Here's your local news at a glance for Saturday, the 1st of August.
Good morning, Melbourne.
After the mini spiny lobster season ended on July 30, the regular season will start Aug.
6 and run through March 31. Anglers need a recreational saltwater fishing license + spiny lobster permit and must follow rules for size and daily bag limits.
Tim Balz, founder of Kalogon, was appointed to the board of Melbourne-based Groundswell Startups; his company, known for intelligent seating technology to prevent pressure injuries for wheelchair users, has grown from a home-based start-up to a $50 million facility.
The move boosts local business support.
Shirley Brunton retired from her 48-year role as the music librarian for the Melbourne Municipal Band, which named its library in her honor, while she continues playing with the group.
The band now prepares its concert programs (a testament to her lasting impact).
Brevard Public Schools is preparing for the new school year as Superintendent Mark Rendell discussed the shift to year-round learning and a new firefighting program for high school students on Good Day Orlando (broadcast July 31).
The initiatives aim to boost career readiness.
Most Florida districts will start classes on Aug.
10, while Orange County students return on Tuesday, Aug. 11. A back-to-school sales tax holiday runs from July 20 to Aug. 20 for tax-exempt supplies.
Brevard County ranked fourth statewide in kindergarten readiness in the 2025–2026 report, with 52 percent of children entering prepared to learn.
Local leader Laura Gambino said community support from parents, educators, and VPK providers helped the county reach this milestone.
Nine Eastern Florida State College sports teams were named NJCAA Academic Teams of the Year for the 2025-26 season, with teams in softball, golf, soccer, tennis, baseball, basketball and volleyball earning high marks in class.
Some teams also took part in national tournaments while several players earned a 4.0 GPA.
Florida homeowners who purchase qualifying impact-resistant windows, doors and garage doors from July 1, 2026 to June 30, 2029 may receive up to $500 back in sales tax; they must file refund claims with the Department of Revenue by Sept.
30, 2029 and meet all eligibility requirements.
Health First Medical Group hosted a free orthopedic and spine Q&A at its Crane Creek location where experts answered community questions about joint pain, sports injuries and treatment options.
Physicians offered advice on how to manage pain + stay active.
The Palm Bay Pirates will start the upcoming football season with their full offensive line and returning quarterback, aiming to build on last season's gains + boost local impact.
MMB Concert Band: An Evening of POPS
Evening Concert — 6-8 p.m. — Melbourne Auditorium — Free entry — Enjoy a relaxed evening of pops featuring music from Billy Joel and the movie “Rocky.”
WWE NXT Live
7:30-9:30 p.m. — Melbourne Auditorium — Tickets from $47 — Experience high-octane wrestling excitement with WWE NXT Live.
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