Daily
Melbourne
Thursday, January 8th, 2026
Good morning, Melbourne. Here's your local news at a glance for Thursday, the 8th of January.
COMMUNITY NEWS
- ➤ Paula Creed recently joined the Brevard Achievement Center as its talent support coordinator, where she will help adults with disabilities gain work opportunities (she previously worked at 211 Brevard and earned degrees from UCF). Florida Today
CULTURE NEWS
- ➤ The Space Coast Renaissance Fair will be held on the winter weekends of Jan. 10 to 11 and Jan. 17 to 18 at Space Coast Daily Park in Viera (10 a.m. to 6 p.m.), where visitors can enjoy birds of prey and jousting shows led by Master Falconer Ash Cary. Space Coast Daily
ECONOMY NEWS
- ➤ Florida's average gas prices have dropped below $3 a gallon — the lowest start since 2021 — due to steady oil supplies and softer demand. Experts noted that minor fluctuations may occur because of seasonal shifts, but drivers can look forward to a positive outlook in 2026. Florida Today
EDUCATION NEWS
- ➤ The Eastern Florida State College Foundation received a $10,000 donation from the Made for More Movement after its Amazing Grace 5K run and walk held on Oct. 18 at EFSC’s Palm Bay Campus. The funds will support two scholarships honoring Rikki Grace and Dr. Megan Grace. Space Coast Daily
ENVIRONMENT NEWS
- ➤ SB 180 blocks Brevard County from updating plans to protect barrier islands near Melbourne as rule changes after Aug. 1, 2024 are annulled & local leaders work to introduce SB 840 that will restore planning authority by June 30. Florida Today
GOVERNMENT NEWS
- ➤ A report published yesterday said Florida’s military bases, shipping ports, and nuclear plants near Cape Canaveral might feel fallout impacts if an attack targets U.S. missile silos in the west (Florida has no active silos). Experts stress that weather will decide how fallout spreads. Florida Today
HEALTH NEWS
- ➤ The CDC reports very high flu activity in Florida while cases have risen 33% nationwide, with fever, cough and body aches reported suddenly. Health officials advise residents to get vaccinated and seek care if symptoms worsen as activity is expected to continue for weeks. Florida Today
LIFESTYLE NEWS
- ➤ Coaster's Pub & Biergarten in Melbourne (a hidden gem to locals) is featured in a new video that invites residents to explore its unique atmosphere and offerings. Florida Today
REAL ESTATE NEWS
- ➤ The iconic Dragon Point landmark in Brevard County is listed for sale and offers a chance to revive its legendary dragon statue — a unique piece of Space Coast history for interested buyers. Florida Today
SPORTS NEWS
- ➤ Former West Shore High alum Bree Ehmer was named Division II National Soccer Player of the Year after a standout 2025 season at Catawba College (she scored 20 goals and had six assists) as she led her team to the SAC Conference Championship. Space Coast Daily
- ➤ Former Cocoa Tigers defensive lineman Javion Hilson announced Wednesday he has entered the transfer portal after one season at Missouri and will transfer to Virginia Tech next season, furthering his college football career. Space Coast Daily
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A Tribute to The Eagles
7-8 p.m. — Melbourne Auditorium — $38 general admission, $70 VIP seating — Experience Florida’s ultimate Eagles tribute band performing classic hits live.
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Havana Nights: Salsa Dance Party
6:30-11:59 p.m. — Venezia Wine Veranda — Check website for pricing — Experience an evening of Cuban rhythm with Salsa dancing and delightful culinary specials.
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8th Annual Run for the Kids Race Challenge
8 AM – 2 PM — Wickham Park — Supporting Brevard County children and families through a challenging 15K race.
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Live Oceanfront Music with Damion Suomi
1-4 p.m. — Element Melbourne Oceanfront — Free parking available — Enjoy smooth tunes and craft cocktails at a relaxed brunch setting by the ocean.
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Catalina Wine Mixer Networking Event
6-9 p.m. — Intracoastal Brewing Company — Networking Event — Connect with ambitious entrepreneurs in a relaxed setting at the ultimate Catalina Wine Mixer.
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Space Coast Food & Wine Festival
3-6 p.m. — Downtown Melbourne — Tickets available online — Experience a culinary celebration with tastings from top chefs and local flavors by the waterfront.
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K-Pop Warriors Show
4:00-5:30 p.m. — Melbourne Auditorium — Family-friendly event — Enjoy a high-energy show with vibrant music and dance inspired by K-Pop.
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SouthsidersVW Winter Blitz IX
9 a.m. – 2 p.m. — Intracoastal Brewing Company — $10 entry plus donation — Celebrate the VW community with live music and trophy competitions while benefiting local animal care.
No new real estate listings today. You can submit one here.
No new job posts today. You can submit one here.
No new community announcements today. You can submit one here.
TODAY'S FOOD FOR THOUGHT
Yesterday I was clever, so I wanted to change the world. Today I am wise, so I am changing myself.
~ Rumi
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