Good morning, Melbourne.

Orlando Health Melbourne honored 9/11 first responders on Patriot Day by hosting a community tribute Wednesday under the Emergency Room portico—Dr. Kevin Freels led a barbecue luncheon serving brisket, ribs, chicken, beans, and corn to firefighters, EMS crews, and hospital staff on duty.

Trader Joe’s is planning a new store at 2221 Town Center Ave. in Melbourne—no grand opening date is set as it will become the seventh Trader Joe’s in Central Florida.

The roof replacement at the Old Town Hall History Center is complete — visitors can stop by on Saturdays from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. to learn about local history.

Local residents in Brevard have a busy weekend planned from Sept.

12 through 18 with free concerts, theater auditions, writing workshops and food truck gatherings at venues in Melbourne, Merritt Island, Cocoa Village and Rockledge—organizers advise checking with event hosts for any changes.

Jamie Molnar, the head of Florida Power and Light Emergency Preparedness, said that while six storms have occurred, including a powerful Category 5, no named storm has hit so far and residents should prepare as the hurricane season continues.

He added that FPL will continue to strengthen the electric grid & invest in underground lines and smart technology to help keep power on during future storms.

A Cocoa Beach man lost $2.5 million when a Facebook friend request led him into a crypto investment scam—he saw fake profits on a trading app that urged him to deposit more money until he was blocked from withdrawing funds.

Melbourne Police have issued an educational reminder that drivers must stop when school buses display a stop signal.

The notice cites Florida law and stresses that motorists be alert for children as school season continues.

Congressman Mike Haridopolos announced his office reclaimed over $5.4 million owed to Floridians from the federal government since taking office in January — his team helped over 1,400 residents in Brevard, Indian River, and Orange counties resolve delays with agencies like the IRS and Social Security.

Former Brevard school board member Jennifer Jenkins announced her run for the U.S. Senate next year and will challenge incumbent Ashley Moody.

A speech pathologist who opposed book bans and supported mask mandates, she said she aims to fix the affordability crisis—promising a new voice for working families.

On Tuesday, Eastern Florida State College men’s golfer Jamie Smith won the Wallace Kickoff Classic with a 76 in the final round at 3-under while sophomore Ann Burel claimed the Seminole State Fall Warm Up title by shooting even par—both wins highlighted strong individual performances ahead of further team competitions. The Titans will compete in the New College Fall Invitational on Sept. 23.

Melbourne High School Football Game

7-11 p.m. — Melbourne High School — Admission varies — Catch the Melbourne varsity football team in action against Halifax Academy.

STPS Turtle Krawl 5K

7:30 AM – 12:00 PM — James H. Nance Park — Registration fee required — Support sea turtle conservation and enjoy a morning run in the beautiful Brevard County.

Community Health Talk

1:30-3:30 p.m. — Sandpiper Room — Free entry — Explore community health topics through interactive discussions and activities led by health professionals.

Do It For P Community Health Fair

10 a.m. – 2 p.m. — Carver Community Center — Free entry — Celebrate community wellness with free health resources and education aimed at promoting overall well-being.

Let’s Gravel!

7-11 a.m. — Three Forks Conservation Area — Free entry — Enjoy a challenging 50-mile ride with hydration and nutrition provided by Trek of Melbourne Florida.

Oktoberfest & Puptoberfest

11 a.m.–10 p.m. — Intracoastal Brewing Company — Free entry — Celebrate with your pups at a day full of festive fun, live music, and tasty local brews.

Salsa Dance Night: Havana Nights

6-9:30 p.m. — Venezia Wine Veranda — $10 at the door — Experience Cuban rhythm with a Salsa class followed by social dancing and delicious culinary specials.

Boo at the Zoo

10:00 – 11:30 a.m. — Brevard Zoo — Included with Zoo admission — Experience a Halloween celebration with trick-or-treating, themed activities, and spooky music.

Rock & Roll Revue: Autumn Boogie

7-10 p.m. — Eau Gallie Civic Center — $15 — Dance to the catchy tunes of a fabulous 12-piece Rock & Roll band this autumn.

Melbourne Annual Fall Art and Craft Expo

10 AM – 6 PM — Wickham Park — Festival admission details unknown — Explore over 300 booths featuring local art, crafts, and live music.