Good morning, Melbourne.

Hometown Hero banners have been installed in Ryckman Park to honor local residents and their family members who served in the Armed Forces—sponsored by the Parks Board.

Florida's Space Coast has seen 61 rocket launches in 2025, a pace 47 days ahead of last year's record 93—experts say the surge is driven by mega-constellations launched by companies like SpaceX and Amazon with more flights scheduled from Cape Canaveral and Kennedy.

Brevard Schools Foundation Supply Zone will host a backpack giveaway on July 19 — it is expected to provide 2,000 backpacks with school supplies to local students.

Today, the Melbourne Airport Authority approved a $28 million purchase of a 176.36-acre parcel at the northwest corner of the airport to support future aeronautical development and economic growth—one of its largest land expansions to date.

The acquisition will be forwarded to City Council for final approval.

Sheriff Wayne Ivey said Operation 'Southern Slow Down' is underway from July 14–19 to reduce speed-related crashes and deaths as local officers work with other agencies at Daytona’s International Speedway to catch speeders.

FDOT noted that two pedestrians died on A1A over the past five years — prompting a proposal to install flashing beacons in Melbourne Beach for safer crossings.

Some residents question the need for the beacons in a rural area — and will voice their concerns at a public meeting on July 24 from 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the Nancy Higgs Community Center.

Dr. Gary Hardoon, an internal medicine physician at Health First, said vitamin D deficiency is common even in sunny Florida, especially among office workers who miss out on sunlight — members are encouraged to test their levels and follow provider advice to protect their bone health.

Florida health officials confirmed that 11 people have contracted Vibrio vulnificus this year, with four deaths reported from the infection.

Officials warn residents and visitors to avoid swimming in warm, brackish waters if they have an open wound or a weakened immune system — and to avoid raw shellfish.

The 2025 Florida Little League State Championship tournament will be held at Tim Wakefield Sports Complex at 1550 Mosswood Drive in Melbourne from July 18 to July 20.

The eight teams will begin play on Friday, July 18 at 4:30 p.m. and the championship game will be played on Sunday, July 20 at 10 a.m.

Brevard Home & Garden Expo

10 a.m. – 3 p.m. — Melbourne Auditorium — Free admission — Discover the best home and garden professionals at Brevard's premier home expo.

Clarinet Concerto Premiere

7-9 p.m. — The Scott Center at Holy Trinity Episcopal Academy — Ticket info unavailable — Experience the debut of a new clarinet concerto featuring talented soloist Jennifer Royals.

Jazz Brunch Extravaganza

2-4 p.m. — American Homesteading Foundation — Refunds up to 7 days before event — Enjoy smooth jazz and delicious brunch bites at this engaging summer event.

Brian Kelley Concert

8:00-9:30 p.m. — Maxwell C. King Center for the Performing Arts — Last-minute tickets available — Experience the rhythm and excitement of Brian Kelley live in concert.

EGAD Second Saturday Market

4-9 p.m. — Eau Gallie Arts District — Free entry — Experience a vibrant evening of local vendors, food trucks, and live music in the community.

Classic Albums Live: Ziggy Stardust Tribute

8:00-9:30 p.m. — Maxwell C. King Center for the Performing Arts — Ticket information available — Experience the iconic sounds of Bowie’s Ziggy Stardust in a live tribute show.