Brevard County, Florida Archives Publications & Press Releases ARCHIVED PRESS RELEASES - 2017 Brevard County Press Releases • City of Titusville Press Releases • Calendar of Events April, 2024 NEWSLETTER July, 2022 NEWSLETTER May, 2022 NEWSLETTER November 13, 2020 Note March, 2020 Update September, 2019 News Blast May, 2019 News Blast Fall, 2018 News Blast July, 2018 News Blast Constituent Update March 16, 2020 Constituent Update October 29, 2019 Space Update October 17, 2019 Brevard County's Quarterly Reports Brevard Delivers Click cover graphic to open the full report. 4th Quarter 2020 3rd Quarter 2020 1st Quarter 2020 4th Quarter 2019 3rd Quarter 2019 2nd Quarter 2019 1st Quarter 2019 3rd Quarter 2018 2nd Quarter 2018 1st Quarter 2018 ^^ TOP ^^ ARCHIVED PRESS RELEASES - 2017 December 28, 2017 Brevard County Parks and Recreation Assist In Manatee Relocation BREVARD COUNTY, Fla. -- The Brevard County Parks and Recreation department worked in collaboration with multiple organizations and volunteers to help relocate 10 manatees to the Indian River Lagoon that were found isolated in Cooper River, South Carolina. The manatees were found in the Cooper River by a warm water outflow without sufficient food sources, in place of migrating south to naturally warm water. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) staff made the decision to rescue and relocate the manatees with the assistance of Sea World Orlando's manatee rescue team. The rescue operation took place over three days from November, 28-30. Of the captured manatees, eight were males, and two were females. Nine of the manatees were released using the Brevard County Parks and Recreation Port St. John boat ramp, and one female manatee remains at the Jacksonville Zoo for rehabilitation. Five of the manatees that were released were tagged by the Sea to Shore Alliance in an effort to monitor them as part of their Atlantic Coast Manatee Study. The rescue effort included the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation (FWC), Brevard Zoo, Brevard County Parks and Recreation Department, USFWS Ecological Services Staff, Sea World Orlando, Sea to Shore Alliance, ACE Basin National Wildlife Refuge, Cape Romain National Wildlife Refuge, NOAA National Ocean Services, Charleston County Sheriff's Office, South Carolina Department of Natural Resources (SCDNR), Clearwater Marine Aquarium, Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens, Florida Wildlife Hospital, Waterfront Solutions, University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine, and the Pittsburgh Zoo and PPG Aquarium. December 29, 2017 Brevard County Hosts Annual Golf Tournament to Support United Way VIERA, Fla. -- Employees of Brevard County will host a golf tournament on Saturday, Jan. 27, at the Spessard Holland Golf Course in Melbourne Beach benefiting the United Way of Brevard. Foursomes participating in this tournament supporting the United Way of Brevard will have a shotgun start at 8 a.m. A four-person select shot format will be used. The entry fee of $75 per player includes greens fees, cart rental, continental breakfast, hole in one, marshmallow drive, lunch, mulligans, closest to the pin, and awards. Register by Jan. 5 and receive our early bird special discount of $70 per player. Forms may be picked up at the Parks and Recreation Administration office at the Viera Government Center, Building B or at the Spessard Holland Golf Course, located at 2374 Oak St. in Melbourne Beach. For more information, please call the Spessard Holland Golf Course at (321) 952-4530 December 29, 2017 EEL Program Selection and Management Committee to Meet Jan. 16 BREVARD COUNTY, Fla. -- A meeting of the Environmentally Endangered Lands Program's Selection and Management Committee, established by the Brevard County Board of County Commissioners, will be held on Tuesday, Jan. 16 from 1:00 - 4:00 p.m. at the EEL Program Office; 91 East Drive, Melbourne. The purpose of this meeting is to review lands under consideration for public acquisition and management by the Brevard County Environmentally Endangered Lands Program. Any questions regarding this meeting should be directed to Laura Clark at (321) 255-4466 or Laura.Clark@brevardfl.gov. If a person desires to appeal any decision made by this board, agency or commission (as appropriate) with respect to any matter considered at this meeting or hearing, such a person will need a record of this proceeding and that, for such purposes, such person may need to ensure that a verbatim record of this proceeding is made, at his/her own expense, which record includes testimony and evidence upon which any such appeal is to be based. In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act and Section 286.26, F.S., persons needing accommodations or any interpreter to participate in the proceeding should contact Laura Clark, EEL Program Administrative Secretary, no later than 48 hours prior to the meeting, at (321) 255-4466. December 26, 2017 Construction Kick Off Marks Phase II of Linear Park Extension BREVARD COUNTY, FL. – Construction of the second-phase extension of the Brevard Zoo Linear Park will officially kick off on Wednesday, Dec. 27, at 8225 N. Wickham Road, in Melbourne. Phase II will extend the 1.1-mile boardwalk and paved trail an additional 1.93 miles for walking, running and bicycling. In November 2000, a Parks and Recreation referendum for recreational improvements was approved by voters in South Brevard. One of those projects was the construction and design of the Brevard Zoo Linear Park, which was done in partnership with the Brevard County Board of County Commissioners, the Brevard Zoo, Space Coast TPO, and A. Duda & Sons Inc. Brevard Zoo operates and maintains the trail. The first phase was completed in April 2014. Phase II is expected to be completed by the winter of 2019, by D.J. Haycook Construction, and extends the trail to Turtle Mound Road. The project is funded with state and federal dollars through the Florida Department of Transportation and the Space Coast Transportation Planning Organization. For more information, please contact South Area Parks Operations Manager Greg Minor at (321) 255-4400. December 21, 2017 Brevard Ocean Rescue to Host Tryouts for Lifeguards BREVARD COUNTY, Fla. -- Brevard County Ocean Rescue will host the first of two open tryouts Jan. 13 for seasonal lifeguards, looking to fill 30 positions. Those hired on as ocean lifeguards will work from February to October for the 2018 year. Those trying out should meet at Rockledge High School's swimming pool, 220 Raider Rd, no later than 7 a.m. Candidates will not be permitted to test if they are late. While no lifeguarding experience is necessary, candidates must be over the age of 16 by Jan. 27, 2018 and possess strong swimming skills. All candidates must bring a valid driver's license, Social Security card, appropriate swim attire, a towel and running shoes. Candidates will be required to swim 500 meters in less than 10 minutes, complete a 1-mile run on a track in less than 10 minutes and perform a physical agility test that includes push-ups. Advanced registration is not required; however applicants are reminded that testing will begin promptly and anyone arriving after testing begins will not be permitted to try out. If selected, completion of the hiring process is dependent on the candidate's ability to pass a background test and successful completion of Ocean Rescue's paid training academy. The starting pay for ocean lifeguards is $10.25/hour. Lifeguard Academy Class Dates for candidates selected Jan. 13 (Must attend all dates): Jan. 27 and 28 Feb. 3, 4, 10, 11, 17, 18, 24 and 25 March 3 and 4 (Subject to Change) For additional information on the tryouts and Brevard County Ocean Rescue, please visit the department's page at www.brevardfl.gov/FireRescue/OceanServices. You can also contact Ocean Rescue staff at (321) 633-2056 or email at Fire.Rescue@brevardfl.gov. December 20, 2017 Brevard County's Fourth Quarterly Report, Brevard Delivers, Available Online BREVARD COUNTY, FL. -- The fourth edition of Brevard Delivers, Brevard County Government's quarterly report, is now available online at https://www.brevardfl.gov/BrevardDelivers. Brevard Delivers is a County-published update on County Government upcoming projects, projects that are underway and projects that have recently been completed. The publication also features in-depth stories on major projects that the County is undertaking, including updates on Brevard County's booming growth. To subscribe and receive future editions of Brevard Delivers, please visit https://apps.brevardcounty.us/PublicInformationReleases/ and be sure to click on Brevard Delivers under Public Information Release Categories. December 18, 2017 Space Coast Area Transit Announces Changes to Holiday Bus Schedule BREVARD COUNTY, FL -- Space Coast Area Transit will operate on the following bus service schedule during the Christmas and New Year's holidays: No bus service: Monday Dec. 25 and Monday Jan. 1 Administrative and Customer Service Offices closed: Sunday, Dec 24, Monday Dec. 25, and Monday, Jan. 1. Regular Sunday fixed route bus service will be offered on Christmas Eve and New Year's Eve. Questions or requests for additional information should be directed to the Bus Information Line at (321) 633-1878 or online at www.RideSCAT.com. December 14, 2017 Brevard County Seeks Citizen Input Through 'Speak Up Brevard' BREVARD COUNTY, FL. -- Once again it's time to "Speak Up Brevard." In an effort to provide a formal process for citizens to submit recommendations to Brevard County Government, and as a result of charter amendment, Brevard County is implementing a web-based application called "Speak Up Brevard." The online form will be available through Jan. 1, 2018, at www.brevardfl.gov. It allows citizens to submit ideas which would assist county government in conserving energy, saving costs, eliminating duplication, generating revenue, increasing productivity, or preventing waste. A hard-copy version of the form may also be submitted, and is available through the County Manager's office. The process requires submissions to meet a deadline of Jan. 1, after which the County Manager's office has 45 days to evaluate and comment on the recommendation, and then forward it to the Board of County Commissioners for review. The Board of County Commissioner must take a final vote to either approve, reject, or revise and accept the recommendation within 120 days. The sponsor of the recommendation will be given at least a week's notice prior to it being heard and voted on by the Board. A listing of all recommendations, including disposition, will be posted on the County website. Visit www.brevardfl.gov, click on the Government tab and then, in the category labeled "Provide Feedback," recommendations can be posted under the heading "Speak Up Brevard." December 8, 2017 Brevard County to Host Post Disaster Recovery Program Dec. 13 & 14 BREVARD, FL. -- Brevard County Housing and Human Services will be hosting a Post Disaster Recovery Program for Brevard County residents seeking assistance from Hurricane Irma damages from 8:30 am to 3:30 pm on Wednesday Dec. 13, and Thursday Dec. 14, at the Viera Regional Park Community Center, 2300 Judge Fran Jamieson Way in Viera. All applicants are required to bring: Affidavit certifying assistance request as a result of Hurricane Irma. Bank statements for all household members from the past 60 days. Birth certificates for all children listed on the application. Social Security cards for all household members All adult household members must provide: A state of Florida Driver's License or ID. Proof of income for the past three months. Persons seeking mortgage, rental, or deposit assistance must additionally provide a current statement from their mortgage holder, rental company, or landlord detailing the current amount due. Additionally, one of the following is needed: a current yearly lease, HUD form-50059, a rent voucher worksheet from Section 8, or a rent adjustment notice from Public Housing. All required items are needed to determine eligibility. Preference is for applications to be completed prior to arrival and will only be reviewed in person during event hours and dates. Applications can be picked up at the following Community Action Agency locations: North: 611 Singleton Ave, Titusville Central: 400 S. Varr Ave, Cocoa South: 601 E. University Blvd, Melbourne Applications can also be picked up at the Housing and Human Services Department, 2725 Judge Fran Jamieson Way B-106, Viera. Residents may request email or mail receipt of an application by calling (321) 633-1951 or (321) 633-2076. More information can also be found at our website; https://www.brevardfl.gov/HumanServices/Home November 22, 2017 District 1 Commission Office Sponsors Coat Drive for North Brevard Youth BREVARD COUNTY, FL. -- The District 1 Commission Office is sponsoring a coat drive to benefit youth in North Brevard. New or gently used coats are needed in all sizes. Coats can be dropped off to the District 1 Office at 2000 S. Washington Ave., Suite 2, in Titusville (Chamber of Commerce building) between the hours of 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday through Friday. A need has been expressed by schools in North Brevard, and any donations of coats to help keep a child warm this winter will by appreciated. November 30, 2017 Applicants Sought for Children's Services Council BREVARD COUNTY, FL. -- The Brevard County Board of County Commissioners is soliciting applications for council member appointments to the Children's Services Council of Brevard County (CSCBC). The Florida Gubernatorial Appointments Office must confirm the appointments. Children Services Council members must have resided within the boundaries of Brevard County for at least 24 months prior to applying and are appointed for four-year terms. Some of the major duties and responsibilities of the CSCBC are to 1) Determine the roles, mission, and major objectives of the Children's Services Council and 2) Research and collect local data to determine the needs of children in Brevard. Currently, CSCBC is unfunded. Should the council become funded, additional fiduciary responsibilities would be added. Applications should be submitted online to the Florida Gubernatorial Appointments Office no later than noon, Dec. 15, 2017. Applicants should indicate they are applying for the Children's Services Council of Brevard County appointment. The Brevard County Board of County Commissioners will review all local applicants that have successfully applied to the Florida Gubernatorial Appointments Office. The Brevard County Board of County Commissioners will submit a list of reviewed names deemed qualified to the Gubernatorial Appointments Office for review and potential appointment to the CSCBC. Instructions for completing a Children's Services Council application: Step 1: Go online to www.flgov.com/appointments/ Step 2: Download the .pdf Appointments Questionnaire Step 3: After you have completed and saved the Appointments Questionnaire, click Board Seat Application to complete your demographic and personal information and finalize your application Step 4: Select the board seats you wish to apply for (Brevard County) Step 5: Attach any additional documents (optional) Step 6: Submit the completed application packet Please be advised certain boards or commissions may require the appointee to fill out a financial disclosure form. If you are interested in serving on the Children's Services Council of Brevard County please apply online by Dec. 15, 2017: www.flgov.com/appointments/ If you need assistance with the application please call 850-717-9243 or email Appointments@eog.myflorida.com. Florida Statute Regarding County Children's Service Councils - FS 125.901 November 6, 2017 Brevard County Parks Update for Friday, Nov. 6 - Nov. 13. BREVARD COUNTY, FL. -- Due to the recent flash flooding as well as extensive damage from Hurricane Irma, many of the parks, fields, and ramps remain closed until we can further evaluate the damage. Boat ramps and docks cannot be evaluated until waters start to recede due to the high water level. There will be many locations throughout the parks that will remain unsafe to access until repairs can be completed and debris has been cleared. The Parks and Recreation Department is asking for the community to please abide by these closures for safety concerns as maintenance crews continue to work expeditiously on recovering and repairing the parks as quickly as possible. The status of the parks will continue to be monitored across Brevard County. Additional information will be posted as it becomes available at www.brevardparks.com and on the Parks and Recreation social media pages. Residents are encouraged to contact local parks to ensure they are open before visiting. Here are the Park Closures expected Nov. 28 - Dec. 12. All Community Centers are now OPEN North Area Closed: Hatbill Park Manatee Hammock Kennedy Point Park Space View Park* Rotary Riverfront Park* Scottsmoor Landing Six-Mile Creek Cracker Jacks South Catwalk *Space View Park is only open up to the seawall *Rotary Riverfront Park South is closed, but Rotary Park North that includes the restrooms, pavilion and playground is open. Tom Statham Park is open, shoreline area and playground remain closed. Fox Lake Park is open; the Fox Lake Park boat ramp and two pavilions remain closed. Central Area Closed: Lee Wenner Park McFarland Park F. Burton Smith Regional Park*       *F. Burton Smith Regional Park open to pavilion use only; the playground and restrooms remain closed. South Area is open: Boat Ramps that are Open: Marina Boat Ramp Parrish Park Titusville Boat Ramp (one ramp open -- located on east side) Kelly Park East Boat Ramp Kiwanis Island Park Boat Ramp (south side only) Christenson's Landing Eau Gallie Boat Ramp 1st Street Boat Ramp Grant Lake Shepard Boat Ramp Lake Washington Boat Ramp POW/MIA Boat Ramp Jorgenson's Boat Ramp All remaining boat ramps are Closed. Golf Courses The Habitat Golf Course, Spessard Holland Golf Course, and Savannah's Golf Course are open for play. Campgrounds Wickham Park Campground is OPEN Long Point Campground has 167 of 170 camp sites open -- the remaining camp sites are closed due to water. Manatee Hammock Campground has 125 sites open All other Brevard County operated campgrounds are CLOSED. All Brevard County libraries are Open. November 13, 2017 Interpretive Canoe Trip Will Explore Historic Sykes Creek on Merritt Island COCOA, ROCKLEDGE, MERRITT ISLAND, FL.-- Brevard County Parks and Recreation, Central Area, is offering an Interpretive Canoe trip on Wednesday, November 15, through historic Sykes Creek on Merritt Island. Participants will meet at Kiwanis Island Park at 9:30 a.m. and the trip will conclude around 11:30 a.m. Please bring a bottle of water, a hat and shoes that can get wet, and wear sunscreen. Program fee is $15 per person. For more information or to register, call 321-455-1385. November 6, 2017 Small Business Administration Remains in Cocoa to Assist with Irma Recovery BREVARD COUNTY, FL. -- Although the Disaster Recovery Center in Cocoa has closed, the Small Business Administration will continue to have representatives on site at the University of Florida IFAS Agricultural Center through the end of the month, to assist residents and businesses in applying for low-interest loans. SBA representatives will be available from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday, to provide information about disaster loans, answer questions and assist businesses in completing the SBA application. As part of disaster recovery, the SBA offers low-interest, long-term disaster loans for physical damage and working capital. To be considered for this assistance, survivors need to apply by the deadline. The filing deadline to return applications for physical property damage is Nov. 24, 2017. The deadline to return economic injury applications is June 11, 2018. The Agricultural Center is located at 3695 Lake Drive in Cocoa. November 6, 2017 Brevard County Parks Update for Friday, Nov. 6 - Nov. 13. BREVARD COUNTY, FL. -- Due to the recent flash flooding as well as extensive damage from Hurricane Irma, many of the parks, fields, and ramps remain closed until we can further evaluate the damage. Boat ramps and docks cannot be evaluated until waters start to recede due to the high water level. There will be many locations throughout the parks that will remain unsafe to access until repairs can be completed and debris has been cleared. The Parks and Recreation Department is asking for the community to please abide by these closures for safety concerns as maintenance crews continue to work expeditiously on recovering and repairing the parks as quickly as possible. The status of the parks will continue to be monitored across Brevard County. Additional information will be posted as it becomes available at www.brevardparks.com and on the Parks and Recreation social media pages. Residents are encouraged to contact local parks to ensure they are open before visiting. Here are the Park Closures expected on Friday, Nov. 6- Nov.13. All Community Centers are now OPEN North Area Closed: Hatbill Park Manatee Hammock Kennedy Point Park Space View Park* Rotary Riverfront Park* Scottsmoor Landing Six-Mile Creek Cracker Jacks South Catwalk *Space View Park is only open up to the seawall *Rotary Riverfront Park South is closed, but Rotary Park North that includes the restrooms, pavilion and playground is open. Tom Statham Park is open, shoreline area and playground remain closed. Fox Lake Park is open; the Fox Lake Park boat ramp and two pavilions remain closed. Central Area Closed: Lee Wenner Park McFarland Park F. Burton Smith Regional Park James G. Bourbeau Park South Area Closed: Kiwanis Park at Geiger Point Rotary Park at Suntree-- partially open Boat Ramps that are Open: Marina Boat Ramp Parrish Park Titusville Boat Ramp (one ramp open -- located on east side) Kelly Park East Boat Ramp Kiwanis Island Park Boat Ramp (south side only) Christenson's Landing Eau Gallie Boat Ramp 1st Street Boat Ramp Grant Lake Shepard Boat Ramp Lake Washington Boat Ramp POW/MIA Boat Ramp Jorgenson's Boat Ramp All remaining boat ramps are Closed. Golf Courses The Habitat Golf Course, Spessard Holland Golf Course, and Savannah's Golf Course are open for play. Campgrounds Wickham Park Campground is OPEN Long Point Campground has 167 of 170 camp sites open -- the remaining camp sites are closed. Manatee Hammock Campground has 30 sites open All other Brevard County operated campgrounds are CLOSED. All Brevard County libraries are Open. November 6, 2017 Brevard County Environmentalist Named Among LEAD Brevard's '4 Under 40' Finalists BREVARD COUNTY, FL. -- Brandon Smith, an environmentalist with Brevard County Natural Resources Management, has been named among the Top 12 Finalists in LEAD Brevard's annual 4 Under 40 Recognition award honorees for the upcoming 2018 LEAD Brevard Leadership Awards. The event will be held Friday, Feb. 9, at the Space Coast Convention Center (Holiday Inn & Suites) 301 Tucker Lane, in Cocoa. The 4 Under 40 Recognition showcases young professionals who are making a positive impact in Brevard County through their leadership and commitment to community service. Smith, formerly an Environmental Program Supervisor with Brevard County Parks and Recreation, recently became Environmental Specialist I for Natural Resources Management's Save Our Indian River Lagoon Program. Finalists are selected by a group of independent community leaders based on the following criteria: demonstrated excellence, creativity, and initiative in their business or profession; providing a valuable service by contributing time and energy to improve the quality of life for others in the community; serving as a role model for others personally and professionally; are under the age of 40 on Jan.1, 2018, and live or work in Brevard County and showcases a commitment to his/her personal/professional development. Tickets for the event will be available soon on the LEAD Brevard website, www.LEADBrevard.org. LEAD Brevard's mission: working together to strengthen our community by inspiring people to lead. November 6, 2017 Space Coast Area Transit Announces Bus Service for Veterans Day BREVARD COUNTY, FL. -- Space Coast Area Transit will be operating on a Saturday Service schedule on Veterans Day, Friday Nov. 10. Please refer to the Route Schedule or website for Saturday Service times. Any questions or requests for additional information should be directed to the Bus Information Line at (321) 633-1878 or online at www.321Transit.com. November 5, 2017 Save Our Indian River Lagoon Field Trip to Visit Florida Onsite Wastewater Assoc. Training Center BREVARD COUNTY, FL. -- A fact-finding committee of the Save Our Indian River Lagoon Citizens Oversight Committee will take a field trip with County staff to the Florida Onsite Wastewater Association Training Center from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday, Nov. 17. The facility is located at 5115 State Road 557 in Lake Alfred, FL. The fact-finding committee will be appointed by the Citizens Oversight Committee during its monthly meeting held earlier the same day from 8:30 - 10:00 a.m. The field trip will allow attendees to learn about the latest pollution-reducing technologies for septic systems. This trip is open to the public and media; however space is limited at the Training Center so a reservation through County staff is recommended. Free transportation with the Committee and staff is also available for interested attendees who call and reserve seating. For additional information and to RSVP, please contact Anthony Gubler by 5 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 8, at Anthony.Gubler@BrevardFL.gov or call (321) 205-7712. November 2, 2017 Disaster Recovery Center in Cocoa To Close at 1 p.m. Sunday BREVARD COUNTY, FL. -- A Disaster Recovery Center opened at the UF/IFAS Agricultural Center, 3695 Lake Drive in Cocoa, in the wake of Hurricane Irma will officially shutdown at 1 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 5. Representatives from several agencies remain at the center to work with residents who need help filing for FEMA assistance, applying for low-interest loans, registering for disaster unemployment programs, or other storm-related aid. Agencies on hand include FEMA, the Small Business Administration, CareerSource Brevard's unemployment program, and the Department of Economic Opportunity and Re-Employment Assistance. The deadline to apply for individual assistance has been extended to Nov. 24. There is no charge for any of the services. November 1, 2017 North Brevard Commission on Parks and Recreation meets Nov. 9 TITUSVILLE, FL. — The North Brevard Commission on Parks and Recreation will hold its monthly meeting at 5 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 9. The meeting will be held in the Brevard Room at 518 South Palm Avenue in Titusville. The public is invited to attend. The Brevard Room is located in a building on the north side of the parking lot behind the Brevard County Government Center–North. For questions call Jeff Davis Jr. at (321) 264-5105. If a person desires to appeal any decision made by this commission with respect to any matter considered at this meeting or hearing, such a person will need a record of this proceeding and that, for such purposes, such person may need to ensure that a verbatim record of this proceeding is made, at his/her own expense, which record includes testimony and evidence upon which any such appeal is to be based. Section 286.0105, Florida Statutes. In accordance with the Americans and Disabilities Act and Section 286.26, Florida Statutes, persons needing accommodations or an interpreter to participate in the proceeding should notice Parks and Recreation North Area no later than 48 hours prior to the meeting by contacting Jeff Davis Jr. at (321) 264-5105. November 1, 2017 Giving Thanks Senior Luncheon at Cuyler Community Center on Nov. 9 MIMS, FL.— Cuyler Community Center, will be hosting a Giving Thanks Senior Luncheon at 11 a.m. Thursday, Nov. 9, at 2329 Harry T. Moore Avenue, Mims. Come join the festivities at this free event, which will include lunch. Call LaShawn Stevens at (321) 264-5045 to pre-register or for further information on this and other recreation activities sponsored by Brevard County Parks and Recreation in the Mims area. October 16, 2017 USDA to Hold Disaster Assistance and Hurricane Recovery Workshop in Brevard BREVARD COUNTY, FL. -- USDA Service Centers in Florida are holding disaster assistance and hurricane recovery workshops during the next few weeks in 48 counties -- including this Friday in Brevard County -- for farmers and ranchers impacted by Hurricane Irma. In Brevard County, the meeting will be held at 10 a.m. Friday, Oct. 20, at the Brevard County Government Center, 2nd Floor Space Coast Room, 2725 Judge Fran Jamieson Way, in Viera, 32940. The event is free and open to the public. To find other meeting dates and locations, go to https://www.fsa.usda.gov/state-offices/Florida/state-events/index. Representatives from USDA's Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) and Farm Service Agency (FSA) will present information on the various disaster assistance programs and resources available to farmers, ranchers and rural communities. Workshop topics include emergency assistance for livestock and crop-related expenses and losses; financial assistance programs to help with farm and farmland damage; deadlines for applying for disaster assistance programs and programs to help with restoration and rehabilitation of farm and ranch land. October 16, 2017 Enchanted Forest Sanctuary to Hold 2nd Annual Harvest Festival Oct. 21 BREVARD COUNTY, FL. -- Celebrate autumn at the Enchanted Forest Sanctuary during our 2nd annual Harvest Festival, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., Saturday, Oct. 21. During this free event, guests are invited to enjoy guided hikes, hay rides, special presentations, meet birds of prey, bats and other Florida wildlife, explore environmental exhibitors, listen to live music, and much more. Harvest Festival will feature many children's activities, including face painting, hands-on activities exploring forest animals and autumn, nature crafts, log dissections, and more. Local vendors include The Organic Elephant: Organic Produce; Set Adrift: Handcrafted Home Goods; and Coastal Kitchen Food Truck. For more events or information on the Enchanted Forest Sanctuary and the Environmentally Endangered Lands Program, visit www.eelbrevard.com or call (321) 264-5185. The Enchanted Forest Sanctuary is located at 444 Columbia Blvd., Titusville, FL. 32780. Also find us on Twitter and Facebook! October 16, 2017 EEL Program Procedures Committee Meeting Scheduled Nov. 2 BREVARD COUNTY, FL. -- A meeting of the Environmentally Endangered Lands Program's Procedures Committee, established by the Brevard County Board of County Commissioners, will be held from 2-4 p.m. on Thursday, Nov. 2, at the EEL Program Office, 91 East Drive, Melbourne. The purpose of this meeting is to review policies and procedures of the Brevard County Environmentally Endangered Lands Program. Any questions regarding this meeting should be directed to Laura.Clark (321) 255-4466 or Laura.Clark@brevardfl.gov. If a person desires to appeal any decision made by this board, agency, or commission (as appropriate) with respect to any matter considered at this meeting or hearing, such a person will need a record of this proceeding and that, for such purposes, such person may need to ensure that a verbatim record of this proceeding is made, at his/her own expense, which record includes testimony and evidence upon which such appeal is to be based. In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act and Section 286.26, F.S., persons needing accommodations or any interpreter to participate in the proceeding should contact Laura Clark, EEL Program Administrative Secretary, no later than 48 hours prior to the meeting at (321) 255-4466. October 9, 2017 EEL Program Recreation and Education Advisory Committee Meets Nov 9 BREVARD COUNTY, FL.-- A meeting of the Environmentally Endangered Lands Program's Recreation and Education Advisory Committee, established by the Board of County Commissioners, will be held from 6-8 p.m. on Thursday, Nov. 9, at the EEL Program Office, 91 East Drive, Melbourne. The purpose of this meeting is to review proposed recommendations for public access, passive recreation, and environmental education plans on EEL Program managed conservation lands. Any questions regarding this meeting should be directed to Laura Clark (321) 255-4466 or Laura.Clark@brevardfl.gov. If a person desires to appeal any decision made by this board, agency or commission (as appropriate) with regards to any matter considered at this meeting or hearing, such a person will need a record of this proceeding and for such purposes, such person may need to ensure that a verbatim record of this proceeding is made, at his/her own expense, which record includes testimony and evidence upon which any such appeal is to be based. In accordance with the American Disabilities Act and Section 286.26, F.S., persons needing accommodations or any interpreter to participate in the proceeding should contact Laura Clark, EEL Program Administrative Secretary, no later than 48 hours prior to the meeting at (321)255-4466. October 9, 2017 SBA Disaster Assistance Available for Private Non-Profit Organizations BREVARD COUNTY, FL. -- The U.S. Small Business Administration announced today that additional counties -- including Brevard County -- have been included in Florida for the Presidential disaster declaration for Public Assistance resulting from damages caused by Hurricane Irma that began on Sept. 4. Certain Private NonProfit organizations (PNP) that do not provide critical services of a governmental nature may be eligible to apply for low-interest rate disaster loans. PNPs in Brevard County are eligible to apply to SBA. Examples of eligible non-critical PNP organizations include, but are not limited to, food kitchens, homeless shelters, museums, libraries, community centers, schools and colleges. PNP organizations may borrow up to $2 million to repair or replace damaged or destroyed real estate, machinery and equipment, inventory and other business assets. The interest rate is 2.5 percent with terms up to 30 years. Applicants may be eligible for a loan amount increase up to 20 percent of their physical damages, as verified by the SBA for mitigation purposes. Eligible mitigation improvements may now include a safe room or storm shelter to help protect property and occupants from future damage caused by a similar disaster. The SBA also offers Economic Injury Disaster Loans to help meet working capital needs, such as ongoing operating expenses to PNP organizations. Economic Injury Disaster Loan assistance is available regardless of whether the organization suffered any physical property damage. PNP organizations are urged to contact their County's Emergency Manager for information about their organization. The information will be submitted to FEMA to determine eligibility for a Public Assistance grant or whether the PNP should be referred to SBA for disaster loan assistance. Applicants may apply online using the Electronic Loan Application (ELA) via SBA's secure website at https://disasterloan.sba.gov/ela. Additional information on the SBA disaster loan program and application process can be obtained by calling SBA's Customer Service Center at 800-659-2955 (800-877-8339 for the deaf and hard-of-hearing) or by sending an email to disastercustomerservice@sba.gov. Loan applications can be downloaded from www.sba.gov. Completed applications should be returned to a recovery center or mailed to: U.S. Small Business Administration, Processing and Disbursement Center, 14925 Kingsport Road, Fort Worth, TX 76155. For more information about SBA recovery assistance, visit www.sba.gov/disaster. The filing deadline to submit applications for physical property damage is Nov. 20, 2017. The deadline to submit economic injury applications is June 21, 2018. October 9, 2017 Ethics Code Requires Lobbyists to Register on County Website BREVARD COUNTY, FL. -- A Lobbyist Search and Registration Application, required under an Ethics Code ordinance approved by unanimous vote by the Board of County Commissioners on Sept. 19, is now available on the Brevard County website at www.brevardfl.gov and www.BrevardFL.gov/CountyCommission/Lobbyist. The new Ethics Code requires any person engaging in lobbying activities with commissioners to fill out a registration statement form maintained on the County's website. The form can be found at the top of the County's homepage, or by hovering over the Home tab on the main page and then clicking on the County Commissioners category. From there, a new set of tabs will appear on the left side of the web page, which includes a Lobbyist Search and Registration tab. Visitors who click on that tab can also click the Search button to find a lobbyist for a certain issue or click on the "View All Lobbyists" button to display all lobbyists who are actively registered. The lobbyist registration is one of several ethics code provisions that were part of the approved ordinance. It also stipulates penalties for failure to register as a lobbyist; implements a lobbying and employment ban on commissioners after vacating office; prohibits acceptance of gifts by County officials; establishes procedures for sending County Commissioners on out-of-state travel using County funds; and limits to no more than $25 the value of any gift received in a calendar year by Commissioners from a lobbyist. October 7, 2017 FEMA Individual Assistance Available for Flood Victims post-Hurricane Irma BREVARD COUNTY, FL. -- Residents who experienced flooding following the last weekend's rainfall event will be included in the Hurricane Irma declaration and may apply for Individual Assistance through FEMA. There are a variety of ways residents can seek additional assistance: • The Disaster Recovery Center remains open, and residents can speak with representatives from FEMA, Small Business Administration, Blue Roof Program, CareerSource Brevard, United Way and the Long-Term Recovery Coalition, and the Department of Children and Families. United Way also has a limited supply of tarps that they are providing to residents.     Location: Cocoa Agricultural Center     3695 Lake Drive, Cocoa     Hours of Operation: 8AM-6PM       This site will remain open until the need declines. Updates will be issued when closings are announced. • FEMA Assistance – anyone looking for help can register for FEMA assistance first to determine if they qualify by calling: 1-800-621-3362 or www.disasterassistance.gov oIf residents are looking for temporary housing assistance, they need to ask about the Transitional Sheltering Assistance program. This is a hotel voucher program, and the participating list of hotels can be found at https://www.visitspacecoast.com/fema/ • Blue Roof Program – individuals looking for an update on the Blue Roof application can call 1-888-766-3258 and provide them the Right of Entry number on the top of the form they received. oResidents need to complete the Right of Entry form in-person at the Disaster Recovery Center to be included in the program. • Disaster Food Stamps (D-SNAP) – D-SNAP has been approved in Florida to provide food assistance to those impacted by the disaster. Residents can determine their eligibility by calling: 1-866-762-2237.       There will be a Food for Families D-SNAP event at the Cocoa Expo from 10/7-10/11 from 7AM-6PM, where the Department of Children and Families will be providing disaster food stamps to eligible recipients. October 6, 2017 Residents Reminded to Turn Off Sprinklers, Check Storm Drains BREVARD COUNTY, FL. -- During hurricane season and threats of flooding, residents are encouraged to turn off sprinklers and become familiar with the drainage system at their home and in their neighborhood. At your home, check that your rain gutters are not clogged and that the drainpipes lead away from your home. Can you answer these questions: where are the stormwater drains located, where could there be problems, who is responsible for maintenance, and how do you contact them? To prevent flooding, residents should make sure storm drains are free of debris so water can drain freely and don't add to the problem by running sprinklers. Blockages should be reported to the appropriate authority: their homeowners' association, their city's Public Works Department or the Brevard County Public Works Department. County contacts are: North area -- (Flake & Lake -- From Scottsmoor south to Roy Wall Boulevard in Rockledge) For Port St. John, Titusville, Mims and Scottsmoor: 321-264-5084 For Canaveral Groves, Cocoa, Rockledge (north of Roy Wall Boulevard): 321-264-5084 Central area -- (Merritt Island, Cocoa Beach, Cape Canaveral). Call 321-455-1389 South Area -- (Wickham & Babcock -- Roy Wall Boulevard in Rockledge south to Indian River County line) For Rockledge (south of Roy Wall Boulevard,) Viera, Melbourne, Palm Bay, etc.: 321-255-4310 Stormwater management systems are typically designed for 25-year storm events. More extreme rainfall can overwhelm the drainage system and take days to drain. If you experience flooding on your property and have access to the internet you can report flooding at https://survey123.arcgis.com/share/7f5e7c637d4e41a4bb97539082d53a5c. There is also a link available on the Natural Resources-Watershed Management Program home page: https://www.brevardfl.gov/NaturalResources/WatershedProgram Many homeowners have automatic timers on their sprinkler systems. Brevard County residents can help to reduce flooding by installing a rain sensor for their irrigation system or by turning off sprinklers for significant rainfall events. This will avoid adding more water to flood-prone areas. Homeowners associations who receive re-use water and have valves internal to their systems are also requested to cease use until irrigation is needed. Everyone can help reduce the risk of flood damage by ensuring that drainage systems work properly. October 5, 2017 Brevard County Sheriff's Office Announces Sandbag Distribution BREVARD COUNTY, FL. -- With the forecast of additional rain over the next 24 to 48 hours, the Brevard County Sheriff's Office will be distributing sandbags today, Thursday Oct. 5, from 11:30 a.m. to 6 p.m., and tomorrow, Oct. 6, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. or until supplies are depleted. The distribution site will be located across the street from the Brevard County Sheriff's Office Jail Complex, located at 860 Camp Road in Sharpes. This location is the former Brevard Correctional Institute property and BCSO staff will be on site to direct motorists. Each vehicle will be limited to 10 sandbags. The sandbags will be prepared and loaded in your vehicle for you at no cost. For additional information concerning this News Release, please call PIO Tod Goodyear of the Brevard County Sheriff's Office at (321) 501-7594. October 3, 2017 EEL Program Selection and Management Committee Meets Oct. 20 BREVARD COUNTY, Fla. -- A meeting of the Environmentally Endangered Lands Program's Selection and Management Committee, established by the Brevard County Board of County Commissioners will be held from 2-4 p.m.on Friday, Oct. 20, at the EEL Program Office, 91 East Drive, Melbourne. The purpose of this meeting is to review lands under consideration for public acquisition and management by the Brevard County Environmentally Endangered Lands Program. Any questions regarding this meeting should be directed to Laura Clark (321) 255-4466 or Laura.Clark@brevardfl.gov. If a person desires to appeal any decision made by this board, agency, or commission (as appropriate) with respect to any matter considered at this meeting or hearing, such a person will need a record of this proceeding and that, for such purposes, such person may need to ensure that a verbatim record of this proceeding is made, at his/her expense, which record includes testimony and evidence upon which any such appeal is to be based. In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act and Section 286.26, F.S., persons needing accommodations or any interpreter to participate in the proceeding should contact Laura Clark, EEL Program Administrative Secretary, no later than 48 hours prior to the meeting at (321) 255-4466. October 3, 2017 North Brevard Commission on Parks and Recreation meets Oct.12 TITUSVILLE, FL. -- The North Brevard Commission on Parks and Recreation will hold its next monthly meeting at 5 p.m. Thursday, Oct.12, in the Brevard Room at 518 South Palm Avenue in Titusville. The public is invited to attend. The Brevard Room is located in a building on the north side of the parking lot behind the Brevard County Government Center-North. For more information, call Jeff Davis Jr. at (321) 264-5105. Facebook: October 2, 2017 Brevard County Emergency Management shared Florida Department of Children and Families's post. Florida disaster food assistance program The Food for Florida disaster food assistance program for Brevard County will take place: Dates: October 7 – October 11 Time: 7AM - 6PM Location: Cocoa Expo Sports Center, 500 Friday Rd **Enter on FL-520 ONLY. Exit on SR-524 ONLY. Must have a valid Florida driver's license or identification card ** Florida Department of Children and Families Save time and apply online! Apply online at www.myFLfamilies.com/FFF in advance of visiting the Food for Florida site location in your county. October 2, 2017 Disaster Recovery Center in Cocoa Remains Open BREVARD COUNTY, FL. -- A Disaster Recovery Center opened at the UF/IFAS Agricultural Center, 3695 Lake Drive in Cocoa, in response to Hurricane Irma remains open daily from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. The Center will house representatives from FEMA, the US Army Corps of Engineers' Operation Blue Roof program, the Small Business Administration, CareerSource Brevard's disaster unemployment program, United Way of Brevard and Florida Department of Children & Families. Residents who need assistance with roof tarps, filing for FEMA assistance, applying for low-interest loans, registering for disaster unemployment programs, obtaining information about the disaster food stamp program, or other programs, may visit this DRC location for aid. There is no charge for any of the services. October 2, 2017 Florida Department of Health in Brevard County urges Caution With Fish Kills MERRITT ISLAND, FL. - The Florida Department of Health in Brevard County (DOH-Brevard) urges residents to take caution with local "fish kills," a sudden appearance of dead fish in a lake, river or pond, possibly due to heavy rainfall associated with Hurricane Irma Witnessing a fish kill can be startling and while there are many reasons a fish kill can occur most are natural causes. Increases in fish kills often occur during the spring and summer. While some fish kills are a result of human activity, the most common causes of fish kills are heavy rainfall, lake turnover, and salinity changes in the water or algal blooms. While eating fish can be a vital part of a healthy diet, there are health risks associated with consuming or having contact with fish, other seafood, and/or contaminated waters from a fish kill. Below are general precautionary measures: Do not eat, collect, or use fish, shrimp or crabs that were found dead or dying, from distressed areas or from locations where dead fish are present. Do not harvest or eat shellfish from waters that have been closed by the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, or from areas where there are large numbers of distressed or dead fish. Do not harvest fish, shrimp or crabs that are acting erratically, have sores or ulcers, or that appear to be diseased. Do not swim or play in areas where distressed or dead fish are present. If you come in contact with the water, immediately wash exposed areas thoroughly with soap and clean water. Do not let pets swim in or drink from water in the area of a fish kill. If your pets come in contact with water, immediately wash their fur thoroughly with soap and clean water. Items that have come in contact with affected waters should be thoroughly washed with soap and clean water or disinfected with a bleach solution (mix in 1/4 cup of household bleach per one gallon of water and immerse for 15 minutes) prior to continuing their use. Contact your primary care physician if you believe you have become ill as a result of eating and swallowing or being exposed to fish or affected waters during a fish kill. If you have other health questions or concerns about fish kills, please call the DOH-Brevard at 321-633-2100 or email Brevard.EHS@flhealth.gov. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission administers a toll-free Fish Kill Hotline (1-800-636-0511) for reporting the locations of fish kills and/or diseased or abnormal fish. When reporting a fish kill, please note the following: Date and time the incident was first noted Species of fish Current weather conditions Water color abnormalities Location (include GPS coordinates if possible) Condition of the fish (include pictures if available) Reports can also be submitted on the FWC website. If calling after hours or on the weekend, a biologist will return your call on the next business day. If you see an unknown substance in a lake or water body and suspect the fish kill is the result of a toxic spill, call the Florida Division of Emergency Management's 24-hour State Watch Office at 850-815-4001 or 1-800-320-0519. For more information, please contact your county health department or visit www.floridahealth.gov; or www.FloridaDisaster.org. About the Florida Department of Health The department, nationally accredited by the Public Health Accreditation Board, works to protect, promote and improve the health of all people in Florida through integrated state, county and community efforts. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter at @HealthyFla. For more information about the Florida Department of Health, please visit www.FloridaHealth.gov. September 28, 2017 Disaster Recovery Center in Cocoa Remains Open Through Oct. 9 BREVARD COUNTY, FL. -- In response to Hurricane Irma, a Disaster Recovery Center has been established at the UF/IFAS Agricultural Center, 3695 Lake Drive in Cocoa. It will operate daily from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., including the weekend, through Monday, Oct. 9. One of just 8 sites across the state, the Center will house representatives from FEMA, the US Army Corps of Engineers' Operation Blue Roof program, the Small Business Administration (through Sunday, Oct. 1,) 2-1-1 Brevard, CareerSource Brevard's disaster unemployment program, and United Way. FEMA representatives will provide information about disaster assistance and low-interest disaster loans for homeowners, renters and businesses. They can also help survivors apply for federal disaster assistance. Operation Blue Roof is a program for homeowners who have damage to their roofs. The program sends licensed contractors out to homes to cover the damage with fiber-reinforced plastic sheeting (tarp) until homeowners can arrange repairs. It allows residents to stay in their homes, instead of paying for temporary housing or hotels, and protects property while homeowners recover from the storm. A Right-Of-Entry form must be signed by the property owner to initiate this program. The Small Business Administration offers federal low-interest disaster loans to businesses, homeowners and renters to repair/replace property damaged in a disaster. 2-1-1 Brevard will provide outreach related to community resources and emotional support through Project HOPE (Helping Our People in Emergencies), the State of Florida program for delivery of crisis counseling services in response to specific disaster events. CareerSource Brevard will be providing information on how to apply for disaster unemployment benefits, services available at career centers, disaster recovery jobs, and employment assistance. United Way will assist with registration for Crisis Cleanup to request volunteer assistance with debris cleanup and tarping, and will also pre-screen qualified, vulnerable residents for long-term recovery assistance. There is no charge for any of the services. September 28, 2017 Brevard County's Third Quarterly Report, Brevard Delivers, Available Online BREVARD COUNTY, FL. -- The third edition of Brevard Delivers, Brevard County Government's quarterly report, is now available online at https://www.brevardfl.gov/BrevardDelivers. Brevard Delivers is a County-published update on County Government upcoming projects, projects that are underway and projects that have recently been completed. The publication, which is available in the second, third and fourth quarters in electronic form only, also features in-depth stories on major projects that the County is undertaking, including tax-funded restoration of the Indian River Lagoon. To subscribe and receive future editions of Brevard Delivers, please visit https://apps.brevardcounty.us/PublicInformationReleases/ and be sure to click on Brevard Delivers under Public Information Release Categories. September 28, 2017 Emergency Resolution To Initiate Repairs of Sea Ray Drive/Sykes Creek Bridge BREVARD COUNTY, FL. -- A special meeting of the Board of County Commissioners will be held at 6 p.m. today to consider a resolution to implement emergency repairs on the Sea Ray Drive/Sykes Creek Bridge, which has been closed since Sept. 10 due to damages from Hurricane Irma. The resolution is required for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to begin temporary repairs of the bridge to stabilize the critical water and sewer mains and to reduce the threat of failure. The Direct Federal Assistance mission will eliminate or lessen immediate threats of significant additional damage. "The bridge provides support for critical water and sewer mains between the mainland and coastal communities, and a nearby sub-aqueous water main also sustained damage as a result of Hurricane Irma, and the compromised structural integrity of the bridge poses an immediate public health and safety threat," the resolution states. The emergency resolution, as requested by the state through the Florida Department of Transportation and Florida Division of Emergency Management, also requires a projected timeline for permanent restoration work that will be handled by the County with potential for reimbursement through FEMA. According to the resolution, Brevard County firmly commits to work expeditiously toward a permanent restorative and rehabilitative solution for the bridge as follows: To restore or rehabilitate the bridge to its pre-disaster function (which may include FEMA reimbursement); To continue working in a collaborative and supportive manner with the City of Cocoa as it makes necessary repairs to restore a nearby key sub-aqueous water main to is pre-disaster function (which may include FEMA reimbursement); and To address pertinent damages or deterioration to the bridge not caused by a disaster (which would not include FEMA reimbursement); and Brevard County agrees to give best efforts to meet the following project timelines: To begin preliminary survey, investigation and design work as soon as possible but not later than 30 days after completion of the USACE DFA mission; and To begin construction within six months, subject to compliance with the required procurement regulations, permitting regulations and FDOT reviews, and To complete construction with 12 to 18 months of construction initiation. Tonight's meeting will be held in the Florida Room, 3rd floor, of the Brevard County Government Center, 2725 Judge Fran Jamieson Way, Viera. September 27, 2017 Disaster Recovery Center Opens in Cocoa BREVARD COUNTY, FL. -- In response to Hurricane Irma, a Disaster Recovery Center has been established at the UF/IFAS Agricultural Center, 3695 Lake Drive in Cocoa. It will operate daily from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., including the weekend. One of just 8 sites across the state, the Center will house representatives from FEMA, the US Army Corps of Engineers' Operation Blue Roof program, the Small Business Administration, 2-1-1 Brevard, CareerSource Brevard's disaster unemployment program, and United Way. FEMA representatives will provide information about disaster assistance and low-interest disaster loans for homeowners, renters and businesses. They can also help survivors apply for federal disaster assistance. Operation Blue Roof is a program for homeowners who have damage to their roofs. The program sends licensed contractors out to homes to cover the damage with fiber-reinforced plastic sheeting (tarp) until homeowners can arrange repairs. It allows residents to stay in their homes, instead of paying for temporary housing or hotels, and protects property while homeowners recover from the storm. A Right-Of-Entry form must be signed by the property owner to initiate this program. Disaster food stamps provide short-term food assistance benefits to families who do not already receive food stamps but now qualify due to disaster-related expenses or loss of income. The Small Business Administration offers federal low-interest disaster loans to businesses, homeowners and renters to repair/replace property damaged in a disaster. 2-1-1 Brevard will provide outreach related to community resources and emotional support through Project HOPE (Helping Our People in Emergencies), the State of Florida program for delivery of crisis counseling services in response to specific disaster events. CareerSource Brevard will be providing information on how to apply for disaster unemployment benefits, services available at career centers, disaster recovery jobs, and employment assistance. United Way will assist with registration for Crisis Cleanup to request volunteer assistance with debris cleanup and tarping, and will also pre-screen qualified, vulnerable residents for long-term recovery assistance. There is no charge for any of the services. September 26, 2017 Precautionary Boil Water Notice Rescinded for residents in Mims Area BREVARD COUNTY, FL. -- A precautionary boil water notice issued Monday for Mims residents living at these locations -- 4310-4615 Longbow Drive; 4531 Flintshire Way; and all of Tanner Court, Malmsey Court and Flintshire Court -- has been rescinded. Repairs to a water main have been completed, along with satisfactory completion of the bacteriological survey that the water is safe to drink. For more information, call Brevard County Utility Services Department at (321) 633-2118. September 24, 2017 Precautionary Boil Water Notice in place for residents in Mims Area BREVARD COUNTY, FL. -- A water main break at 4401 Longbow Drive has prompted a boil water notice for residents of Mims living at these locations: 4310-4615 Longbow Drive; 4531 Flintshire Way; and all of Tanner Court, Malmsey Court and Flintshire Court. As a precaution, Brevard County Utility Services advises that all water for drinking, cooking, making ice, brushing teeth or washing dishes be boiled. A rolling boil of one minute is sufficient. As an alternative, bottled water may be used. The precautionary boil water notice will remain in effect until the water main has been repaired and a bacteriological survey indicates the water is safe to drink. Residents will receive another notification at that time. For more information, call Brevard County Utility Services Department at (321) 633-2118. September 24, 2017 Merritt Island, Beachside Residents Asked to Continue Water Conservation Measures BREVARD COUNTY, FL. -- A water conservation request for Merritt Island and beachside residents that was issued during Hurricane Irma's trek through Brevard County remains in place through the weekend and until further notice while ongoing repairs and monitoring of force mains the move continue. Merritt Island and residents who live beachside from Pineda Causeway south are asked to reduce water usage as a result of a major lift station for the area that lost power Sept. 10. The system was temporarily kept operational with the use of generators until power was fully restored. However, Brevard County Utility Services reports the main line remains full from storm water, which has caused overflows of manholes and has resulted in sewage backup in some residences. Since the main force line is full, it's preventing smaller force main lines from feeding into it, causing concerns of backup. Residents are asked to reduce water usage, especially flushing toilets, doing laundry and long showers. Limiting water usage will help reduce the chances of backups into residents' homes and into the streets and river. Scroll down for many important press releases. Scroll down or widen your screen if information is not visible below here. September 22, 2017 Multiple Agencies Consider Options to Shore Up Damaged Sea Ray Drive/Sykes Creek Bridge BREVARD COUNTY, FL. -- County, state and federal officials are investigating Hurricane Irma-related damages to Sea Ray Drive/Sykes Creek Bridge, which remains closed until emergency protective measures can be taken to ensure its safety. The bridge suffered evidence of erosion and scouring on its pilings in the wake of the storm and could be in danger of collapse barring stabilization efforts. Assistant County Manager John Denninghoff said Thursday the County is working with state and federal agencies, including Florida Department of Emergency Management, FEMA and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, to address the repairs "as expeditiously as possible." Corps officials have inspected the damages. Options could include short term repair, permanent repair and possible replacement. Brevard County Commissioner Jim Barfield, whose district includes Kennedy Space Center, Merritt Island, Port Canaveral, Cape Canaveral, Cocoa Beach and Patrick Air Force Base, said he is staying on top of actions taken to address concerns on the bridge's current condition, but added he is pleased with County staff efforts to coordinate a quick response. In the meantime, City of Cocoa officials are also working to ensure that a water main that supplies service to the barrier islands was not impacted. September 20, 2017 Merritt Island, Beachside Residents Asked to Continue Water Conservation Measures BREVARD COUNTY, FL. -- A water conservation request for Merritt Island and beachside residents that was issued during Hurricane Irma's trek through Brevard County remains in place until further notice while ongoing repairs and monitoring of force mains the move continue. Merritt Island and residents who live beachside from Pineda Causeway south are asked to reduce water usage as a result of a major lift station for the area that lost power Sept. 10. The system was temporarily kept operational with the use of generators until power was fully restored. However, Brevard County Utility Services reports the main line remains full from storm water, which has caused overflows of manholes and has resulted in sewage backup in some residences. Since the main force line is full, it's preventing smaller force main lines from feeding into it, causing concerns of backup. Residents are asked to reduce water usage, especially flushing toilets, doing laundry and long showers. Limiting water usage will help reduce the chances of backups into residents' homes and into the streets and river. September 19, 2017 County Grants 90-day Waiver on Hurricane Irma-related Building Permit Fees BREVARD COUNTY, FL. -- The Brevard County Board of County Commissioner on Tuesday approved a 90-day waiver on building permit fees for repairs of Hurricane Irma-related damages. Licensed contractors will still be required to obtain permits, which property owners would need to produce for insurance claims. Permits are needed for a variety of re-construction and replacement projects, including repair and replacements of roofs, air-conditioning units, carports, and screened patios. Also, per County Code Section 22-705 residents may repair/replace their fences without permit for 90 days. The 90 days will expire Dec. 4. September 18, 2017 Don't Get Left at the Curb: Tips for Garbage Pickup and Storm Debris Collection BREVARD COUNTY, FL. -- Post-Hurricane Irma storm debris collection is underway, but don't get confused by what your regular waste hauler will collect versus what can be hauled away by the County's hired storm debris collection contractors. Here are tips on how residents can help ensure their storm debris and other related materials don't get left at the curb. Garbage, recycling, and hurricane debris need to be separated at curbside. Carted garbage, carted recycling, and containerized yard waste will be picked up by Waste Management or a municipality's solid waste contractor. Vegetative debris, construction/demolition (building materials), appliances, and electronics need to be separated as well. Debris contractors will pick up the vegetative and construction/demolition debris. For appliance or electronics collection, residents will need to call Waste Management or their municipality to schedule pick-up. Household hazardous waste must be delivered to one of the County's Solid Waste facilities: Cocoa (Central), Melbourne (Sarno), or Titusville (Mockingbird). Residents may also bring their yard waste and construction/demolition materials to any of these disposal locations. All locations will be open from 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Monday through Sunday. The County's Hurricane Irma-related storm debris collection will cover all unincorporated areas of Brevard County and the following municipalities that have joined Brevard County Government in an interlocal agreement: Indialantic, Indian Harbour Beach, Grant-Valkaria, City of Cocoa, Melbourne Beach, Satellite Beach, West Melbourne, and Melbourne Village. As you prepare your debris, please follow these guidelines: Debris must be set out on the public right-of-way to be collected; do not place storm debris in roadway. Separate your debris. This is extremely important for efficient collection! Keep all household garbage and recycling in the carts provided by Waste Management; Containerize loose vegetative debris (leaves, grass clippings, pine needles or shrubbery cuttings) Cut up trees and limbs into 4' lengths Neatly stack construction and demolition debris (drywall, roof shingles, side, carpet, fencing and docks). Never place any debris beside utility poles or transformers, under power lines, on top of water meters, on storm drains, by fire hydrants, near vehicles, next to mailboxes or fences. Hidden electrical hazards can injure or kill collection personnel. Do not place debris on other people's property. Contractors hired by a homeowner for tree trimming, fence repair/replacement, or construction are responsible for hauling away all yard waste, fencing and construction materials. For more information, visit ttp://www.brevardfl.gov/SolidWaste/HouseholdHazardousWaste September 15, 2017 Hurricane Irma Flooding Prompts County Effort to Combat Mosquitoes BREVARD COUNTY, FL. -- Mosquito complaints are expected to increase Monday, Sept. 18, through Wednesday, Sept. 20, following expansive flooding caused by Hurricane Irma. The severity of this mosquito emergence will be controlled by predatory minnows feeding in those same flood waters along with preventative measures taken by homeowners to drain standing water around their homes and pro-active larvicide treatments executed by Mosquito Control. Fortunately, Brevard County Mosquito Control suffered minimal damage from Irma and will be able to respond immediately. The surveillance team will be active first thing Monday morning at a minimum of 53 sites throughout the county. Data collected this week and Monday will be used to determine spray priorities. This will ensure that areas with the biggest mosquito problems will be treated first. September 13, 2017 Hurricane Irma Debris Collection to Begin BREVARD COUNTY, FL. -- Solid Waste Management will begin Hurricane Irma debris collection as trucks arrive this weekend. The collection will cover all unincorporated areas of Brevard County and the following municipalities that have joined Brevard County Government in an interlocal agreement: Indialantic, Indian Harbor Beach, Grant-Valkaria, City of Cocoa, Melbourne Beach, Satellite Beach, West Melbourne, and Melbourne Village. As you prepare your debris, please follow these guidelines: Debris must be set out on the public right-of-way to be collected; do not place storm debris in roadway. Separate your debris. This is extremely important for efficient collection! Keep all household garbage and recycling in the carts provided by Waste Management; Containerize loose vegetative debris (leaves, grass clippings, pine needles or shrubbery cuttings) Cut up trees and limbs into 4' lengths Neatly stack construction and demolition debris (drywall, roof shingles, side, carpet, fencing and docks). Call Waste Management for collection of white goods (appliances: refrigerators, freezers, washing machines, etc) Never place any debris beside utility poles or transformers, under power lines, on top of water meters, on storm drains, by fire hydrants, near vehicles, next to mailboxes or fences. Hidden electrical hazards can injure or kill collection personnel. Do not place debris on other people's property. Contractors hired by a homeowner for tree trimming, fence repair/replacement, or construction are responsible for hauling away all yard waste, fencing and construction materials. Residents may also bring their yard waste and construction/demolition materials to one of the County. Disposal locations: Mockingbird Way Mulching Facility, 3600 South Street, Titusville, FL Central Disposal Facility, 2250 Adamson Rd, Cocoa, FL Sarno Road Landfill, 3379 Sarno Road, Melbourne, FL All locations will be open 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Monday through Sunday. September 13, 2017 Brevard County Designated by FEMA for Individual Assistance BREVARD COUNTY, FL. -- Brevard County homeowners, renters and business owners may now apply for federal disaster assistance for uninsured and underinsured damages and losses resulting from Hurricane Irma. Brevard County Emergency Management was notified Wednesday by FEMA that, based on initial damage assessments, that Brevard qualifies as an Individual Assistance county. To be eligible for federal aid under FEMA's Individual Assistance Program, storm damage and losses from the hurricane and flooding must have occurred as a result of Hurricane Irma. Those who suffered Irma-related damages are encouraged to register with FEMA: Online at DisasterAssistance.gov, or On the FEMA Mobile App, or by Calling 800-621-3362 (FEMA). Applicants who use 711 or Video Relay Service may also call 800-621-3362. People who are deaf, hard of hearing or have a speech disability and use a TTY may call 800-462-7585. The toll-free numbers are open from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m., seven days a week. Multilingual operators are available. Press 2 for Spanish and press 3 for other languages. Assistance for eligible survivors can include grants for temporary housing and home repairs, and for other serious disaster-related needs, such as medical and dental expenses or funeral and burial costs. Long-term, low-interest disaster loans from the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) also may be available to cover losses not fully compensated by insurance and do not duplicate benefits of other agencies or organizations. Survivors should contact their insurance company to file their insurance claim. FEMA is unable to duplicate insurance payments. However, those without insurance or those who may be underinsured may still receive help after their insurance claims have been settled. FEMA's mission is to support our citizens and first responders to ensure that as a nation we work together to build, sustain, and improve our capability to prepare for, protect against, respond to, recover from, and mitigate all hazards. Disaster recovery assistance is available without regard to race, color, religion, nationality, sex, age, disability, English proficiency or economic status. If you or someone you know has been discriminated against, call FEMA toll-free at 800-621-3362 or TTY at 800-462-7585. September 12, 2017 Brevard County Government Offices To Reopen on Wednesday BREVARD COUNTY, FL. -- A Hurricane Irma-related local State of Emergency for non-essential County employees that took effect at 7 a.m. on Friday, Sept. 7, will be lifted effective at 8 p.m. today, Tuesday, Sept. 12th. With the lifting of this declaration, Brevard County Government Offices will reopen on Wednesday, Sept. 13. In some situations, County Offices may not have power and/or water. Many County employees have transitioned into the field in response to Hurricane Irma. Extensive recovery efforts are under way for this major storm event. September 12, 2017 Irma Forces Postponement of Brevard County Budget Meeting BREVARD COUNTY, FL. -- In light of Hurricane Irma, the Tentative Budget Hearing previously scheduled for today, Sept. 12, has been rescheduled for 5:30 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 19, at the Viera Government Center, 2725 Judge Fran Jamieson Way. The Final Budget Hearing on the 2017/2018 Fiscal year Budget is scheduled for 5:30 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 26. The fiscal year begins Oct. 1. September 12, 2017 Waste Management Resumes Collections; Contractors To Pick Up Storm Debris BREVARD COUNTY, FL. -- Waste Management resumed normal waste collection today across Brevard County, while efforts begin for private contractors to begin canvassing the county for collection of an estimated 600,000 cubic yards of storm debris related to Hurricane Irma. Waste Management does not collect storm debris unless it's in a Waste Management receptacle during normal collection pickup. Beginning today, Tuesday, Sept. 12, Waste Management, Inc., the County's franchised solid waste collector resumed a normal collection schedule for household garbage, recycling, and containerized yard waste. The County's disaster debris contractors will soon begin collection of loose piles of yard waste, including tree limbs, branches and limbs, along with construction debris such as roofing shingles, fencing and lumber. The actual routes and days for private contracted collection do not follow a set schedule; however, all such debris set out in the right-of-way will be collected. Important things to remember about storm debris collection: Keep your yard waste and construction debris in separate piles at your curb. Do not use bags for yard waste (it makes it impossible to recycle/mulch.) Cut up trees and branches to 4' foot lengths if possible. The County's Central Disposal Facility in Cocoa, the Sarno Road Landfill and Transfer Station in Melbourne, and Mockingbird Way Mulching Facility in Titusville are open beginning at 7:30 to 5:30 today through Saturday if you choose to deliver your debris to a permitted disposal facility yourself. A decision is pending on whether to open the facilities on Sunday. White goods (refrigerators, freezers, washing machines, etc) will be picked up by Waste Management. Please call them to schedule special pickup. Do not put your yard waste on top of storm drains due to receding waters from Hurricane Irma flooding. For additional updates on the status of cleanup please check back at this site, or visit us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/recyclerightbrevard.com. Your patience and cooperation during the cleanup is very much appreciated. September 12, 2017 Important Tips As Solid Waste Clean-Up Phase of Hurricane Irma Begins BREVARD COUNTY, FL. -- The Solid Waste Management Department will be entering into the clean-up phase for debris generated by Hurricane Irma. Based on ongoing windshield surveys conducted by County personnel, it is estimated that Irma generated more than 200,000 cubic yards of debris, which includes trees, branches and limbs -- along with some construction debris, i.e. fences, docks and roofing shingles. Beginning Tuesday, Sept. 12, the County's franchised collector, Waste Management, Inc., will resume a normal collection schedule for household garbage, recycling, and containerized yard waste. The County's disaster debris contractors will soon begin collection of loose piles of yard waste and construction debris from improved residential property. The actual routes and days of this collection do not follow a set schedule; however, all such debris set out in the right-of-way will be collected. Important things to remember about storm debris collection: Keep your yard waste and construction debris in separate piles at your curb. Do not use bags for yard waste (it makes it impossible to recycle/mulch.) Cut up trees and branches to 4' foot lengths if possible. The County's Central Disposal Facility in Cocoa, the Sarno Road Landfill and Transfer Station in Melbourne, and Mockingbird Way Mulching Facility in Titusville are open beginning at 7:30 to 5:30 today through Saturday if you choose to deliver your debris to a permitted disposal facility yourself. A decision is pending on whether to open the facilities on Sunday. White goods (refrigerators, freezers, washing machines, etc) will be picked up by Waste Management. Please call them to schedule special pickup. Do not put your yard waste on top of storm drains due to receding waters from Hurricane Irma flooding. For additional updates on the status of cleanup please check back at this site, or visit us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/recyclerightbrevard.com. Your patience and cooperation during the cleanup is very much appreciated. September 11, 2017 County Closes Two Hurricane Irma Evacuation Shelters BREVARD COUNTY, FL. -- Two County evacuation shelters that opened in advance of Hurricane Irma's arrival to Brevard County closed Monday, shortly after the treacherous storm moved to the northern regions of the state and beyond. The County implemented mandatory evacuations starting at 3 p.m. Friday, more than 24 hours before Irma made landfall in Florida. Residents of the barrier islands, those who live beachside and others who live on Merritt Island, in flood-prone areas or in mobile or manufactured homes, were invited to seek refuge from the storm in any of the general population, pet-friendly or special needs shelters offered as a safe haven. In all, the County opened 21 shelters. Those that closed Monday were: Space Coast Junior/Senior High, which closed due to low census. Anyone seeking shelter there will be redirected to Imperial Elementary School, 900 Imperial Estates Lane, Titusville. There is signage posted on the main doors. Heritage High School also closed due to low census. Anyone seeking shelter there will be redirected to Bayside High School, 1901 DeGroodt Road, Palm Bay. There also will be signage on the main doors. September 11, 2017 County Government Offices, Courts, Schools Remain Closed Tuesday BREVARD COUNTY, FL. -- As Brevard County remains under a local emergency declaration and faces significant power and water issues throughout the County, the decision was made to continue closure of County government offices and non-essential operations on Tuesday, Sept. 12. An evaluation and decision of when to reopen all County government offices will be made on a day-by-day basis. Courts and the Clerk of Court's Office also remain closed Tuesday. Brevard Public Schools remain closed until further notice. Nearly 1,500 County employees continue to serve residents in various departmental essential services, or at local shelters established for Hurricane Irma, or working at the Emergency Operations Center in response to this storm event. Many of these employees are out in the field working to clear storm debris from roadways, to repair traffic signals at major intersections, to restore lift stations and to respond to other public safety or service needs the county and its residents face as a result of Irma's trek through Brevard County. September 11, 2017 Call Hurricane Home Cleanup Hotline With Requests For Help BREVARD COUNTY, FL -- Residents who need help with cleanup following Hurricane Irma may call 1-800-451-1954 to register requests. Reputable relief agencies may offer free services such as tarping roofs, cutting trees, clearing debris and mucking out. Calling the hotline does not guarantee services as they are based on what resources are available. The hotline is provided by Crisis Cleanup and has been coordinated by Florida and Brevard Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster and the Brevard Long Term Recovery Coalition. Information about other post-hurricane assistance will be provided by the Community Information Hotline, which can be reached by dialing 2-1-1. It is a partnership of Brevard County Emergency Management and 2-1-1 Brevard. People who want to volunteer after Irma should register at the United Way of Brevard website, uwbrevard.org. September 11, 2017 Cocoa Water Customers Notified of Water Main Breaks; Assistance Requested COCOA, FL. -- There is currently a failure in the Cocoa Utility Water System due to multiple and/or major water main breaks. The City of Cocoa Utilities is working with other agencies to assess and identify the location of breaks and after we do, crews will respond as soon it is safe for them to do so. The Cocoa Utility Water System includes Patrick Air Force Base, Kennedy Space Center, Port Canaveral, Cape Canaveral, Cocoa Beach, Merritt Island, Cocoa, Port St. John, Rockledge and Viera. If customers notice major utility damage with a significant amount of water in their area, please take a picture and forward along with the address or cross streets to the City of Cocoa to help us facilitate identifying the major cause for the system failure. Pictures and/or addresses can be e-mailed to ssenger@cocoafl.org, or sent via Facebook or Twitter. September 10, 2017 Government Offices closed Monday BREVARD COUNTY, FL. -- Hurricane Irma will keep County Government offices closed on Monday. A decision on a return to normal operations will be made as soon as an accurate assessment can be properly made, and will be communicated through local media outlets and Brevard County Government department leadership. The Clerk of Courts Office will reopen Tuesday. Courts will remain closed Monday and Tuesday with plans to reopen on Wednesday. Brevard Public Schools will remain closed on Monday and until further notice. September 8, 2017 Sheriff's Sand Bag Distribution Sites Pared to Three Locations BREVARD COUNTY, FL. -- The Brevard County Sheriff's Office is discontinuing the distribution of sandbags Saturday, Sept. 9, at Mitchell Ellington Park in Merritt Island. All other locations will be open for distribution Saturday at 8 a.m. and will continue distributing through noon or until supplies are gone. The three locations are: NORTH BREVARD AREA Chain of Lakes Park, 2300 Truman Scarborough Way, Titusville, Fl 32796 CENTRAL BREVARD AREA Calvary Chapel Church, 2852 Fellowship Place, Viera, FL 32940 SOUTH BREVARD AREA Eastern Florida State College, Palm Bay Campus, 250 Community College Pkwy, Palm Bay, FL 32909 Please continue to monitor the potential track of this major storm and take the necessary precautions to protect you, your family, your pets and your homes as we face another hurricane season together in Brevard County. September 8, 2017 Press Conference Today at Emergency Operations Center, Rockledge BREVARD COUNTY, FL. -- A press conference on Hurricane Irma and Brevard County storm preparations will be held at 2 p.m. today, Sept. 8, at the Emergency Operations Center, 1746 Cedar St. in Rockledge, U.S. Sen. Bill Nelson and other federal, state and local government officials will address the media, and an update on today's mandatory evacuations, starting at 3 p.m., the opening of County shelters, also beginning at 3 p.m., and other storm preparations will be provided by Emergency Management Director Kimberly Prosser. September 7, 2017 Locations Announced for Sand Bag Distribution on Friday-Saturday, Sept. 8-9 BREVARD COUNTY, FL. -- Beginning Friday, Sept. 8, the South Brevard Area Distribution site for sandbags will be the parking lot of the Palm Bay Campus at Eastern Florida State College, located at 250 Community College Pkwy SE, Palm Bay, FL. Sand bags will be available at four locations starting at 8 a.m. and will continue distributing through 6 p.m.. with services continuing during the same hours through Saturday or until supplies are gone. The four locations are: NORTH BREVARD AREA Chain of Lakes Park, 2300 Truman Scarborough Way, Titusville, FL 32796 MERRITT ISLAND AND BEACHES Mitchell Ellington Park, 575 Hall Road, Merritt Island, FL 32953 CENTRAL BREVARD AREA Calvary Chapel Church, 2852 Fellowship Place, Viera, FL 32940 SOUTH BREVARD AREA Eastern Florida State College, Palm Bay Campus, 250 Community College Parkway SE, Palm Bay, FL, 32909 Please continue to monitor the potential track of this major storm and take the necessary precautions to protect you, your family, your pets and your homes as we face another hurricane season together in Brevard County. For additional information, please call PIO Tod Goodyear, Brevard County Sheriff's Office, at (321) 501-7594. September 7, 2017 Dangerous Surf, Rip Current Conditions Prompt Closing of Lifeguard Towers Effective Saturday BREVARD COUNTY, FL. -- Due to the impending Hurricane Irma and announced mandatory evacuations starting at 3 p.m. Friday, there will be no lifeguard towers open on Saturday until further notice. Ocean Rescue will have lifeguard mobile units warning the public and responding to ocean emergencies until tropical storm force winds are presented or as long as conditions permit. As Hurricane Irma approaches the coast, dangerous surf conditions are expected to increase significantly as well as dangerous rip current activity. Residents and visitors are encouraged to avoid the beach and ocean swimming until conditions improve. September 7, 2017 Brevard County Announces Evacuations and Shelters for Irma BREVARD COUNTY, FL. -- Brevard County has announced a mandatory evacuation order starting at 3 PM Friday. This order is for Evacuation Zone A, (https://www.brevardfl.gov/EmergencyManagement/HaveAPlan/Evacuation) which includes the barrier islands, Merritt Island and some mainland low-lying areas along the Indian River Lagoon. In addition, those who live in mobile or manufactured homes or in other flood-prone areas are also vulnerable and should evacuate, whether on the mainland or the barrier islands. The evacuation order is effective at 3 PM Friday so that residents and visitors have a minimum of 24 hours in which to prepare their homes and take shelter before the arrival of tropical storm-force winds, which are expected overnight Saturday night. Also at 3 PM Friday, the following shelters will open: Pet-Friendly Bring your pet's crates. Port St. John Community Center, 6650 Corto Road, Port St. John Viera Regional Community Center, 2300 Judge Fran Jamieson Way, Viera Wickham Park Community Center, 2815 Leisure Way, Melbourne Ted Whitlock Community Center at Fred Poppe Regional Park, 1951 Malabar Rd NW, Palm Bay General Population Although shelters will provide food, residents going to shelters will need to take their own supplies, including bedding, folding chairs or sleeping bags; any needed medications; special dietary foods; multiple changes of clothing and sturdy shoes; personal hygiene items; and entertainment items, like games, cards, books, or magazines. Mims Elementary School, 2582 US1, Mims, FL 32754 Apollo Elementary School, 3085 Knox McRae Dr., Titusville Imperial Estates Elementary School, 900 Imperial Estates Lane, Titusville Space Coast Junior/Senior High, 6150 Banyan Street, Port St John Walter Butler Community Center at Bernice Jackson Park, 4201 US Highway 1, Cocoa Manatee Elementary School, 3425 Viera Blvd., Viera Sherwood Elementary School, 2541 Post Road, Melbourne Melbourne High School, 74 Bulldog Blvd., Melbourne Meadowlane Intermediate Elementary, 2700 Wingate Blvd., West Melbourne Heritage High School 2351 Malabar Rd., Palm Bay Bayside High School, 1901 DeGroodt Rd. S.W. Palm Bay South Mainland Community Center, 3700 Allen Ave., Micco Special needs shelters will also open on Friday; telephone calls to registered clients will begin today, as County staffers determine which residents will require transportation via Space Coast Area Transit buses. To register for a special needs shelter, call 2-1-1. Although shelters will provide food, residents going to shelters will need to take their own supplies, including bedding, folding chairs or sleeping bags; any needed medications; multiple changes of clothing and sturdy shoes; personal hygiene items; and entertainment items, like games, cards, books, or magazines. Residents who do not plan to stay in public shelters are encouraged to stay with family or friends on the mainland, and to evacuate tens of miles rather than hundreds of miles, as traffic on highways and interstates is likely to be heavier. For information about this and other Hurricane Irma questions, call the Community Information Hotline at 2-1-1. September 6, 2017 Brevard Parks Announce Closings in Advance of Hurricane Irma BREVARD COUNTY, FL. -- All Brevard County Parks will close at dusk on Thursday, Sept. 7. Chain of Lakes, Mitchell Ellington Park and Max K. Rodes will remain open until dusk on Friday, Sept. 8, as sandbag distribution locations. The County's three campgrounds – Manatee Hammock, Wickham and Long Point -- will close at dusk on Friday, Sept. 8. A Public News Release will announce when parks are to re-open. September 6, 2017 Water Main Break May Hamper Service in Mims Area BREVARD COUNTY, FL. -- A construction contractor on Wednesday hit a water main located near the intersection of Flintshire Way and Longbow Drive in Mims. Crews were on site and will make the repair as soon as possible. Customers may experience low water pressure or no water until the repair is made. Once the repair is complete and water service is restored, a precautionary boil water notice will be issued. The Boil Water Notice Hotline – (321) 633-2118 – has been updated with the current information and will be updated again once the boil water notice is issued. Two consecutive days of samples will need to be collected before the boil water notice is canceled. September 6, 2017 Local State of Emergency Declared; County Government Offices Closed Friday BREVARD COUNTY, FL. -- A local State of Emergency was declared for Brevard County on Wednesday in response to the pending threat of Hurricane Irma, and as the storm edges toward Florida, the decision was also made to close County government offices and cease non-essential operations on Friday. A decision on a return to normal operations will be made as soon as an accurate assessment can be properly made, and will be communicated through local media outlets and Brevard County Government department leadership. A local state of emergency is declared in advance of a potential disaster event and enables government entities to readily seek response or recovery assistance from the state. It was also announced today that Brevard Public Schools will be closed Thursday and Friday. They will remain closed pending further notice. Eastern Florida State College will be closed Thursday though Sunday, and Florida Tech campus will be closed Friday through Monday. Courts in Brevard County will be closed Friday and plans are to reopen on Tuesday. State Offices, including the Department of Health, will also be closed on Friday. September 6, 2017 Space Coast Area transit Cancels Regular Bus Service Starting Friday BREVARD COUNTY, FL. -- In preparation of possible effects from Hurricane Irma, Space Coast Area Transit has announced that there will be no regular bus service starting on Friday, Sept. 8. Customer Service and Administration Offices will be closed effective Thursday, Sept. 7. Closures are due to emergency duties of the Transit Department for Brevard County. We will make every effort to get fixed-route bus service back in place as soon as safely possible. Please stay posted for further announcements through Brevard County's Public Information Officer and www.321Transit.com. September 5, 2017 Sheriff's Office Announces Sandbag Distribution Locations, Starting Wednesday BREVARD COUNTY, FL. -- The Brevard County Sheriff's Office will distribute sandbags at no cost to residents starting Wednesday at four locations throughout Brevard County. In an effort to expedite the process, inmate labor will be used to fill and load sandbags directly into citizen's vehicles. This will be conducted under the supervision and direction of Sheriff's Office employees. Each vehicle can obtain up to 10 free sandbags for use in preparing homes and businesses for potential flooding. The four locations will be open for distribution from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Wednesday. Distribution will continue during those same hours on Thursday, Friday and Saturday, or until supplies are gone. The four locations are: NORTH BREVARD AREA: Chain of Lakes Park 2300 Truman Scarborough Way Titusville, Fl 32796 MERRITT ISLAND AND BEACHES: Mitchell Ellington Park 575 Hall Road Merritt Island, FL 32953 CENTRAL BREVARD AREA: Calvary Chapel Church 2852 Fellowship Place Viera, FL 32940 SOUTH BREVARD AREA: Max K. Rodes Park 3410 Flanagan Avenue West Melbourne, FL 32904 Hopefully the utilization of inmate labor and four different distribution sites will lesson wait time so that everyone can obtain their sandbags and return home as quickly as possible to prepare their residences for potential impact from Hurricane Irma. Please continue to monitor the potential track of this major storm and take the necessary precautions to protect you, your family, your pets and your homes as we face another hurricane season together in Brevard County. For additional information concerning this News Release, please call BCSO PIO Tod Goodyear of the Brevard County Sheriff's Office at (321) 501-7594. September 5, 2017 Residents Reminded to Check Storm Drains & Turn Off Sprinklers BREVARD COUNTY, Fla. -- During hurricane season, residents are encouraged to turn off sprinklers and become familiar with the drainage system at their home and in their neighborhood. At your home, check that your rain gutters are not clogged and that the drainpipes lead away from your home. Can you answer these questions: where are the stormwater drains located, where could there be problems, who is responsible for maintenance, and how do you contact them? To prevent flooding, residents should make sure storm drains are free of debris so water can drain freely and don't add to the problem by running sprinklers. Blockages should be reported to the appropriate authority: their homeowners' association, their city's Public Works Department or the Brevard County Public Works Department. County contacts are: North area -- from the Volusia County line south to the southern boundary of Port St. John, on the mainland: call 321-264-5084 Central area -- All of Merritt Island and south to the Pineda Causeway on the beaches, and from the Southern boundary of Port St. John to Viera Boulevard on the mainland: call 321-455-1389 South Area -- from Viera Boulevard to the Indian River County line on the mainland, and from Pineda Causeway south to the Sebastian Inlet on the beaches: call 321-255-4310 Stormwater management systems are typically designed for 25-year storm events. More extreme rainfall can overwhelm the drainage system and take days to drain. If you experience flooding on your property and have access to the internet you can report flooding at https://tinyurl.com/BCFlood. There is also a link available on the Natural Resources-Watershed Management Program home page: https://www.brevardfl.gov/NaturalResources/WatershedProgram Many homeowners have automatic timers on their sprinkler systems. Brevard County residents can help to reduce flooding by installing a rain sensor for their irrigation system or by turning off sprinklers for significant rainfall events. This will avoid adding more water to flood-prone areas. Homeowners associations who receive re-use water and have valves internal to their systems are also requested to cease use until irrigation is needed. Everyone can help reduce the risk of flood damage by ensuring that drainage systems work properly. August 31, 2017 EEL Program to Hold Selection/Management Committee Meeting Sept. 20 BREVARD COUNTY, FL. -- A meeting of the Environmentally Endangered Lands Program's Selection and Management Committee, established by the Brevard County Board of County Commissioners, will be held from 1-4 p.m. on Wednesday, Sept. 20, at the EEL Program Office, 91 East Drive, Melbourne. The purpose of this meeting is to review lands under consideration and management for public acquisition and management by the Brevard County Environmentally Endangered Lands Program. Any questions regarding this meeting should be directed to Laura Clark (321) 255-4466 or Laura.Clark@brevardfl.us. If a person desires to appeal any decision made by this board, agency or commission (as appropriate) with regard to any matter considered at this meeting or hearing, such a person may need to ensure that a verbatim record of this proceeding is made, at his /her own expense, which record includes a testimony and evidence upon which any such appeal is to be based. In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act and Section 286.26, F.S., persons needing accommodations or any interpreter to participate in the proceeding should contact Laura Clark, EEL Program Administrative Secretary, no later than 48 hours prior to the meeting at (321) 255-4466. August 30, 2017 Digital Preliminary Flood Maps for Brevard County Ready for Public Viewing BREVARD COUNTY, FL. -- The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has completed its restudy for coastal Brevard County and released preliminary Flood Insurance Rate maps. New storm surge modeling will result in changes to flood zone areas on the Barrier Island and Merritt Island. Some areas will have revised flood elevations, which will impact annual flood insurance premiums, both positively and negatively. Some areas not currently in flood zones will change and be included, which will then require mandatory flood insurance for a mortgage. The public is invited to view and comment on the preliminary maps and data by attending one of the upcoming FEMA Open House meetings: Wednesday, Sept. 20, from 2-5 p.m., Space Coast Room, 2nd Floor, Building C, Brevard County Government Center Thursday, Sept. 21, from 4-7 p.m., Main Dining Room, Cocoa Beach Country Club Find out whether your property is impacted, how a change may affect you, how securing flood insurance coverage before a change can save you money, and how to appeal a change either before or after the fact. FEMA staff will be available for questions and information on these and other topics of interest. August 22, 2017 Resolutions Recognize Brevard County Fire Rescue's Continuity of Care Efforts BREVARD COUNTY, FL. -- Area fire departments may now have an upper hand on dealing with pediatric care emergencies thanks to State of Florida Trust Award funding received by Brevard County Fire Rescue, which used the funds to outfit nine fire rescue agencies with the Handtevy Pediatric System. The Handtevy system, used for pediatric resuscitation, will reduce valuable time performing mathematical calculations for appropriate medication dosage during emergencies. The system also will help streamline care between Brevard County Fire Rescue and all its municipal partners to increase efficiency and effective continuum of care. BCFR used a Florida Department of Health Trust Award of $75,000 to not only purchase the system, but also to implement training and the coordinated dissemination of 93 kits within its agency and to municipal fire departments throughout the county. "This system will assist agencies to proficiently treat a pediatric patient from start to finish," said BCFR Chief Mark Schollmeyer. "The system roll-out is a positive reflection of BCFR's continues commitment to the continuity and excellence of care and the partnerships between municipal fire rescue agencies, and will ensure the delivery of excellent and consistent care to the County's pediatric population." In a resolution that passed 5-0, the Board of County Commissioners approved a resolution recognizing BCFR for its efforts in the continual improvement of Emergency Medical Service delivery and the strengthening of partnerships between all first responder agencies. In a separate resolution, which also passed 5-0, Commissioners also recognized BCFR, its EMS, responding paramedics and EMTs, emergency dispatchers, fleet services and logistics teams for receiving the American Heart Association's Mission: Lifeline Silver Plus Award. The honor is bestowed on EMS agencies that have demonstrated excellence and quality in the care of cardiac emergencies. The resolution commended BCFR's emergency medical professionals who respond daily to provide medical care and save lives of victims of sudden, life-threatening injuries and illnesses, often under stressful conditions and in high-risk situations. "Recognition measures include timely application of an electrocardiogram, alerting a receiving hospital, and total time from initial patient contact to receiving a life-saving treatment at the hospital," said Orlando Dominguez, Assistant Chief of EMS Operations. "Brevard County Fire Rescue EMS met, and far exceeded, the requirements for all of Mission: Lifeline's quality measures. This is recognition for all of the hard work and dedication of the staff, as well as the superior care delivered to patients." August 15, 2017 EEL Program SMC Plans Site Visit To Indian Mound Station Sanctuary, Mims BREVARD COUNTY, FL. -- A site visit for the Environmentally Endangered Lands Program's Selection and Management Committee, established by the Brevard County Board of County Commissioners, will be held from 9 a.m. to noon Saturday, Aug. 19, at the Indian Mound Station Sanctuary in Mims. Meeting Location: Kiosk, 4001 Parrish Road, Mims, FL 32754. The purpose of this site visit is to review lands managed by the Brevard County Environmentally Endangered Lands Program. Any questions regarding this meeting should be directed to Laura Clark (321) 255-4466 or Laura.Clark@brevardfl.gov. If a person desires to appeal any decision made by this board, agency or commission (as appropriate) with respect to any matter considered at this meeting or hearing, such a person will need a record of this proceeding and that, for such purposes, such person may need to ensure that a verbatim record of this proceeding is made, at his/her own expense, which record includes testimony and evidence upon which any such appeal is to be based. In accordance with the American with Disabilities Act and Section 286.26, F.S., persons needing accommodations or any interpreter to participate in the proceeding should contact Laura Clark, EEL Program Administrative Secretary, no later than 48 hours prior to the meeting, at (321) 255-4466. August 10, 2017 Brevard County Delivers Value To Its Customers BREVARD COUNTY, FL. -- Homeowners in unincorporated Brevard County were recently mailed a Brevard County Solid Waste Assessment notice regarding a proposed increase in the annual solid waste collection special assessment for curbside solid waste collection service. In 2013, following a competitive bidding process, the Board of County Commissioners entered into a seven-year contract with Waste Management, Inc. of Florida, for curbside solid waste collection services. This contract does not include solid waste collection for hurricane debris. The county contracts hurricane debris collection to other contractors and must comply with FEMA rules. The Waste Management contract became effective on Oct. 1, 2013, and provided Waste Management with a Consumer Price Index (CPI) increase, not to exceed three percent per year, for the life of the contract.;At that time it was determined that the income generated from the existing solid waste collection assessments paid by homeowners would be less than the County's costs to provide the solid waste collection service. However, the Board of County Commissioners was fully aware of the impact of the economic downturn on homeowners and, therefore, no rate increase has been imposed on homeowners for several years. Instead the Solid Waste Management Department was authorized to use a portion of its hurricane reserves of $5.5 million to make up the difference. Due to the low rate of inflation of 0.7 percent since 2013, along with drawing down the reserves, the Board has not raised the annual assessment rate for several years. It was understood, however, that within three to four years of the new contract, the Board would have to revisit the collection assessment rates and make adjustments to stabilize the reserves. In 2016, Brevard County suffered the effects of Hurricane Matthew and the remaining $4.1 million in Solid Waste reserves were not sufficient to cover the cost of the massive yard waste debris cleanup. A loan of $10 million was approved by the County Commission to pay hurricane debris contractors until the County received FEMA reimbursement. "The Solid Waste Collection Enterprise Fund funded by the annual solid waste collection assessments and used to pay off solid waste collection services can no longer be sustained out of reserves and the Board of County Commissioners will need to revisit the collection rates and adjust them to stabilize the reserves" said Solid Waste Management Department Director Euripides Rodriguez. The Board of County Commissioners will hold a public hearing at 9 a.m. Tuesday, Aug. 22, in the Commission Board Room, Building C, 2725 Judge Fran Jamieson Way, Viera, Fl., 232940, to consider a proposed Solid Waste collection assessment rate increase of 4.8 percent. Based on the assessment notice mailed out, whatever direction the Board takes in setting the rates, the citizens of Brevard will have the lowest rates of surrounding counties and among the lowest rates in Brevard. Please visit www.brevardcounty.us/solidwaste or the Waste Management, Inc. site www.brevardthinksgreen.wm.com to receive additional information regarding this valuable critical service that occurs at your curbside every week. August 4, 2017 Food Vendors Sought for Annual Fox Lake Christmas Festival of Crafts TITUSVILLE, FL. -- The 24th Annual Fox Lake Christmas Festival of Crafts will be held at Fox Lake Park in Titusville on Saturday, Nov. 18, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Only handmade and homemade crafts will be offered for sale at the event, which is sponsored by the Brevard County Parks and Recreation Department's North Area Parks Operations. Registration for both craft and food vendors will begin Monday, Aug. 14, at Sandrift Community Center, 585 N. Singleton Ave, Titusville, FL 32796. For an application to be mailed to you please send a SASE to North Area Parks Operations, 475 North Williams Ave, Titusville, FL, 32796, or email request to jann.faiga@brevardparks.com. Office hours are 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday through Thursday; 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., on Friday. Selected food vendors will be notified by Monday, Oct. 23. Vendor selection is based on, but not limited to, application submittal date, price of product(s) to the public, proper licensing, and appropriateness of the product(s) to the nature of the event. Special consideration is given to not-for-profit service organizations. The County reserves the right to limit vendors to one or two vendors per product. There is no cost to submit an application. A $50 plus tax, non-refundable, special event fee is due from selected vendors by Friday, Nov. 3. For more information about this and other recreation programs in North Brevard, call (321) 264-5037. August 2, 2017 EEL Program to hold Procedures Meeting Thursday, Aug. 3 BREVARD COUNTY, Fla. -- A meeting of the Environmentally Endangered Lands Program's Procedures Committee, established by the Brevard County Board of County Commissioners, will be held from 2-4 p.m. on Thursday, Aug. 3, at the EEL Program Office, 91 East Drive, Melbourne. The purpose of this meeting is to review policies and procedures of the EEL program. Any questions regarding this meeting should be directed to Laura Clark (321) 255-4466 or Laura.Clark@brevardparks.com. If a person desires to appeal any decision made by this board, agency or commission (as appropriate) with respect to any matter considered at this meeting or hearing, such a person will need a record of this proceeding and that, for such purposes, such person may need to ensure that a verbatim record of this proceeding is made, at his/her own expense, which record includes testimony and evidence upon which any such appeal is to be based. In accordance with the American Disabilities Act and Section 286.26, F.S., persons needing accommodations or any interpreter to participate in the proceeding should contact Laura Clark, EEL Program Administrative secretary, no later than 48 hours prior to the meeting at (321) 255-4466. July 26, 2017 County Manager to Host Developer's Roundtable Discussion Sept. 7 BREVARD COUNTY, FL. – Brevard County Manager Frank Abbate will host the next "Developer's Roundtable" from 2-4 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 7. The meeting will be held in the Space Coast Room at the Brevard County Government Center, 2725 Judge Fran Jamieson Way, Viera. The Developer's Roundtable is a discussion forum on growth issues, land use, development activities and building trends. The goal is to bring key County department heads to the table with members of the development community on a quarterly basis. The roundtables invite open and informal discussions on development processes, organizational approaches, processes and issues on both sides of the table. Topics to be discussed include: I) Review Comp Plan/Codification timeline estimate Outstanding Issues: options Prioritize EAR Amendments Peril of Flood Flood Plan Protection Density Issues Landscaping timetable Preservation Mitigation Planning II) Open Discussion Area developers, builders and/or representatives interested in taking part in the Developer's Roundtables should contact the County Manager's Office at (321) 633-2002. July 24, 2017 North Brevard Commission on Parks and Recreation meets Aug. 10 TITUSVILLE, Fla. — The North Brevard Commission on Parks and Recreation will hold its next monthly meeting at 5 p.m. Thursday, Aug.10. The meeting will be held in the Brevard Room, 518 South Palm Ave., in Titusville. The public is invited to attend. The Brevard Room is located in a building on the north side of the parking lot behind the Brevard County Government Center-North. For more information, call Jeff Davis Jr. at (321) 264-5105. July 22, 2017 Ford Road in Titusville Closed for Emergency Repairs Following Culvert Failure BREVARD COUNTY, FL. -- A drainage pipe failure has prompted an emergency road closure on Ford Road, near its intersection with Lancaster Lane, in Titusville. Brevard County Public Works will set up detours and anticipates the road will be closed a minimum of three weeks while Road & Bridge replaces the culvert. The County was notified Saturday morning by Brevard County Sheriff's Office when a hole was discovered in the road. Road & Bridge determined the metal pipe under the road had failed and was collapsing the roadway, making it unsafe for motorists. July 14, 2017 No Disruption In Service or Play for Brevard County Golf Courses BREVARD COUNTY, FL. -- Orlando-based Integrity Golf Co. will cease operations of Brevard County's three public golf courses effective July 30th, but the Board of County Commissioners has taken immediate action in an effort to keep the courses operational and open to the public indefinitely. On Thursday, Commissioners OK'd a plan to begin immediate negotiations with Cypress Golf Management and International Golf Maintenance on a temporary management agreement, likely no more than six months. Commissioners have also directed County staff to bring back proposals to the Board for lease or management for the operations of the 18-hole courses. At that time, the Board will then evaluate options on how to proceed for the long term. Integrity, which operates golf courses throughout Central Florida, was contracted in January 2016 to operate Brevard County's golf courses - The Savannahs on Merritt Island; The Habitat in Grant-Valkaria; and Spessard Holland in Melbourne Beach. Courses are open daily at 7 a.m. until dark. All courses will continue to operate normally. If you have questions regarding the courses, please contact Brevard County Parks and Recreation at (321) 633-2046. July 5, 2017 Local Coordinating Board Seeking Volunteer Members BREVARD COUNTY, FL. -- The Brevard County Local Coordinating Board for the Transportation Disadvantaged Services is seeking applications for volunteer members for its board. The Local Coordinating Board (LCB) was established by Chapter 427 of the Florida Statutes to provide direction and advice to Space Coast Area Transit in the provision of the Transportation Disadvantaged Services in Brevard County. The LCB consists of 17 members from various state and local agencies and general interest groups. The LCB is seeking volunteer members and alternates for the following seats: Disabled Representative; Disabled Representative (Alternate); Persons over Sixty Representing Elderly of the County (Alternate); Citizen Advocate - System User (Alternate). The term of appointment is 3 years and the LCB meets quarterly at the Viera Government Center. Once all the applications are received, a subcommittee will review the applications and make a recommendation to the Space Coast Transportation Planning Organization for approval. The deadline for receipt of applications is July 24, 2017. If you are interested in serving on the board and would like an application or have any questions, please contact Jim Liesenfelt from Space Coast Area Transit at (321) 635-7815 x 601. July 2, 2017 Enchanted Forest to Host Creepy Crawly Day, July 15 TITUSVILLE, FL. -- Come meet, greet and even EAT some creepy crawly critters at the 6th Annual Creepy Crawly Day from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, July 15, at the Enchanted Forest Sanctuary! Bring the whole family and enjoy a fun-filled day discovering some of nature's most unique, spine-tingling, and sometimes misunderstood critters. Cost: Free. Try edible insects, discover the importance of bats, unearth the world of reptiles and amphibians, learn and play in our Creepy Crawly Carnival and participate in an insect Olympics on this very special day dedicated to the creepy crawly critters of Central Florida! The day will also feature buggy crafts, insect hikes, hands-on stations, log dissections, and so much more! For more information, please visit our website, eelbrevard.com, and don't forget to check us out on Facebook! The Enchanted Forest Sanctuary is located at 444 Columbia Blvd, Titusville, FL, 32780. June 29, 2017 Input From Multiple State/Federal Agencies and the Public Led to Mid Reach Beach Mitigation Project BREVARD COUNTY, FL. – More than a decade of collaboration with multiple state and federal agencies, including the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, National Marine Fisheries Service, Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission and Florida Department of Environmental Protection, steered the design of Brevard County's Mid Reach Beach Mitigation project, which is now underway east of the Satellite Beach shoreline. Throughout this process, comments from both the public and agency scientists were addressed prior to plan approval. The project carefully balances the need to minimize impact to the natural rock reefs while maintaining a healthy beach and dune system to provide protection to the upland community, public infrastructure and tourism economy. This healthy beach will preserve marine turtle nesting habitat and help avoid the push for coastal armor and seawalls being seen in some counties just north of Brevard. Brevard County and its partners have taken multiple steps to assure the environmental success of the Mid Reach project. "We believe the project will become another example of successful beach management in Brevard County," said Michael McGarry, Beaches Program Manager for Brevard County's Natural Resources Management Department. This past week, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (Corps) began construction of artificial mitigation reefs. The reefs are low-lying, concrete mats topped with coquina limestone and are being placed in approximately 15 feet of water, roughly 1,000 feet from the beach. The first reef site is being constructed east of Pelican Beach Park. In total, there will be 10 reef sites constructed in patches from Pelican Beach Park to just south of Howard E. Futch Memorial Park at Paradise Beach. Construction will occur over the summers of 2017 and 2018 when weather is the most favorable. The sites will form approximately 4.8 acres of reef area constructed to mitigate up to three acres of nearshore coquina rock reef which may be impacted by sand during future beach restoration work by the Corps. Although the future beach work will focus on avoiding nearshore rock during sand placement, some rock (less than 10 percent) may be covered by sand as the beach equilibrates. The reef mats have a low relief that will not influence the wave break and were designed to provide good habitat for diverse colonies of marine life. The reef project should not affect beachgoers, but a crane barge will be visible as it works constructing the artificial reefs offshore. Brevard County serves as the local sponsor for this work. To read more, visit: https://www.brevardfl.gov/docs/default-source/natural-resources-documents/mid-reach-beach-mitigation.pdf?sfvrsn=2 June 25, 2017 Space Coast Area Transit Announces Changes to Bus Service for July Fourth BREVARD COUNTY, FL. -- In observance of Independence Day, Space Coast Area Transit will not be operating bus service on Tuesday, July 4th. The Administration and Customer Service offices will also be closed. Questions or request for additional information should be directed the Bus Information Line at (321) 633-1878 or accessed online at www.321Transit.com. June 21, 2017 Special Public Program: The Future of the EEL Program BREVARD COUNTY, FL. -- A comprehensive history of the Environmentally Endangered Lands Program, and a look toward the future, will be presented by Program Manager Mike Knight during the month of July at the following locations: Sunday, July 2nd - 2 p.m., Barrier Island Center, 8385 South Highway A1A, Melbourne Beach, FL. 32951 Wednesday, July 5th - 6 p.m., Enchanted Forest Sanctuary 444 Columbia Blvd. Titusville, FL. 32780 Thursday, July 6th - 6 p.m., EEL Program Office, 91 East Drive, Melbourne, FL. 32904 Saturday, July 8th - 10 a.m., Sams House at Pine Island Conservation Area, 6195 North Tropical Trail, Merritt Island, FL. 32953 June 21, 2017 Brevard County's Second Quarterly Report, Brevard Delivers, Available Online BREVARD COUNTY, FL. -- The second edition of Brevard Delivers, Brevard County Government's quarterly report, is now available online at www.brevardfl.gov/brevarddelivers. Brevard Delivers is a County-published update on County Government upcoming projects, projects that are underway and projects that have recently been completed. The publication, which is available in the second, third and fourth quarters in electronic form only, also features in-depth stories on major projects that the County is undertaking, including tax-funded restoration of the Indian River Lagoon. To subscribe and receive future editions of Brevard Delivers, please visit https://apps.brevardcounty.us/PublicInformationReleases/ and be sure to click on Brevard Delivers under Public Information Release Categories. June 13, 2017 Brevard County Local Coordinating Board for the Transportation Disadvantaged Meets June 26 BREVARD COUNTY, FL. -- The Brevard County Local Coordinating Board for Transportation Disadvantaged Services, established by Chapter 427 of the Florida Statutes, will meet Monday, June 26, at 2 p.m. in the Space Coast Room at the Viera Government Center, 2725 Judge Fran Jamieson Way, Viera. Questions pertaining to this meeting should be directed to James Liesenfelt at (321) 635-7815 or e-mail at Jim.Liesenfelt@brevardfl.gov. If a person desires to appeal any decision made by this board, agency, or commission with respect to any matter considered at this meeting or hearing, such a person will need a record of the proceedings and that, for such purposes, such person may need to ensure that a verbatim record of the proceedings is made, at his/her own expense, which record includes testimony and evidence upon which such appeal is to be based. In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act and Section 286.26, F.S., persons needing accommodations or an interpreter to participate in the proceeding should notice the Transit Services Department no later than 48 hours prior to the meeting at 635-7815 ext. 601. June 13, 2017 Water Resource Cost-Share Program Pumps Funding into Four Brevard County Projects BREVARD COUNTY, FL. -- Four projects in Brevard County are among 43 statewide environmental cleanup efforts that will share in approximately $21.3 million from the St. Johns River Water Management District for construction of water supply and water conservation, water quality improvement, flood protection and natural systems restoration projects. The district's Governing Board today approved the project ranking for the fiscal year 2017–2018 Districtwide Annual Cost-share Program. More than 55 people representing 22 entities attended the meeting to express appreciation for the partnership opportunity. "By partnering with local governments and water suppliers, we are stretching taxpayer dollars further for construction projects that will produce real results in water resource protection," said St. Johns River Water Management District Executive Director Dr. Ann Shortelle. "These cost-share funds will help develop more than 7 million gallons of alternative water supplies, reduce nutrient loading to our waterways and springs, protect thousands of acres from flooding and create additional aquifer recharge opportunities. The four projects in Brevard County are: Cocoa Beach Muck Removal Phase III, a $1.8 million project that will receive $608,684 in cost share for removal of $261,000 cubic yards of muck from Indian River Lagoon; .Cocoa Toilet Rebate Program, a $2,500 project that will receive a $1,250 cost share to provide rebates to residents who replace 50 3.5gpf toilets with 1.28gpf; Titusville South Street Basin Baffle Boxes, a $337,920 project that will receive a $110,000 cost share for installation of second generation baffle boxes within the 202-acre South Street basin and reduce nutrient load reduction into Indian River Lagoon; and the Brevard County Micco Sewer Line Extension, which is a $1.95 million project that will receive a $644,793 cost share to connect 34 commercial waterfront businesses and homes that are currently on septic system to the Micco sewer line. "We are pleased to continue the great partnership we have with SJRWMD on projects that benefit the Indian River Lagoon and the vitality of our community" said Brevard County Natural Resources Management Director Virginia Barker, who attended the SJRWMD Governing Board meeting on Tuesday. "These District funds allow us to accelerate implementation of the Save Our Indian River Lagoon Project Plan." State Sen. Debbie Mayfield, R-Vero Beach, said she was grateful for the opportunity to partner with the district on construction projects that will "benefit both taxpayers and our vital water resources." "The Indian River Lagoon is a diverse estuary, truly one of a kind, and an economic driver in east-central Florida," she said. "I commend the district and local governments for continuing its longtime collaboration to restore the lagoon by removing septic tank discharges and reducing nutrient loads." Local highlights of the approved project list include: The removal of 261,000 cubic yards of muck from 121 acres of 13 residential canals in Brevard County, which will result in an estimated removal of 55,495 pounds per year of total nitrogen and 34,000 pounds per year of total phosphorus from the Indian River Lagoon. Installation of baffle boxes in Titusville, which will reduce nutrient loading to the Indian River Lagoon by approximately 720 pounds per year of total nitrogen and 125 pounds per year of total phosphorus. Fifty-seven applications totaling $31.2 million in requested district funding were ranked and scored based on core mission benefits, cost effectiveness, likelihood of successful and timely completion, and application quality and completeness. Projects must begin during fiscal year 2018 and be completed within two years. June 10, 2017 Mosquito Forecast: Brevard County Residents Should Take Preventative Measures BREVARD COUNTY, FL. -- Recent rains have helped rid Brevard County of one menace – an outbreak of brushfires – but residents should now brace for an anticipated onslaught of mosquitoes resulting from standing water, replenished retention ponds and swollen waterways. The impact could be felt as early as Sunday, June 12, and is expected to continue through Thursday, June 15. Chris Richmond, operations manager for Brevard County Mosquito Control, said the entire county will experience a series of large emergences of mosquitoes. "This means that on each of those days new mosquitoes will emerge from breeding areas and take flight," Richmond said. "We attempted all the possible preventative measures but the unusual rains during the daylight hours, and other factors outside of our control, have hindered pre-hatch and larval control efforts." Brevard County residents are encouraged to take personal pro-active measures to avoid mosquito bites, including the use of mosquito repellent, wearing long-sleeve shirts and pants while outdoors, and avoiding places and times when mosquitoes bite. Generally, the peak biting periods occur just before and after sunset and again just before dawn. Richmond said Mosquito Control will address the most-infested areas first. Severity of infestation is based upon data from 88 mosquito monitoring stations at locations that are monitored and checked daily throughout the county. "These emergence events may be larger than what most people have experienced previously," Richmond said. "We will do our best to address the issue as quickly as weather conditions allow. We anticipate all mosquito control resources to be fully engaged with this effort for the next two weeks." Any rain event will cause mosquitoes to hatch in a 5- to 7-day period in any area that holds water. Brevard County is only 10 days into the rainy season, which runs June 1 to Nov. 30. The forecast through Monday, June 19, includes chances for rain and showers each day. Mosquito treatment by truck or air cannot take place if it is raining or winds exceed 10 to 15 mph. To keep up with mosquito-spraying efforts, or to find out when your neighborhood will be sprayed, residents are invited to view www.brevardfl.gov/MosquitoControl/SprayAreas which provides the areas to be treated nightly. Residents can also view the areas that were successfully treated the previous evening. Residents can also call (321) 264-5032, ext. 1, for a list of spray areas scheduled for treatment each evening. June 6, 2017 Special Public Program: The Future of the EEL Program BREVARD COUNTY, FL. -- A comprehensive history of the Environmentally Endangered Lands program, and a look toward the future, will be presented by Program Manager Mike Knight at the historic Sams House Cabin at Pine Island Conservation Area. Two dates are available: 6-8 p.m. Thursday, June 15 10 a.m. to noon Saturday, July 8 Sams House at Pine Island is located at 6195 N. Tropical Trail on Merritt Island. For additional information, contact Martha Pessaro at (321) 449-4720 or Martha.Pessaro@brevardfl.gov. The Sams House at Pine Island Conservation Area was created and managed under Brevard County's Environmentally Endangered Lands Program referendum. The referendum was established by voters in 1990 to protect and preserve the rich biological diversity of Brevard County for future generations. June 6, 2017 North Brevard Commission on Parks and Recreation meets June 8 TITUSVILLE, Fla. -- The North Brevard Commission on Parks and Recreation will hold its next monthly meeting at 5 p.m. Thursday, June 8, in the Brevard Room, 518 South Palm Ave., in Titusville. The public is invited. The Brevard Room is located in a building on the north side of the parking lot behind the Brevard County Government Center-North. For more information, call Jeff Davis at (321) 264-5105. June 5, 2017 Brevard County Lifts Burn Ban BREVARD COUNTY, FL. -- The start of the rainy season, local weather forecasts highlighted by daily shower activity, and a drop in the Keetch-Byram Drought Index (KBDI) prompted suspension Monday of the County's burn ban, which had been in place since April 11. The ban prohibited campfires, bonfires, trash burning and other incineration due to extremely dry conditions and the increased safety risk posed by numerous and active wildfires across the state, including Brevard County. In early April, Florida Gov. Rick Scott declared a state of emergency following increased wildfires across the state. The burn ban, Ordinance 2017-12, provided the chairman of the Board of County Commissioners authority to suspend the ban when the KBDI for Brevard County, as published by the Florida Forest Service, fell below 450. BOCC Chairman Curt Smith suspended the burn ban on Monday, when the KBDI was reported at 423. May 20, 2017 EEL Program to hold Selection and Management Committee Meeting June 23 BREVARD COUNTY, Fla. -- A meeting of the Environmentally Endangered Lands Program's Selection and Management Committee, established by the Brevard County Board of County Commissioners, will be held at 1 p.m. Friday, June 23, at the EEL Program Office, 91 East Drive, Melbourne. The purpose of this meeting is to review lands under consideration for public acquisition and management by the Brevard County Environmentally Endangered Lands Program. Any questions regarding this meeting should be directed to Laura Clark (321) 255-4466 or Laura.Clark@brevardparks.com. If a person desires to appeal any decision made by this board, agency or commission (as appropriate) with respect to any matter considered at this meeting or hearing, such a person will need a record of this proceeding and that, for such purposes, such person may need to ensure that a verbatim record of this proceeding is made, at his/her own expense, which record includes testimony and evidence upon which any such appeal is to be based. In accordance with the American Disabilities Act and Section 286.26, F.S., persons needing accommodations or any interpreter to participate in the proceeding should contact Laura Clark, EEL Program Administrative secretary, no later than 48 hours prior to the meeting at (321) 255-4466. May 23, 2017 Renaming Ceremony to Honor Late Library Services Director COCOA, FL. -- The Central Brevard Library and Reference Center will be renamed Catherine Schweinsberg Rood Central Library during a ceremony at 5:30 p.m. Friday, May 26, at the library, 308 Forrest Ave., in Cocoa. Rood, who passed away after a lengthy illness in September 2016, retired in 2012 after 32 years of dedicated service to Brevard County, 14 of those as Library Services Director. Rood began her career with the County in March 1980 as a Children's Specialist, and was soon promoted to Head of Technical Services and Assistant to the Library Coordinator, and by 1982 she was Head of the Reference Department at the Melbourne Public Library. In 1983, Rood was promoted to Director of the Cocoa Public Library, followed by another promotion in 1988 to Library Operations Manager, overseeing the operations of all libraries in Brevard County. She led the effort to create uniform policies and procedures for the Library System, and to integrate new technology, implementing the first online card catalog in 1990, and overseeing construction of four new libraries. In 1998, Rood was promoted to Library Services Director, leading a system of 17 public libraries. Friday's renaming ceremony is open to the public. Refreshment will be served. Please RSVP at jhansen@brev.org. May 7, 2017 Brevard County Emergency Management Plans Countywide AlertBrevard Test BREVARD COUNTY, FL. -- Brevard County Emergency Management will dial up more than 150,000 county residents on May 11 as part of a system-wide test of the AlertBrevard emergency notification system. Please visit www.embrevard.com to register for AlertBrevard to be a part of this test. The test will be conducted at 2 p.m. Thursday, May 11, as part of Hurricane Preparedness week, which runs May 7-13. Brevard County Emergency Management implemented the Everbridge Notification System, locally known as AlertBrevard, on Oct. 1, 2016, just days before Hurricane Matthew. The system was then used to notify almost 40,000 residents of evacuation orders in the barrier islands. "By testing the system and contacting all of these residents, they can be made aware of the notification system, how it works, and how they can edit their information to include emails and cell phone numbers," said Emergency Management Director Kimberly Prosser. "This test can improve the data available to notify residents and test how long it takes to notify all 156,000 residents currently in the system." Since AlertBrevard's enactment, over 4,000 Brevard County residents have chosen to "opt in" to the system by going to the Brevard County Emergency Management website and entering contact information and notification preferences. Contact information for an additional 4,476 residents has been transferred from the old system to the new system. Most of the AlertBrevard data comes from the Yellow or White pages, resulting in 148,129 residents that can be contacted by their home or business phone. AlertBrevard has the ability to send automatic weather alerts and geographic-specific law enforcement and utility notifications. Just like during Matthew, the system can be used to alert the public about protective measures including: evacuation orders, boil water notices and other emergency-related incidents. AlertBrevard has the ability to hold five different addresses and up to 10 contact methods. Please visit www.embrevard.com to register for AlertBrevard to receive automatic weather, law enforcement, utility and emergency notifications specific to your location. Currently the following agencies have partnered with Emergency Management to create a unified mission for alert and warning notifications throughout the county: Brevard County Sherriff's Office, Brevard County Utilities, Titusville Police Department, City of Cocoa, City of Cocoa Beach, and the Indian Harbour Beach Police Department. May 3, 2017 UF/Brevard Extension Services to host Child Passenger Safety Seminars MELBOURNE, FL. -- The UF/Brevard Extension Service invites you to learn about correct selection, installation and use of child restraints, plus how child restraints work to protect children. This class is REQUIRED of expectant moms/dads in need of a seat. Pre-registration is also required. If you are in need of replacing an existing seat for an older child, you can call (321) 633-1702 Ext. 0 to schedule an appointment for a child seat check. Mother's in need of a seat will be able to purchase a convertible seat at a reduced cost at the end of the class. Multiple dates and locations are being offered. Please visit our Eventbrite website to register at: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/child-passenger-safety-seminar-melbourne-tickets-33704649514 and use the pull-down menu at the top of the page to select dates for the Turnquest Community Center location in Melbourne, and use https://www.eventbrite.com/e/child-passenger-safety-seminar-cocoa-tickets-33666055077. Cost: Free. May 3, 2017 Join Us May 16 for a Community Climate Conversation BREVARD COUNTY, FL. -- UF/IFAS Brevard County Extension and the USF Department of Anthropology invite you to take part in a Climate Community Conversation from 6 to 8 p.m. Tuesday, May 16, at our Cocoa office, 3695 Lake Drive. We will utilize a nationally vetted framework from the Kettering Institute and the National Environmental Issues Forum. Your participation and feedback will help to inform a larger regional and state-wide effort. After an introductory presentation, you will participate in small group discussions about the potential effects of climate change in the Space Coast region. Your input will help us understand your thoughts on this important issue and how we can better communicate with you about climate change. This event is free, but seating is limited and you must register to attend at our Eventbrite website: https://spacecoastclimateconversation.eventbrite.com. April 27, 2017 Brevard County Parks & Recreation Hosts North Area Summer Day Camps 2017 MIMS, TITUSVILLE, PORT ST. JOHN, SHARPES, FL..— Brevard County Parks and Recreation's North Area is offering summer day camps from May 25-Aug. 9. Registration begins May 1. Camp registration is being held at the following community centers during operating hours: Cuyler Community Center, 2329 Harry T. Moore Ave., Mims (321) 264-5045; Isaac Campbell, Sr. Community Center, 701 South St., Titusville, (321) 264-5040; Port St. John Community Center, 6650 Corto Road, Port St. John (321) 633-1904; Sandrift Community Center, 585 North Singleton Ave., Titusville (321) 264-5037; and Walter Butler Community Center, 4201 North US 1, Cocoa (321) 433-4448. Traditional Summer Day Camp is open to children who have completed kindergarten through completed 6th grade. Camp hours are from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. The weekly fee is $90 for the first child and $80 for each additional child in the same household. The daily fee is $30 and the additional child discount does not apply to the daily rate. Specialty camps offered are Teen Camp at Walter Butler Community Center and Camp Inspiration at Manatee Hammock Campground. The weekly fee for specialty camps is $100 plus field trips and the hours are from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Teen Camp is open to children who have completed 6th grade through completed 9th grade and registration is accepted at Walter Butler Community Center. Camp Inspiration is open to ages 13 through 22 years, and registration is accepted during business hours at the North Area Parks Office, 475 N. Williams Ave, Titusville, (321) 264-5058. Discounts are available to qualifying families; please call a community center in your area for further information on discounted rates. Participants for all camps may also register online at https://registration.brevardcounty.us. April 27, 2017 UPDATE: Moore Cultural Center/Museum to Remain Open During Renovations MIMS, FL. -- Initial concerns that renovations would force the Harry T. & Harriette V. Moore Cultural Center & Museum, located at, 2180 Freedom Avenue, Mims, to close from May 1-8, have not panned out. The decision was made on Thursday to keep the center and museum open to the public throughout the duration of the project, which will impact different sections of the center -- but not all at the same time. April 18, 2017 Public Input Sought By County Manager Search Firm BREVARD COUNTY, FL. -- An executive search firm tasked with helping the Brevard County Board of County Commissioners recruit a County Manager is seeking public input in a meeting to be held from 5-7 p.m. Thursday, April 20, in the Commission Chambers, Building C, first floor, of the Brevard County Government Center, 2725 Judge Fran Jamieson Way, Viera. County Manager Stockton Whitten announced in early February he had accepted a position with Eastern Florida State College. His resignation is effective April 30. Whitten has worked in county government 26 years, including 22 years in administrative positions with Brevard County Government. He has been county manager since 2014. The executive search firm, The Mercer Group, is making this opportunity available for the public to provide input on the recruitment of the next Brevard County Manager. The needs of the hearing and/or visually impaired persons shall be met if the department sponsoring the meeting/hearing is presented with such a request and contacts the ADA Coordinator at least 48 hours prior to the public meeting/hearing at (321) 637-5347. April 12, 2017 Brevard County Commission OKs Plan To Nearly Triple Road Resurfacing Program BREVARD COUNTY, FL. – A $6 million-plus annual funding plan that will nearly triple the number of road miles resurfaced in Brevard County beginning in fiscal 2018 received unanimous approval this week from the Brevard County Board of County Commissioners. The funding plan is aimed at addressing the growth of the existing backlog of roads in the county that are currently deemed in need of resurfacing, are considered at risk for reconstruction or have been determined that reconstruction is required. Commissioners voted 5-0 to allocate funds that will increase from 20 to 55 the number of miles resurfaced in each of the next four years (2018-2021), and then bump that number to 61 miles in 2022 and beyond. The County maintains 1,614 miles of roads. "This will be a tremendous increase in terms of what we're presently doing in terms of resurfacing roads," said Commission Chairman Curt Smith. The funding plan paves the way for Commissioners to begin prioritizing in the coming months which county roads will be targeted first. Cited among benefits of the funding plan includes elimination of continued growth in the resurfacing backlog; reduction in the growth of the reconstruction backlog; and gradual improvement of the average condition of Brevard County roads. It costs the County about $110,000 to resurface a mile of road, versus more than $500,000 per mile for reconstruction. Tuesday, April 11, 2017 Brevard County Implements Burn Ban BREVARD COUNTY, FL. -- Due to ongoing drought conditions, favorable to the eruption of wildfires, Brevard County has implemented a ban on open burning throughout the county. The ban, approved Tuesday evening by the Brevard County Board of County Commissioners, is effective in both incorporated and unincorporated areas and includes campfires, bonfires, trash burning and other incineration. On Tuesday, Gov. Rick Scott declared a state of emergency following increased wildfires across the state. The Keetch-Byram Drought Index currently averages in the 500-549 range in Brevard County on a scale of 750. There are currently more than 100 active wildfires across the state, including 4 active brush fires in Brevard County. "The continuous sparking of brush fires, the fact that Brevard has reached an extreme level on the Fire Danger Index, and the repeated highway closures due to visibility issues, indicates that we cannot wait until the drought index goes higher, or we experience fires that are closer to homes, to react," said Brevard County Emergency Management Director Kimberly Prosser. "It's an issue of public safety." The burn ban will remain in effect until conditions change significantly. Most surrounding counties have also declared burn bans until drought conditions have eased. Little relief from the drought is anticipated prior to the beginning of the rainy season, which begins June 1. The burn ban is supported by Brevard County Fire Rescue, the Space Coast Fire Chiefs Association, and Brevard County Emergency Management. "Due to increasing threats in the occurrence of brush fires, the county needs to take action to initiate a burn ban to prevent further brush fire incidents," said Scott Gold, assistant chief of BCFR Fire Operations. Brevard Delivers Brevard Delivers, the County's new quarterly report (taking place of our former annual report INSIDE) is hot off the presses. Hard copies are currently being delivered to libraries around the county. However, Brevard County residents can have instant access to Brevard Delivers by clicking on this link - www.brevardfl.gov/brevarddelivers. The digital version of Brevard Delivers includes hyperlinks to important phone numbers, hyperlinks to the various services provided by County departments, and hyperlinks to videos that provide more information on key topics, like our ongoing Lean Six Sigma initiatives. The digital version also allows us to update information, phone numbers and even make edits, if the need arises. Unlike INSIDE, which looked at the previous year's accomplishments and the goals for the coming year, Brevard Delivers will provide Brevard County residents information on recently completed projects, will provide status reports of projects that are currently underway and will look ahead to projects planned in the weeks ahead. By having a quarterly report, we can keep residents up to date throughout the year on the many services we're providing and keep our taxpayers better informed on how their dollars are being utilized for the betterment of our entire county. To subscribe today to receive Brevard Delivers, go here: https://apps.brevardcounty.us/PublicInformationReleases/. April 7, 2017 Spoken Word event planned at Harry T. & Harriette V. Moore Cultural Center MIMS, FL. -- Spoken Word will be held from 6-9 p.m. Saturday, April 22, at the Harry T. & Harriette V. Moore Memorial Park & Museum, 2180 Freedom Avenue, Mims, Florida. Come out and share your creativity with us in the form of poetry. Whether you do free style, spoken word, or rap, we are looking for you. We will have an open mic night to give poetry performers a platform to express their art form. This event is for ages 19 and older, and we encourage you to bring some family and friends to join us! For more information regarding this program, please contact the Harry T. & Harriette V. Moore Memorial Park & Museum at (321) 264-6595. April 3, 2017 Explore 'Natural Wonders' at 8th Annual Viera Wetlands Nature Festival BREVARD COUNTY, Fla. -- "Supporting Viera's Natural Wonders" is the theme for this year's 8th Annual Viera Wetlands Nature Festival, scheduled for 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, April 22, and 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sunday, April 23. Additionally, sunrise tours will be offered both days by prior registration, and sunset tours will be offered Saturday evening, again by prior registration. Free to the public, the festival is organized annually at the Ritch Grissom Memorial Wetlands at Viera, 3685 Charlie Corbeil Way, Viera, FL 32940. Exhibits will feature local wildlife—birds, bats, and butterflies—native plants, nature photography and art. Scheduled activities include guided walking and van tours of the wetlands, tours of the adjacent water reclamation facility, and workshops in both wildlife photography and birding. Saturday morning, youth art contest entries from the April 13 Charlie Corbeil Conservation Awards will be on display; awards will be presented to the winners at noon. Certification of the site's butterfly garden, overlooking the wetland's central lake, as an official Monarch Waystation is also planned. Many of the festival's tours will be led by volunteer Wetland Rangers, who will share their knowledge and experience of the wetlands and its inhabitants. Additional guides include local photography notables. On Saturday, an advanced sunrise photo workshop will be led by Pat "Whitey" Bryan, and a sunset photo walk will be guided by Patty Corapi. Also scheduled for Saturday, a sunset tour by Florida Master Naturalist Ivan Green will follow the evening installation of a bat house and presentation by Shari Blissett-Clark, president of Florida Bat Conservancy. Throughout the festival, nature-related exhibitors will be present, and food vendors will also be available. The Viera Wetlands Nature Festival is sponsored by The Viera Company and Viera Community Institute to help raise funds in support of public access and environmental management programs at the Viera Wetlands. Admittance to the festival is free. While registering for tours and classes online, donations in support of the wetlands are welcome, but are not required. Some tours and workshops are limited by available seating or other considerations, and early-registration is encouraged. To register for tours and workshops, visit https://tinyurl.com/2017VWNF, or contact Events@Viera.com. The Viera Wetlands were constructed by Brevard County as the final component of the Utility Services Department's adjacent water reclamation facility. Volunteer opportunities and land management of the wetlands are overseen by the Natural Resources Management Department. Additional information about the Ritch Grissom Memorial Wetlands at Viera is available at https://www.grissomwetlands.org. April 1, 2017 Backyard Bee Keepers at Sams House Saturday, April 8th, 10:00 am to 11:00 am Clifton Best, President of the Brevard Backyard Beekeepers,Inc. will present a program on the importance of the bees as pollinator species. Join us and learn about the Brevard Backyard Beekeepers whose mission is as follows: To provide a meeting place for Brevard County beekeepers and those with a love of honeybees in order to facilitate the sharing of scientific knowledge and experiences. This will help the local honeybee population and beekeepers thrive. To create an atmosphere of fellowship with honeybee enthusiasts and to encourage and educate people who want to become backyard beekeepers! Guided Walk at Sams House Sunday, April 9th, 10:00 am to 12:00 pm Mark Prynoski, Florida Master Naturalist Guide will venture out into the Pine Island Conservation Area along the trails. Join us and learn about the diverse ecosystem surrounding the Sams House at Pine Island Conservation Area! Mark is a Florida Master Naturalist and the EEL program is excited to have Florida Master Naturalists on board to provide hikes. Be sure to wear trail appropriate clothing and to bring water and protection from the elements to assure an enjoyable hike with lasting memories and new found knowledge. Sams House at Pine Island Conservation Area 6195 North Tropical Trail Merritt Island, Florida 32953 phone: 321-449-4720 martha.pessaro@brevardfl.gov www.eelbrevard.com & www.facebook.com/samshousepineisland The Sams House at Pine Island Conservation Area was created and managed under Brevard County's Environmentally Endangered Lands Program referendum. The referendum was established by voters in 1990 to protect and preserve the rich biological diversity of Brevard County future generations. March 31, 2017 Easter Activities Will Have North Brevard Hopping in April MIMS, TITUSVILLE, PORT ST. JOHN, SHARPES, Fla.-- Brevard County Parks and Recreation is offering Easter activities in North Brevard in April. The 7th Annual Easter Day of Fun at Walter Butler Community Center located at Bernice G. Jackson Park, 4201 North U.S. Highway 1, Cocoa (Sharpes), on Friday, April 7, starting at 3:30 p.m. Participants can enjoy a free egg hunt, face painting, crafts and more! All participants should bring their own egg carriers. This event is cosponsored with North Cocoa Civic League. Call (321) 433-4448 for more information. There will be two free egg hunts and a movie at Fay Park, 6315 Depot Road in Port St. John, on Saturday, April 15. Children ages six through 12 should bring a flashlight for the egg hunt starting at 8 p.m., and all participants should bring their own egg carrier. Immediately following Brevard County Parks and Recreation would like to welcome everyone to see a free movie in the park, the movie is The Lorax. Call (321) 633-1904 for more information. Isaac Campbell, Sr. Park will host a free egg hunt and Bunny Bingo on Friday, April 14, starting at 2 p.m. All participants should bring their own egg carrier. Call (321) 264-5040 for more information. Cuyler Park will host a free egg hunt on Sunday, April 16, starting at 2 p.m. All participants should bring their own egg carriers. Call (321) 264-5045 for more information. Breakfast with the Easter Bunny, for children 10 years of age and under, will be held on Saturday, April 15, starting at 9 a.m. at Sand Point Park, 101 N. Washington Avenue, Titusville. There will be a pancake breakfast, crafts and egg hunt. Remember to bring your own egg carrier and camera. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Tickets are $3 for each adult and $5 for each child. Space is limited to the first 150 children. Pre-registration is recommended at Sandrift Community Center, 585 N. Singleton Avenue, Titusville. Call (321) 264-5037 for more information. March 31, 2017 Ribbon-Cutting set April 28 for Brevard County's Newest Nature Play Area ROCKLEDGE, FL. -- Riverwalk - A Family Park located at 5355 US Hwy 1, in Rockledge -- will have a ribbon cutting for their new Nature Explore Classroom from 2-3 p.m. Friday, April 28. Come explore this new creative play space made possible through a grant from National Recreation and Parks Association in collaboration with The Walt Disney Company. Nature Explore is a collaborative program of the Arbor Day Foundation and Dimensions Educational Research Foundation, 501(c)3 nonprofit organizations. The mission of this comprehensive, research-based initiative is to help children and families develop a profound engagement with the natural world, where nature is an integral, joyful part of children's daily learning. Nature Explore Classrooms include the large motor skill development of a traditional playground but go well beyond that to bring in elements of fine motor skills, art, music, construction, gardening, exploration, and imagination all using natural materials. Sponsors for the Nature Explore Classroom at Riverwalk Park include: Atlantic Environmental Solutions, Brevard Zoo, Coastal Health Systems of Brevard, Conradina Chapter of the Florida Native Plant Society, Maple Street Natives, and The Viera Company. Supporters of the Nature Explore Classroom of both time and materials include Brevard Botanical Garden, Brevard County Natural Resources, Love Bugs Bakery, Richards Paints, Royalty Tree Service, Space Coast Chapter of the Florida Master Naturalists, UF/IFAS Master Gardeners, Walt Disney World Cruise Lines. Contact Riverwalk Nature Center at riverwalk@brevardparks.com or (321) 433-4490 for more information. March 31, 2017 EEL Program to hold Selection and Management Committee Meeting April 17 BREVARD COUNTY, Fla. -- A meeting of the Environmentally Endangered Lands Program's Selection and Management Committee, established by the Brevard County Board of County Commissioners, will be held from 1-4 p.m. Monday, April 17, at the EEL Program Office, 91 East Drive, Melbourne. The purpose of this meeting is to review lands under consideration for public acquisition and management by the Brevard County Environmentally Endangered Lands Program. Any questions regarding this meeting should be directed to Laura Clark (321) 255-4466 or Laura.Clark@brevardparks.com. If a person desires to appeal any decision made by this board, agency or commission (as appropriate) with respect to any matter considered at this meeting or hearing, such a person will need a record of this proceeding and that, for such purposes, such person may need to ensure that a verbatim record of this proceeding is made, at his/her own expense, which record includes testimony and evidence upon which any such appeal is to be based. In accordance with the American Disabilities Act and Section 286.26, F.S., persons needing accommodations or any interpreter to participate in the proceeding should contact Laura Clark, EEL Program Administrative secretary, no later than 48 hours prior to the meeting at (321) 255-4466. March 30, 2017 UF/Brevard Extension Service to host 4-H Market Poultry Project Auction/Social BREVARD COUNTY, FL. -- The fabulous fowl from our 4-H Market Poultry Project will be arriving for our Auction and Social at the UF/IFAS Extension Cocoa office, 3695 Lake Drive, on Saturday April 1, from 2 - 5 p.m. Please join us for the social for registered buyers at 2 p.m. and for the Poultry Auction at 3 p.m. In addition to our Poultry Project, 4-H youth will also compete in culinary, fine arts, horticulture, photography, and sewing competitions. Stop by to admire displays of their creativity and talent, and to socialize with youth exhibitors, view market poultry, and bid on silent auction items, prior to the poultry auction. For more information, contact Andrea Lazzari at (321) 633-1702 or via email at a.lazzari11@ufl.edu. March 27, 2017 VOTE TO SUPPORT YOUR FAVORITE BREVARD COUNTY PARK THIS EARTH MONTH BREVARD COUNTY, Fla. -- One of three Brevard County parks has the chance to receive $20,000 through Meet Me At The Park Campaign Our local parks make Brevard County a better place to live. Parks are essential to our community's health and wellbeing asthey provide safe places to get active, enjoy nature, preserve the environment and bring people together. That's why from April 1 to April 30 Brevard County residents will have the opportunity to help one of three park projects receive$20,000 in grant funding to make improvements. The projects are: Multi-Purpose Field at Bernice G. Jackson Park in Sharpes. Located next to an elementary school with a strong after school presence, the addition of a multi-purpose field will encourage kids to play outside, provide access to organized sports activities, and promote healthy living through regular exercise. You can vote for this project starting April 1 by texting Bernice to 35350.* Observation Platforms at Ulumay Wildlife Sanctuary in Merritt Island. New pressure treated 4 to 5 foot viewing platforms with signage of local wildlife, distance markers, maps, and park information will provide permanent interior views of the sanctuary that are currently not viewable due to natural vegetation. You can vote for this project starting April 1 by texting Ulumay to 35350.* Pedway Enhancements at Wickham Park in Melbourne. The pedway around the park will be enhanced with alcoves for picnic tables and park benches with distance/mileage and nature identification signage. You can vote for this project starting April 1 by texting Wickham to 35350.* By visiting NRPA.org/BeInspired, park supporters can vote daily for their favorite park project. At the end of April, the park project with the most votes will receive grant funding. New this year, everyone who votes will be entered into a drawing for a tablet outfitted for the outdoors. "Meet Me at the Park provides County residentsand visitors a unique opportunity to support local parks. It takes just aminute of your day to cast your vote. The result will not only improve yourneighborhood park but also the quality of life for you and your family."-MaryEllen Donner, Director, Brevard County Parks and Recreation "Supporting local parks is essential to thehealth and vitality of communities everywhere," said Lori Robertson, NRPADirector of Conservation. "That's why we are proud to collaborate with The WaltDisney Company to help fund critical park improvement projects in communitiesin need. We encourage everyone to join us in giving back to the places thatshape so much of our lives by voting in this year's Meet Me at the Parkcampaign." Last year, Brevard County voted for Riverwalk –A Family Park to win $20,000. With that funding, the community is now able to enjoy the outdoor Nature Explore Classroom. This year, resident votes will help improve another one of Brevard County's great parks. Nationally, more than $600,000 has been awarded to help fund local park improvement projects as part of the Meet Me At The Park campaign. This Earth Month, show how parks revitalize yourcommunity and vote to improve local parks right here in Brevard County.Encourage your friends to vote too by taking a selfie in your favorite park andusing the hashtags #MeetMeAtThePark, #Parkies and #BeInspired. For more information and to vote, visitNRPA.org/BeInspired. *Message and data rates may apply. Text STOP to35350 to opt out and to discontinue further participation in the Promotion. Text HELP for information. March 15, 2017 Earth Day Festival at the Enchanted Forest Sanctuary, April 22 TITUSVILLE, FL. -- Join us for our annual & Earth Day Celebration, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., on Saturday, April 22, at the Enchanted Forest Sanctuary in Titusville. During this free event, guests are invited to experience guided hikes, special presentations, meet bats and other Florida wildlife, explore environmental exhibitors, enjoy food vendors, listen to live music, and much more! Earth Day Festival will feature many children's activities, including face painting, crafts, and hands-on activities! For more events or information on the Enchanted Forest Sanctuary and the Environmentally Endangered Lands Program, visit www.eelbrevard.com or call (321) 264-5185. The Enchanted Forest Sanctuary is located at 444 Columbia Blvd., Titusville, FL. 32780. Also find us on Twitter and Facebook! March 10, 2017 UF/Brevard Extension Service to Host Small Ruminant Production Conference BREVARD COUNTY, Fla. -- Join the UF/Brevard County Extension Service beginning at 8 a.m. Friday, March 24 for our Small Ruminant Production Conference at the UF/IFAS Osceola County Extension Office in Kissimmee. Livestock Agents from across the state will discuss research-based and environmentally friendly ways small ruminant producers can get the most from their livestock in this daylong event. Topics include milking parlor hygiene, animal evaluation, pasture management, parasite prevention, and alternative marketing opportunities. Space is limited. Pre-registration online at https://UFSmallRuminant.eventbrite.com is required. Admission is $30, and includes written material and a catered lunch. For more information, please contact Joe Walter at jwalter@fl.edu or 321-633-1702 ext. 234. March 10, 2017 4th Annual 4-H Association Social Auction Extravaganza to be held April 1 BREVARD COUNTY, Fla. -- The University of Florida/Brevard County Extension Service would like to extend a cordial invitation to the public for an "eggciting" event starting at 2 p.m. Saturday, April 1, at the UF/IFAS Extension Brevard County Cocoa office, 3695 Lake Drive. Our Social for registered buyers begins at 2 p.m. and the Poultry Auction will begin at 3 p.m.. In addition to the poultry project, 4-H youth will also compete in culinary, fine arts, horticulture, photography, and sewing competitions. Stop by to admire displays of their creativity and talent. Stop by to admire displays of their creativity and talent and to socialize with youth exhibitors, view market poultry, and bid on silent auction items, prior to our Poultry Auction. For the past eight months, our youth have been raising chicks in preparation for the auction, and the best trio of birds from each youth exhibitor will be featured. This year we will be auctioning more than 150 Dominique laying hens. 4-H teaches youth that there is more to winning than a blue ribbon. They also learn the hard work they put into their animal project leads them to succeed, and that they can confidently tackle any obstacle after being a 4-H member. 4-H is the only program in Brevard that supports life skill development through raising animals. Each year our program continues to grow, illustrating we have found a niche and youth are interested in livestock and small animal husbandry. For more information, please contact Extension Brevard County 4-H at (321) 633-1702 or via email at a.lazzari11@ufl.edu.. March 9, 2017 EEL Program to hold Selection/Management and Procedures Meeting March 23 BREVARD COUNTY, Fla. -- A meeting of the Environmentally Endangered Lands Program's Selection and Management Committee and Procedures Committee, established by the Brevard County Board of County Commissioners, will be held from 2:45 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. on Thursday, March 23, at the EEL Program Office, 91 East Drive, Melbourne. The purpose of this meeting is to discuss long term EEL program funding options. Any questions regarding this meeting should be directed to Laura Clark (321) 255-4466 or Laura.Clark@brevardparks.com. If a person desires to appeal any decision made by this board, agency or commission (as appropriate) with respect to any matter considered at this meeting or hearing, such a person will need a record of this proceeding and that, for such purposes, such person may need to ensure that a verbatim record of this proceeding is made, at his/her own expense, which record includes testimony and evidence upon which any such appeal is to be based. In accordance with the American Disabilities Act and Section 286.26, F.S., persons needing accommodations or any interpreter to participate in the proceeding should contact Laura Clark, EEL Program Administrative secretary, no later than 48 hours prior to the meeting at (321) 255-4466 March 9, 2017 EEL Program to hold Selection/Management and Procedures Meeting March 23 BREVARD COUNTY, Fla. -- A meeting of the Environmentally Endangered Lands Program's Selection and Management Committee and Procedures Committee, established by the Brevard County Board of County Commissioners, will be held from 2:45 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. on Thursday, March 23, at the EEL Program Office, 91 East Drive, Melbourne. The purpose of this meeting is to discuss long term EEL program funding options. Any questions regarding this meeting should be directed to Laura Clark (321) 255-4466 or Laura.Clark@brevardparks.com. If a person desires to appeal any decision made by this board, agency or commission (as appropriate) with respect to any matter considered at this meeting or hearing, such a person will need a record of this proceeding and that, for such purposes, such person may need to ensure that a verbatim record of this proceeding is made, at his/her own expense, which record includes testimony and evidence upon which any such appeal is to be based. In accordance with the American Disabilities Act and Section 286.26, F.S., persons needing accommodations or any interpreter to participate in the proceeding should contact Laura Clark, EEL Program Administrative secretary, no later than 48 hours prior to the meeting at (321) 255-4466. March 5, 2017 Lifeguard Review Course Offered at McLarty Aquatic Center in Rockledge ROCKLEDGE, FL. -- Central Area Parks and Recreation is offering a Lifeguard Review course March 10-11 at McLarty Aquatic Center 790 Barton Blvd. Rockledge, FL 32955. Course dates and times are as follows: Lifeguard Review Class March 10, 5 p.m. -8 p.m. March 11, 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. All classes must be attended. Cost is $50 and must be paid upon successful completion of a skills test on March 10. Class size is limited. Pre-registration is recommended with a minimum of five participants to hold the class. Interested candidates must have lifeguard certification, that has not expired more than 30 day ago, able to swim 300 yards nonstop (front crawl and breaststroke), complete a timed 10-pound brick retrieval, and tread water for two minutes using legs only. Upon successful course completion, participants will renew their American Red Cross certification in Lifeguard, First Aid and CPR for Professional Rescuer. For additional information or to register, call (321) 633-1874 or email Debbie Bowling at debbie.bowling@brevardparks.com March 4, 2017 Junior Lifeguard Camp offered at Joe Lee Smith Aquatic Center COCOA, FL -- Brevard County Parks and Recreation's Central Area Operations is offering a Junior Lifeguard Camp April 10-14 at Joe Lee Smith Aquatic Center located at 419 Washington Street in Cocoa. Classes will be held from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Monday through Friday. Course participants will learn basics of water safety and emergency response in the classroom and in the pool. Cost is $100. Camp size is limited, Pre-registration is required with a minimum of eight participants to hold camp. Interested candidates must be currently enrolled in grades 6th - 9th. Participants who attend all classes will receive American Red Cross certification in Junior Lifeguard, First Aid and CPR. Participants will also be invited to serve as a Junior Lifeguard at Central Area Parks and Recreation summer aquatic programs. For additional information or to register, call (321) 633-1874 or email Debbie Bowling at debbie.bowling@brevardparks.com. March 2, 2017 Harry T. & Harriette V. Moore Memorial Park & Museum Hosts MAJES-TEA Party MIMS., FL. - You are invited to an old-fashioned tea party from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, March 25, under the gazebo at the Harry T. & Harriette V. Moore Memorial Park & Museum, 2180 Freedom Ave., in Mims. Come enjoy tea with a light lunch and share some Sister-Talk with Women. Please get your dress, gloves, pearls and heels out and walk the red carpet to a day of MAJES-TEA. Guest speaker is Venetta Valdengo, assistant County Manager for Brevard County Government, who will be encouraging, inspiring, and uplifting the women who have successfully challenged the role of women in both business and the paid labor force. This event is free to attend and has limited seating. Please R.S.V.P. no later than Friday, March 3. If you have any questions regarding this program, please contact the staff at the Harry T. & Harriette V. Moore Memorial Park at (321)264-6595. March 2, 2017 Lifeguard Course Offerred at McLarty Aquatic Center in Rockledge ROCKLEDGE, FL. -- Central Area Parks and Recreation is offering a lifeguard course March 17-25 at McLarty Aquatic Center, 790 Barton Blvd. Rockledge, FL 32955. All courses are 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.. Course dates are as follows: March 17 — March 18 — March 19 — March 25 All classes must be attended. Cost is $250 and must be paid upon successful completion of a skills test on March 17. Class size is limited. Pre-registration is recommended with a minimum of five participants to hold the class. Interested candidates must be 15 years of age, able to swim 300 yards nonstop (front crawl and breaststroke), complete a timed 10-pound brick retrieval, and tread water for two minutes using legs only. Upon successful course completion, participants will receive American Red Cross certification in Lifeguard, First Aid and CPR for Professional Rescuer. For additional information or to register, call (321) 633-1874 or email Debbie Bowling at debbie.bowling@brevardparks.com. February 28, 2017 Strategies of Successful Women Event Set For Moore Cultural Center & Museum MIMS, FL. -- Strategies of Successful Women will be held from 6-7 p.m. Friday, March 10, at the Harry T. & Harriette V. Moore Memorial Park & Museum, 2180 Freedom Ave., Mims. Strategies of Successful Women is a networking opportunity for women and youth to meet with entrepreneurs and local business women to discuss strategies and tools to become more successful in the work place. This event is free. Please contact the Cultural Center for additional information at (321) 264-6595. February 28, 2017 Registration now open for Florida Master Naturalist Training ROCKLEDGE, FL. -- Learning more about Florida's natural environment now is possible through the Florida Master Naturalist Program (FMNP), an environmental education extension program being offered in partnership with the University of Florida-Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF-IFAS) and participating organizations throughout the state. The FMNP both informs and prepares persons to share information about Florida's natural world and environmental history. Registration is now open for the Coastal Systems Module being taught at Riverwalk-A Family Park, 5355 U.S. Highway 1, Rockledge. Completion of the 40-hour program results in registration in the UF-IFAS Master Naturalist Program database as a FMNP Coastal Habitats Naturalist. Additional modules will be available in the future, including Freshwater Wetlands and Upland Habitats Systems. Registration for the Coastal Systems Module closes on April 17. The FMNP is not a degree-seeking program. The program is appropriate for both the novice and the highly skilled environmental professional. Certified FMNP Provider Brandon Smith will be the principal instructor. He has been teaching environmental education for Brevard County Parks and Recreation for over 11 years and oversees Riverwalk-A Family Park, a 6.37-acre nature preserve and center, located at 5355 US Hwy 1 in Rockledge. The park is open Tuesday through Sunday from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. For more information on this and other programs you may call the nature center at (321) 433-4490 or email riverwalk@brevardparks.com. Course Dates: Friday evenings and Saturday days, April 21 through May 20. Refer to FMNP Web site, www.MasterNaturalist.org, and click on "Current Course Offerings" for specific class times. Registration: Can be filled out online by visiting www.MasterNaturalist.org and clicking on the "Current Course Offerings" link. Cost: $225, which includes 40 contact hours of instruction, a comprehensive student reference workbook, and, upon completion, registration in the UF FMNP database as a Coastal Systems Naturalist. A UF-IFAS certificate of achievement, embroidered FMNP patch, and FMNP Coastal lapel pin also will be provided at completion. Certified teachers attending the course may be able to receive 40 hours of in-service credit. UF offers a reduced rate for anyone in the same household sharing a set of books. Program: Training for the Coastal Systems Module includes classroom instruction, field trips, and practical interpretive experience related to the general ecology, habitats, vegetation types, wildlife, and conservation issues of Coastal Systems in Florida, including: Coastal Uplands, Estuarine, and Nearshore Marine Environments. The program also addresses society's role in coastal areas, develops naturalist interpretation skills, and discusses environmental ethics. Target Audience: Volunteers and staff members of nature centers, preserves, sanctuaries, and other environmental education facilities. Ecotourism operators and guides, teachers seeking opportunities for environmental educational contact hours and anyone who has an enthusiastic interest in learning more about Florida's environment is encouraged to participate. For more information about the Coastal Systems Module training or about the FMNP in general, contact the individuals listed above or log on to the official FMNP Web site at www.MasterNaturalist.org. February 28, 2017 2017 Water Safety Instructor Course offered at McLarty Aquatic Center ROCKLEDGE, FL. -- Brevard County Central Area Parks and Recreation will offer a Water Safety Instructor course March 28-April 7 at McLarty Aquatic Center, 790 Barton Blvd., in Rockledge. Course dates and times are as follows: Tuesday, March 28, 5 - 9 p.m. Wednesday, March 29, 5 - 9 p.m. Thursday, March 30, 5 - 9 p.m. Friday, March 31, 5 - 9 p.m. Tuesday, April 4, 5 - 9 p.m. Wednesday, April 5, 5 - 9 p.m. Thursday, April 6, 5 - 9 p.m. Friday, April 7, 5 - 9 p.m. Participants will need access to the Internet as this course has online components. All classes must be attended. Cost is $250 and must be paid upon successful completion of the skills test on March 28. Class size is limited. Pre-registration is recommended. A minimum of five participants is needed to hold the class. Interested candidates must be 16 years of age, maintain position on back for one minute, tread water for one minute and be able to swim 25 yards of front crawl, back crawl, breaststroke, sidestroke, elementary backstroke and 15 yards of butterfly. Upon successful completion, participants will receive American Red Cross certification as a Water Safety Instructor, and be able to teach swim lessons and water safety presentations. For additional information or to register, call (321) 633-1874 or email Debbie Bowling, Recreation Leader, at debbie.bowling@brevardparks.com February 22, 2017 Road Closures Announced for Saturday's Freedom 5K Run/Walk in Mims MIMS, FL. -- The Brevard County Sheriff's Department will close the following roads starting at 7:30 a.m. until approximately 9:30 a.m. on Saturday, Feb. 25, for the 2nd Annual Freedom 5K Run and Walk: Freedom Avenue, Kentucky Avenue, Kyzer Street, and Singleton Avenue. Motorists wishing to drive through the area are cautioned to allow extra time for their trip and to seek alternative routes if planning to travel down one of these roadways. For additional information, or to coordinate existing appointments the morning of the 5K, please call the North Area Parks Operations Office at (321) 264-5105 or email Christopher.Allison@brevardparks.com. To register for the race online, visit www.runningzone.com/events/freedom-5k/. February 21, 2017 EEL Program to hold Selection and Management Committee Meeting March 9 BREVARD COUNTY, Fla. -- A meeting of the Environmentally Endangered Lands Program's Selection and Management Committee, established by the Brevard County Board of County Commissioners, will be held from 1-2:30 p.m. Thursday, March 9, at the EEL Program Office, 91 East Drive, Melbourne. The purpose of this meeting is to review lands under consideration for public acquisition and management by the Brevard County Environmentally Endangered Lands Program. Any questions regarding this meeting should be directed to Laura Clark (321) 255-4466 or Laura.Clark@brevardparks.com. If a person desires to appeal any decision made by this board, agency or commission (as appropriate) with respect to any matter considered at this meeting or hearing, such a person will need a record of this proceeding and that, for such purposes, such person may need to ensure that a verbatim record of this proceeding is made, at his/her own expense, which record includes testimony and evidence upon which any such appeal is to be based. In accordance with the American Disabilities Act and Section 286.26, F.S., persons needing accommodations or any interpreter to participate in the proceeding should contact Laura Clark, EEL Program Administrative secretary, no later than 48 hours prior to the meeting at (321) 255-4466. February 21, 2017 Brevard County Site of Multi-Agency Public Safety Drill VIERA, FL. -- Brevard County's Intertstate 95 rest area south of Palm Bay will be the site of a multi-agency emergency response and public safety drill starting at 9 a.m. Wednesday, Feb. 22, and involving a mass-contamination/exposure scenario. WHO: Participating agencies include Brevard County Emergency Management, Brevard County Fire Rescue, Brevard County Sheriff's Office, Florida Department of Transportation, Salvation Army and Space Coast Area Transit. WHAT: A public safety drill exercising reception center capabilities as part of a planned response by Brevard County organizations to an emergency situation at the St. Lucie Nuclear Power Plant. WHERE: Northbound rest area on Interstate 95, just south of the Malabar Road northbound exit at mile marker 168. (It is the first rest area coming into the county from the south on I-95.) WHY: Brevard County is within 50 miles of the St. Lucie Nuclear Power Plant and would host and shelter evacuees from areas surrounding the plant, if necessary. As part of our role in the Emergency Preparedness Planning Process, every other year Brevard County must demonstrate the ability to perform certain functions. This year's drill will demonstrate response capabilities involving traffic control, evacuee monitoring and decontamination. The St. Lucie Nuclear Power Plant is located on Hutchinson Island, about 4 miles east-northeast of the City of Port St. Lucie. The facility is owned and operated by Florida Power & Light Co. VISUALS: Hazmat teams in gear, radiological portal monitors, handheld radiological detection equipment, responder equipment, vehicles and trailers, and the bomb squad. Dozens of volunteers will portray evacuees going through this process. MEDIA: Interview opportunities and on-scene escort will be arranged during the exercise. February 13, 2017 Registration Now Open for Spring Leagues in North Brevard TITUSVILLE/SHARPES, FL. -- Sign-up is under way for Spring Leagues for adult co-ed softball, men's softball, kickball, and flag football, sponsored by Brevard County Parks and Recreation Department, North Area Parks Operations. Registration for all leagues will began Tuesday, Feb. 7. The co-ed softball league will be held on Wednesdays, beginning March 15, at 6:30 p.m., at a fee of $342 per team. All teams must be registered with FL USSSA which costs $25 per year. All games will be held at Chain of Lakes, 2300 Truman Scarborough Way, in Titusville. The registration deadline is Monday, March 13. The men's softball league will be held on Thursdays, beginning March 30, at 6:30 p.m., at a fee of $342 per team. All teams must be registered with FL USSSA which costs $25 per year. All games will be held at Chain of Lakes, 2300 Truman Scarborough Way. in Titusville. The registration deadline is Tuesday, March 28. The co-ed kickball league will be held on Tuesdays, beginning March 21, at 6:30 p.m., at a fee of $200 per team. All kickball leagues will be held at Chain of Lakes, 2300 Truman Scarborough Way, in Titusville. The registration deadline is Friday, March 17. The adult flag football league will be held Sundays, beginning March 26, at 9 a.m., at a fee of $492, at the Space Coast Communities Sports Complex, 662 Canaveral Groves Blvd., in Sharpes. The registration deadline is Thursday, March 23. For more information please contact Brian Campbell or Connor Tetting at (321) 264-5105. February 2, 2017 North Brevard Commission on Parks and Recreation meets Feb. 9 TITUSVILLE, FL. -- The North Brevard Commission on Parks and Recreation will hold its next monthly meeting at 5 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 9, in the Brevard Room at 518 South Palm Ave. in Titusville. The meeting is open to the public. The Brevard Room is located in a building on the north side of the parking lot behind the Brevard County Government Center-North. For more information, call Jeff Davis at (321) 264-5105. If a person desires to appeal any decision made bythis commission with respect to any matter considered at this meeting or hearing, such a person will need a record of this proceeding and that, for such purposes, such person may need to ensure that a verbatim record of this proceeding is made, at his/her own expense, which record includes testimony and evidence upon which any such appeal is to be based. Section 286.0105, Florida Statutes. In accordance with the Americans and Disabilities Act and Section 286.26, Florida Statutes, persons needing accommodations or an interpreter to participate in the proceeding should notice Parks and Recreation North Area no later than 48 hours prior to the meeting by contacting Terry Lane at (321) 264-5105. February 1, 2017 February Calendar Invites You to Get Outdoors at Enchanted Forest Sanctuary TITUSVILLE, FL. -- Enchanted Forest Sanctuary invites you to get outdoors in February with a variety of planned activities. Events include: Guided Walks: Every Saturday in February, from 10 to 10:45 a.m.Enjoy a 45-minute guided hike. Please bring a hat, water and walking shoes. No reservation needed, unless group of 5 or more. Florida Native Plant Society Garden Workdays: Saturday, Feb. 4 & Feb. 18, from 9 a.m. to noon. Grab your hat, sunblock, and water and come help maintain the butterfly garden at Enchanted Forest Sanctuary! Nature Time for 2- and 3-year-olds: Wednesday, Feb. 8, from 10 to 10:45 a.m. Come learn all about caterpillars with a story and hands-on activity! Spots limited. Please call (321) 264-5185 to register. Lunch with Nature: Saving Florida's Native Bromeliads, Wednesday, Feb. 15, noon to 1 p.m. Bring your lunch and enjoy an informative talk about Tillandsia utriculata and the danger they face from the Mexican bromeliad weevil! No registration required. Photography Club: Saturday, Feb. 18, from 9 to 11 a.m. All levels of photographers welcome. View photographs and learn helpful tips during their monthly meeting. Volunteer Orientation: Saturday, Feb. 18, from 3 to 4 p.m. and Wednesday, Feb. 22, from 10 to 11 a.m. Come learn about our various volunteer opportunities. Forest Funday, Animal Olympics: Sunday, Feb. 19, from 2 to 4 p.m. Do you have what it takes to make it in the animal kingdom? Find out with the ongoing hands-on activities in the screen porch! Sanctuary School: Wednesday, Feb. 22, from 1:30 to 3 p.m. Homeschoolers ages 6-10 and their families are welcome to discover the skeletons of several animals and investigate how bones and other body parts fit together. Spots limited. To Register please call (321) 264-5185. Star Party with the Brevard Astronomical Society, Saturday, Feb. 18, from 5 to 10 p.m. Come enjoy the forest at night as we stargaze with the Brevard Astronomical Society! Also, check out our kids activity center during this family event. No registration required. Florida Native Plant Society Workshop: Plant Propagation, Saturday, Feb. 25, from 10 a.m. to noon. Join the Sea Rocket chapter of the Florida Native Plant Society for their Plant Propagation workshop and learn about seed starting procedures!No registration required. February 1, 2017 Brevard County Recycled Paint Giveaway set for Saturday, March 11 BREVARD COUNTY, Fla. -- Recycled paint will be available to residents of Brevard County at five Richard Paint stores and one Ace Hardware store beginning Saturday, March 11. The paint is free to homeowners in limited quantities. Homeowners will be able to receive up to 10 gallons of one color for the shell of the house and up to three gallons of a second color for trim. Paint will be available on a first come first served basis only. Proof of home ownership will be required in order to obtain paint (i.e. valid driver's license with the current residential address or property tax notice). The recycled paint is available in five colors and one floor paint. COLORS Off white (Misty Shores), Gray (Mountain Hideaway), Green (Lazy Days), Light Beige (Florida Sunset), Dark Beige (Love of Life), Texture floor paint (Gray). Available at the following locations only - Saturday, March 11 Richard's Paint: 2900 Post Road, Melbourne; 1510 Cheney Highway, Titusville; 230 East Merritt Island Causeway (520) Merritt Island;1950 Viera Boulevard, Viera; 5000 Stack Road, Suite A-1, Palm Bay Ace Hardware: Ace Hardware/Beach Discount Plumbing/Supply, 866 North Highway A1A, Indialantic For more information regarding the recycled paint call (321) 633-1888, (321) 633-2042 or visit us at www.brevardcounty.us/swr. January 31, 2017 Freedom 5K Set for Feb. 25 at Harry T. & Harriette V. Moore Memorial Park MIMS, Fla. – The Heritage Freedom 5K will be held starting at 8 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 25, at The Harry T. & Harriette V. Moore Memorial Park, located at 2180 Freedom Avenue, Mims. To register for the race online go to www.runningzone.com/events/freedom-5k/. Through Feb. 13: Adults $25, Kids (18 & under) $20. Feb. 14 – Race Day: Adults $30, Kids (18 & under) $25 Immediately following the race there will be an essay competition award ceremony, as well as the race ceremony awards. We will be having a free pancake breakfast under the pavilion for all runners and walkers immediately following the race. For all others who would like to eat breakfast there will be a $5 cost. Contact the Harry T. Moore Cultural Center at (321) 264-6595 for further information on this activity. This event is sponsored by Brevard County Parks and Recreation North Area Parks Operations in partnership with, Harry T. & Harriette V. Moore Cultural Complex, Inc. January 30, 2017 The Moore's Musical Mix Event Set for Harry T. & Harriette V. Moore Park MIMS, FL. – The Moore's Musical Mix will be held from 4-6 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 12, at the Harry T. & Harriette V. Moore Memorial Park & Museum, 2180 Freedom Avenue, Mims, FL. The Moore's Musical Mix is a program in commemoration of Black History Month to celebrate African American music. African American music is an umbrella term covering a diverse range of music and musical genres largely developed by African Americans. The Moore's Musical will be a genre of music ranging from Jazz, Gospel, Rap, Rock, Latin, and Old School etc. Local individuals and groups will be performing at the event. Please come out and join us for this free event. Please contact the Cultural Center for additional information at (321) 264-6595. January 30, 2017 Join Us For a Star Party at the Enchanted Forest Sanctuary TITUSVILLE, FL. -- You're invited to join us for a Star Party with the Brevard Astronomical Society! The family friendly and free event takes place from 5 - 10 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 18, at the Enchanted Forest Sanctuary, 444 Columbia Blvd., in Titusville. Come enjoy the forest at night as we stargaze with the Brevard Astronomical Society! Also, check out our kids activity center. No registration required. January 30, 2017 UF/Brevard County Extension to Host Food Waste Seminar COCOA, FL--UF/Brevard County Extension Services will a host a seminar from 10 to 11:30 a.m. on Feb. 7 at the UF/Brevard County Extension Services, 3695 Lake Drive, Cocoa, FL 32926. The seminar invites you to learn how to decrease your food waste and to become an advocate in the community. Please visit Eventbrite to register at: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/food-waste-and-how-to-combat-the-problem-tickets-30470172105 January 29, 2017 Freedom 5K Set for Feb. 25 at Harry T. & Harriette V. Moore Memorial Park MIMS, Fla. – The Heritage Freedom 5K will be held starting at 8 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 25, at The Harry T. & Harriette V. Moore Memorial Park, located at 2180 Freedom Avenue, Mims. To register for the race online go to www.runningzone.com/events/freedom-5k/. Through Feb. 13: Adults $25, Kids (18 & under) $20. Feb. 14 – Race Day: Adults $30, Kids (18 & under) $25 Immediately following the race there will be an essay competition award ceremony, as well as the race ceremony awards. We will be having a pancake breakfast under the pavilion for all runners and walkers. Contact the Harry T. Moore Cultural Center at (321) 264-6595 or Race Director Kristie Ultzer by email at utzler.kl@gmail.com for further information on this activity. This event is sponsored by Brevard County Parks and Recreation North Area Parks Operations in partnership with, Harry T. & Harriette V. Moore Cultural Complex, Inc. January 28, 2017 UF/Brevard Extension Services to host Child Passenger Safety Seminars MELBOURNE, FL. -- The UF/Brevard Extension Service invites you to learn about correct selection, installation and use of child restraints, plus how child restraints work to protect children. Melbourne: Feb. 7, from 9 – 11 a.m. at the Turnquest Community Center, 1686 Marywood Road, Melbourne, FL 32934 Cocoa: Feb. 7, from 9 – 11 a.m. at Brevard/UF Extension, 3695 Lake Dr., Cocoa, FL 32926 This class is REQUIRED of expectant moms/dads in need of a seat. If you are in need of replacing an existing seat for an older child, you can call 321-633-1702 Ext. 0 to schedule an appointment for a child seat check. Mother's in need of a seat will be able to purchase a convertible seat at a reduced cost at the end of the class. Please visit our Eventbrite website to register at: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/child-passenger-safety-seminar-melbourne-tickets-30489507939 Pre-registration required. Cost: Free. January 29, 2017 Solving Your Financial Puzzle-Financial Management Series COCOA, FL-- Join the UF/Brevard Extension Services for a financial management series to learn how to manage and save your money, handle debit and credit, protect yourself from fraud, understand insurance, and why you spend money as you do. The series will be held on Feb 2, 9, 16, and 23 from 9 a.m.-12 p.m. at 3695 Lake Drive, Cocoa. Please visit our Eventbrite website to register at : https://www.eventbrite.com/e/solving-your-financial-puzzle-tickets-29084364116 Cost: $25 January 28, 2017 Become A Cerified Pile Burner COCOA, FL-- Join the Florida Forest Service (FFS) and the UF/Brevard Extension Services for a Certified Pile Burners course, Feb. 1, from 8:30 a.m.- 5 p.m. This course teaches participants how to burn piles legally, safely and efficiently. If you burn piles regularly, do not put off registering for this training. Certified pile burners receive priority authorization to burn during dry periods, are allowed to burn longer periods, and receive multiple day authorizations. Number of trainings and course size is limited. Lunch will be provided. Each participant must have a customer number from FFS; if participants do not have a number, you must call FFS and acquire a customer number before registering. Please visit our Eventbrite website to register at: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/certified-pil-burners-tickets-28702864039 Cost: $50 January 27, 2017 Black History Month Celebration Events Set for February in North Brevard MIMS, FL. – The Harry T. & Harriette V. Moore Memorial Park & Museum, 2180 Freedom Avenue, Mims, Florida, 32754, will hold multiple events through the month of February to celebrate Black History Month. All events will occur at The Harry T. & Harriette V. Moore Cultural Center unless otherwise noted. Black History Month Opening Ceremony, from 6-8 p.m., Wednesday, Feb. 1: Spend the evening with us at the Old Gibson School to commemorate the start of Black History Month! This event will take place at Gibson Center, 835 Sycamore Street, Titusville, FL, 32780. Growing Up African American During the Jim Crowe Era. from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., Saturday, Feb. 11: An open discussion about what it was like to grow up as an African American during the Jim Crowe era. The Moore's Musical Mix, from 4-6 p.m., Sunday, Feb. 12: Join us for African American music and dance performances! 2nd Annual Heritage Freedom 5k Run/Walk & Essay Contest, from 8 a.m. to noon, Saturday, Feb. 25: Join the community for a run/walk followed by an award ceremony and a pancake breakfast! Register online for the run/walk at www.runningzone.com/events/freedom-5k/. The cost for the run/walk through Feb. 13: Adults $25, Kids (18 & under) $20. Feb. 14– Race Day: Adults $30, Kids (18 & under) $25 Black History Month Closing Ceremony, 6-8 p.m., Tuesday, Feb. 28: Come enjoy closing ceremonies with us! Please contact the Cultural Center for additional information at (321) 264-6595. January 26, 2017 Brevard County Government to Host Black History Month Celebration VIERA, Fla. -- Brevard County Government will host a community celebration of Black History Month from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Friday, Feb. 10, at the Government Center, 2725 Judge Fran Jamieson Way, Building C, Viera. The drop-in event, open to the public, will be held in the Board of County Commissioner's chambers, first floor of Building C. Keynote speaker for the event is Dr. Desmond Blackburn, superintendent of Brevard Public Schools. Activities planned include cultural displays, artwork, literature, musical performances and activities that recognize the significant contributions of African Americans. There will also be Food Trucks, including Dat-B-Good, Thematics and Dee's Ribs & Crab Shack, along with desserts by Dana's Cupcakes. The national theme for Black History Month 2017 is "The Crisis in Black Education." This year's celebration in Brevard County will be held in commemoration of Walter Butler, a leader and pioneer in the Sharpes Community. At it's regular meeting on Feb. 7, the Board of County Commissioners will pay tribute via resolution to Butler's efforts to improve the quality of life for our residents. The Black History Month event is hosted by Brevard County Government and the Brevard County Government Cultural Diversity Team. January 26, 2017 EEL Program to hold Procedures Committee Meeting Feb. 2 BREVARD COUNTY, FL. -- A meeting of the Environmentally Endangered Lands (EEL) Program's Procedures Committee, established by the Brevard County Board of County Commissioners, will be held on Thursday, Feb. 2, at the EEL Program Office, 91 East Drive, in Melbourne. The purpose of this meeting is to review policies and procedures of the Brevard County Environmentally Endangered Lands Program. Any questions regarding this meeting should be directed to Laura Clark (321) 255-4466 or Laura.Clark@brevardfl.gov. If a person desires to appeal any decision made by this board, agency or commission (as appropriate) with respect to any matter considered at this meeting or hearing, such a person will need a record of this proceeding and that, for such purposes, such person may need to ensure that a verbatim record of this proceeding is made, at his/her own expense, which record includes testimony and evidence upon which any such appeal is to be based. In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act and Section 286.26, F.S., persons needing accommodations or any interpreter to participate in the proceeding should contact Laura Clark, EEL Program Administrative Secretary, no later than 48 hours prior to the meeting, at 255-4466. January 26, 2017 Florida-Friendly Landscaping Seminar Set for Feb. 18, Satellite Beach High School SEBASTIAN, FL. -- The Indian River Lagoon National Estuary Program, City of Melbourne, Brevard County Board of County Commissioners, University of Florida/IFAS Extension Brevard and the City of Palm Bay will present the 2017 Florida-Friendly Landscaping Seminar from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, Feb.18, at Satellite High School Auditorium, 300 Scorpion Court, Satellite Beach, FL. The event is free and features a Florida-friendly lecture series, environmental exhibitors, a plant sale and door prize giveaways. Refreshments will be served. Four presentations will showcase the use of native and Florida-friendly plants in home landscaping and explain how the use of Florida-Friendly methods benefits the Indian River Lagoon. Palm Care 101, with Linda Seals of the University of Florida/IFAS Extension Office in Brevard. Beautiful and Beneficial Native Plants for Your Lagoon-Friendly Lawn, with native plant enthusiast Bill DeLuccia, an Indialantic resident and recipient of the first Lagoon Friendly Lawn certified through Keep Brevard Beautiful. What's Ailing the Indian River Lagoon? And What You Can Do to Help Heal it, with Kathy Hill from the Indian River Lagoon National Estuary Program; Grow Your Own Delicious Food – No Matter Where You Live, with Sally Scalera of the Florida/IFAS Extension Office in Brevard. Pre-registration is available for the seminar by visiting Eventbrite.com and searching for "Florida-Friendly Landscaping Seminar"; or by calling Sally Scalera at the Brevard County Extension Office at (321)633-1702 ext. 224. The first 400 registrants will receive a free gift bag. January 25, 2017 Hurricane Matthew Waterway Debris Survey Underway in Brevard County BREVARD COUNTY, Fla. – Debris from Hurricane Matthew that has settled in Brevard County waterways -- including the Indian River, Banana River, and associated tributaries – is being surveyed and catalogued by contractor Tetra Tech in preparation for the collection and disposal of that debris. "The process has taken longer than we'd like, but State of Florida coordination, funding, and contractor awards are now in place, and the waterway debris will be addressed very soon," said Emergency Management Director Kimberly Prosser. While the Brevard County Emergency Management department has received reports of about 20 spots where debris is located, they are also looking to the public for assistance in identifying others. The email address waterwaydebris@gmail.com has been established by the Florida Department of Environmental Protection for that reason. Any storm-related debris that may be affecting private shorelines or has been observed floating within the waterway should be reported. In the email, residents are asked to provide their name and contact information, along with details such as street address or GPS coordinates, description of the debris, description of the location (shoreline, river, canal), whether or not the debris is tagged, whether the debris appears to be stationary or moving, and photos, if possible. The determination of whether any specific debris is eligible to be removed from the waterway does not rest with the County, but with FDEP and FEMA. The County is providing support as needed, but is not the final authority. The actual waterway debris collection is expected to begin next month. January 24, 2017 County Manager to Host Developer's Roundtable Discussion Feb. 17 BREVARD COUNTY, FL. – Brevard County Manager Stockton Whitten will host the next "Developer's Roundtable" from 3 to 5 p.m. Friday, Feb. 17. The meeting will be held in the Space Coast Room at the Brevard County Government Center, 2725 Judge Fran Jamieson Way, Viera. The Developer's Roundtable is a discussion forum on growth issues, land use, development activities and building trends. The goal is to bring key County department heads to the table with members of the development community on a quarterly basis. The roundtables invite open and informal discussions on development processes, organizational approaches, processes and issues on both sides of the table. Topics to be discussed include: Updates: 1) BASS – Online Permitting 2) Other Review Process Improvements (Staff Approvals) Preliminary Plats Final Engineering Subdivision and Construction Plans 3) Site Plan and Subdivision Review Process Improvements There will also be discussion on suggested changes to the Land Development Code. Area developers, builders and/or representatives interested in taking part in the Developer's Roundtables should contact the County Manager's Office at (321) 633-2002. January 20, 2017 Environmentally Endangered Lands Program Hosts Birding Festival Field Trips BREVARD COUNTY, FL. -- The Brevard County Environmentally Endangered Lands Program will be hosting a variety of field trips at local nature sanctuaries in partnership with the 2017 Space Coast Birding and Wildlife Festival. The festival, now in its 20th year, is one of the premier birding festivals in the United States, and hosts exhibitors from all over the world. The Festival, scheduled Jan. 25-30, is based out of the Eastern Florida State College Titusville Campus and has something for everyone - from lectures and short field trips geared to first-time birders and wildlife enthusiasts, to workshops and full-day marathon trips for those who have been observing wildlife for a long time. Field trips are led by a mix of local experts and tour leaders from all parts of the world. Many of the trip leaders are also presenting on their areas of expertise throughout the event. The Environmentally Endangered Lands Program, Brevard County's land conservation initiative, will be hosting 16 festival field trips at 8 local nature sanctuaries as part of the festival. The field trips will highlight local land conservation efforts and the variety of wildlife and ecosystems being preserved under this unique conservation program. Field trip topics include birdwatching, bird song identification, night hikes, Scrub Jay hikes, sanctuary tours, pioneer hikes, planets and their uses, and a miniature wonders hike. To sign up for a hike, visit the Space Coast Birding and Wildlife Festival website at www.SCBWF.org for the field trip schedule and quick and secure online registration. Festival registration fees apply. For more information call 321-268-5888 or 321-255-4466. January 19, 2017 UF/Brevard Extension Service offers courses on muzzle loading COCOA, FL-- UF/Extension Service invites you to join the Titusville Range and Pistol Club, Range 2, in Titusville, FL for introductory Muzzle loading courses. First Steps Course: 2 to 3:30 p.m. on Jan. 28 Class includes all aspects of introductory shooting of traditional black powder rifles with particular emphasis on safety, sportsmanship, and courtesy on the range. Next Steps Course: 2 to 3:30 p.m. on Feb. 4 Class follows first steps class and teaches cleaning, intermediate marksmanship, shooting games, making equipment, cleaning, and how to make a wise black rifle purchase. All equipment and supplies will be provided. Cost: $6 for youth and $9 for parent and youth family members. January 16, 2017 Extension Service holds registration for Food Handler Certification class COCOA, FL. -- UF/Brevard County Extension Service will offer a Food Handler Certification class at 8:30 a.m on Jan. 30, at 3695 Lake Drive, Cocoa, FL 32926. The class fulfills food safety certifications needed for the food service industry, with the exam presented at the end of you course. Registration is required. Please call 1-888-232-8723. Cost: $165. January 11, 2017 9th Annual MLK Jr. Day Parade and Festival Jan 16 at Isaac Campbell Sr. Park TITUSVILLE, FL. -- Residents of Titusville and surrounding areas are invited to take part in the Martin Luther King, Jr. Day Parade & Festival at 11 a.m. Monday, Jan. 16, at the Isaac Campbell Sr. Community Center and Park, 701 South St., in Titusville. This year's theme is "Building Bridges in the Community and Beyond." This annual event celebrates the life of one of America's most influential civil rights, political, and social icons and is becoming an event to honor not only Dr. King, but to pay homage to others continuing his legacy. There will be a parade followed by a Heritage Festival at Isaac Campbell Sr. Park. The parade line up will begin at 9:30 a.m. at the North Brevard Senior Center, 909 Lane Ave. in Titusville. The parade will begin at 11 a.m. and conclude at Isaac Campbell Sr. Park, with festivities immediately following in the park. The event is free to attend. If you would like to enter a float in the parade, please contact Patricia Diggs at (321) 269-3645 for an application and waiver. The event is co-sponsored by Brevard County North Area Parks Operations and St. James AME Church. For more information, please call Tommy Myers at (321) 264-5040. January 10, 2017 20th Annual Space Coast Birding/Wildlife Festival Plans Silent Auction Event BREVARD COUNTY, FL. -- The 20th Annual Space Coast Birding and Wildlife Festival (SCBWF) is scheduled for Jan. 25 - 30 at Eastern Florida State College, Titusville Campus. Please help us celebrate by first, attending, and secondly, by donating to our Silent Auction, which will be held throughout the festival. The proceeds from this year's Silent Auction will be used to support our "Give Back to Conservation" initiative. This year's recipients include Spoil Island Restoration Projects and Anglers for Conservation, both deserving of any contributions they receive. The Brevard Nature Alliance, hosts of the SCBWF, appreciates support from the community in the form of: Gift certificates for hotel stays, meals, attraction tickets, services, goods to be sold, etc. as donations to our Silent Auction. These are tax-deductible contributions and a tax-exempt certificate can be provided upon request. During the dates of the 20th SCBWF, if you can place a "Welcome Birders" message on your billboards, signage, websites, Facebook pages it would be appreciated. During the 2016 Festival, attendees spent over $1.21 million dollars while visiting Florida's Space Coast. Please help us make them feel welcome and appreciated. Please contact Neta Harris, Marketing and Resources for the 20th SCBWF for pick up of donations, further questions or assistance, promotion opportunities, etc. Phone (321) 268-5224 or email neta@brevardnaturealliance.org. January 10, 2017 UF/Brevard County Extension Services to Hold Child Passenger Seat Checks BREVARD COUNTY, FL.-- UF/Brevard County Extension Services will hold child passenger seat checks at two locations throughout the county. • Cocoa: 2 to 5 p.m. on Jan. 19 and 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. on Feb. 13 at UF/Brevard County Extension Services, 3695 Lake Drive, Cocoa, FL, 32926. • Melbourne: 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. on Jan. 19 and 2 to 5 p.m. on Feb. 13 at Turnquest Community Center, 1686 Maywood Rd., Melbourne, FL 32934. To replace an existing passenger seat for an older child or to schedule an appointment, call (321) 633-1702 Ext. 0. January 10, 2017 UF/Brevard Extension Service hosts My Brevard Yard Workshop Jan. 19 BREVARD COUNTY, Fla. -- Become a part of My Brevard Yard: Creating beautiful lawns and protecting our waterways! Come join us from 9:30 to 11 a.m. on Thursday, Jan. 19 at UF/IFAS Extension Brevard, 3695 Lake Drive in Cocoa, FL. Learn how to grow a healthy landscape while protecting the Indian River Lagoon at the same time. Topics covered include, stormwater runoff and the Indian River Lagoon; irrigation; and fertilizers. In addition to the classroom information, participants will also receive some hands-on training on calibrating a fertilizer spreader. The cost of the workshop is $5. At the conclusion of the workshop, participants will also be able to sign up for an optional one-hour My Brevard Site Visit, which includes a soil test, an irrigation water test and answers to all of your gardening questions! The cost of the site visit is $30. Visit our website for more information at: https://bit.ly/ufbrevard January 6, 2017 Titusville Playhouse to Host Rodney Smith for Space Coast Birding/Wildlife Fest BREVARD COUNTY, FL.--The Titusville Playhouse is hosting the 2017 Space Coast Birding and Wildlife Festival opening Keynote Presentation by local conservationist and author, Rodney Smith. Smith's topic is Do Birds, Dolphin and Manatee Think Feel? Do You? Festival leaders are presenting an opportunity to Titusville and Brevard County residents to attend this onetime event scheduled Wednesday, Jan. 25 from 6 to 7:30pm. Tickets may be purchased at the door for $10. Please email an RSVP to: barb.eager@brevardnaturealliance.org so that a seat will be reserved for you. Festival attendees who have registered for this event will retain their reserved seat. Located at 301 Julia St., in downtown Titusville, parking will be available in the public lot to the east of the Playhouse and street parking is plentiful in the surrounding area. Smith, storyteller, author, business owner, publisher, community leader, philanthropist, historian and visionary knows that bringing people together is a big part of success. His loves are the waters of Florida, and all the life surrounding and within the oceans, lagoons, and rivers! Today, his focus is the Indian River Lagoon and all the obstacles facing this unique estuary in the coming years. Growing up outside Tampa in rural Florida and fishing the numerous lakes and the Gulf of Mexico, he eventually moved to Florida's Indian River Lagoon Coast. As one of the founders of Coastal Angler Magazine, Rodney has witnessed many changes in the environment in the Florida - the wildlife, water quality of our lagoons and estuaries, and the fishing industry itself. During the same period, Smith built the foundation of the non-profit, Anglers for Conservation with a vision to energize volunteerism and create a new generation of marine stewards. Today, much of this NGO's work centers around educational outreach for kids and their parents; and educating the public on "using — not abusing our waterways". Smith has written hundreds of published magazine articles, publisher's letters and editorials; and penned the books, Catching Made Easy, Enjoying Life on the Indian River Lagoon Coast, Road to Matapalo, Weed Queen and Pura Vita (due out January, 2017). Rodney has been recognized by the Florida Outdoor Writers Association for his work in conservation and as a philanthropist. January 6, 2017 UF/Brevard Extension Services to host Child Passenger Safety Seminars BREVARD COUNTY, FL. -- The UF/Brevard Extension Service invites you to learn about correct selection, installation and use of child restraints, plus how child restraints work to protect children. Seminars are scheduled for: Jan. 10, from 9 – 11 a.m. at UF/IFAS Extension Brevard County, 3695 Lake Drive, Cocoa, FL 32926. This class is required of expectant moms/dads in need of a seat. Jan. 10, 3-5 p.m., at the Turnquest Community Center, 1686 Marywood Road, Melbourne, FL 32934. Pre-registration required. If you are in need of replacing an existing seat for an older child, you can call 321-633-1702 Ext. 0 to schedule an appointment for a child seat check. Mother's in need of a seat will be able to purchase a convertible seat at a reduced cost at the end of the class. Please visit our Eventbrite website to register at: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/child-passenger-safety-seminar-melbourne-tickets-29583192124 Cost: Free January 4, 2017 North Brevard Commission on Parks and Recreation meets Jan. 12 TITUSVILLE, Fla. -- The North Brevard Commission on Parks and Recreation will hold its next monthly meeting at 5 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 12, in the Brevard Room at 518 South Palm Ave. in Titusville. The meeting is open to the public. The Brevard Room is located in a building on the north side of the parking lot behind the Brevard County Government Center-North. For more information, call Jeff Davis at (321) 264-5105. If a person desires to appeal any decision made bythis commission with respect to any matter considered at this meeting or hearing, such a person will need a record of this proceeding and that, for such purposes, such person may need to ensure that a verbatim record of this proceeding is made, at his/her own expense, which record includes testimony and evidence upon which any such appeal is to be based. Section 286.0105, Florida Statutes. In accordance with the Americans and Disabilities Act and Section 286.26, Florida Statutes, persons needing accommodations or an interpreter to participate in the proceeding should notice Parks and Recreation North Area no later than 48 hours prior to the meeting by contacting Terry Lane at (321) 264-5105. ^^ TOP ^^ BACK to Calendar of Events BACK to NBBD.COM 7/26/18