviera.com/event/vierasbigyear

Q. How and when did you start birding?

A. I first took up birding during the pandemic to avoid being stuck inside all day. I had been interested in dinosaurs when I was younger, so my fondness for extinct animals transferred to extinct birds first. I started noticing many different birds in my backyard and my parents gave me an old family camera for me to document sightings. I also received a field guide to study and identify the birds I saw, which soon led to an obsession. I collected my observations as the species I'd seen - a life list. Now I've branched out to keep life lists for counties, states, the country, and the world.

Q. What is your "white whale"? Meaning what would be the most unbelievable bird to spot?

A. My "white whale" isn't necessarily a specific species, but a specific event called fallout. A bird fallout is a unique birding experience in Florida. The confluence of poor weather and migrating birds makes many typically rare species become common for just a day or two. When this occurs, you can see an impressive variety of migrant bird species, and in great numbers as well.

Q. What do you love about birding the most?

A.Personally, I enjoy the competitive nature that higherlevel birding brings, but sometimes I simply enjoy spending time outside and decompressing from a busy setting. Birding can be a competitive activity, where spotting as many species as you can in a given day with or against friends is the objective. It brings a sportlike quality to the activity. Conversely, on some days, I thoroughly enjoy getting out and relaxing in nature. Focusing on the sights and sounds of nature is incredibly therapeutic to ease the mind.

Q. What is a weird or interesting birding fact that nonbirders might not know?

A. Most people picture birding as a hobby that takes place in a park or typical natural area. However, some of the best locations for finding rare birds are less attractive places such as sod grass farms or landfills!

Q. In your opinion, what and when is the best location for birding in Viera or surrounding areas?

A. The two best spots in Viera are the Ritch Grissom Wetlands and River Lakes Conservation Area. The wetlands are easier to bird if you have less time on your hands, whereas River Lakes involves a long 5-mile hike. Getting to both spots as close to sunrise as possible is important, as most birds are much more active in the early morning.

Q. What is the most unusual bird you have found?

A. The most notable bird I've spotted in the Viera area is a Yellow-green Vireo, which I found this past fall in October. Yellow-green Vireos are from Central America and are quite rare in Florida and much of the United States. They closely resemble a local species called the Red-eyed Vireo, so I'd been on the hunt for the subtle differences all season. I spotted this one at the Woodside park in Viera east, and instantly realized what it was. I notified the birding community, and within an hour other birders arrived onsite to look for the bird so they could add it to their life or Florida lists. This is a great example of how communication has helped bring birders together.

Q. What’s the most unusual experience you had while birding?

A. In 2024, when Hurricane Milton passed through Florida, the inclement weather it brought forced migrating birds to take a break en masse. For a couple days I was able to see over a dozen species that were new for my Viera Big Year list.

Q. If someone wanted to start birding, what would be the steps you would recommend to begin? Are there any groups to help someone get started birding?

A. Anyone can start birding by just going outside and paying closer attention to the birds they see. Binoculars are really the only necessary gear to start out, plus a field guide or bird identification app. For adults, they can join their local Audubon or Bird Alliance chapter, which all typically have resources and events aimed at new birders. For kids, many of the local Audubon chapters (such as Orange Audubon), have events for young birders. There is also a statewide Florida Young Birders Club that holds events a few times a year.

Q. Does the family go on birding vacations?

A. Yes, most of our family vacations include some aspect of birding. We enjoy traveling, and we've had the opportunity to visit many parts of the country and multiple other countries. As part of our vacation itinerary, we like to set aside time to visit birding locations where we can see new bird species. My mom and sisters aren't quite as serious about the hobby as my dad and I. My dad and I relish "hardcore birding " where we spend a full day or multiple days straight birding, so we sometimes will go for a short father-son trip. For example, we've been to the Dry Tortugas, Minnesota, and south Texas on short but intense birding hunts.

Photo by Brennan Landreville

LIVE WELL WITH INNOVATIONS FROM OUR BUILDERS

ELEVATED ENTERTAINMENT SPACES

LIVE WELL WITH INNOVATIONS FROM OUR BUILDERS

With over 60 years of design refinement, our floor plans aren’t just beautiful, they’re proven. At AR Homes by Arthur Rutenberg, we’ve crafted a legacy of timeless layouts that combine everyday livability with effortless luxury. Our designs are more than architectural plans; they’re the result of decades of feedback, innovation, and a commitment to elevating how people live. Choosing from our tried-and-true collection means stepping into a home that flows with your life— naturally, beautifully, and with intention.”

— Charlie Pahulu, President AR Homes

Featured neighborhood: ADELAIDE in Viera, Florida

“Driven by design, fueled by creativity, and focused on client satisfaction — Our commitment is to create homes that stand the test of time and enrich the lives of those who live within them.”

— Christopher Burton, Owner, Christopher Burton Luxury Homes

Featured neighborhood: ADELAIDE in Viera, Florida

“Modern living isn’t just about design — it’s about how a home feels. At Élan Builders, spaces are created to connect seamlessly with their surroundings, celebrate natural light, and invite a sense of calm. Each home embodies the ease and elegance of Florida living, elevated through contemporary architecture and thoughtful detail.”

— ÉLAN BUILDERS

Featured neighborhood: MODERN DURAN in Viera, Florida

“At CDS Builders, we love designing homes that balance sophistication with a sense of fun — spaces that feel refined, intentional, and truly personal. By getting to know how our clients live, entertain, unwind, and gather, we’re able to incorporate custom details and unexpected moments of “wow” that make their home feel uniquely theirs. From beautifully crafted outdoor living areas to creative spaces made for connection, every detail is designed to be functional, inviting, and full of life.”

— Kelly Riese, Sales Manager, CDS

Builders

Featured neighborhood: ARIPEKA in Viera, Florida

“Joyal Homes is redefining custom designs for home buyers today, focusing on creating vibrant and “fun” spaces in their floor plans. Imagine sprawling outdoor living areas complete with summer kitchens — perfect for entertaining and soaking up the sun by the pool. And don’t forget the must-have bonus room. It’s essential for those lively indoor games and playtime adventures. We are designing floor plans for a lifetime of amazing memories.”

— Kerrie Kunde, Marketing Director, Joyal Homes

Featured neighborhood: ARIPEKA in Viera, Florida

“There are countless ways to incorporate fun, personality-filled spaces into a new home. Traditionally, these features have included pools, game rooms, and home theaters, but today’s homeowners are thinking even more creatively — adding everything from putt-putt golf courses and dedicated music rooms to hidden arcade spaces tucked behind secret doors.”

— Karen Kicinski, Marketing Director, LifeStyle Homes

Featured neighborhood: ARIPEKA in Viera, Florida

“Where sunsets, good food, and great company come together. Stanley Homes wants to create our homeowners Happy Place.”

— Andrea Calhoun, New Home Sales Consultant, Stanley Homes

Featured neighborhood: ARIPEKA in Viera, Florida

BIRDWATCH EXPLORE DISCOVER

Explore Viera’s trails, lakes, preserves and neighborhoods while competing in one of Brevard’s most unique community challenges.

$1,000 GRAND PRIZE

Live Inspired in Viera

HOMES CAREFULLY DESIGNED FOR THE WAY YOU LIVE — IN THE PREMIER TOP MASTER-PLANNED COMMUNITY OF VIERA

OUTDOOR LIVING

Relax, recharge and make the outdoors part of your everyday.

ENTERTAINING

Spacious, open designs made for unforgettable gatherings.

EVERYDAY LIVING

Thoughtful spaces that bring comfort, connection and flexibility.

OPPORTUNITIES

Limited-time benefits to help make your move in even better.

“Because a home should be more than beautiful — it should be built for gathering, playing, and making memories. From poolside afternoons to game nights and outdoor dinners, these are the spaces where life truly happens.”

— Robin Aldridge Division President, Viera Builders

Neighborhoods: CROSSMOLINA, FARALLON FIELDS, LAURASIA, PANGEA PARK, and REELING PARK in Viera, Florida

“At Del Webb at Viera, the ‘fun spaces’ are about so much more than beautiful design — they are about creating a lifestyle filled with connection, laughter, friendship, and meaningful everyday moments. Our homes are intentionally designed with stunning indoor and outdoor living areas that invite people to gather, entertain, play games, listen to music, share meals, and simply enjoy life together. One of the most special things about this community is that fun is created in so many different ways — and each homeowner gets to define what that looks like for them, both in their home and throughout the amenity experience. For some, it’s hosting family and friends on a beautiful lanai with music playing and dinner on the grill. For others, it’s meeting neighbors for trivia night, joining a game group, enjoying live music by the pool, or ending the evening with a great meal at Salt & Ember.

Now that our amenity campus is open, homeowners are truly experiencing the lifestyle they envisioned — one filled with opportunities to connect, celebrate, relax, and enjoy life to the fullest. It’s a community where neighbors become friends, calendars fill with experiences, and every day offers new ways to create joy, meaning, and fun.”

— Bridget Perers, New Home Specialist, Del Webb

Featured neighborhood: DEL WEBB in Viera, Florida

Better Together

Two Viera neighborhoods. One connected family.

Finding the dream house is indeed cause for celebration, and when that home happens to be just steps away from the family you love, then the party never ends.

Unbeknownst to each other, a mother and daughter found their own perfect nests for their families within walking distance of each other’s homes. It was sublime serendipity made in Viera.

For years, Jil (just one “l”) and J.R. Blatnik had happily lived in an East Orlando ranchette, with enough acreage for horses. The spread was also large enough to accommodate a granny suite that was ample and comfortable for Jil’s mom, but after she passed away, the couple decided it was time to reconsider their housing needs. From the blissful retirement Jil’s parents had enjoyed for years, the Blatniks knew just where to look.

Jil’s parents had originally retired to Sun City, the first Del Webb community in Arizona and the one that set the standard for all subsequent Del Webb developments across the country.

“They had the world’s greatest retirement until they got sick,” Jil said. “They had such a great experience we decided to look at Del Webb in Viera.”

On a fine day for house hunting, the Blatniks headed south to see if Del Webb at Viera was as fine as the Del Webb community Jil’s parents so loved in Arizona. It was…and more. Not only were the homes attractive and well-made, but the community offered the Blatniks an outstanding array of amenities, with a location that allowed J.R. easy access to Orlando International Airport, which he uses as a starting point for his pro bono work.

Del Webb at Viera is a unique opportunity for retirees looking for brand-new homes.

“This is the only current active-adult community in the area offering new construction,” said Bridget Perers, new home

specialist with Del Webb at Viera.

Of the 1,297 homesites in the community, approximately 600 have already been snapped up, yet the Blatniks were able to purchase one of the community’s largest water view homesites near the 30,000-square-foot Catamaran Club, a world class amenities-rich clubhouse and entertainment center that includes a zero-entry pool with sun shelf, 12 pickleball courts, concert stage, fire pit, billiards, fitness center and even an onsite tavern and grill dedicated solely to serving the dining needs of the community’s residents.

Del Webb at Viera is thoughtfully planned around a network of sparkling ponds, giving residents water views throughout the community. Known for its wide range of activities, Del Webb also has a dedicated team that organizes more than 50 clubs and programs, including game nights, the “Long Story Short” speaker series, the “Unplugged” concert series, dancing, dinner parties, art classes, and special-interest groups.

The purchase of a Del Webb home also entitles buyers to membership on the award-winning Duran Golf Club par 3 golf course, which offers unlimited play. Acres of walking trails keep residents fit and connected with the outdoors. Community relations and lifestyle director Christa Vivanco’s goal is to connect residents through programs they enjoy in order to build a community, not just a neighborhood.

Del Webb’s 10-Step Build Quality Experience™ is firmly rooted in seven decades of building homes that withstand the test of time. With more than 70 years of construction experience going into the building of every Del Webb home, homebuyers are assured a seamless experience that delivers quality, craftsmanship and attention to detail.

Homebuyers at Del Webb at Viera also enjoy complimentary interior design services for their new home through MINE’s network of designers, all familiar with the variety of floor plans

and ready to help buyers create the home of their dreams.

With Perers to guide them through the construction process, the Blatniks found homebuilding a breeze.

“If we had any questions, Bridget found the answers,” Jil said.

Like all residents at a Del Webb community, the Blatniks will never have to use a lawnmower again, for the community handles that chore. Safety is a given in a neighborhood that is gated and guarded with security personnel.

Perers helped the Blatniks design a home that ticks off all the boxes. With three bedrooms, three-and-a-half baths and a flex room, the house has ample elbow room for the Blatniks and paw room for the couple’s rescued Corgis, Shiloh and Bruce.

“They were able to personalize the layout to what they wanted,” Bridget said. “It’s perfect for entertaining and for having the grandkids over.”

The grandkids are certainly over often, since they live within walking distance, which brings us to the other half of the story.

The Right Time To Move

The couple’s daughter, Sarah, and her family had also lived in Orlando for considerable time, even though Sarah’s husband, J.J. Kruesel, had for years faced a bear of a daily commute from Orlando to Viera, where he had worked

at Bonefish Grill. When he was named general manager of Piesanos’ Viera location, Sarah and J.J. decided it was the right time to move to Viera.

“It is a world of difference from Orlando and in a way better way,” Sarah said.

They, like Sarah’s parents, became Viera house hunters, but instead of a 55+ community like Del Webb, they focused on one that would meet the needs of their young family. Pangea Park quickly attracted their attention.

“We fell in love with Pangea,” Sarah said.

It is easy to see why the Kruesels were so impressed. The name means “all lands” in Greek to reflect vast lands that remain nevertheless united in a vast supercontinent. Pangea Park offers a lifestyle of colossal proportions, indeed. With single-family homes, paired villas and customizable features, Pangea Park offers something for everyone in a community that blends beautifully designed homes with exceptional amenities and the unbeatable location of South Viera.

Among the newest neighborhoods from Viera Builders, Pangea Park has been designed with a strong sense of community and multi-generational appeal for an active, social lifestyle. Home elevations cater to a wide range of architectural preferences, including Craftsman, Modern Coastal and Farmhouse, each showcasing carefully curated detailing such as

traditional Craftsman columns, Coastal Bahama shutters and Farmhouse lighting.

Just as much attention has been given to the interiors. Viera Builders challenged designers to create larger rooms, more livable outdoor spaces, and flexible options tailored to today's lifestyles. Innovative features include power pantries that keep kitchens organized, Florida mud rooms that efficiently tackle sand and daily clutter, secure parcel delivery areas, game rooms and wine niches.

Sarah and J.J. were so smitten with Pangea Park, they didn’t have to look hard to find a home.

“We literally looked at one house,” Sarah said. “That was it.”

They were fortunate that, although the neighborhood is already built out, a spec home had just come into the market. The move was seamless, quick and painless.

The house, the Craftsman-style Sloan II, was everything the couple wanted, and more.

“We loved the bonus room upstairs, the oversized garage, en-suite bathroom for my daughter,” Sarah said. “I would have loved this at 11!”

The chef-inspired gourmet kitchen, suitable for starring in a “Food Network” episode, also helped seal the deal, as did the hookups for an outdoor kitchen.

“We plan to build the outdoor kitchen as our first home project, so we loved that hookups came with the build,” Sarah added. “There are so many more things we loved about this house but those are the top of my list.”

The third generation is now thriving in the local schools. Nine-year-old Eddison attends Cocoa’s Einstein Academy, a private school that adheres to the Montessori curriculum to best cultivate each child’s natural curiosity through handson, child-centered learning. Sister Norah, 11, is part of the student body at Viera Elementary, ranked among the top 10 elementary schools in the Space Coast and #119 among all Florida elementary schools. She enjoys being part of the soccer team and playing with the school orchestra.

Jil has happily and proudly assumed the role of Carpool Grandma during half-days of school. She is close enough to use a golf cart when picking up Norah, but her

granddaughter’s selection of a cello as preferred musical instrument unfortunately negates using that mode of transport. Grandma doesn’t mind using the family car for the short ride, either.

Sarah has on occasion “borrowed” her parents’ golf cart, but the Kruesels may soon join the hundreds of Viera residents who zip around in their own carts.

“We’re looking for one,” Sarah said.

J.J.’s commute has evolved from nightmarish slogs to Orlando into pleasant---and short---trips to Piesanos at Addison Center, near the intersection of Stadium Parkway and Spur Drive. He lives so close to his work that he once used an electric scooter to get there, to the delight of his Piesanos’ team.

Understandably, the 5,600-square-foot restaurant is a go-to staple for all three generations. “It’s no big surprise that Piesanos is a great place to eat,” Jil said.

Sarah adds that not only is the pizza memorable, but the Spaghetti Bolognese and the Chicken Piccata are also family favorites.

Living within a mile of each other enables the generations to connect on a daily basis. Breakfasts and dinners together are now routine. Ditto for watching the kids play at Viera Regional Park.

Then there’s the shopping.

“We really enjoy the farmers’ market on the first Friday of the month,” Jil explained.

The Avenue Viera also quickly became a favorite family destination.

“We used to drive out here from Orlando when we had time,” Jil added. “We appreciate everything Viera has to offer.”

Sarah Kruesel is amazed at how effortlessly everything has fallen into place for both her parents and her own family.

“This is so perfect,” she said. “My parents are incredibly involved with the grandkids. I love my new house. We have a life I could not have dreamed of.”

Viera is a community that is thriving while living and watching the future in tandem with historical moments that continue to change the world as we know it. The cover of this issue showcased life being lived in micro-moments at the Viera Regional Park while four astronauts were launched into space on April 1, 2026. The four-person crew was able to orbit the moon on a 10-day flight the world will never forget.

A

By Stephanie Byrd

I had the unique opportunity to talk to Winston E. Scott, a retired Captain of the US Navy and veteran NASA astronaut currently serving as the Director of Operation Excellence and the “resident astronaut” at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex. I have listened to his speeches at various dinners, galas and fundraising dinners and we were both featured in the same issue of a local business magazine highlighting economic development.

He is an incredible source of knowledge and I encourage you after reading this article to research more about him, his amazing life and to read his book, Reflections From Earth Orbit. When you visit the Kennedy Space Center, make every effort to meet him when he is available.

Our interview started with NASA’s origins back in 1958 on the Space Coast and a vast majority of the topography consisting of wetland areas. The powerhouse it is today was in its infancy but there were other industries creating the foundation for growth including celery, cattle, and citrus (the intersection of A. Duda and Sons, Inc. with farming and ranching prior to the building of the master planned community of Viera).

The Launch Operation Center was established in 1962 on 80,000 acres but the entire complex is 144,000 acres. It has been an economic driver for Brevard County with key private employers such as Space X, Blue Origin, and United Launch Alliance along with industry powerhouses like Northrop Grumman, L3Harris and Boeing pulling their weight just to name a few. CareerSource Brevard Flagler Volusia reports that nearly 1/3 of all aerospace employees in Florida work in Brevard County. The industry is expected to invest in the new launch complexes while adding hundreds of launches per year with thousands of job opportunities by 2030.

“The government never anticipated the number of launches we have today. It was an old military base with missile silos and bunkers for testing that spread out over the land mass but then re r o ed the ad or not t h man a e flight b t or more ommer ia a e flight e ee today aid ott

He directed the Florida Space Authority under Governor Jeb Bush and at that time it was called the Florida Space Agency and is now known as Space Florida. As a group they were pushing the government to open the base and launch pads for commercial use. The intent of the original design and its uses were not easy to let go of and the government didn’t anticipate it and was reluctant to do so.

“Private companies did not just show up and launch. It took a lot of years to get us where we are now. All of us pushing and making those efforts of progress and from day one they were only focused on immediate needs. The political race [for space exploration] was forefront in their mind; the economics of it all was secondary,” Scott said with a chuckle. Our change is due to the space program and it is the backbone of our new surge in growth.

The regulatory environment was unfriendly to commercial space companies for many years and it has improved greatly with the passages of various legislation acts including the U.S. Commercial

Space Launch Amendments Act (CSLAA) of 2004. It established the foundational regulatory framework for the commercial h man a eflight ind try e no today ey ro i ion in the act include informed consent, a regulatory learning period, experimental permits and liability waivers.

Winston was part of this early group that met with the Florida legislature and the national representatives of the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to bring the industry advancements forward. The original legislation has been amended to include the Commercial Space Launch Competitiveness Act of 2015 and other updates to expand risk-sharing, safety reporting and other industry e i moderni ation a t

The changing of and continued advances to these regulations will propel and grow the space programs. It brings a different energy to the communities that extend beyond the launch pads. The Brevard County population (over six hundred thousand) has experienced incredible growth and especially in Viera over the last 10 years. Brevard had an increase at almost 60% during this time and with aerospace employment being an economic driver in our workforce, we have over 14,800 working in this sector alone and over 130,000 people employed in space-related industries across the state.

STEM and Beyond

While the Space Force Base and launch pads are the backbone of the programs and continue to advance the technology, the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex connects the area to the public as an educational hub. Scott is the ultimate spokesperson, advocate and scholar for the center. He is involved in the mentoring of future leaders of all ages including engineers, scientists, researchers and astronauts. He coordinates modernday astronaut meet and greets at the KSC Visitor Complex, is a member of the Space Foundation Headquarters and Discovery Center in Colorado Springs, Colorado, and travels around the US in the program called “Space in the Community.”

We spoke about the connection between KSC Visitor Complex and STEM Programs (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) in education. Building a natural curiosity about these elements begins as early as 3 years of age with shapes, patterns and problem-solving. As children get older, the connection to space becomes more physical as they look toward the sky to see the rocket fuel trails and feel the vibrations on the ground.

As children mature past the “what if” questions they evolve into a critical window of developing a positive attitude toward science and technology in middle and high school. I wondered how meeting an astronaut might change my perceptions of being in the ario e d ad oining a e tra e n re ard e ery th rader i ha e a e d tri to the i itor om e and discover something new.

STEM Programs are very important to expose our future leaders to lucrative career paths and expand their knowledge of the greater world around us. The KSC Visitor Complex inspires the next generation with the one-on-one connections while giving examples of how each discovery was embarked upon with math and science working in tandem. All areas of STEM are included i e ro et a n hing om etition and ienti a er a NASA Scholarship of Scholars for university student internship programs, and more.

rain or weightlessness and cond ct o r own spacewalk in the Astrona t raining E perience .

ra el to ars to li e and work or the da on ars ase . Sol e a thentic NASA science and engineering challenges at enned Space Center isitor Comple .

“The space program is a catalyst to our growth from the continued scientific achievements, the economic infusion of growth in commerce and industry in all sectors, and to the cultural impact and ever-changing landscape. Interest in space travel is incredibly diverse with people from all over the world finding a home here, working towards these advancements,” said Scott. “NASA is busy doing operational and engineering things but the Kennedy Space Center is the conduit that connects the technical side of NASA out to the everyday person and the general public.”

What’s Next?

This summer, Scott will travel to Brunei to present to a few business schools. I asked him about the best path to becoming an a trona t and i there a anything e i t dent ho d be encouraged to study.

“I went to school to study music at Florida State but the university opened my eyes and exposed me to more math and science b e t ni hed ith a degree in m i b t ent ba to get additional degrees. Today’s students really need to understand that yo don t ha e to be an engineer to get in o ed ienti and technical degrees are needed for astronauts but the space program needs medical doctors, meteorologists, dietitians, attorney o rna i t grant riter e rity ro e iona r t responders, tugboat operators, welders and a number of other professionals to keep the program moving forward,” said Scott. The breadth of what can be imagined and needed to support every aspect of these programs really feels as vast as space it e a e a e i a y i be im ortant or a in the very near future. Imagine when we go back to the moon, how do we work together with other nations to keep it all equal for all,” said Scott. “Treaties have been signed and are general in nature. No one country can own the moon but it does not apply to its resources. We will need these future Space Law professionals to be involved but it is not all that different from what we ha e needed to do on earth ny ro e ion i nd a a e in this industry. We will need life support one day so an HVAC professional and a plumber will be important to the projects ahead. Our habitat will need the support staff.”

Most Popular Question

Winston Scott is warm, funny and has a calm demeanor and a roa habi ity o dn t he b t ni h the inter ie ith a standard “what is your most interesting question” that he might be asked from students or the general public. “I’m asked abo t a ien a ot and o o r e tatement rom the flat earth theorists, but the most popular I would say is the question, o doe it ee in a e aid ott t a y ead to the essential acts of being human and everyone is curious about how to be human without gravity.”

Winston Scott notes a poem he can recite to this day from his book, Reflections From Earth r it infl en ed by a grade school teacher, Mr. Clark. Scott notes the most valuable lesson learned from this teacher was “…the importance of perseverance and hard work.”

Here’s the poem he chose by an anonymous author and Scott mentions this note after, “Don’t just do it, be it!”

“If a task is once begun

Never leave it ’til it’s done.

Be the labor, great or small, Do it well, or not at all.”

CELEBRATING 250 YEARS AT KSC

It’s in the American spirit to explore. And throughout the rest of this summer and into the cooler part of the Florida season, discover our nation’s pioneering spirit and bold mission to travel beyond our planet as Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex honors the 250th anniversary of the United States of America.

American Aviation Weekend

July 31 – August 2

It’s a three-day celebration of flight and innovation, through a breathtaking aircraft flyover, special guests, and unique activities for the family.

MAX POWER

November 6 – 8

A new, immersive multi-day event celebrating NASA’s great achievements, featuring interactive exhibitions and expert meet-and-greets.

Taste of Space: Fall Bites!

September 28 – November 8

Treat your taste buds to some fun new flavors around the Visitor Complex. Send your taste buds off planet.

Meet An Astronaut

Any

Day

Check the Event Schedule on our website for the Astronaut scheduled for your special day.

World Space Week

October 4-10

Started in 1999 by the United Nations, World Space Week celebrates science and technology internationally and its contributions to the betterment of human life.

Rocket Revolution

Special event October 9 at World Space Week

Visitors to KSC Visitor Complex can step into the bottom floor of the Space Shuttle Atlantis® building to engage with NASA and private space industry partners.

Throughout the year, the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex hosts official launch viewings.

Learn more at KennedySpaceCenter.com

In every classroom, on every field, and throughout every campus in Brevard County, the future is being shaped one achievement at a time. This year’s collection of accomplishments reflects not only what our students have achieved, but what they are becoming; confident learners, innovative thinkers, and engaged members of our community.

The success stories featured here are built on a foundation of dedication, collaboration, and a shared belief that every student has the potential to succeed. Teachers, administrators, staff, families, volunteers and community partners all play a vital role in creating opportunities that inspire growth and open doors to new possibilities.

As you read through these highlights, consider the broader impact they represent. Each milestone, big or small, contributes to a culture of excellence that extends far beyond the classroom. Together, we are not only celebrating achievements from this past year, but also investing in a future filled with promise, innovation, and continued success for our students and our community.

ATHLETICS. ACADEMICS. ARTS.

VIERA HIGH SCHOOL

A-RATED SCHOOL

FLORIDA SCHOOL OF EXCELLENCE

PURPLE STAR SCHOOL OF DISTINCTION

• 8 Chorus students named to the FMEA (Florida) All-State Ensemble

• 7 Instrumental Music students named to the FMEA (Florida) All-State Ensemble

• Chamber Orchestra invited to performed at UCF Orchestra Invitational

• Wind Ensemble invited to perform at prestigious FMEA (Florida) Concert Hour, UCF Music for All Concert Band Invitational, and College Band Directors National Assoc. at Univ. of Memphis

• Girls Volleyball earned its 6th District Title

• Girls Soccer won the Cape Coast Conference, District, and Regional titles

• Boys Basketball won back-to-back District titles

• Boys and Girls Golf won the Cape Coast Conference Championship

• Florida Today’s All-Space Coast Girls Track & Field Athlete of the Year - Addison Elwell

• Florida Today’s All-Space Coast Girls Golfer of the Year –Hannah Hall

• Florida Today’s All-Space Coast Girls Wrestler of the Year

– Ryauna Nepomuceno

• Florida Today’s All-Space Coast Girls Soccer Player of the Year – Eva McMenemy-Hoang

• Inaugural Season of Girls Flag Football, record 8-0

• 10 CTE Programs offered

• Introduced Technical Design, new CTE (Career & Technical Education) course, with 150+ Certifications earned in the 1st year

• 2 students invited to the International Science Fair Competition

• JROTC Raider Team placed 3rd at the state competition

• 385 students in Dual Enrollment courses at Eastern Florida State College

• 48+ seniors earned Associates of Arts degree

• 410 seniors earned College & Career Acceleration through Dual Enrollment, passing an Industry Certification, or an AP Test

• 25+ Advanced Placement opportunities offered

• 41 AP Capstone Diploma candidates, 33 recipients

• Bright Future Awards:

o 58 Florida Academic Scholars

o 57 Florida Medallion Scholars

o 1 Gold Seal Vocational Scholar

o I6 Gold Seal Cape Scholars

VIERA MIDDLE SCHOOL

A-RATED SCHOOL

PURPLE STAR SCHOOL OF DISTINCTION

New school mascot, OWLBERT, was voted in by students who rallied around him at his first appearance at the BPS Mascot Olympics

Leadership Conference this summer in San Antonio, Texas

• Girls Soccer team capped off an undefeated season as back to back Brevard County Champions

• Music students earned Superior in performances and assessments at All State Chorus

• Held OWL BUCK BASH, a positive behavior celebration for students meeting WISE expectations

Spring Fling Dance evening of unforgettable memories celebrating the season with style

14 students attended the Florida FBLA State Leadership Conference, competing against more than 6,000 students from across Florida; 6 students qualified to represent Florida at the FBLA National

25–26 Cheer Team brought energy, spirit, and support to athletic games all season long Field Trip to Washington, D.C. gave students an opportunity to explore our nation’s capital, connect with history and experience the landmarks that shape our country

• Sources of Strength Club celebrated UNITY DAY, showing support for kindness, acceptance, and inclusion

Hosted FIRST Tied Together and GLOW event where young men learn how to tie ties and the importance of positive self-image and selfworth, and young ladies hear inspirational and encouraging female leaders share stories and answer questions about their STEM career paths

VIERA CHARTER SCHOOL

A-RATED SCHOOL

FLORIDA SCHOOL OF EXCELLENCE

FLORIDA FIVE STAR SCHOOL OF DISTINCTION

PURPLE STAR SCHOOL OF DISTINCTION

• Students excelled in the IXL Fall Vocabulary Bowl mastering 37,170 words and earning:

o Middle School Division II - Top Rookie School and Middle School State Champion

o Dr. Whiting named Middle School Top Teacher in North America

o Multiple Students placed in the Top 15 nationally

Earned Top Honors in AMC 8 Math Competition at Florida Tech

An AVID National Demonstration School - 6 through 8 grade students building skills in organization, critical reading, collaboration and college readiness

Students in grades 5 - 8 showcase talent, dedication and creativity in Band and Musical Theater memorable performances

• Sports Program ranked at the top level, many of our Athletic Teams undefeated & League Champions

• Intermural sports, clubs, and activities for grades kindergarten to 8th include Chess, Cheerleading, Foreign Language, Crochet, Swimming, Jr. and Elementary Honor Society, Games and Strategies, Morning Mile, Art, Christ on Campus, Book Club, Safety Patrol, Strings, Orchestra, and Chorus

Kindergarten Carnival Celebration ends the school year with carnival games, train rides and special treats

• Cookies and Cocoa, Trunk or Treat, Family Skate Night, Parent Academies and International Heritage Night Students/Parents events

Field studies exploration destinations include Washington, D.C. Zoo, Tallahassee, St. Augustine and the Orlando Science Center

VIERA ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

A-RATED SCHOOL

NATIONAL BLUE RIBBON SCHOOL

PURPLE STAR SCHOOL OF DISTINCTION

FLORIDA SCHOOL OF EXCELLENCE

• 18 Falcons in the Innovation Games excelled in these competition categories: Sea Perch, eSports, Drones, Coding and Solar Sprints:

o Drones – 1st Place: Caleb Helms & Vincent DaSilva

o eSports – 2nd Place: Lucas Grace

• Destination Moon Team took 1st place overall in the LEGO Spike Prime Mission competing against 58 schools and earning:

o 1st Place – Micro: Bits & Engineering Design

o 2nd Place – LEGO Spike

o Video Effects Medal – Space Influencer video

• Odyssey of the Mind Regional Tournaments:

o 6th Grade - 1st Place in Division and Problem Solving

o 4th Grade - 1st Place in Division and Problem Solving

o 5th Grade - 2nd Place in Division and Problem Solving

• Science Fair Winners:

o 1st Place Wins – Earth and Environmental, Environmental, Robotics and Intelligent Machines

o 2nd Place Wins – Animal, Chemical, Physics and Astronomy, Plant, Coding

o 3rd Place Win – Behavioral

• Earned Top Honors in AMC 8 Math Competition at Florida Tech

• Running Club took 1st place for school participation at Coati Crawl 3K at the Brevard Zoo with two students finishing 1st and 2nd in their age groups

Cheer squads performed at EFSC Men’s Basketball halftime and the Fall Festival

60 students, Kindergarten –6th grade, participated in the inaugural Chess Club

• First Place Award at the Space Coast Art FestivalPolly Calloway

• Take a Vet to School Day honored local heroes

• NEHS members organized and packed winter hats, gloves, and clothing donations for delivery to a sister school

• BOOSTERTHON surpassed fundraising goals, securing support for new playground equipment

• Musical Theatre – Finding Nemo featured more than 45 student performers in grades 5 and 6, showing a deep commitment to the arts

Intramural sports program grades 3–6 encourages teamwork, skill-building, and spirited play in soccer and flag football

• Annual Science Fair advanced 11 students grades 4-6 to the District level, each earning top placements in their divisions, including three First-place Honors

Odyssey of the Mind teams boast three World Finals appearances in the past four years on an international stage of innovation and ingenuity

• School Spirit Squad in grades 5 and 6 elevate school pride across campus and beyond

Camp La-No-Che Field Trip 3-day immersion in science exploration for 5th grade students

• Family Game Night offering unforgettable moments for families of all ages

• Kinder Sneak Peek an inviting first glimpse into school life for incoming kindergarten students

• Manatee Middle Experience helps 6th grade students prepare for their next academic chapter in a dynamic schedule of six content-area classes

• Students support organizations such as Family Promise of Brevard, Brevard Humane Society and Friends of Children of Brevard

MANATEE ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

A-RATED SCHOOL

FLORIDA SCHOOL OF EXCELLENCE

FLORIDA FIVE STAR SCHOOL OF DISTINCTION

NATIONAL BLUE RIBBON SCHOOL

PURPLE STAR SCHOOL OF DISTINCTION

A TOP FLORIDA SCHOOL by U.S. News & World Report

QUEST ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

A-RATED SCHOOL

FLORIDA SCHOOL OF EXCELLENCE

PURPLE STAR SCHOOL OF DISTINCTION

• Regional Science Fair Winners:

o 1st Place Wins – Math, Human Behavior, Coding

o 3rd Place Wins – Animal Science, Plants, Robotics and Intelligence, Earth and Environmental

o 4th Place Win – Environmental Engineering

o Aspiring Scientist Award - Chemistry

Mrs. Hanneman, STEM teacher, recognized as a Space Coast Science Education Alliance Hall of Fame Teacher; awarded the American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics Grant

• Awarded American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics Grant

• TOP TEN School in Superintendent’s Second Grade Reading Challenge

• Attendance Banner Champions for March 2026

• Participated in the BPS Mascot Olympics

Four Quest artists placed in the BPS School Board Art Show

Two Quest artists placed in the Space Coast Art Festival

• Introduced Intramural Soccer and Flag Football Teams

• Grade 5 teacher, Mrs. Beagle, expanded Quest School Garden to include a sensory and discovery section, and was awarded WHOLE KIDS Foundation Grant

• Morning Mile Walk – 1000 miles, virtually entered Pennsylvania as of April 2026

Geo Crow took 1st Place in the Scarecrow Stroll and Harvest Festival

Held school-wide Junior Achievement Day

• Kids Heart Challenge raised nearly $10,000 for the American Heart Association

Introduced Four Houses: One Quest Family - the School-Wide House System

RALPH WILLIAMS ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

A-RATED SCHOOL

NATIONAL BLUE RIBBON SCHOOL

PURPLE STAR SCHOOL OF DISTINCTION

GUY HARVEY Conservation School

Earned 2 Guy Harvey Foundation Grants

Earned Two FAST Classroom Grants

Earned Art of STEAM Grant

Earned TECHNOLOGY OF INTEGRATOR Grant

- classroom teachers and students collaborate to improve engagement and performance outcomes with blended learning

• Nine District Science Fair Winners

• Seven Regional Odyssey of the Mind Champions (with two teams advancing to the State level)

• Mascot Olympic Champion

5-Star Cafeteria

Kindergarten class held a ‘wedding’ ceremony to remember the spelling pattern “qu.” They promise to spend their lives working together to make words.

Community Outreach programs including two food drives and a beach clean up

PINECREST ACADEMY SPACE COAST

A-RATED SCHOOL

PURPLE STAR SCHOOL OF DISTINCTION

STEM Accreditation Leadership

• Purple Up Day and Month of the Military Child celebrations highlight commitment to honoring those who serve

As a STEM-Accredited School prepares students for future careers through hands-on, innovative learning in classrooms and STEM lab

Spanish Acquisition Program provides early opportunity to learn a second language to give students a cognitive and cultural advantage

Whole Child Leadership Development through the Leader in Me model, builds student confidence, responsibility and real-world leadership skills at a young age, from mentoring younger peers to leading school initiatives

Power 30 targeted instruction supports every learner, balancing high expectations with structured support systems

• Innovative Hands-On Instructional Practices in critical thinking skills prepares students for future careers

• Culture of Positive Relationships builds strong connections between staff, students and families

• Character and Habits for Life intentionally taught and reinforced by dedicated staff, teaching responsibility, goal-setting and teamwork

GET ON TRACK TO BETTER GOLF

Going to the golf course is great, especially in a beautiful location like Duran Golf Club. You get to enjoy Viera breezes, the rolling landscape and the perfectly groomed greens while testing your skills. It’s an experience that can’t be matched, but Duran has recently introduced an opportunity that may enhance it.

Across the road from the main course, you will find Duran’s state-of-the-art Development Center, which has been named one of the top 50 in the USA by Golf Range Association of America. The expansive practice range has always offered immaculate teeing areas and a full-time staff of PGA accredited instructors to help you improve your game, and now the facility has upped the ante with the latest technological advance in instruction and fun: The Trackman® Range.

Imagine you have taken a bucket of balls to the driving range and asked to use the Trackman® system. You take a swing; the ball takes flight and then you look at your personal information screen for instant feedback. Your swing and the ball are tracked by radar, and you get tour-level data right on the screen. Would that information help you improve your game? It couldn’t hurt.

Jeff Von Eschen, General Manager of Duran Golf Club said “We’re targeting a wide range of golfers. Serious players who want to dial in their numbers and practice with purpose, casual golfers looking to enjoy shot tracking and simulator play and beginners, and families who want a more fun, engaging driving range experience.”

ON THE RADAR

To get technical, the Trackman® system uses patented optically enhanced radar tracking (OERT) to capture the exact impact location on the club face, while dual Doppler radar technology captures data for the entire ball flight, typically lasting about six seconds. Then the software kicks in.

You can see an extensive shot analysis on every aspect of your game, track the ball’s impact point and see how your shot would have behaved if you remove the effects of altitude, wind and temperature. AI Motion Technology gives you coaching tips and the software tools evaluate and elevate your skills.

“It shows the performance of your shot with the premium golf ball,” said Von Eschen. “This is Florida and the wind is always blowing. Sometimes it’s in your face and a crosswind. This system will take the wind out of it and you can see what your shot would look like under perfect conditions.”

If you’ve watched a professional golf tournament recently on TV, you’ve seen the graphics on screen that show you the ball in flight and data points like speed and distance. That’s how your Trackman® screen will look when you check it out after your shot.

“We’ve had golfers ask about this type of technology over the years,” said Von Eschen. “As more facilities adopt tech-driven experiences, it felt like a natural next step – especially since Duran already has one of the top practice facilities in Central Florida.”

“I like the covered areas for sun protection and the tables with seating,” said Ryan Brandt after trying out the system for the first time, “It’s a comfortable setup and makes it easy to spend more time practicing without feeling like you’re just standing on a mat grinding it out.”

TAKE YOUR TIME

You may have seen other facilities that have similar technologies, but here is a big difference: those services often charge by the hour, and charge extra for each user. At Duran, Trackman® sessions are charged by the bucket. Guests can take their time, and users can play as long as there are balls in the bucket.

The price structure couldn’t be simpler.

A small bucket of 30 balls is $15, a medium bucket of 60 balls is $20, and a large bucket of 90 balls is $25. Bring the whole family to improve everyone’s golfing skills or play one of the interactive video games that takes your shot and turns it into a game controller.

Would your little ones like to protect the goblin from the surrounding lava? Hit the ball and an animated life preserver is tossed to save the day.

Of course, all the scores are tabulated for those allimportant family bragging rights. But heck, why should the kids have all the fun? The games are a sneaky way to help improve your skills while you think you are only playing.

SO MANY CHOICES

What if you don’t have time for a full eighteen holes or even nine? What if the weather isn’t ideal? What if you don’t have vacation time to travel to California to play Pebble Beach? Your answers are all at Duran.

The Trackman® system has up to 25 complete golf courses from around the country in a database, including Pebble Beach. You load up the course, take a swing and the screen follows your shot in the virtual world you selected. If you land on the fairway, in a trap, or in the rough, the system takes that into consideration on your next shot. It’s a great way to gauge your skills against the world’s toughest challenges. There are holes from the Duran Golf Club available to play, and the plan is to have the entire Duran course in the system eventually.

“The Trackman® system can only hold so many courses at a particular time,” said Von Eschen, “About once a month, we pull one and add a different one. Trackman® itself has a course of the month which is on there, and they do nationwide tournaments.”

THERE’S AN APP FOR THAT

Download the free Trackman® app, create a profile, and you can play in tournaments across the county.

If you have the app and a profile, you could actually start playing a round of golf on one of the virtual courses and then finish up in Orlando at another Trackman® facility. It’s golf on the go.

For serious golfers the Trackman® system has advanced features to fine-tune the game. “I really liked the “Map My Bag” feature,” said Von Eschen, “it helped dial in distances and gapping between clubs.”

“It also tracks your shot dispersion, which is one of the more helpful parts,” said Brandt, “You start to see patterns in where your misses go instead of guessing. That alone gives you a clearer picture of your real distances and consistency.”

Justin Blazer is the Director of Instruction at Duran Golf Club. He thinks the ability of the Trackman® system to measure is an important advantage.

“I think a lot of golfers,” Blazer said, “young and old, come out, hit golf balls with their seven iron or their driver and they only pay attention to distance. For my academy students there’s often a specific thing they’re looking to improve. I can just say, hey, go get on there and pay attention to these data points. I want to see players out practicing with a purpose.”

“The TrackMan® system does a lot,” Brandt said, “and it works for just about every level of golfer. My kids will love this—it makes time on the range more worthwhile.”

Perhaps one of the most important points about the Trackman® system is — don’t let it intimidate you. You don’t have to be a professional golfer to use it (although even these highly skilled players may learn a thing or two). Play the games, get familiar with the clubs, hone your skills. Who knows, you might even want to give the main course at Duran Golf Club a try. After all, you may have already been there, virtually.

FiveOutside

Image Credit Space Coast Office of Tourism

*

EXPLORE THE PORT

Port Canaveral is more than a cruise ship destination. Plan for a day of adventure, from water sports to dining on the waterfront, fishing and boat charters, or hitting the beach at Jetty Park. It’s the perfect spot for spending a day in the sun.

THE LAGOON IS CALLING

From wildlife like ospreys, eagles, manatees and dolphins, get an up-close look at the Indian River Lagoon’s highly biodiverse estuary. Travel by kayak, canoe or paddleboard, take a nature cruise or walk the shoreline trails past mangrove wetlands and salt marshes.

NATURE ABOUNDS

Reconnect with nature at the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge—home to various species of plants, reptiles, birds and mammals, including many that are endangered. From hiking to birdwatching to driving Black Point Wildlife Trail or launching a kayak at Haulover Canal, there is something here for everyone.

Cocoa Beach – famous beaches and surfing culture, home to the iconic Ron Jon Surf Shop

Canaveral National Seashore – pristine, undeveloped beaches

Satellite Beach & Indian Harbour Beach – quiet, residential atmospheres

Melbourne Beach & Indialantic – featuring turtle-nesting sites

Sebastian Inlet State Park – a premier spot for surfing and fishing

CHASING THE ATLANTIC TIDE

Discover 72 miles of Atlantic Ocean coastline, with beaches stretching from the shores of Canaveral National Seashore in the north to Sebastian Inlet in the south, a mix of popular tourist beaches, secluded nature stretches and world-class surfing hubs or day trips or to view a Florida sunrise or sunset.*

INSIDE INSTEAD OF OUT

Experience this indoor adventure park. Urban Air offers many activities from tube slides to APEX Trampolines, Laser Tag, Sky Rider, the Virtual Reality Arena, and more. Fun for all ages and skill levels. Check it out!

When Minutes Matter

Rockledge hospital closure spurs Health First to accelerate plans for county’s first freestanding Emergency Room.

By Sara Paulson

Just a few decades ago, Viera – especially west of Interstate 95 – looked a whole lot different. A few government buildings. A baseball stadium. A smattering of houses and a grocery superstore. And lots of potential.

Today? It’s almost unrecognizable. Viera and its neighboring communities have seen an exponential surge in growth, with no signs of slowing down.

But with that accelerating growth comes plenty of opportunities – and the inherent responsibilities of community partners. That commitment is something deeply rooted in the DNA of Health First. Brevard’s community healthcare system has been actively planning to expand vital healthcare services and access across the region. In March 2025, it announced plans to build freestanding Emergency Rooms (ERs) in Rockledge and Palm Bay to address these needs.

When Orlando Health-Rockledge abruptly closed in April 2025, it created an immediate access gap for Rockledge and its neighboring communities. Health First leaders moved quickly to respond.

“While we didn’t have a lot of time to prepare for that closure, we felt responsible for taking care of the community,” said Mike Mullowney, President, Health First’s Hospital Division.

“We worked quickly to make immediate accommodations and we had plans to build a new freestanding Emergency Room in Rockledge already in process. We knew at that time we needed to speed up the schedule.”

Patients who relied on the now-closed Central Brevard hospital faced longer distances for emergency care.

But this is about more than a longer trek to a hospital. It’s about those precious minutes for people stricken with chest pain, stroke symptoms and serious injuries.

No one plans on having those moments. But when they happen, minutes matter.

Big time.

As of late June, Health First’s Freestanding ER is ahead of schedule, slated to open in mid-December, giving North Viera residents closer access to emergency medical care. The front of the building faces west to Fiske Boulevard while the back portion, including the ambulance entrance, faces south toward Roy Wall Boulevard.

Health First officials quickly triaged the situation and fasttracked the freestanding ER to address the unexpected healthcare gap. Land next to Health First’s Business Center, north of I-95’s Fiske Boulevard exit, helped to expedite the process.

“Since we already owned the land, we could acquire permits and begin building faster,” said Keila Stradtner, System Vice President of Facilities, Construction & Real Estate. “This location will provide emergency care five to eight miles closer to home.”

By mid-December, North Viera will have another option for emergency medical crises. Construction at 3340 S. Fiske Blvd. kicked off Jan. 5, Stradtner said, and is ahead of schedule.

Answering the call

The 13,500-square-foot ER will be Brevard’s first. Freestanding ERs are already anchored in metropolitan areas, with fast-growing areas adopting them, too.

These are not urgent care centers. They’re designed for 24/7 emergencies that just can’t wait till the next morning.

Health First’s freestanding ER will be a fully functioning emergency department, “the same as we have in any of our other four hospital emergency departments,” said Kesha Cummings, Vice President, Hospital Division Emergency and Trauma Services, Patient Logistics. “Plus, these are an extra 12 beds that we didn’t have before in the community.”

Each of these beds will be in a fully equipped emergency treatment room. Board-certified emergency care physicians and nurses will be on hand 24/7, as well as onsite diagnostics and monitoring, bringing additional access to emergency care closer to home.

Once open with its 80-person staff, patients can expect a smoother, more personalized experience and cozier feel, with private patient rooms, an on-site lab, CT techs, sonographers, respiratory therapists, paramedics and more, Cummings explained. Health First is actively recruiting for roles supporting the new ER, with more information at hf.org/careers.

“We will have a highly trained care team, all focused on caring for patients, together, in a state-of-the-art facility,” she said.

And it’s designed with the patient experience in mind.

“From the number of exam rooms to the placement of windows for natural light, each detail was thoughtfully orchestrated to provide patients with comfortable and efficient experiences,” Stradtner said.

Health First’s Integrated Delivery Network is connected throughout the entire system through its Epic electronic medical record system, with patient access through MyChart. Hospital staff will have immediate access to each transferred patient’s chart. System continuity is a priority.

Why it’s needed now

For North Viera, closer access to care helps trim travel times when minutes matter.

“Families in Viera and the surrounding areas will benefit from having an alternate location to receive emergency services, tailored with the same efficient, high-quality care of a traditional emergency room department,” Stradtner added.

It also gives North Viera residents another option outside of Health First’s Viera Hospital ER. Because access isn’t just a priority. It’s a responsibility.

“We don’t want people to travel a long distance to get to emergency services,” Mullowney said.

In addition to the fast-tracked ER, there are plans to expand Viera Hospital with an additional fivestory tower. Last December, the Health First Board of Directors authorized plans to create an Orthopedics & Spine Institute and Same-Day Surgical Center on the Viera Hospital campus, subject to final and regulatory approvals.

“We’re

When Health First’s freestanding ER opens in midDecember, it will be just south of Health First’s Business Center off Fiske Boulevard, north of the I-95 exit. The building faces west to Fiske Boulevard.

really proud of the quality of the clinical care and specialties we offer,” Mullowney said. “The expansion of these new facilities is not only capacity to grow with our community, but it’s also investing in and expanding our clinical services and specialty expertise for our community.”

For those involved, bringing this ER to life is a special thing.

“It’s an opportunity to be part of something that Brevard County has never done before, which is a pretty amazing thing to be able to build and be a part of,” Cummings said.

These projects are something Mullowney and team take immense pride in. Because they epitomize why Health First exists – a continued commitment to advancing the wellness and health of the communities it serves, delivered through compassionate, high-quality care. Because this is what care should feel like.

“I am so proud of our physicians, our nurses, our care teams — all our teammates who are committed to taking care of the community. I am honored to work with this team,” Mullowney said.

For those caregivers, associates and strategic visionaries, it’s not just a job.

After

all, Brevard is their home, too.

VIERA DISCOVERY CENTER

After a few moves over the past several years, the Viera Discovery Center has nally found its forever home- and we couldn't be happier to welcome you in.

Now permanently located at The Avenue Viera, the Discovery Center has become the perfect place for residents, future neighbors, and visitors to learn about everything that makes Viera such a special community. While we've settled into our new home, we'll admit there is still one small challenge...you may have to discover our front door first!

Tucked between Massage Envy and Luxy Nail Spa, and just a few doors down from Nothing Bundt Cakes, we're one of The Avenue's hidden gems. But once you find us, you'll discover there's so much more waiting inside than you might expect.

Whether you're a longtime resident, a newcomer, or just curious about Viera, there's something for everyone to explore.

Take our new interactive touchscreen experience for a spin and discover Viera like never before. Browse neighborhoods, explore local restaurants, find parks, trails, shopping, entertainment, and community amenities - all with the touch of a finger. It's the perfect way to plan your next outing or simply learn more about the place you call home.

Thinking about making Viera your home? Our Community Ambassadors can help you learn about new neighborhoods and model homes, provide community maps, answer questions about Viera, and connect you with our authorized builders.

Looking for your next favorite restaurant? Pick up one of our complimentary restaurant guides featuring many of the delicious dining options throughout Viera and the surrounding area. Want to know what's happening around town? We'll help you discover community events, attractions, and activities happening throughout the year.

CENTER

You'll also have the opportunity to learn about the fascinating history of the Duda family and the vision that transformed ranchland into the thoughtfully planned community Viera is today. It's a story of stewardship, innovation, and creating a place where people can truly live, work, and play.

Before you leave, be sure to spend a few moments admiring the stunning custom mural created by local artist Jesse Travis. The vibrant artwork celebrates the natural beauty, wildlife, and unique character that make Viera unlike anywhere else.

The Viera Discovery Center is more than an information centerit's a place to connect with the community, discover new experiences, and learn what makes Viera so special. Whether you're searching for your dream home, looking for a great restaurant, planning a weekend adventure, or simply wanting to know more about our community, we're here to help.

So next time you're visiting The Avenue Viera, venture between Massage Envy and Luxy Nail Spa. It may take a little discovering to find us - but we think that's the perfect way to begin your visit.

We can't wait to welcome you to our new home and help you discover yours.

Viera is a master planned community connected to a network of employment opportunities, A-rated schools, multiple modes of transportation and incredible amenities. Choosing the right neighborhood is just as important as the location itself. The Viera Discovery Center is the gateway to learning about the options you have and where to explore first.

viera.com/life/viera-discovery-center

planting roots

A Well-Planned Move

Employment.

Aerospace may dominate the area, but growth is abundant in other industries too. Healthcare, education, and service industries are continually on the rise.

Transportation.

Located in the center of Florida’s Space Coast region, you’re within an hour of three international airports, one of the country’s largest cruise ports, major interstate connections, and the future of commercial space travel.

Amenities.

The area is connected by hundreds of miles of multi-use trails that seamlessly link to parks, neighborhoods and community destinations throughout Viera. The newest social hub will be Lakeside Social in the Viera Town Center, where food trucks, live performances, and a lakeside bar create a vibrant gathering place.

Neighborhood Selection.

Architectural style, walkability, access to amenities, and educational choices all play a key role in understanding your options.

Healthcare and Services.

Residents enjoy convenient access to exceptional healthcare services, including specialists, urgent care facilities, and medical offices strategically located throughout the community. An award-winning VA Clinic and a wide selection of dental providers are also located within a few miles of nearly every area of Viera.

Family Friendly.

As an A-Rated School community, your family will have opportunities to gain experience and explore multiple disciplines in STEM education, the arts, sports, and other subjects from quality schools.

Todd J. Pokrywa COO, Real Estate Group & President, The Viera Company

I’m proud to be leading the outstanding team at The Viera Company and our affiliated business in pursuing our mission to create vibrant, livable communities that are built with faith, integrity, and thoughtful stewardship of the land. This edition of Viera Vision celebrates innovation as our constant— technology woven into everyday life, design that inspires, and community initiatives that lift us all.

Start your journey at the Viera Discovery Center, now conveniently located at The Avenue Viera between Luxy Nails and Massage Envy. The new space is a modern, welcoming hub where business owners, residents, and prospective homeowners can explore Viera’s neighborhoods, builder offerings, and community amenities. It’s designed to be the first stop for anyone curious about life here—interactive, informative, and built to spark imagination. In addition, visit to see the mural designed by a local artist which traces our history from the Duda family’s arrival to the United States from Slovakia to our most recent developments in the masterplanned community of Viera. There are key milestones reflected in the mural, but too many exist to fully capture all the historic moments as our parent company, A. Duda & Sons, Inc., is celebrating 100 years in business this year.

Our authorized homebuilders continue to raise the bar with distinctive designs. From flexible workspaces and outdoor living rooms to kitchens engineered for both family and entertaining, these homes feature standout spaces that reflect how people live and work today. Thoughtful floorplans, smart-home integrations, and elevated finishes make each neighborhood a showcase of craftsmanship and forwardthinking design.

One of Viera’s greatest strengths is how we’re better together. Life across neighborhoods in a master-planned community means shared parks, connected trails, and amenities that

knit neighbors into a supportive, vibrant fabric. Whether you’re meeting at a playground, joining a community event, or simply enjoying a sunset on a shared green, the sense of belonging here is tangible.

We’re also privileged to live near the frontier of exploration. The Kennedy Space Center gives our community a front row seat to progress—the new space age unfolding in real time. Rocket launches, educational partnerships, and STEM opportunities for our youth remind us that Viera is part of a region where curiosity and discovery are everyday realities. Truly, tomorrow launches here.

Speaking of our youth, we’re celebrating The A Grade—the academic and extracurricular achievements of Viera High School graduates and the many accolades of students across all of our community’s schools. Their success is a point of pride and a testament to the leadership and dedication shaping our leaders of tomorrow.

Innovation extends to recreation as well. At Duran Golf Club’s driving range, new Trackman® technology is changing how golfers practice—data-driven coaching, precise ball-tracking, and performance analytics bring the game into the digital age. A great new opportunity for corporate events and social gatherings where a group can even virtually play famous golf courses like Pebble Beach. It’s another example of how technology enhances experiences across our community.

This year has been big for nature lovers: Viera’s Big Year invites residents to observe and celebrate the many bird species that call our area home. With community birding events and prizes, it’s a great reminder of the biodiversity we steward together in a community where nature lives alongside progress and development.

Finally, I want to highlight a powerful example of community spirit: Hockey Heroes for the Homeless, sponsored by

HealthFirst. In February, more than a dozen NHL alumni joined amateur teams at the Space Coast Iceplex—including Viera, W+J Construction, Stantec, and Capital Trusses—in a tournament that raised over $40,000 for local nonprofit Genesis House. The FP&L All-Star game was a highlight of the weekend tournament, showcasing how sport, community engagement, and service can create meaningful impact for women and children in need on Florida’s Space Coast.

These stories demonstrate that Viera is a community embracing technology, design, and compassion. Thank you for being part of Viera’s journey—where new developments and innovation meet heart. It’s all here.

EXPLORE VIERA

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