A wedding at the Brevard Zoo turned unforgettable when a lion named Ruaha became an unexpected guest, captivating all in attendance.

Tara and Tommy Beers exchanged vows in January 2025 inside the zoo’s new lion enclosure, with Tara, an event coordinator at the zoo, becoming the first to hold her ceremony at the one-of-a-kind venue.

Midway through the ceremony, Ruaha pressed his paws to the glass beside Tara, fascinated by her dress — a magical moment perfectly captured in wedding photos.

Guests couldn't help but watch the lion’s playful curiosity, adding a touch of wonder and laughter to the special day.

Brevard Zoo, located in Melbourne, Florida, offers settings like Lion Lookout for events, with rental proceeds supporting animal care, education, and conservation.

This unique experience proves memorable moments await any couple choosing this vibrant and meaningful venue.

Brevard County has launched the ‘Space for Recovery’ campaign, targeting the region’s growing opioid crisis through support, education, and stigma reduction.

The initiative comes as local data reveals a sharp impact: from 2017 to 2023, the county lost 1,738 residents to fentanyl-linked overdoses, while 2023 saw over 1,200 opioid incidents.

Although this year’s cases have declined, over 584 overdoses and 27 deaths remain a stark concern as of mid-August.

The campaign shares stories of hope, including recovery counselor Brittany Capezzuto, who overcame addiction and now supports others at Circles of Care.

County officials emphasize most street drug use often follows painkiller prescriptions, underscoring the importance of prevention.

Efforts include educational outreach, wellness grants to nonprofits, and community town halls, all aiming to build a healthier, more resilient Brevard.

Toddler Time

Date: Various through September · Time: 10:30 AM – 11:30 AM · Location: Palm Bay Aquatic Center, 420 Community College Pkwy SE, Palm Bay, FL · Admission: Free or low-cost

Water-play fun for toddlers and parents at the Palm Bay Aquatic Center. Full details at Palm Bay Recreation Events.

Pickleball Meet Up

Enjoy a lively evening of pickleball for all skill levels at Lipscomb Street Park. Details available on the Palm Bay Recreation Events page.

"I love Brevard County because it has the perfect mix of beautiful beaches, outdoor activities, and welcoming communities."

Kennedy Under The Stars

A glow-in-the-dark Y2K-inspired after-hours event featuring music, mini-golf, astronaut meet-and-greets, and immersive STEAM fun. Event Link

STPS Turtle Krawl

Event: STPS Turtle Krawl 5K;
Date: September 13, 2025; Time: 7:30 AM;
Location: North Brevard (check STPS for course details);
Highlights: Community fun run supporting sea turtle conservation and education.

Lace up your sneakers for a meaningful 5K that protects sea turtles and supports local environmental efforts.

"Sunshine, palm trees, and ocean breeze - another beautiful day in Brevard County, Florida."

🚀 Up & Coming Rocket Launches from the Space Coast

Launch Schedule Highlights:

1. Falcon 9 | Bandwagon 4 (Rideshare)
Date: August 23, 2025 – Time: 8:00 PM (TBD)
Payload: Microsats/nanosats
Launch Info

2. Falcon 9 | Dragon CRS-33 (Cargo to ISS)
Date: August 24, 2025 – Time: 2:45 AM
Payload: Science & supplies to ISS
Launch Info

3. Falcon 9 | Starlink Group 10-11
Date: August 27, 2025 – Time: 1:49 AM
Payload: 28 Starlink v2 mini satellites
Launch Info

4. Falcon 9 | Starlink Group 10-56
Date: August 27, 2025 – Time: 6:53 AM
Payload: 28 Starlink satellites
Launch Info

5. Falcon 9 | Starlink Group 10-14
Date: August 30, 2025 – Time: 7:38 AM
Payload: 28 Starlink satellites
Launch Info

🌅 Best Rocket Launch Viewing Spots

• Space View Park – Titusville – Map Link
• Playalinda Beach – Map Link
• Jetty Park – Port Canaveral – Map Link
• Cocoa Beach Pier – Map Link
• Max Brewer Bridge – Titusville – Map Link

👀 Pro Tips for Viewing:

• Arrive 1–2 hours early for parking and the best view.
• Bring binoculars, sunscreen, lawn chairs, and water.
• Follow @SpaceX or check NASA.gov for updates.
• Watch at home via the NASA+ app or SpaceX YouTube.