Good morning, Melbourne.

Miss Brevard County Kayleigh Mollycheck is raising funds to deliver 1,000 American flags to veterans by partnering with St. Francis Hospice + 321 Flags and Gifts at Erdman Automotive Studio in Cocoa; she shared her plans as the inaugural titleholder and hospice ambassador.

Marlee Jeddrie, a Rockledge High senior, was honored by Sheriff Ivey last week for partnering with Island Animal Hospital in Merritt Island to build the Peaceful Goodbyes Gazebo — a quiet space where pet owners can say goodbye.

Six Florida Tech students simulated a Mars mission in a Utah desert habitat last May to test isolation, teamwork+science for future space missions.

Their successful program may become an annual event to offer hands-on research experience.

More than 900 visitors attended the third annual Girls in Aviation Day on Sept.

19 at a hangar in Melbourne Orlando International Airport, where local girls and families visited 45 vendor tables + tried flight simulators to learn about aviation careers. Organizers said the record turnout supports expanding STEM opportunities.

Eastern Florida State College honored Professor Steven Barber by naming him the recipient of the 2026 Distinguished Educator Award—awarding him a $1,500 honorarium from the EFSC Foundation.

The accolade recognizes his dedication to Business and Applied Technology courses and his efforts in developing practical HR skills in Organizational Management.