Good morning, Melbourne.

Florida will see significant grocery store expansion over the next year with 21 new Aldi locations, three new Publix openings, and two Trader Joe's including one coming to Melbourne at 21 Town Center Avenue as well as additional stores by Sprouts, Walmart, and Target.

Florida’s first HMart will open in Orlando on Sept. 25.

Brevard County offers a poll featuring 12 famous people who once lived locally, including Buzz Aldrin, Carrot Top, and Darrell Hammond, and invites residents to vote on who is the most famous—this contest spans sports, entertainment, and space exploration.

Eastern Florida State College alumnus and instructor Kaylin Mitchell built her foundation for medical school after a critical life-saving moment as a lifeguard—she is now pursuing her Doctor of Medicine at St. George’s University and aims to complete her degree by 2029 to improve community care.

Engineers completed the Crane Creek project this summer to restore natural water flow by reversing a century-old canal that had sent water into the Indian River Lagoon — the $23.2 million project now directs fresh water back to the St. Johns River and captures 7 million gallons daily while keeping flood control in Melbourne and West Melbourne.

A three-judge panel ruled the open carry ban unconstitutional, and sheriffs statewide are choosing not to enforce it—though the law still remains on the books.

Private property owners can ban firearms and state rules for places like schools and courthouses will still apply.

Brevard County will consider increasing its gas tax (from 6 cents per gallon) at a commission meeting today at 9 a.m. to fund transportation projects, with any change taking effect Oct.

1 if approved. County officials are debating a raise of between 1 and 5 cents per gallon (which could generate $6.4 million annually, while a ninth-cent increase on unleaded gas could bring in $2.7 million) as residents share mixed views on the tax’s use.

Brevard County-based Health First Health Plans has earned the J.D.

Power 2025 Customer Service Certification for phone support today, with team members recognized for prompt and knowledgeable assistance on claims and benefit inquiries—company leaders say this certification marks a strong commitment to high member satisfaction—ensuring quality support for its members.

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.

Florida Tech Homecoming 2-Mile Run/Walk

5:30 p.m. — Florida Institute of Technology — Proceeds benefit the Panther Fund — Participate in this community-focused run and support Florida Tech alumni.