This issue features:

• The Show Must Go On! - A brief look at the Emma Parrish Theater and its storied 116-year history.
• United States Space Force - Space Coast vies to become headquarters for space command.
• Pasta to go! - New business hand-makes & delivers delicious breads and pastas for you to enjoy!
• Plus - Healthy activities to do during a pandemic, new city council, McLaren Super Cars in Titusville, and more!

What's Happening in Titusville — Here are the Newest Updates for What's Going On in Town.

It’s 2021, and as we enter the new year, we can’t help but think about what has occurred over the past 12 months. Last year started off promising, but suddenly things shifted as we began to live with new terms added to our lexicon such as “social distancing,” “stopping the spread,” and “contact tracing,” to name a few.

The challenges faced by our city during the COVID-19 global pandemic were enormous. However, despite these challenges, our community has continued to grow. We have seen a spike in home development permits, and a steady increase in residential and commercial property values. Commercial economic development continues in commercial space, manufacturing and retail, bringing desirable paying jobs to the Titusville area.

As we move into 2021, let us all work together to make sure Titusville remains a great place to live, work and play.

*On the cover: a promotional photo of the play “Matilda” courtesy of Titusville Playhouse.

Talking Points Staff:

• Jim Thomas - Managing Editor
• Wil Petty, Kurtis Korwan, Shane Daily - Layout, Design, Photojournalism

City of Titusville Social Media

• Facebook - CityofTitusville
• Twitter - @Titusville
• Instagram - @CityofTitusville
• Youtube - CityofTitusville

New & Continued Projects

Vystar Credit Union

A site plan is under review for the construction of a new credit union and demolition of the former Eckerd’s located at 1809 Cheney Highway.

Verona, Village D

A sketch plat is under review for the second phase of the Verona Subdivision off Grissom Parkway (formerly Willow Creek), which consists of 79 single-family homes on 121 acres.

Huntington Park Subdivision

A sketch plat is under review for an 86-lot single-family home subdivision on 79 acres to be located west of S. Park Avenue which will include trails and parks.

Fox Lake Hammock

A site permit has been issued and site construction is underway for a 61-lot, single-family home subdivision located east of South Street.

Popeyes

Site and building construction is underway for a 2,503-square-foot restaurant located at the southeast corner of State Road 50 and Helen Hauser Boulevard.

ATX Redevelopment

A site plan has been issued for changes to the former Astronaut Hall of Fame including: parking re-striping, additional landscaping and new drive paths located at 6225 Riverfront Center Boulevard.

Titusville Point

Site and building construction continues for utilities, drive aisles, landscaping and other related infrastructure at the corner of State Road 405 and Cheney Highway. Cumberland Farms is now open for business, with work continuing on Discount Tire and Aspen Dental.

River Palms

Site and building construction continues for 100-residential condominium units within two buildings with associated amenities, located at 1805 Riverside Drive, across from Titusville High School.

Beachwave

 Construction crews continue to work on the new Beachwave store located near Sand Point Park. The 33,600-square-foot building will feature over 1,000 sqft of retail space, 3,400 sqft of restaurant space, and a 5,000 sqft tiki bar on the second floor.

Horizon at Sand Point

Site and building plans are under review for the redevelopment of the former Sandpoint Plaza located at 22 N. Washington Avenue. The proposed plan includes apartments, parking garage and commercial mixed use buildings.

Falcon’s Roost Subdivision

A sketch plat is under review for a 28-lot, single-family home subdivision on 53 acres, to be located east of Apollo Elementary School, off of Knox McRae Drive. 

Home Depot Outparcel

A site plan is under review for a 4,200-square-foot retail/restaurant & new parking lot located at 3363 Columbia Boulevard.

Canopy Living ALF 

A site plan is under review for a 49,193-square-foot assisted living facility (ALF) located at 2805 Cheney Highway.

Comfort Suites

A site plan is under review for a 68,922-square-foot, 122-room hotel to be located at 4830 Helen Hauser Blvd, across from the Extended Stay Hotel and Durango’s Steakhouse.

Shepard Drive Warehouse Expansion

A site plan is under review for a 9,800-square-foot warehouse expansion to an existing 10,150-square-foot building located at 1500 Shepard Drive.

Nu-Vision Professional Office

Site plans are under review for a 3,965-square-foot office building located at 105 Pinedo Drive, across from Shiloh’s Steak & Seafood.

Chaffee Drive Development

Site plans are under review for a 9,221-square-foot warehouse and office located north of Chaffee Drive.

Hope Hammock

A site plan is under review for a 9-unit multi-family development to be located at the northwest corner of Palmetto Street and South Brown Avenue.

MJW Consolidated

A site plan is under review for a 13,400-square-foot office and fabrication shop/warehouse to be located at 1825 Shepard Drive.

Premiere Pawn Indoor Shooting Range

Conditional Use Permit Number 2-2020 was approved to allow a six-lane indoor shooting range that will be opened to the general public inside the existing pawn shop, at 2300 S Washington Ave. 

5 Below

Work is continuing at an existing store front in the Target Plaza on South Columbia Blvd. for a new 5 Below store.

Harbor Freight Tools

Harbor Freight Tools is planning to open a new store in Titusville at the former location of Bennett Auto on Garden Street, behind Walgreens. The company stated April 2021 as their target for opening.

T-Mobile Temp. Cell-on-Wheels Tower

On December 8, 2020, City Council approved Conditional Use Permit Number 3-2020 to allow a 102’ tall, temporary cell tower, to be located at 155 S DeLeon Ave.

New Tenants in Titusville Welcome Center

The Merritt Island Wildlife Association and staff from the US Fish & Wildlife Service will be moving into and residing at the Downtown Welcome Center for approximately one year while a new Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center is under construction.  The Refuge gift shop and information center will be temporarily located at the Downtown Welcome Center.  The Community Redevelopment Agency and City welcome the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center to the Downtown.

Bicycle Repair Stations

The CRA has authorized the purchase of two public bicycle repair stations including air pumps to be located in the downtown to provide an amenity for cyclists using the Downtown Connector Trail to make repairs to their bicycles and to provide a pump to inflate tires.  The proposed sites to locate the bicycle repair stations are at the Downtown Welcome Center and at Veterans Park near Indian River Avenue and Broad Street.

Sewer Main Slip Line Repairs

Funding has been approved by the CRA to repair slip line sewer main pipes in the downtown.  The slip lines will be installed in existing sewer lines.  The slip lines will help to prevent sewage leaks in the downtown CRA area and thus help to prevent pollution in the ground water and in the Indian River Lagoon.

Julia Street Pedestrian Lights

Design plans are being drafted to replace the three existing purple pedestrian street lights on the south side of Julia Street between S. Palm Avenue and S. Hopkins Avenue with green pedestrian street light poles similar to the green pedestrian light poles found on S. Hopkins Avenue and S. Washington Avenue.

Launch Now Development Update

Construction activity at the Launch Now development at 300 – 310 S. Washington Avenue has continued to be brisk.  Activity has included new water and sewer main lines installed, elevator work, interior framing, installation of rough plumbing, electrical wiring, and mechanical conduit; and new roofing put in place.

Brooks Landing

A sketch plat has been approved for a 143-lot, single-family home subdivision located north of Jay Jay Road and west of Hammock Road.

Feature Stories

All the World's a Stage

Century-old theater has played a central part in Titusville's history

The Emma Parrish Theater is one of Titusville’s most unique historical treasures. Located on 301 Julia Street, the building has stood for over a century, and originally housed a hotel and saloon. Nowadays, the theater is known by many as The Titusville Playhouse, and features amazing plays and musicals that attract locals and tourists alike.

A Rich History

  Opening in 1905 as a saloon and hotel, the building originally had a pretty shady reputation. That all changed in the years to follow, as improvements were continuously made to the building and the identity of the establishment changed into the Magnolia Hotel and Theatre. It become well known for their silent films, which cost 10 cents to attend.

   Met with a wide range of success, the business began focusing more on theatrics, eventually becoming known simply as The Magnolia Theatre. The Theatre hosted a wide variety events, including feature length movies, live music performances, and dance recitals. It would eventually change its name again during the 1950s to The Florida Theatre, when it became “the place to be” to watch movies in town.

   Unfortunately, the theatre would end up closing its doors in 1972 and quickly fell into disrepair. The building would sit vacant for almost a decade, until in 1981 the building was purchased by Titusville Playhouse, Inc. to become the heart of their operations. With the donation of over $500,000 from local citizens, businesses, and government, the team quickly set to work on renovating the dilapidated building. One of the primary donors of the restoration project was J.J. Parrish, who donated $150,000 to the fundraiser. As a tribute, the venue was named after his mother, Emma Parrish, and work completed in 1984 before opening to the public.

The Theatre Today

Today, the Emma Parrish Theatre is thriving under the operation of Titusville Playhouse, Inc., with a number of live performances each year. Titusville Playhouse’s mission is to provide enriching theatrical, artistic and social experiences to artists and audiences. They are also committed to several children’s educational programs, and strive to make these programs accessible and enriching to the residents of Brevard County and the surrounding areas.

   Entering its 56th season in 2020, the theatre is in the final year of a $1.7 million remodel, which has transformed the interior of the building into a stunning venue featuring wide open seating and a beautiful, relaxed environment. Unfortunately, 2020 also hit the Playhouse with an unexpected obstacle - COVID-19. However, with the help of its talented management and staff, the team was able to meet these challenges head on and continue to succeed throughout the year.

Coping with COVID

When the pandemic hit in spring of 2020, the Titusville Playhouse was forced to temporarily close its doors to the public. After an uncertain couple of months, the theatre reopened in July with several safety measures in place, including limited seating, mask mandates, and capacity restrictions. They also put plexiglass dividers to separate attendees and test their cast members very regularly for the virus.

   “Keeping our community as safe as possible is always our goal!” says Steven Heron, Executive Artistic Director of the Titusville Playhouse. 

   To make sure that their wonderful productions could still be seen by all those interested, they also began testing new ways for patrons to catch a show. Last summer, they began streaming their plays online to ticket holders who were not able to attend the original showing. 

   With their most popular shows premiering in the fall, the playhouse knew it was going to be a challenge allowing all those interested to attend with their capacity restrictions in place. So, when the weather broke in October, they began holding outdoor shows. The shows were such a huge success with visitors that the Titusville Playhouse is planning to hold outdoor shows again next year! 

  Although the COVID-19 pandemic definitely had an impact on operations, the Titusville Playhouse is back on their feet and getting back in to the swing of things! 

Outpacing the Pandemic

As Titusville and the nation continue to battle the pandemic COVID-19, its effects can be far more reaching than those who test positive for the virus. For the millions who continue to practice good preventative measures: wearing a mask, maintaining a safe distance in crowds, and washing and sanitizing commonly touched surfaces, the residual effects can still have a detrimental impact on our physical and mental health.  

Experts recommend a few common ways to maintain good mental and physical health through the pandemic: outdoor activities and exercise.

The COVID-19 virus is primarily spread from person to person through respiratory droplets released in to the air when talking, coughing or sneezing. Therefore, when you’re indoors you are more likely to inhale these droplets from an infected person — especially if you’re in close contact — because you’re sharing more air than you do outdoors. Poor building ventilation can also cause droplets to hang in the air for a longer period of time, adding to the potential risk of infection. When you’re outside, fresh air is constantly moving and dispersing these droplets, so, you’re less likely to breathe in enough of the respiratory droplets containing COVID-19.

Living in Titusville offers us a luxury that many of our neighbors to the north cannot take full advantage of this time of year — mild temperatures and sunny skies — providing many opportunities to get you off the couch and get your body in motion.

Biking, Jogging, and Walking

During the pandemic the sales of bicycles have soared 200% over the previous year’s sales. So, it may be difficult to find affordable bikes in your local retail store. However, nearly new and used bicycles can still be found through garage sales and online marketplaces. Whatever your riding pleasure, Titusville’s trails and parks offer a great opportunity to get out and pump those peddles. 

In addition to our several great local parks, Titusville is the second city in the state of Florida to receive the designation of being a “Trail Town”. We are proud to host three multi-use trails running through our city: the Coast-to-Coast trail, St. John’s River-to-Sea Loop, and East Coast Greenway. The Coast-to-Coast trail is a 250-mile trail that links Titusville with St. Petersburg. The St. Johns River-to-Sea Loop is a 260-mile long trail that merges with the East Coast Greenway, which is one-third complete along its 2,900-mile route from Maine to Florida. 

At the head of these magnificent trails is the Titusville Welcome Center, which provides information to pedestrians and bicyclists alike looking to find an adventure on the trail. The Welcome Center provides trail info, maps, and insider tips on adventures you can #LaunchFromHere. 

Together with the Welcome Center, these trails provide the perfect place to bike, hike, and jog to let off some much needed steam!

Kayaking / Canoeing

Kayaking and Canoeing are low impact activities that can improve your aerobic fitness, strength and flexibility. Benefits include a cardio workout, and muscle strength training of the back, arms, shoulders, chest, torso and legs. Beyond the physical impact on your body, kayaking can be a peaceful and meditative activity as you enjoy Titusville’s waterways.

Titusville offers several locations for kayaking adventures. More than half a dozen companies offer guided tours along the Indian River Lagoon. Some feature bioluminescent and wild life tours including manatees, dolphin and bird watching. Tours also offer opportunities to paddle out into the lagoon and view rocket launches from the water, day and night.

Water Sports

If you are looking for a more exhilarating outdoor activity, then water sports may suit your needs. From wind surfing, kite boarding, jet-skiing to water-skiing these activities require strength, skill and a little practice, but these activities will give you solid workout while keeping your distance from others. 

Parrish Park has become a launch pad for water sport enthusiasts. Located at the eastern base of the Max Brewer Bridge, Parrish Park boasts a 36 acres park including boat ramps, pavilions and restrooms as a few of its amenities. One of the parks major features is its unpaved shoreline, allowing drive up access for families to park and enjoy the water’s edge. 

A Few Tips

While you’re out enjoying the fresh air and sunshine, remember to protect yourself with a good sunscreen, wear sunglasses and a hat with a brim. Bring a bottle of water to stay hydrated and wear appropriate shoes and clothes for the activity. 

Stay Positive!

Regular exercise can have a positive effect on your mental attitude. It will help improve depression, anxiety, relieves stress, improves memory, helps you sleep better and gives you more energy and a positive outlook on life. 

A study by the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health found that running for 15 minutes a day or walking for an hour lowers the risk of depression by 26%. Exercise promotes various changes in the brain, including reduced inflammation, new activity patterns and promotes a feeling of calm and well-being. It also releases endorphins in to your brain boosting your spirits and energizing your body.

Regular exercise is essential to maintaining a healthy body and mind. Taking a few minutes each day to focus on your well-being is time well spent, especially during a pandemic. So, get outdoors and experience all that Titusville has to offer!

Sight-Seeing

Titusville has some of the best sight-seeing opportunities on the Space Coast, all of which provide unique experiences that can be safe while following social-distancing techniques.

With the Canaveral National Seashore right at our doorstep, many Titusville residents and visitors love visiting the pristine shores of Playalinda Beach. Playalinda is home to more than 1,000 plant species and 310 bird species, and is the longest undeveloped beach on the east coast of Florida. This makes it the perfect destination for locals and tourists alike who want to have a fun, relaxing day in the sun. It’s also the perfect hub for a variety of seasonal activities, such as fishing, surfing, and sea turtle nesting!

Another great sight-seeing opportunity is the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge. This beautiful sanctuary comprises 140,000 acres of land, water, and marshes adjacent to Cape Canaveral, and provides a diverse and safe ecosystem for several species of animals, many of which are endangered. One of the best stretches to visit is Black Point Drive, a 7-mile, one-way drive which follows a dike road around several shallow marsh impoundments and through pine flatwoods. This provides an excellent place to see waterfowl (in season), wading birds, shorebirds and raptors. Alligators, river otters, bobcats, various species of snakes, and other wildlife may be visible as well.

Local Parks

Titusville is full of beautiful natural parks to discover and explore, including...

• Chain of Lakes Park: located off of Jay Jay Road, offers 92 acres of wetlands and a 3-mile bike and walking trail winding around several pristine lakes. 
• Sand Point Park: located 101 N. Washington Ave. features a biking and walking path that runs adjacent to the Indian River Lagoon and the Titusville Marina. 
• Marina Park: This little park includes a BMX bike course and over 20 acres to roam and enjoy views of sailboats, dolphins and includes a dog park, so Rover can get a little exercise too. 
• Fox Lake Park: Located at 4400 Fox Lake Rd. The sanctuary is comprised of over 2500 acres and includes a paved path along the lakes edge, pavilions, volleyball courts and a hiking trail.

Meet Your New City Council!

Daniel E. Diesel ● Mayor ● Current Term: 2020 – 2024 - Former Vice Mayor; first elected to Titusville City Council in 2016

Mayor Dan Diesel was born in St. Louis, Missouri in 1958, and moved with his family to Titusville in 1965, when his Father transferred here with the space program. Mayor Diesel started his education here at Coquina Elementary then went to Imperial Estates Elementary when it first opened in 1968. From there he went on to Andrew Jackson Junior High School and then to Titusville High School where he graduated in 1976. 

  Mayor Diesel then attended Tennessee Technological University on a football scholarship and graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in Education. He then came back to teach and coach at Titusville High School in 1983 and is now completing his 35th year there.  During his career at Titusville High School, he was named the 1994 Teacher of the Year while teaching biology. He was also named the Florida Athletic Director of the year in 2007. He has been named coach of the year in both football and golf. His successful playing, coaching and athletic director career culminated with his recent induction into the Space Coast Sport Hall of Fame in May of 2016.   

  In addition to Mayor Diesel’s involvement at Titusville High School, he has also been very involved with the Titusville Jaycees, Indian River City United Methodist Church, The Kids Place School Board, Titusville Little League, Country Acres Children’s Home and was on the Titusville Area Chamber of Commerce Education Committee for many years. 

  Mayor Diesel received his Master’s Degree in Educational Leadership in 2009 and was Assistant Principal at Titusville High School that past 9 years. He has been married for 41 years to the former Barbara Bodziak, whom he met at Titusville High School. They have three sons and four grandchildren.

Jo Lynn Nelson ● Vice Mayor ● Current Term: 2018 – 2022 - Retired State Prosecutor in Brevard County; first elected to Titusville City Council in 2016

Jo Lynn Nelson is a native of Titusville and North Brevard. She is the descendant of area pioneers. Her father, Roy Roberts, was a respected citrus grower, and a land developer whose work included Royal Oak, Sherwood and downtown Titusville. Ms. Nelson hails from a family with a long history of community service, and grew up understanding the importance of giving back to the community. 

  Ms. Nelson attended the University of Florida where she received a Bachelor’s Degree with Honors in Political Science. She then attended Stetson University School of Law where she obtained her law degree. She became the second female attorney at the Brevard County State Attorney’s Office, and went on to be the first woman to become supervisor. While at the State Attorney’s office, Ms. Nelson helped start the Friends of the Children of Brevard County program, raising money to assist children in the foster care system. She served as a prosecutor for 35 years, including 11 years as the Juvenile Division Chief (2004 to 2015) until she retired. During that time, the number of cases dropped from over 6,000 a year, to less than 2,000.

  Ms. Nelson is a member of the Titusville Sunrise Rotary Club, where she served as Treasurer and President. She is also an advocate for the Boys and Girls Club of Central Florida, a member of the Rolling Reader Program reading to elementary students, and is a board member of the Merritt Island Wildlife Association.

  Ms. Nelson has two wonderful daughters: Katie, who is an interior designer, and Ashley, who is an executive at a national bank. She was elected to Titusville City Council in November, 2016 for a four-year term.

Robert L. Jordan, Jr. ● Seat 1 ● Current Term: 2018 – 2022 - Engineer and local business owner; first elected to Titusville City Council in 2018

Robert L. Jordan, Jr., hails from a small town in Georgia, but, has been a dedicated resident of Titusville for nearly 30 years. His parents, Robert & Liz, always taught him to be his very best in all endeavors, especially when having the honor of serving others. He has purposefully lived his life with their ingrained values of “being a peacemaker with a voice of reason.”

  A graduate of Savannah State University in Savannah, Georgia, Mr. Jordan obtained a Bachelor of Science degree, in Civil Engineering Technology and a minor in computers, in 1979. He received his Master of Aeronautical Science degree — with a Specialization in Management — from Embry Riddle Aeronautical University in 1992. Robert is also a Certified Professional Manager and Certified Facilitator.

  Mr. Jordan built a 32-year engineering career at the Kennedy Space Center, where he worked as TPS Engineer, Cargo Mechanical Engineer, Project Engineer and Manager, Proposal Manager, and a Facilities Manager and Program Manager. He later advanced to the position of Engineering Process Manager for the prime contractor on the United States Space Shuttle Program. Presently, he is the President & CEO of Genesis VII, Inc., an Engineering, Logistics and Construction Services Company based in Titusville.

   Mr. Jordan is a past member of the Brevard County School Board, where he became the first African American to hold a county wide seat in the history of Brevard County and, subsequently, the first African American to hold the office of Chairman of the Brevard County School Board. He is the present Vice Chairman of the Parrish Medical Center Board of Directors. Mr. Jordan has also served on myriad boards and commissions, including: Viera Charter School; Titusville Chamber of Commerce; North Brevard Economic Development Zone; United Way of Brevard; Brevard Workforce; Jess Parrish Foundation Board; Board of Directors of the Economic Development Council; and many more. He is the recipient of numerous NASA, engineering, and business community awards.

  The pride of Mr. Jordan’s life — and greatest supporters of his community services — are his lovely wife of almost 40 years, Karen, and their two wonderful children: Robert III, Manager of Operations/Logistics at Genesis VII, Inc.; and Kristina, a System’s Engineer for one of the largest aerospace companies based in Florida.

Dr. Sarah Stoeckel ● Seat 2 ● Current Term: 2020 – 2024 - Advisor and Adjunct Professor at EFSC; first elected to Titusville City Council in 2016

Sarah Stoeckel has been a resident of Titusville for over 25 years and welcomes the opportunity to demonstrate her commitment and passion for being involved in the community she calls home. Be it serving in leadership roles with Relay for Life, mentoring current college students, volunteering with the Titusville Chamber of Commerce Education Committee, volunteering at Titusville Playhouse, teaching Sunday School to junior high students or serving as a youth group leader, Dr. Stoeckel welcomes the opportunity to engage, enhance, and empower those around her.

  Dr. Stoeckel earned a Bachelor of Science Degree in Elementary Education from the University of Central Florida in 2008. In 2010, she received a Master of Arts Degree in Educational Leadership and Administration from UCF. She completed her Ph.D. in Public Affairs/Public Administration at UCF in 2018. Currently, Dr. Stoeckel works at Eastern Florida State College as an academic advisor and adjunct professor, teaching courses in Public Administration, Public Policy, Public Budgeting, Management & Leadership, Organizational Behavior, and Urban & Regional Planning.

  Dr. Stoeckel has a heart for people and enjoys making a positive impact in the lives around her, all while staying true to the vision of prosperity and success she maintains for our community.

Joe C. Robinson ● Seat 3 ● Current Term: 2020 – 2022 - Coast Guard Veteran, ordained minister and local civic leader; first term on Titusville City Council

Joe Robinson hails from Corsicana, Texas. He has been a resident of Titusville for 30 years and fell in love with our beautiful city upon moving here. He has traveled the world but still loves his hometown more than any other place.

  Mr. Robinson spent 24 years on active duty with the U.S. Coast Guard, where he served as an engineering officer and was heavily involved in maritime law enforcement, drug interdiction operations, as well as recruiting and training initiatives.

   Mr. Robinson earned a Bachelor of Arts in Business Management/Psychology from Columbia College in Columbia, Missouri. He also completed advanced studies in government procurement and contracting at the U.S. Coast Guard Training Center in Petaluma, California; as well as advanced studies in naval engineering and system design from the U.S. Coast Guard Training Center in Yorktown, Virginia.

 Mr. Robinson is an Ordained Baptist Minister, serving congregations at Bethlehem Missionary Baptist Church and Antioch Christian Fellowship, in Titusville. Mr. Robinson served for two years as the Vice President /Director of Operations for Brevard Workforce. Currently, he is the Executive Director of North Brevard Charities Sharing Center and the Harry T. Moore Social Services Center. He is a member of myriad community organizations including: Current President of the HUD-appointed Cocoa Housing Authority; Vice Chairman of the Titusville Affordable Housing Committee; Community Service Council; Alliance for Neighborhood Restoration for Brevard County; Titusville Chamber of Commerce; and more. He was elected to Titusville City Council in November, 2020, for a two-year term.

Florida's Space Coast - A FORCE to be Reckoned With

With the stroke of a pen and a few spoken words, two long-standing installations along our county’s shoreline were re-designated as part of our nation’s newest military branch — the U.S. Space Force. On December 9, 2020, Vice President Mike Pence was present at the ceremony where Cape Canaveral Air Force Station and Patrick Air Force Base changed names to become Cape Canaveral Space Force Station and Patrick Space Force Base.

“Today we make history with the first two installations in the history of the United States Space Force to bear the name of this new branch of the service,” Pence said during the ceremony before unveiling updated signs carrying the new names. “It is a great day for our military. It is a great day for Florida. It is a great day for America.”

This re-designation only affects the names of the facilities and doesn’t officially change them into fully-fledged Space Force installations. According to senior Air Force and Space Force officials, the action is critical to establishing a distinct culture and identity for the new military branch.

“Today, we start a new era at both Cape Canaveral Space Force Station and Patrick Space Force Base aligning the installation names with their critical missions,” Chief of Space Operations, Gen. Jay Raymond said during his remarks at the ceremony. “Today their titles will reflect the space missions that the 45th Space Wing and its mission partners execute with precision, passion, and pride every day. Moving forward, we will integrate our service, elevating the power that space brings to the nation, the joint force, and our allies,” he said, referring to the facility as “hallowed ground.”

The 45th Space Wing is the military command responsible for all government and commercial space launches on the east coast of the U.S., and was officially designated in 1991. It’s history, however, dates back to 1949 when it was known as the Air Force Division, Joint Long-Range Proving Ground.

Vice President Mike Pence gives remarks at a ceremony for the renaming of two Department of the Air Force installations on Dec. 9, 2020, at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station, Fla. (U.S. Space Force photo by Senior Airman Zoe Thacker)

Despite the ceremony, Space Force officials emphasized that until final decisions are made relating to Space Force installations, and official transfers are approved, the two bases will remain under the jurisdiction of the Air Force. This comes, of course, on the heels of the announcement in November, 2020, that Patrick was on the short list of six installations competing to become the headquarters for U.S. Space Command — the unified combatant command of the United States Department of Defense, responsible for military operations in outer space.

On November 19, the Economic Development Commission of Florida’s Space Coast received confirmation from the Air Force that Brevard County’s bid to host the new U.S. Space Command Headquarters was advancing to the final round.

The EDC led the response to the USAF request for extensive information about the community’s ability to host the joint combatant command, working closely with Space Florida, the 45th Space Wing, Brevard County and other strategic partners.

“Florida’s Space Coast is the 21st-Century answer for what will give our nation and warfighters the edge on this 21st-Century battlefield,” said EDC President and CEO, Lynda L. Weatherman. “Our unmatched quantity and quality of defense, civil and commercial space assets and expertise offer U.S. Space Command the agility, innovation and boldness needed to project spacepower.” 

“Florida’s defense and aerospace ecosystem provide unique opportunities that would benefit USSPACECOM,” said Frank DiBello, President and CEO of Space Florida, “and I am pleased that the U.S. Air Force has identified that capability with Brevard County’s selection in the down-select process for its headquarters. Space Florida applauds today’s announcement and looks forward to working with the State of Florida, the Air Force and our local partners in continuing this effort.” 

During the next phase, the USAF will conduct both virtual and in person visits with candidate locations soon. The competition is tough, though, as the Air Force received nominations from 26 states, ultimately narrowing the candidates down to six: Kirtland Air Force Base, New Mexico; Offutt AFB, Nebraska; Peterson AFB, Colorado; Port San Antonio, Texas; Redstone Army Airfield, Alabama; and Patrick Space Force Base.

The Department of the Air Force anticipates selecting the preferred location for U.S. Space Command Headquarters in early 2021. In the interim, Peterson AFB will remain the provisional location for U.S. Space Command Headquarters until a permanent location is selected and facilities are ready to support the mission. Regardless of the decision, our communities should be proud of the role we have played in support of our nation’s space operations, and the role we will continue to play as Cape Canaveral Space Force Station and Patrick Space Force Space stay at the forefront of the final frontier.

Patrick Space Force Base gets a new sign with its redesignation at a ceremony on Dec. 9, 2020. (U.S. Space Force photo by Senior Airman Zoe Thacker)

Nothin but Tail Lights

McLaren Super Car Dealer opens a temporary showroom in Titusville

British super car McLaren has established a new — albeit temporary — home for their Orlando dealership’s showroom right here in Titusville. Located at the Knight’s Armament facility at 701 Columbia Boulevard, McLaren Orlando opened their doors to customers in August 2020.

   Nestled in behind the secured fence of Knight’s, the dealership offers customers a chance to view their high-end automobiles by appointment only. With prices for the super cars starting at around $200k – $300k, is it any wonder why they chose such a secure facility?

   For the past few months, McLaren Orlando has displayed their cars at various locations and events throughout Central Florida and the Space Coast. One such event was the Coastal Auto Rally and Show in September 2020, at the Valiant Air Command Warbird Museum at Space Coast Regional Airport.

   “We certainly have enjoyed being here on the Space Coast,” said Leah Smeenk, the Marketing and Experience Manager for McLaren Orlando, LLC. “It’s been wonderful meeting residents and local businesses.”

   This dealership puts Titusville on an elite list with three other locations throughout the state where McLaren has showrooms: Tampa, Palm Beach, and Miami.

   The Titusville location is only temporary, however, as the company seeks to renovate the former Orchard Supply building located at 1111 Orlando Avenue, Winter Park. Just how temporary it will be is uncertain as the company continues to work with Winter Park’s Planning and Zoning Board to approve their plans for redevelopment. Decisions on the project will be made by Winter Park City Council in mid-January.

Design concept of McLaren Orlando’s permanent home to be located in Winter Park, Florida.

Hand-crafted & Made-to-Order

Terrance Daley, owner and operator of The Daley Trade.

New local business offers delectable pastas and breads made from local ingredients

Joining the eclectic collection of businesses in Downtown Titusville, The Daley Trade is seeking to add its high quality pastas, breads and provisions to the flavor of our town, all the while using eggs, produce, and dairy sourced from local Florida farmers.

  Opened in November 2020 by Terrence Daley, the business is currently operating as a contactless delivery service without a traditional brick-and-mortar location, as a result of the ongoing COVID-19 situation.

  “I wanted to start my own business based on my love for comfort food and cooking at home,” said Daley. “I am always amazed and inspired by food because of the ability it has to bring people together.”

  A graduate of the Culinary Institute of America in New York, Daley has had a long career working in fine-dining restaurants. He has also worked for high-end catering companies, and as a personal chef on yachts and in private homes. His career has taken him to restaurants all over the country, to cities such as Washington D.C., New York, Miami, and Charleston, South Carolina; however, with the increasing difficulties of the Coronavirus, he and his wife Laura decided to move to Titusville to be closer to their family.

  It was with the encouragement of friends and family, and their love for his different styles, shapes and sizes of his noodles and baked goods, that Daley finally decided to open his own business to bring those specialties to the community.

  “Some of my fondest memories over the years have been dinners with friends and family and I wanted to find a way to help people replicate those memories in their homes,” Daley said, “I’m super excited to give people the ingredients and means to help them create incredible homemade meals, hoping that they can share the good times with others.

  For more information on the products and services offered by The Daley Trade, or to order from their growing list of items, go to their website at thedaleytrade.com or call (540)729-2025.

City Gov News

Titusville Office of Economic Development

Blazing Trails 

The City of Titusville is situated at the convergence of three paved, long-distance, multi-use trails: the Florida Coast-to-Coast Trail, the East Coast Greenway, and the St. Johns River-to-Sea Loop. In addition to having a wealth of opportunities for fishing, kayaking and birdwatching, the City of Titusville realized the importance of these trails to not only the community, but also to eco-tourism and, as such, began taking earnest steps to provide amenities and safe passage for bicyclists and pedestrians by forming a trails committee, spearheading efforts to construct a bicycle & pedestrian bridge over Garden Street, revamping downtown streets to be more cyclist/pedestrian friendly, and opening a new visitor center. In June 2018, the efforts of the City and numerous community friends and partners were rewarded when Titusville was designated as Florida's second-only official trail town by the Florida Department of Environmental Protection’s Office of Greenways and Trails Council.

Titusville garners recognition.

The League of American Bicyclists (League) recently determined that Titusville was deserving of an Honorable Mention designation!

On December 16, the League made its official awards announcement through the distribution of a national press release and via its online platforms. Included in the announcement was the City’s Honorable Mention status, which will continue to be promoted on the League website for one year.

With just a few additional enhancements, Titusville could soon earn the Bicycle Friendly Community award in the very near future! Stay tuned!

East Coast Greenway

On December 15, the Titusville Downtown Connector Trail (Cyclotrack) was officially designated as part of the East Coast Greenway by the East Coast Greenway Alliance! The Connector Trail, which extends from Wilson Avenue to Indian River Avenue along Main Street is an important connector that serves walkers, cyclists, and equestrians.

A 3,000-mile biking and walking route, the East Coast Greenway links the major cities of the Atlantic coast of the United States, from Calais, Maine, to Key West, Florida.

City of Titusville - Office of Economic Development

555 S. Washington Ave | Titusville, FL

www.facebook.com/YEStitusvilleFL

321-567-3774

Your Irrigation Impacts the Indian River Lagoon

Excess irrigation impacts the health of the Indian River Lagoon.

Water running off of yards transports pollutants such as fertilizers, grass clippings, and pet waste.

As runoff flows over driveways, streets, and parking lots it picks up more contaminants like oil, gas, and garbage.

Runoff flows into the stormwater system and ultimately ends up in the Indian River Lagoon.

Once in the lagoon, debris can smother sea grass and the contaminants overload the lagoon with nutrients.

Nutrient overload leads to algae blooms and their subsequent decay that rob the water of oxygen, killing plants, fish, and wildlife.

Reduce Runoff - Follow the irrigation schedule

November 1, 2020 - March 2021

• Even-Numbered Residential Addresses: Sunday Only
• Odd-Numbered Residential Addresses: Saturday Only
• Commercial & Non-Residential Addresses: Friday Only
• Restrictions apply to well, reclaimed, and city water.

Tree City USA

The City of Titusville is celebrating its 20th Anniversary as a Tree City USA community.  A program of the Arbor Day Foundation, Tree City USA has been recognizing cities and towns across America for their robust urban tree canopies and tree care programs since 1976.  More than 3,400 other communities have made the same commitment by meeting four core standards of sound urban forestry management: maintaining a tree board, having a community tree ordinance, spending at least $2 per capita on urban forestry, and hosting an annual Arbor Day celebration.

North Brevard Farmers Market to Continue in 2021.

The North Brevard Farmers Market will return to Downtown Titusville beginning Friday, January 22, and will be held on the 2nd and 4th Friday of every month thereafter. Come to downtown between 3:00 and 6:00 p.m. to purchase your favorite locally-grown and produced food items.

   The CARES Act funding that provided the household assistance via tokens at the market has ended, and we hope you will mark your calendar and plan to support the market and the entrepreneurs that participate. With your commitment to support the market, we can grow it into a wonderful asset for our community. Stop in at the market on Friday evening, pick up your fresh meat, produce and other goodies, and unwind from your week in the relaxed atmosphere of historic downtown Titusville.

  The market is coordinated by the UF/IFAS Extension Office, in partnership with Brevard County. For more information, call 321-633-1702, or go online to: sfyl.ifas.ufl.edu/brevard/brevard-county-farmers-market/

Titusville Police News

Promoting Teamwork Within our Community — 1100 John Glenn Blvd. — Titusville, FL 32780 - PH 321-264-7800

Brevard Triad and Titusville Police Bring Christmas Cheer to Local Seniors

Brevard County Triad and the Titusville Police Department’s North Brevard Seniors and Law Enforcement Together (S.A.L.T.) volunteers collected and delivered holiday gifts for approximately 400 local seniors residing in assisted living, rehabilitation and nursing facilities.

  Christmas is the season of giving and for the past 21 years, Titusville seniors were surprised with the delivery of gifts donated by the community. The “Senior Santa” program was sponsored by Brevard County Triad and coordinated this special holiday giving event for local seniors in need or alone for the holidays.

  Senior wishing trees, decorated with individual paper Santa wish lists, were displayed at the Titusville Police Department and Parrish Senior Solution Center. Wishes were taken and fulfilled by generous collogues, businesses, friends and families within the community for seniors, who perhaps did not have the family or means to purchase gifts for themselves.

  All gifts were gathered and packaged with each senior’s individual wish. Titusville Police Officers, members of North Brevard S.A.L.T. and community volunteers delivered the gifts to residents at several North and Central Brevard Senior living facilities.

  “We are tremendously thankful for the generosity of our local businesses and citizens”, said North Brevard S.A.L.T. Senior Santa coordinator, Angie Spangler”. “It is heartfelt to see so many people come together and remember our seniors during this wonderful time of year”, added Spangler. 

  If you would like more information on enhancing the quality of life for local seniors, please contact Brevard County Triad at (321) 632-6688 or the Titusville Police Department non-emergency number at (321) 264-7800.

Kids Shop with a Cop for Christmas Gifts

Fifty local children, selected by local school administrators and Titusville Police School Resources Officers, participated in the annual Shop with a Cop event which occurred over a two-week timeframe just before Christmas.

   In a partnership between Titusville Police and the Titusville Police Youth Foundation, kids were given $100 to shop at Wal-Mart or Target in Titusville. 

  Children were paired up with an officer or department volunteer, donating their time to lead children on an individual Holiday Shopping Spree in small groups and adhering to CDC guidelines. Children were also given the option to select gifts online and pick them from the retail store.  

  “The outpouring of support we received during this very challenging year from the business community and local citizens was exceptional,” said Deputy Chief Todd Hutchinson.

   Funds for the Holiday Shopping Spree were provided by the Titusville Police Youth Foundation, Wal-Mart, Target, Tiffany Scarboro with First International Title, Noble & Company Real Estate Professionals, and monies donated by members of the Titusville community and additional businesses.

Titusville Fire Department

550 S. Washington Avenue Titusville, FL 32796 321-567-3800

Firehouse Subs Awards TFD With New Decontamination Equipment

Titusville Fire Department is excited to announce the awarding of the AeroClave RDS 3110 Decontaminating System through the Firehouse Subs Public Safety Foundation grant program.  While more than $51 million has been given and 4,702 grants fulfilled since 2005, we are the FIRST department awarded this type of equipment in the history of the Foundation.  The AeroClave process provides consistent, reliable delivery of the right amount of disinfectant, decontaminating to OSHA and NFPA specifications every time. Ultimately, this reduces staff & patient exposure to dangerous pathogens and improves unit turn-around time.

   We are extremely grateful to the Foundation, Britt & Jeff Diaz (our local Firehouse Subs Titus Landing franchisees, but importantly our friends) and to the public who provide the funding through eating at Firehouse Subs.  Many wonder if the money stays local when you “round up”, this is proof positive that it does!  While the grant awarded was over $16,000, having the ability, given our current environment, to decontaminate rooms, equipment and apparatus is PRICELESS! We were also able to secure 3 additional AeroClave machines through CARES Act funding.  This allows us to have decontamination capabilities at every station, helping us combat potential COVID-19 spread.

TFD Holiday Donation Drive Yields Tremendous Results

To all the members of the community who heard the call for food donations and presents for local families, THANK YOU! We estimated 200 lbs. of food was donated and many sleigh trips of toys have been dropped off to North Brevard Charities Sharing Center. Each delivery was filled with smiles and an abundance of gratitude from the staff. You have made spirits bright in the homes of these families during what has been a very difficult year. Thank you for your donations.

Titusville Fire Department's Bicycle Helmet Program

Did your child receive a bicycle, scooter, skateboard or roller-skates for Christmas and now they need a helmet?

Titusville Fire Department has a limited number of free bicycle helmets to help those in need. If you are interested in a free helmet and fitting please contact Life Safety Specialist Kerri Lubeski at 321-567-3804 to schedule your fitting appointment. No walk-ins allowed. Parent’s/Caregiver and child receiving helmet must be present.

Face masks/coverings must be worn.

*More children ages 5-14 go to emergency rooms for bicycle-related injuries than with any other sport; many are head injuries. Helmets are the single, most effective piece of safety equipment for riders of all ages, if you crash. Everyone should choose to wear a helmet; it just makes sense!

Protect your child’s head this year and make an appointment for a free bicycle helmet with fitting with our Life Safety Specialist Monday – Friday 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. 

Completed & Open

McLaren of Orlando 

McLaren of Orlando opened a showroom for their luxury sports cars at the Knight’s Armament facility at 701 Columbia Blvd.

Barlow Orthodontics

Barlow Orthodontics has completed renovation of 4987 South Washington Avenue. The building will be their new Titusville office starting on Wednesday, January 13, 2021.

Cumberland Farms @ Titusville Point

The new Cumberland Farms gast station and convenience store has opened at the new Titusville Point development at the corner of SR 405 and Cheney Highway.

La Bella Vista

La Bella Vista Itallian restaurant has opened at 3350 S. Washington Ave., the former location of Portofino’s.

City Employee's Granddaughter is Brevard County's First Baby of 2021

Malia Lynn Selph — the second granddaughter of Titusville city employee Scott Selph — was born at 12:23 a.m., Friday, January 1, 2021 at Health First’s Cape Canaveral Hospital. The healthy baby girl weighed in at 8 pounds, 13 ounces and was 20 inches long.

  She was originally due to be delivered on December 29. However, Malia had other plans and waited until the new year had arrived before she made her entrance.

  Malia is the third child of Nathan and Michaela Selph of Titusville, joining her big brother Camden (4 years old) and big sister Rayleigh (2 years old).

   Congratulations to the family on their wonderful new arrival, and on receiving the prestigious title of 1st Baby of 2021.

Space Coast Trail - SUN Trail Funding Fact Sheet

Titusville Area Chamber of Commerce: 321-267-3036 • Titusville Welcome Center: 321-607-6216

To visit the trail or for more information, please contact:

The Shared-Use Nonmotorized (SUN) Trail program awarded $1,243,065 for design and construction of the two-tenths of a mile segment of the Space Coast Trail in Titusville, a Florida Trail Town. This project extends along Garden Street (also known as State Road 406) from Indian River Avenue to west of the A. Max Brewer Bridge. A cycle track connecting to the East Central Regional Rail Trail is on the western side of the project limits. The Bridge leading to the entrance of the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge and Cape Canaveral National Seashore is on the eastern side of the project limits. Installation of a Rectangular Rapid Flashing Beacon (RRFB) and midblock crossing of Garden Street, connects Sand Point Park and beyond, are components of this project. Honor the lives and sacrifice made by pioneers of NASA’s manned space program by visiting the Astronaut Memorial Plaza near the south entrance of the Park. The Park provides restrooms, and opportunities for picnicking and fishing along the Indian River, which forms part of the Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway.

RRFBs are a warning device for people using the roadway. When an individual on the trail presses the button to activate the RRFB it will alert roadway users they are ready to cross with yellow lights that flash an irregular pattern, similar to the flashers on emergency vehicles. People using the trail need to watch for approaching traffic on the roadway after activating the RRFB before crossing Garden Street. 

Established during the 2015 legislative session and administered by the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT), the SUN Trail program receives an annual allocation from the redistribution of new vehicle tag revenues to expand the statewide system of paved multi-use trails (SUN Trail network) for bicyclists and pedestrians. Projects with funding from the SUN Trail program help implement the vision and goals of the Florida Transportation Plan. By enhancing infrastructure and increasing the reliability of all modes of Florida’s transportation system, projects within the SUN Trail network have the ability to reduce incidents with vulnerable road users, enhance safety and improve mobility. This project is where major developing trail networks converge: • Coast to Coast Trail (C2C) is a developing 250-mile regional system that will connect communities and destinations through Central Florida between the Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf of Mexico. The C2C exists in segments from Titusville to St. Petersburg. See: www.c2ctrail.com

• St. Johns River-to-Sea Loop (SJR2C) is a developing 260-mile regional trail system that will link the Tri- County Agritourism Corridor to the Space Coast through five counties. The SJR2C exists in segments. See: river2sealoop.org

Management of this trail is by: City of Titusville Public Works Department • 321-567-3846 • www.titusville.com/595/Cycling-Pedestrian-Trails

• Important City Numbers:
  • Building Department    321.567.3760
  • Business Tax Receipts (Occupational Licenses)    321.567.3758
  • City Clerk    321.567.3686
  • City Hall Main Number    321.567.3775
  • City Hall FAX Number    321.383.5704
  • City Manager’s Office    321.567.3702
  • Code Enforcement    321.567.3770
  • Community Advocate    321.567.3689
  • Customer Service (Utility Billing)    321.383.5791
  • Economic Development    321.567.3774
  • Fire Department (Non-Emergency)    321.567.3800
  • Fire Public Education    321.567.3804
  • Human Resources    321.567.3728
  • Jobline    321.567.3731
  • Neighborhood Services    321.567.3987
  • Municipal Marina    321.383.5600
  • Permits    321.567.3759
  • Planning Department    321.567.3782
  • Police (Non-Emergency)    321.264.7800
  • Police / Fire Rescue (Emergency)    911
  • Solid Waste    321.383.5755
  • Stormwater    321.567.3832
  • Stormwater (After Hours Emergency)    888.399.1327
  • Streets Maintenance    321.567.3832
  • Water Field Operations (Water Main Break)    321.567.3883
  • Water Main Break (After Hours Emergency)    321.383.5657
  • Water Resources Conservation Program    321.567.3865
  • LED Sign Information    321.567.3689
• Important Community Numbers:
  • Brevard County Auto Tags    321.264.5224
  • Chamber of Commerce    321.267.3036
  • Department of Motor Vehicles    321.264.5224
  • Florida Power and Light    800.577.1156
  • City Gas Co of Florida    321.636.4644
  • Social Security Office    321.633.8100
  • Canaveral National Seashore    321.267.1110
  • Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge    321.861.0667

City of Titusville

555 South Washington Ave.

Titusville, FL  32796