Good morning, Melbourne.

Orlando International Airport expects nearly 200,000 passengers on Jan.

3 while Melbourne Orlando International Airport will see its busiest days on Dec. 22, Dec. 28, and Jan. 2; officials recommend arriving early to streamline security and boarding.

American Airlines announced 16 new routes launching in 2026, including added daily flights between Chicago and Florida cities and a seasonal Miami-Jackson route (Mar.

14 through Aug. 1). The expansion boosts service at key Florida airports like Miami, Orlando, and Melbourne.

Surfing Santas began as a small family outing in 2009 on Cocoa Beach and has grown into an annual Christmas Eve event that draws over 800 Santas and nearly 10,000 fans while supporting local charities (Florida Surf Museum, Grind for Life, and Who We Play For).

FLORIDA TODAY selected two photos of the week (one featuring a striking Atlas V launch from Dec.

16 and the other showing Rigs, the Melbourne Fire Department's first therapy dog who is a rescued Poodle/Boerboel mix wearing a bowtie). The photos capture local moments that highlight community spirit.

Researchers spotted a critically endangered mother right whale and her calf swimming near Sebastian Inlet yesterday — the pair moved south from Brevard County.

Boaters are reminded to keep 500 yards away to avoid disturbing the species.

The City of Melbourne released artist renderings for a proposed parking garage (with a future hotel) in the Eau Gallie Arts District.

Officials said the design represents the next step in the city's local development plans.

A jury awarded $27 million after a medical malpractice case at a Melbourne hospital left a patient with a life-altering injury (the case underscores the consequences of hospital negligence).

Health First in Brevard County reached a major milestone by performing over 20,000 robotic-assisted surgeries during 14 years of service.

Dr. Kenneth Tieu (who completed more than 3,000 procedures) said the minimally invasive technique shortens recovery time and boosts patient outcomes.

Viera High School boys wrestling team earned second place among 12 teams at the Bulldog Duals on Saturday, Dec.

14 at St. Cloud High School after winning four matches (over Titusville, Auburndale, Kissimmee-Osceola, and Plant City) before falling to Cocoa Beach in the final.

USSSA mourned longtime leader Tom Turley (82) who died Dec.

17 at Olathe Hospice House in Kansas and helped build sports programs including USSSA Space Coast Stadium. His work expanded local sports initiatives from fastpitch softball to martial arts.

Brevard County high school basketball continues with Melbourne (Bulldogs) edging Viera 55-50 on Monday to move to a 7-3 record, setting the tone for a competitive winter season with teams like Palm Bay and Holy Trinity vying for playoff spots.

Surfing Santas Festival

7 AM – 2 PM — Surfing Santas — Free admission — Experience a festive surf celebration with Santas, elves, and holiday cheer on the waves.

The Grand Manor's New Year’s Eve Bash

8 p.m. — Grand Manor — Free parking — Ring in the New Year at an epic celebration filled with glamour, music, and unforgettable memories.

A Tribute to The Eagles

7-8 p.m. — Melbourne Auditorium — $38 general admission, $70 VIP seating — Experience Florida’s ultimate Eagles tribute band performing classic hits live.