Good morning, Melbourne.

Brevard County has been the backdrop for 25 films and TV shows over the years, with productions like Apollo 13 and SpaceCamp featuring local landmarks.

The region’s rich space history draws filmmakers to iconic sites (such as Kennedy Space Center) regularly.

Eastern Florida State College named Teresa Uzel the 2025 Instructor of the Year, as recognized by the Space Coast Fire Chiefs Association.

A retired firefighter with over 20 years of teaching experience, Uzel earned the honor for her dedication to training future fire service professionals.

Florida's Schools of Hope program now allows approved charter schools to share space in public facilities, following an expansion in November.

Brevard Public Schools received letters from hope operators and objected to an application from Mater Academy, citing safety, space, and logistical concerns (actions are underway to manage co-location details).

Shandra Stewart from Satellite High was named Brevard Teacher of the Week after readers voted today, and her creative teaching makes learning fun for each student.

The Brevard Zoo announced that Kumi (12-year-old Masai giraffe) is pregnant and will give birth this summer, marking the zoo's first giraffe birth since 2020.

Birds are migrating south to Central FL to escape cold northern weather.

Many species have been spotted at local spots like the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge (Black Point Wildlife Drive) and Viera Wetlands.

Staff at Crystal's Critter Care in South Brevard are nurturing 14 orphaned baby raccoons rescued after their moms were relocated and left behind.

The animals are fed special formula & cared for until they will be released into a secluded forest in about four months.

Research by local mental health experts finds that passive scrolling between 11 p.m. and 1 a.m. may signal increased suicidal thoughts by the next day, while active messaging after 1 a.m. appears protective & may prompt early support measures.

Dr. Richard Hynes from Health First Medical Group in Melbourne explained on his recent podcast that most spine problems can be managed without surgery and that options like physical therapy offer relief while robotic surgery now offers 99% accuracy for necessary procedures (a notable advance for local patients).

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Valentine's Day Painting Date Night

3-5 p.m. — Painting with a Twist — $40 per person — Create a shared masterpiece while enjoying a romantic evening with your partner on Valentine's Day.

MMB Concert Band: Love Notes Tales of Passion

7-10 p.m. — Melbourne Auditorium — Free entry — Enjoy a night of love songs featuring soprano Rachel Murphy and a pre-show by Adagio Sax Quartet.

Soul Train Experience

7-11 p.m. — Pineapples — In person — Celebrate soul music with The Blackout Band and DJ SHARP in the Moon Room.

Black Heritage Calendar Festival

12-4 p.m. — Melbourne Auditorium — Free entry — Celebrate culture, creativity, and community at this vibrant festival.