Good morning, Melbourne.

Brevard County residents displaced by severe weather and flooding now have a safe place at the First United Methodist Church of Titusville—where the Red Cross opened a shelter offering cots, blankets, meals and personal care items.

Community leaders say the facility will support those affected until recovery efforts begin.

The Rocket Ranch Reunion Committee announced that the 10th annual Rocket Ranch Reunion will be held on November 22 at 3:00 p.m. at the Merritt Island Moose Lodge—inviting anyone who worked in the space program to join a free gathering where food and drink will be available for purchase.

Publix will host in-store trick-or-treating on Halloween October 31 from 4 to 7 p.m. for children ages 12 and under to receive candy and treats.

A new store at 150 St. Johns Heritage Parkway will open October 30 and features a full-service bakery, pharmacy and adjacent Publix Liquors — plans for more locations in Viera are under way.

AAA warns that Halloween night will be dangerous for drivers and trick-or-treaters because October has the highest pedestrian death rates, so residents are urged to slow down, avoid distractions, and use crosswalks and flashlights—steps aimed at reducing risks during the evening.

Trader Joe's in Viera is hiring for assistant manager and crew positions with pay from $17 to $19 per hour—benefits include a health plan, retirement plan, 20% discount, and paid time off while the store awaits an opening date.

Wildlife officials captured an American crocodile in Brevard County that reportedly killed a dog and repeatedly returned to an Indian Harbour Beach neighborhood, and Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission placed it into permanent captivity—officials warned that additional crocodiles might still be present as this is the only confirmed sighting since 2018.

County leaders said that severe flooding in northern Brevard did not qualify for federal aid because major flooding is defined as having 12 inches of water that affect at least 150 homes.

Emergency management deployed 18 pump stations and six assessor teams to help clear water and plan long-term recovery—while some commissioners urged a review of county development to better cope with repeated storms.

Dr. Nestor Garcia Santos at Space Coast Ophthalmology in Viera is now offering the new FDA approved VIZZ eye drops that temporarily improve near vision for about eight hours by creating a pinhole effect in the eye.

He said the drops are for special occasions and patients should have a retinal exam first—ensuring safe treatment.

In October, seven new restaurants opened on the Space Coast, including Melbourne’s Bunky’s Raw Bar and a chicken salad spot in Viera, with other eateries debuting in Cocoa Beach, Merritt Island, Titusville and Cape Canaveral — offering locals fresh dining choices this fall.

Brevard County high school golf competitions for the week of Oct.

27—31 showed Cocoa Beach winning the District 8-1A girls title with Victoria Deese posting the top individual score and Merritt Island winning the District 7-2A boys title with Jaxson Weese earning the top individual honor. Other results include Lake Nona claiming the District 6-3A girls title and Morningside capturing the District 8-1A boys title — the published scores detailed team and individual standings.

40th Annual Space Coast State Fair

5-10 p.m. — Space Coast Daily Park — Admission included but rides are extra — Experience the largest family fair in Brevard with shows and unlimited rides.

Puppy Pals Live

7:30 p.m. — Maxwell C. King Center for the Performing Arts — $30 — Enjoy an action-packed show featuring rescued dogs performing incredible tricks and hilarious stunts.

Florida’s Hottest Reggae Night

7 p.m. – Midnight — Nomads Canteen FL — Check out three premier reggae acts, Cloud9 Vibes, Floridaze, and The Rip for an unforgettable showcase of island rhythms.

LightWork Therapy and Recovery Event

7:00 PM — 705 E New Haven Ave, Melbourne, FL — Sold Out — Experience a fun painting class with local artist G-Susan Ricci in a creative atmosphere.

Tim Hawkins Live Comedy Show

7-10 p.m. — Calvary Chapel Melbourne — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy an evening filled with laughter from the hilarious Tim Hawkins.

Rocky Water Brew Fest 2025

1-5 p.m. — Eau Gallie Square Park — Free parking — Sample the finest craft beers from small breweries across Florida.

Chevy Chase Live Q&A

8:00-9:30 p.m. — Maxwell C. King Center for the Performing Arts — Ticketed event — Celebrate holiday cheer with a screening of National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation and a Q&A with Chevy Chase.

Trusts Made Simple: A Smarter Way to Protect Your Family and Assets

10:00 AM – 11:30 PM — One Senior Place — Free entry — Learn how trusts can simplify estate planning and protect your assets in this informative session with a Q&A.