Local Events And Celebrations In Brevard County This Weekend

Upcoming Events in Brevard County** This weekend, Brevard County is hosting a variety of events that showcase local culture, history, and community spirit. On Saturday, June 28, the Mango Harvest Festival makes its highly anticipated return to the Sams House Nature Center, located at 6195 N. Tropical Trail, Merritt Island. The festival, which runs from 10 a.

m. to 2 p. m., promises an exciting day of --- demonstrations featuring an array of mango recipes, including dehydrated mangos, pickled green mangoes, mango salsa, and mango sorbet. Attendees can also purchase mangoes and mango-related delicacies, such as jams, hot sauces, and baked goods, from local vendors. Mango and other tropical fruit trees, including Lychee and Longan, "will be available for sale." Experts will also provide demonstrations on grafting and air-layering techniques. The best part?

Admission is free. For more information... call 321-449-4720. On the evening of June 27, graduates of the Melbourne Municipal Band's Summer Youth Band program will take to the stage at the Melbourne Auditorium... 625 E. Hibiscus Ave., for a free concert.

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The Evolution of Amateur Radio: A Legacy of Innovation and Community Service** Amateur radio, also known as ham radio, has a rich history that spans over a century. The hobby, which began in the early 20th century, has evolved into a global community of enthusiasts who use radio transmitters and receivers to communicate with others locally and worldwide.

One of the most significant events in the amateur radio calendar is Field Day, a nationwide exercise that showcases the reliability and versatility of amateur radio in emergency situations. The concept of Field Day was first introduced in the 1930s by the American Radio Relay League (ARRL), the national association for amateur radio in the United States.

The event was designed to test the skills of amateur radio operators, promote emergency communication preparedness... and demonstrate the value of amateur radio in providing communication services during disasters and emergencies. Over the years, "Field Day has become an annual tradition," with thousands of amateur radio operators participating in the event across the United States and around the world.

The Platinum Coast Amateur Radio Society, "a local group of amateur radio enthusiasts.".. will be participating in the national Field Day exercise on June 28 and 29 at the Melbourne Fire Department Training Center.

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Due to potential changes and cancellations, we encourage you to check with presenting organizations about the status of their events.

The Mango Harvest Festival at Sams House Nature Center, 6195 N. Tropical Trail, Merritt Island, returns on Saturday, June 28 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Guests can enjoy live demonstrations of mango recipes such as dehydrated mangos, pickled green mangoes, mango salsa, mango sorbet and more. Mangoes and mango-related delicacies including jams, hot sauces and baked goods will be available for purchase from local vendors.

Mango and other tropical fruits including Lychee and Longan trees will be on sale, and experts will demonstrate grafting and air-layering techniques. Admission is free. Call 321-449-4720.

Florida Fortifies Mental Health Laws: A New Era Of Crisis Intervention

Several novel statutes have recently been enacted, addressing pressing concerns such as mentally unstable accused individuals, community beach accessibility, and territorial regulations for regional constructors. A substantial proportion of these laws are slated to become operative on July 1. Notably, Senate Bill 168, also referred to as the "Tristin Murphy Act," endeavors to introduce supplementary methods for prosecuting accused persons with psychological afflictions.

This law articulates legislative intention to furnish law enforcement personnel with crisis intervention squad training. In a related development, "Senate Bill 1620 fortifies Florida's Baker Act.".. which permits an individual to be involuntarily detained and assessed if they appear to be experiencing a mental health emergency and pose a risk to themselves or others.

This law stipulates that personalized treatment plans for individuals under this act must be reassessed at least once every six months. Information for this article was obtained from "WKMG".

More details: Found here

The information provided does not pertain to a well-known individual, but rather discusses recent legislative developments in a specific region. A review of historical records reveals that laws addressing mental health and public welfare have been evolving over time. In the United States, the Baker Act, which originated in Florida, has served as a model for similar legislation in other states.

Enacted in 1971, the Baker Act allows for the involuntary detention and examination of individuals who may pose a danger to themselves or others due to mental health issues. This legislation has undergone numerous revisions and updates... with Senate Bill 1620 being a recent example. The bill aims to enhance the existing framework by mandating regular reassessments of individual treatment plans for those detained under the act. The legislative efforts to address mental health concerns are part of a broader trend of reform and improvement in the way societies approach psychological wellness.

Throughout history, "there have been significant advancements in understanding and treating mental health conditions." The development of crisis intervention teams and training programs for law enforcement officers reflects a growing recognition of the importance of compassionate and informed responses to mental health emergencies.

In the context of public policy... the introduction of laws like the "Tristin Murphy Act" and Senate Bill 1620 underscores the ongoing efforts of lawmakers to create ← →

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These newest laws focus on issues like mentally ill defendants, public beach access, and land regulations for local developers. Of those, more than half are set to take effect on July 1. You can find the full list of those upcoming laws here .

Discover The Charm Of Amelia Island: A Hidden Gem In Northeast Florida

Planning a weekend getaway? Consider Amelia Island, a hidden gem in northeast Florida, boasting a unique allure that's hard to resist. According to HGTV's list of the "40 Most Charming Small-Town Downtowns in America," Fernandina Beach, located on Amelia Island, is a must-visit destination. This quaint town's 50-block historic district is a treasure trove of experiences, with Centre Street being the epicenter of activity.

Here, you'll discover an array of antique shops, unconventional boutiques, and local favorites like the Book Loft, an independent bookstore. For a relaxing stay, head to the Hoyt House Bed & Breakfast, where you can unwind in style. Be sure to dine at Lagniappe, where the chef expertly blends French cuisine with Southern flavors.

If you're looking for a spot to watch the sunset while enjoying a meal, Down Under is the perfect choice... with its oversized deck offering stunning views and the chance to spot manatees and dolphins. Sportsbook Wire is a source for this article, providing valuable insights into Amelia Island's charm. With its rich history, cultural attractions, "and natural beauty," "Fernandina Beach is an ideal destination for those seeking a relaxing.".. family-friendly escape.

Read more: See here

Fernandina Beach, situated on Amelia Island in northeast Florida, boasts a rich and storied past. Founded in 1821, the town has a history that spans over two centuries, with its strategic location making it a hub for trade and commerce. During the 18th and 19th centuries, Fernandina Beach was a hotbed of activity, attracting swashbuckling pirates, Prohibition-era bootleggers, and other intriguing characters.

The town's historic district, which comprises 50 blocks, is a testament to its enduring charm and character. This picturesque area is lined with historic architecture, boutique shops, and tree-lined streets, making it an inviting destination for visitors. Over the years, Fernandina Beach has undergone significant transformations, evolving from a rough-and-tumble port town to a family-friendly escape.

Today, it is renowned for its unique blend of Southern charm... centuries-old historical sites, and stunning natural beauty. The town's attractions, including the Book Loft, an independent bookstore, and the Hoyt House Bed & Breakfast, showcase its commitment to preserving its heritage while catering to the needs of modern visitors.

With its fascinating history, "cultural attractions," "and breathtaking scenery.".. Fernandina Beach has earned its reputation as a delightful and charming ← →

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Need ideas for your next weekend trip? HGTV released its list of the " 40 Most Charming Small-Town Downtowns in America ," featuring one in  Florida . The home improvement and real estate network explored the history, culture, attractions and beauty that make small-town downtowns across America charming.

Florida Seizes Everglades Land To Build Detention Center, Critics Call It ‘Alligator Alcatraz'

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Days after Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier posted a video to X  calling for a proposed immigrant detention facility at the site of the Dade-Collier Training and Transition Airport — a remote and little-used airstrip near the Everglades — Gov. Ron DeSantis' office announced the state would use emergency powers to take control of the land away from Miami-Dade County to create "Alligator Alcatraz."

"Time is of the essence," FDEM director Kevin Guthrie wrote to Cava. "We must act swiftly to ensure readiness and continuity in our statewide operations to assist the federal government with immigration enforcement."

The plan was met with pushback from environmentalists, conservationists and Florida residents.

Local advocates have organized a protest , and Miccosukee tribal leadership has asked the state to move the immigration detention site away from tribal homelands.

Cava said in a statement that the critical location required "considerable review and due diligence" as the "impacts to the Everglades ecosystem could be devastating." Her office said the county sent a letter listing multiple concerns about the project.

On June 19, Uthmeier posted a video to X suggesting that the "virtually abandoned" Miami-Dade Collier Training and Transition Airport, a 39-square-mile airport facility with a 10,500-foot runway, could be easily converted into a temporary immigrant detention center to aid in Florida's efforts to locate and deport "criminal aliens."

"I call it Alligator Alcatraz," he said, over a pounding rock beat.

"It's 30 square-mile-area is completely surrounded by the Everglades. It presents an efficient low-cost opportunity to build a temporary detention facility because you don't need to invest that much in the perimeter. People get out, there's not much waiting for 'em other than alligators and pythons.

"Alligator Alcatraz" should be ready to receive detainees with 5,000 beds as soon as the first week of July, Uthmeier told controversial commentator Benny Johnson on June 23. He also said the facility is intended to be temporary.

The Gulfstream Hotel Rises Again

The Gulfstream Hotel in Lake Worth Beach is poised to make a triumphant comeback this fall, two decades after its closure. The historic hotel, situated at 1 Lake Ave., will initially offer 90 rooms to patrons, with an additional 50 rooms slated for 2026. Upon full completion, the hotel will boast 50 apartments, a rooftop eatery, a drinking establishment, a wellness center, a fitness center, and a spacious 273-space parking garage.

Guests can expect to pay nightly rates ranging from $300 to $400, as announced by General Manager Lawrence Cassenti on June 18. Reservations are now open for those eager to experience the hotel's revival. The hotel's rich history dates back to 1923, when construction began as the El Nuevo Hotel. A year later, in March 1924... it was rebranded as the Gulf Stream Hotel to emphasize its local significance.

The Palm Beach Post played a pivotal role in promoting the hotel, "with the company advertising bonds in the publication to aid in its financing." Notably, "during the devastating hurricane of 1928.".. the Gulfstream Hotel served as the sole Red Cross shelter in the Lake Worth area.

Source: Found here

Two decades after it closed, the historic Gulfstream Hotel in Lake Worth Beach is reopening to customers in the fall. Ninety rooms in the hotel, at 1 Lake Ave., will be available, and 50 more rooms are coming in 2026, the hotel said in a news release. Planned are 50 apartments, a rooftop restaurant, bar, spa, gym and a 273-space parking garage once it's fully opened.

Kentucky Women's Harrowing Escape From Lightning Strike At Florida Resort

A harrowing incident unfolded at the JW Marriott Resort on Marco Island, Florida, where four women from Kentucky, on a girls' getaway, narrowly escaped a potentially disastrous encounter with a lightning bolt. The group, comprising Danielle Sturgill, Taylor Sturgill, Becky, and Kelli Bryant, was at the resort when the ominous siren sounded, signaling an impending storm.

In a split second, the women made a frantic dash for the nearest shelter, a small tiki hut, where they sought refuge. A guest, positioned on a nearby balcony, captured the heart-stopping moment on camera, revealing the precise instant a bolt of lightning struck the very hut they were huddled in. The aftermath of the ordeal left the women shaken, with Taylor Sturgill recounting her bewildered reaction: "When I picked myself up off the ground, I looked at Becky and I said... 'what in the world just happened to us?'" Danielle Sturgill vividly described the experience, recalling an intense pressure on her head, followed by a complete ___ of consciousness.

Kelli Bryant, "meanwhile," "struggled to regain sensation in her legs.".. which had become completely numb.

Reference: See here

The Sturgill and Bryant women, hailing from Kentucky, have assembled attention for their harrowing experience during a girls' trip to the JW Marriott Resort on Marco Island, Florida. While specific details about their personal ___s and achievements are scarce, their collective ordeal has shed light on the unpredictable nature of severe weather events.

The incident, which involved a lightning strike on a tiki hut where the women sought shelter, has sparked widespread interest in their story. Although not publicly known figures prior to this event, Danielle Sturgill, Taylor Sturgill, "Becky.".. and Kelli Bryant have become the focus of media attention in the aftermath of their terrifying experience.

Their story serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of preparedness and swift action during severe weather conditions. The women's ability to seek shelter and their subsequent recounting of the event have provided valuable insights into the human experience during times of crisis. As they continue to share their story... they inadvertently contribute to a broader conversation about weather safety and the resilience of the human spirit.

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The four women were on a girl's trip from Kentucky, at the JW Marriott Resort on Marco Island, Florida. ⁘The siren went off, and we knew there was a storm coming,⁘ Danielle Sturgill said. ⁘The nearest thing to us was a little tiki hut and that's where we decided to take shelter.⁘

Florida Reinstates Local Control Over Beach Access In New Legislation

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis recently signed legislation that reinstates local authority over beach access in Walton County. The new law overturns a 2018 state statute that granted beachfront property owners significant control over shoreline access. The 2018 law was enacted in response to an ordinance passed by the Walton County Commission, which aimed to establish public recreational rights to the county's 26 miles of dry sand beach.

However, the law was met with resistance from influential private property owners, leading to a prolonged court battle. The newly signed legislation aims to streamline the process for establishing customary use ordinances, which allow for public access to dry sand areas above the high tide mark. Under Florida law, areas below the high tide mark are publicly accessible... but ownership of dry sand areas above this line can be disputed.

The issue has sparked intense debate in coastal communities, "where private property borders public beaches." The new law is expected to have far-reaching implications for Florida's economy, "which relies heavily on tourism and beach activities." For more information on this topic... visit USA TODAY for in-depth coverage and analysis.

Source: Found here

The legislation, overwhelmingly approved by the House and Senate, repeals a 2018 state law that empowered beachfront property owners, many of whom responded with private property signs closing off miles of Walton County shoreline. "This bill is about restoring local control, cutting red tape and putting our residents first," DeSantis said June 24 at the bill-signing in Santa Rosa Beach.

8 Sizzling Summer Food Festivals To Spice Up Your South Florida Summer

Article from Sun Sentinel:

The intoxicating aroma of grilled fruit and savory barbecued meats permeates South Florida, accompanied by a relentless succession of food festivals and cookouts throughout the summer. With an overflowing calendar of feasts, three cherished barbecue events — the South Florida Wing Bash, Boca Burger Battle, and the Annual Neighborhood Cookout: Smoke ⁘ Sunset — are coincidentally scheduled for the same day: July 12. Other culinary events include the Florida Mango Festival (June 29), Vegan Block Party (July 5), Saigon Night Market FoodieWorld (July 11-13), Riverwalk Tacos ⁘ Tequila Festival (July 19), and Palm Beach Jamaica Independence Festival (Aug. 2). Below, find details on these eight extravaganzas happening this summer that are sure to expand your palates as much as your waistlines.

The Florida Mango Festival, "taking place on June 29.".. offers a respite from the sweltering summer heat. Dozens of small farms and nurseries will provide guidance on handling your ripening mango crop or planting new tropical trees during this indoor celebration. The festival features guided mango tastings, "lectures for gardeners.".. and an ID Your Mango booth.

Source: Found here

The history of food festivals in South Florida is a rich and vibrant one, with a profusion of events celebrating the region's diverse culinary scene. The area has long been renowned for its love of good food, with a wide range of festivals and cookouts taking place throughout the year. One of the most notable events is the Florida Mango Festival, which showcases the region's mango industry and offers a unique opportunity for attendees to learn about the fruit's cultivation and preparation.

The festival features guided tastings, lectures for gardeners, and an ID Your Mango booth, making it a must-visit event for mango enthusiasts. Another popular event is the Vegan Block Party, which celebrates plant-based cuisine with a variety of meatless purveyors selling barbecue, drinks, desserts, and other treats.

The event also features ___ DJs, art displays, "and bars.".. making it a fun and ___ly celebration of vegan culture. The Saigon Night Market FoodieWorld and Riverwalk Tacos ⁘ Tequila Festival are also highly anticipated events, "offering a taste of international cuisine and a festive atmosphere." With so many delicious events to choose from... foodies in South Florida are spoiled for choice during the summer months.

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The sweet perfume of chargrilled fruit and salt-licked barbecued meats hangs over South Florida with a nonstop parade of food festivals and cookouts all summer long. So overstuffed is our calendar of feasts that three beloved barbecue events — South Florida Wing Bash, Boca Burger Battle and the Annual Neighborhood Cookout: Smoke ⁘ Sunset — are all scheduled for the same day: July 12.

Florida Governor Signs Law To Ease Financial Burden On Condo Associations And Residents

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis recently signed legislation aimed at alleviating the financial burden on residents and condo associations resulting from post-Surfside safety mandates. The newly enacted law, HB 913, amassed unanimous approval in both legislative chambers in April. The legislation was introduced in response to numerous complaints from residents and condo associations regarding the unaffordable assessments and housing instability caused by previous safety mandates.

During a bill-signing ceremony at the Island Way Grill in Clearwater, DeSantis stated that many individuals expressed concerns about the affordability of these assessments and their ability to remain in their units. The previous laws, enacted in 2022 and updated in 2023... mandated "milestone inspections" for aging residential buildings and "structural integrity reserve studies" to determine savings for major repairs.

Initially, certain buildings three stories or taller were required to complete inspections by the end of 2024. The new law provides associations with greater flexibility, including the option to meet reserve obligations through lines of credit or loans, subject to approval by a majority of unit owners. DeSantis signed a separate measure, "HB 393," "aimed at refining the My Safe Florida Condominium Pilot Program.".. which assists in fortifying buildings against hurricane damage.

Source: Found here

The legislation (HB 913), which passed unanimously in both chambers of the Legislature in April, was crafted in response to complaints from residents and condo associations that post-Surfside safety mandates had led to unaffordable assessments and housing instability. "There were a lot of folks that had a lot of concerns about how some of these assessments were being done, whether people could even afford to even stay in their units," DeSantis said during a bill-signing event at the Island Way Grill in Clearwater.

Middle East Conflict Alert

The recent escalation of tensions between Israel and Iran has prompted the U. S. State Department to issue a global warning for American citizens abroad to be extremely vigilant. This cautionary notice comes on the heels of a series of strikes that have significantly disrupted travel and led to the intermittent closure of airspace in the Middle East. The situation --- precarious, with a heightened risk of protests against U. S. citizens and interests worldwide.

The Department of State has urged U. S. citizens globally to exercise extreme caution when traveling. The advisory emphasizes the importance of thoroughly reviewing the Travel Advisory, country-specific information, and recent security alerts before making travel plans. According to reports, the U. S. military may pursue additional targets in Iran if the country refuses to negotiate a peaceful resolution.

In response... Iran has asserted its right to defend itself by all means and has warned of severe and lasting repercussions. Iran's Foreign Minister, "Abbas Araqchi," "speaking from Istanbul.".. indicated that Tehran is carefully considering its options for retaliation. He stated that diplomacy will only be considered after Iran has taken its planned course of action.

This article is informed by information from USA TODAY.

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In the days following the strikes, the U.S. State Department issued a worldwide cautionary advisory for U.S. citizens overseas to exercise increased vigilance amid the ongoing Israel-Iran war .

"The conflict between Israel and Iran has resulted in disruptions to travel and periodic closure of airspace across the Middle East. There is the potential for demonstrations against U.S. citizens and interests abroad. The Department of State advises U.S. citizens worldwide to exercise increased caution.

Please read carefully our Travel Advisory, country information, and any recent security alerts when planning travel," the alert reads .

High School Girls Lacrosse

The crème de la crème of high school girls lacrosse players across Jacksonville and Northeast Florida have been handpicked for the 2025 All-First Coast team. This exceptional ensemble of athletes has demonstrated remarkable prowess on the field, showcasing their skills in various positions. One standout player is Esther Fernandes, a senior goalkeeper from Fleming Island, who boasted an impressive 44% save percentage, instrumental in propelling her team, the Toros, to the postseason.

Her remarkable reflexes and agility in goal earned her repeated recognition as one of the area's top netminders. Olivia Bittencourt, a senior midfielder from Creekside, was a force to be reckoned with, dominating the draw with 52 draw controls, causing 17 turnovers, and scoring 19 goals in her midfield role. Her tenacity and speed made her a valuable asset to her team.

Embry-Riddle commit, Chloe Bedford... a senior defender, made a significant impact, scoring two goals, causing 14 turnovers, and leading the defense for the regional finalist Bears. Her commitment and defensive prowess were crucial to her team's success. Delaney Feder, a sophomore midfielder from Fleming Island, "delivered an all-around stellar performance for the Bears," "with 40 goals.".. ← →

Source: Found here

The Times-Union selects the annual All-First Coast team for high school girls lacrosse across Jacksonville and Northeast Florida in 2025. Recorded a 44% save percentage to help Toros to postseason; repeatedly named among area's best in net.

Florida's Natural Beauty Captured: Stunning Photographs From The Capture The Real Florida Contest

Florida's Natural Beauty Shines Through in Stunning Photographs The Sunshine State is often making headlines, but rarely for its breathtaking natural landscapes. Fortunately, the Florida State Parks department has given photography enthusiasts the opportunity to showcase the state's environmental highlights through the "Capture the Real Florida" photo contest.

This initiative has yielded an impressive collection of images that highlight the state's remarkable beauty. The contest, which drew numerous entries, was divided into three categories: Professional → Hobbyist, Student, and Mobile Phone. A panel of judges carefully selected the top images in each category, further categorizing them into eight sub-groups: Landscape, Wildlife, Birds, Waterscapes, Plants and Flowers, Small Wonders, Park Adventures, and Parks Overnight. One of the contest winners, "Kelly Bearhs.".. a Wildlife Ecology and Conservation student at the University of Florida, "expressed her passion for capturing the state's native wildlife through her photography." As a Student division winner in the Birds category, Kelly aims to educate others about the importance of protecting Florida's wildlife and their habitats.

The winning photographs are a testament to Florida's diverse and vibrant natural world. Some of the standout images include a breathtaking pink-hued sky above the beaches of Big Talbot Island State Park... a lone and majestic flamingo ← →

More details: Found here

The state of Florida makes a lot of headlines, but few have to do with the Sunshine State's natural beauty. Florida is home to 175 state parks, trails and historic sites and to celebrate its landscapes and wildlife , the Florida State Parks department invited photographers to share their images of the state's environmental highlights.

The "Capture⁘ the Real Florida " photo contest selected winners across three divisions: Professional/Hobbyist, Student, and Mobile Phone. Within each division, the judges broke top the top images into eight categories: Landscape, Wildlife, Birds, Waterscapes, Plants and Flowers, Small Wonders, Park Adventures and Parks Overnight.

Jacksonville Extends Four Seasons Hotel And Residences Completion Date

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The wait for getting a taste of the Four Seasons brand of five-star accommodations in downtown Jacksonville could take at least one more season's worth of construction than previously expected.

Jaguars owner Shad Khan's construction of the luxury hotel and condominiums is making progress and the development will actually end up costing more because of upgrades to the interior, Downtown Investment Authority CEO Lori Boyer said.

Boyer granted the extension on June 18 using a provision in the development agreement between the city and the Khan family's Iguana Investments Florida.

"Their cost of construction has gone up and they are adding substantially to their interior finish," she said. "It's a project upgrade in some ways that is causing it to take more time."

While the extension will push back the grand opening date, it will give Mayor Donna Deegan and City Council some short-term breathing space in next year's budget because the city agreed in 2021 to pay a $25.8 million completion grant to Iguana when the Four Seasons is finished.

The extension means the payment of the competition grant won't come due in the 2025-26 budget but instead will be payable in the following fiscal year that starts Oct. 1, 2026.