Good morning, Melbourne.

Today, a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket will launch 29 Starlink satellites from Launch Complex 40 at Cape Canaveral at 6:26 a.m., and a second mission is planned for Thursday, March 19; launches may be seen along the Space Coast.

On Monday, Mar. 16, Publix introduced a new line of thick, decadent cookies at local stores; the lineup features vanilla celebration, double chocolate, double cookies and cream, and a raspberry cream cheese cookie.

More flavors will be released this summer.

Rising crude costs from the Iran war and the switch to costly summer fuels are prompting forecasts for higher gas prices in coming days.

AAA noted that drivers on Monday faced record rates, and our region could see more hikes soon.

On Monday, Mar. 16, FPL presented a $50,000 grant to Stone Magnet Middle School in Melbourne for a STEM classroom makeover that will give students hands-on learning with new technology.

Health First’s Viera Hospital earned a 5-Star CMS rating for 2026 (in the top 10% nationwide) while Cape Canaveral Hospital received Newsweek’s recognition for the sixth year in a row; both accolades underscore the hospitals' commitment to patient safety and clinical excellence.

A local writer took his two boys on a kayaking fishing trip from a roadside launch off U.S. 1 near Grant-Valkaria on the southern Indian River Lagoon today.

The outing featured friendly paddle tail competitions (using green paddles) that turned every catch into a cherished memory.

Four wings spots remain in Brevard County's March Madness bracket to decide which two restaurants will advance.

Voters choose favorites from Cajun Soul (Cocoa Village), Coasters Taphouse (Cocoa Beach), Hemingway's Tavern (Melbourne) and Wing It (Indian Harbour Beach); the final two will be announced March 20.

Voting is underway for the PuroClean of Melbourne Girls Athlete of the Week contest, covering performances from March 9-14 with ballots at 321preps.com and floridatoday.com.

The poll remains open until noon on Thursday, March 19, and features local nominees (including softball, track, and tennis standouts).

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'.

Getting2Zero 5K Run

8 AM – 12 PM — Eau Gallie Square Park — $30 entry ($35 on race day) — Participate in a community 5K race with awards for top finishers in multiple categories.

Liberty Company: A Social Club for Veterans

10:00 – 11:30 a.m. — One Senior Place — Free entry — Connect with fellow veterans over coffee and donuts while sharing stories in a friendly environment.

Wickham Park First Friday Event

5:30-9:00 p.m. — Wickham Park — Free entry — Enjoy live music by Innuendo and food from local food trucks at this community favorite.

Eco-Egg Hunt

10 AM - 4 PM — Barrier Island Center — Free entry — Search for eco-eggs hidden throughout the sanctuary to win candy and prizes.

15th Annual Brevard Corporate 5K

6:30-9:30 p.m. — Melbourne Orlando International Airport — Cost not specified — Celebrate aviation at the largest outdoor office party in Brevard County.

Almost ABBA Tribute Show

7:30-9 p.m. — Melbourne Auditorium — Tickets available — Experience the magic of ABBA with stunning costumes and an interactive tribute performance.