Here's your local news at a glance for Thursday, the 26th of February.
Good morning, Melbourne.
🏘️ Community
weVENTURE Women’s Business Center at Florida Tech will honor the 2026 Women Who Rock Awards finalists at an event presented by W+J Construction on Wednesday, March 18 at the Hilton Rialto in Melbourne.
Doors open at 4 p.m. for the ceremony and networking reception, and tickets cost $50.
NASA rolled the Artemis II SLS rocket back to the Vehicle Assembly Building at Kennedy Space Center on Feb.
25 at 5:40 p.m. ET, as live video captured the event on Florida's Space Coast.
🚧 Accidents
A 74-year-old runner, AJ Swann, was struck by a car near the one-mile marker during the Florida Half Marathon on Feb.
8 and died eight days later, with Melbourne Police opening an investigation into the incident.
💼 Business
After a northern blizzard earlier this week canceled nearly 10,000 flights nationwide, Florida airports reported fewer than 200 cancellations yesterday.
Key hubs like Orlando and Miami saw modest delays as airlines offer options for rebooking.
🎭 Culture
A manatee rescue near a storm drain on Monday in Melbourne Beach inspired a local writer to craft a children’s book — Melby and the Warm-Water Wrong Turn — using firsthand photos and community spirit.
The self-published book has sold over 100 copies and will soon be shared with local schools.
Swan Lake will be performed on Sunday, March 1 at 4 p.m. at the Maxwell C.
King Center in Melbourne plus world champion Ekaterina Vaganova leads International Ballet Stars in a show featuring new sets and costumes by Ukrainian artists with the Space Coast Symphony Orchestra.
📰 Economy
Florida residents face higher electric bills after FPL's four-year rate hike was approved in November + consumer groups filed an appeal on Tuesday, Feb.
17. Recent national rankings show Florida bills are the ninth highest, driven by strong air-conditioning use.
🏛️ Government
A Brevard County settlement will add new Merritt Island homes, a marina & flood control improvements set to benefit local residents.
Officials say further details on project phases and timelines will be released soon.
🎉 Melbourne Events
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Modern Calligraphy Workshop at 905 Cafe
2:30-4 p.m. — 905 Cafe — Cost varies — Dive into the art of beautiful lettering in a fun and creative afternoon.
Bricks & Brews
11 a.m. – 2 p.m. — Wonder Waffel Melbourne — Food and drink available — A relaxed evening building with LEGO in a social setting for adults.
Ladies’ Sip and Dip Party
3:30-5 p.m. — Wickham Park — Bring your own food and drink — A casual gathering for women to connect and enjoy friendly conversation over shared dips.
South Beaches Concert Series
6-9 p.m. — Nancy Higgs Park — Free entry — Enjoy live music by Hot Pink and local food trucks at this community concert.
St. Patrick's Day Party
6-9 p.m. — Melbourne Ballroom — $10 entry — Celebrate with a high-energy dance party featuring DJ Drift and a chance to win prizes for the best themed outfit.
St. Patrick's Day Celebration with John McDonald and the Irish Luck Quartet
6-10 p.m. — Meg O'Malley's Restaurant & Irish Pub — Free entry — Celebrate St. Patrick's Day with live music and festive fun at a local favorite.
Third Thursdays
5-8 p.m. — The Avenue Viera — Free entry — Enjoy live music and complimentary treats in a family-friendly atmosphere at Central Park.
Space Coast Hot Air Balloon Festival
5 PM – 11 PM — Space Coast Daily Park — Tickets $50-70 — Experience breathtaking balloon rides along with a dazzling laser show and live music.
Downtown Melbourne Farmers Market
10 AM – 2 PM — Riverview Park — Free entry — Explore local fresh foods and baked goods from certified local growers.
Oblivion Listening Session
7-11 p.m. — Pineapples — Free entry — Immerse yourself in the lofi vibes of Twin Rova's latest track 'Oblivion'.
🏠 Melbourne Real Estate
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💼 Melbourne Job Board
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📣 Melbourne Announcements
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