"Community Engagement, National Parks, and Real Estate: The Pulse of Palm Bay Today"

"Palm Bay's Pulse: Community Engagement in Law Enforcement, Nature Exploration, Real Estate Buzz, and More! Sponsored By ZaarHub Directory"

Palm Bay Virtual Tour | Palm Bay Drone


October Edition

Greetings

Hey there, amazing readers! 👋

Happy October 15, 2025! We hope your day is going splendidly. Dive into this month's edition as we bring you exciting updates, and, of course, sprinkle some joy into your inbox! Don't forget to stay curious and inspired! ✨

In today’s Palm Bay's Pulse:

The Local Lowdown

Fostering Accountability and Transparency in Law Enforcement: A Call for Community Engagement
Embrace the Beauty of Nature Near Palm Bay: Exploring the Closest National Parks.
Creating Safe Play Spaces: A Community's Collaborative Effort in Palm Bay

Get Out & Go!

Wednesdays at Covenant (Grades 1–4 / Grades 5–8 / Adult Small Groups)
Women’s Coffee Break
Green Gables Foggy Bluff “Holiday Haunts

Business Buzz

Cape Coral, Florida: The Best Real Estate Market in the State
Exploring Real Estate: What $1 Million Can Buy in Palm Bay, Florida

Stay connected for more updates this week — let’s work together to make it a great one for Palm Bay, Florida. 🌴

Trivia Question❓

Florida's geological features!

What underground water-bearing rock formations are a primary source of drinking water for much of Florida?

💧 Do you recall? Find the answer at the bottom of today's newsletter!

Answer at the bottom of the newsletter

Discover local gems! This newsletter is sponsored by ZaarHub, your go-to online directory for finding the best local businesses in your community. Find everything from restaurants and shops to services and more. Visit ZaarHub today!

The Local Lowdown

🌟 Uncover the Essence of Your Community: Stay updated with the latest happenings, hidden gems, and exciting events right in your neighborhood, making you feel more connected than ever!

Fostering Accountability and Transparency in Law Enforcement: A Call for Community Engagement
Embrace the Beauty of Nature Near Palm Bay: Exploring the Closest National Parks.
Creating Safe Play Spaces: A Community's Collaborative Effort in Palm Bay

📰 Palm Bay – News Highlights

Tuesday, October 14, 2025

🌤 Weather & Natural Events

After several days of heavy rain and localized flooding across Brevard and Volusia counties — with some areas receiving over 10 inches — conditions are now improving.

Rain-related incidents included flash flooding in parts of Palm Bay, where fire crews assisted stranded drivers.

Officials say a brief dry period is expected before another low-pressure system could bring more rain later this week.

🚨 Crime & Public Safety

Palm Bay Police continue to investigate the deaths of two individuals discovered earlier this month at the Ascent of Palm Bay Apartments.

Authorities say the incident remains under review but appears to be isolated.

Meanwhile, a Palm Bay man, Daniel L.

Stearns (35), was convicted of second-degree murder and other charges for the 2023 killing and dismemberment of Nancy Howery.

He now faces life in prison.

In city politics, Councilman Chandler Langevin is threatening legal action after a censure resolution was introduced that could remove him from several council committees following his controversial online remarks.

Elsewhere in Brevard County, a teacher at Pineapple Cove Academy in West Melbourne was arrested and charged with aggravated child abuse after a student was hospitalized with a broken arm.

🎪 Community & Events / Infrastructure

Mayor Rob Medina’s October update highlighted progress on the Sgt.

Frank Tobar Tactical Training Building and the planned widening of Babcock Street to address growing traffic congestion.

The Palm Bay City Council will hold a public hearing on Ordinance 2025-48 on October 16 at 6 PM at City Hall, inviting residents to provide feedback on the proposed zoning and development changes.

The city is also reviewing plans to expand St.

John’s Heritage Parkway from Emerson Drive to Malabar Road, aiming to improve traffic flow and enhance hurricane evacuation routes.

Also happening...

Fostering Accountability and Transparency in Law Enforcement: A Call for Community Engagement

Eager to inform and engage, a recent video highlights a Palm Bay officer's use of force in arresting a pregnant woman.

The footage shows a concerning situation that raises questions about appropriate police conduct.

The incident sparks discussions on law enforcement practices and the importance of accountability and transparency in such situations.

Viewers are encouraged to stay informed and participate in conversations surrounding police behavior and the protection of community members' rights.

By staying engaged and advocating for justice, individuals can contribute to promoting accountability and ensuring the safety and well-being of all community members.

Discover the wonders of nature near Palm Bay by exploring the closest national parks.

With breathtaking landscapes and diverse ecosystems, these parks offer a sanctuary for both wildlife and visitors alike.

From hiking trails to stunning vistas, there are endless opportunities to immerse yourself in the beauty of the outdoors.

Learn about the unique flora and fauna that call these parks home, and be inspired to protect and preserve these precious natural habitats for future generations to enjoy.

Take the opportunity to reconnect with the environment and experience the restorative power of nature at your doorstep.

Empowering parents and advocating for safety, a community in Palm Bay successfully installed a fence around a playground to address safety concerns.

The initiative was driven by parents who voiced their worries about children wandering off and potential hazards.

The fence serves as a protective barrier, offering peace of mind to parents and caregivers while ensuring a safer environment for children to play.

This collaborative effort highlights the importance of community engagement and proactive solutions in creating safe and sustainable spaces for all.

Today's Weather Outlook

🌤️ Palm Bay Mid-Week Forecast (Oct 15 – Oct 18, 2025)

A glance at the weather outlook through mid-week:

Wednesday, October 15, 2025: High: ~82 °F, Low: ~70 °F – Partly cloudy with scattered afternoon showers possible.
Thursday, October 16, 2025: High: ~83 °F, Low: ~70 °F – Mostly sunny in the morning; chance of isolated storms late day.
Friday, October 17, 2025: High: ~84 °F, Low: ~71 °F – Warm with scattered showers and thunderstorms, especially afternoon into evening.
Saturday, October 18, 2025: High: ~83 °F, Low: ~70 °F – Sun-cloud mix, with a moderate chance of showers lingering through the day.

In summary: Expect typical early fall Florida weather — warm with pockets of moisture triggering afternoon showers or storms.

Mornings are likelier to stay dry.

Tip: Carry an umbrella or light rain gear, especially for midday and afternoon hours.

🌦️

DIY Wednesday ✨

🔥 Get ready to unleash your inner creator: This DIY Wednesday promises to ignite your imagination like never before! 🌟

DIY Dog Toys Made From Common Household Items | Proud Dog Mom

🐾 Homemade Pet Toys: Fun and Safe Toys for Your Furry Friends

You don’t need to spend a fortune to keep your pets entertained!

With a few simple household items, you can craft fun, engaging, and safe toys your pets will love.

These DIY ideas encourage play, bonding, and mental stimulation while keeping your furry friends healthy and happy.

T-shirt tug toy: Braid strips of old cotton T-shirts into a sturdy rope for your dog to tug and chew.

Washable and gentle on teeth!
Cardboard cat maze: Stack small boxes with holes cut in the sides and hide treats or toys inside for your cat to explore and paw through.
Tennis ball treat puzzle: Cut a small slit into a tennis ball and fill it with kibble or small treats for a fun mental challenge.
Sock squeaky toy: Slip an old squeaky toy or plastic bottle into a clean sock and tie the end for an instant crinkly toy.
Frozen summer treats: Mix water or broth with pet-safe fruits, then freeze in silicone molds for a cool chew during hot days.

🧸 Tip: Always supervise your pet with homemade toys—replace them once they show signs of wear or loose parts to keep playtime safe.

A little creativity goes a long way—homemade toys save money, reduce waste, and bring extra joy to your four-legged companions.

🐶🐱💚

🌳GET OUT & GO

Get out & go today - embrace the thrill of the outdoors and let every step be an adventure! 🌍✨

Wednesdays at Covenant (Grades 1–4 / Grades 5–8 / Adult Small Groups)
Women’s Coffee Break
Green Gables Foggy Bluff “Holiday Haunts

🎉 Palm Bay Events

Wednesday – Saturday • October 15–18, 2025

📅 Wednesday • Oct 15

Wednesdays at Covenant (Grades 1–4 / Grades 5–8 / Adult Small Groups)
🕡 6:30 PM – 8:15 PM
📍 Covenant Church, 760 Emerson Dr NE, Palm Bay, FL
A weekly gathering for faith, fellowship, and age-based small groups.

(Covenant Church)

📅 Thursday • Oct 16

Women’s Coffee Break
🕘 9:00 AM – 10:30 AM
📍 Covenant Church, 760 Emerson Dr NE, Palm Bay, FL
A morning fellowship & conversation for women in the community.

(Covenant Church)

📅 Friday • Oct 17

Green Gables Foggy Bluff “Holiday Haunts”
🕢 7:30 PM
📍 Green Gables Parking, 1499 S.

Harbor City Blvd, Palm Bay, FL
An evening of spooky ambiance, lighting, and seasonal fun at the historic Green Gables site.

(City / local event)

📅 Saturday • Oct 18

2nd Annual Reggae & Food Festival
🕛 12:00 PM (noon)
📍 1951 Malabar Road, Palm Bay, FL
Live reggae music, local food vendors, arts & crafts, and community gathering.

(City / festival)

PBYBA Season Registration
🕘 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM
📍 Palm Bay Youth Baseball Association Field(s), Palm Bay, FL
Open registration for youth baseball (ages 6–17) for the upcoming PBYBA season.

(City recreation)

📆 Events curated from the City of Palm Bay’s recreation calendar and local church/community listings.

For updates, visit the Palm Bay City Events Calendar or Covenant Church Palm Bay Events.

Business Buzz!

We are thrilled to announce Palm Bay, Florida's latest business addition! 🌟 Stay tuned for exciting updates on community initiatives and opportunities in the Palm Bay!

Cape Coral, Florida: The Best Real Estate Market in the State
Exploring Real Estate: What $1 Million Can Buy in Palm Bay, Florida

Cape Coral, Florida: The Best Real Estate Market in the State

A recent study has found that the city of Cape Coral, Florida has the best real estate market in the state.

The study analyzed factors such as home value growth, employment rates, and affordability.

Cape Coral scored high marks for its strong job market and growing home values.

The city's real estate market is deemed to be thriving, making it an attractive location for both buyers and sellers in Florida.

Are you considering buying a home in Palm Bay?

Check out this article to discover how much house $1 million can buy you in this area.

With detailed facts and information about real estate prices and property features, you'll get a clear idea of the housing market in Palm Bay.

Explore the variety of homes available within your budget and find the perfect place to call home.

Whether you're searching for a spacious estate or a cozy bungalow, this article provides valuable insights to help you make an informed decision about buying a house in Palm Bay.

Green Living Tip✔️

💡 Outdoor Lighting Best Practices

Reducing light pollution and energy use in your outdoor spaces

Thoughtful outdoor lighting not only makes your home more inviting and secure but also helps protect the night sky and conserve energy.

By choosing efficient fixtures, directing light where it’s needed, and reducing excess brightness, you can create a safer, more sustainable outdoor environment for everyone—including wildlife.

🌙 Choose the Right Fixtures

Use fully shielded fixtures that direct light downward instead of outward or upward.
Opt for warm-colored bulbs (2700K or lower) to reduce glare and sky glow.
Select lights with adjustable brightness to match your outdoor needs.

🔋 Save Energy Efficiently

Install LED bulbs that consume up to 75% less energy than traditional ones.
Use motion sensors or timers to ensure lights are only on when needed.
Replace high-wattage bulbs with lower-lumen alternatives for softer illumination.

🌿 Minimize Light Pollution

Turn off decorative lights after hours to preserve dark skies.
Position lights carefully to avoid shining into neighbors’ windows or onto roads.
In gardens, use low-path or solar lights that stay close to the ground.

🌞 Go Solar & Smart

Switch to solar-powered garden or pathway lights to save on electricity.
Use smart lighting systems that adjust brightness based on time or activity.
Combine solar panels and rechargeable batteries for sustainable lighting solutions.

Business Spotlight✨

We are proud to announce the third-quarter winner of the Mayor’s Business Spotlight:

🌟 The Shack Riverfront Restaurant & Tiki Bar!

This award honors outstanding local businesses that bring community and flavor to Palm Bay. Congratulations to The Shack for serving great food and warm island vibes!

🍽️ Where Flavor Meets the Waterfront
Located on the Indian River Lagoon, The Shack started as a backyard-style spot and grew into one of Palm Bay’s top waterfront dining destinations. From fresh seafood to signature cocktails, they’ve built a place full of charm and great service.

What Our Guests Are Saying:
"Every visit feels like a mini vacation—great food, friendly staff, and stunning views."
– Lisa M., Palm Bay resident

🎉 Visit The Shack Today
Whether it’s lunch, dinner, or sunset cocktails, The Shack is ready to welcome you with a smile.

📍 4845 Dixie Hwy NE, Palm Bay, FL
🌐 www.theshackpalmbay.com
📲 facebook.com/theshackpalmbay

Thanks for celebrating the local businesses that make Palm Bay proud!
#PalmBayProud #SupportLocal #MayorsBusinessSpotlight #TheShackPalmBay

Palm Bay Snapshot

Join us on this heartfelt journey of finding forever homes for our furry friends and experience the joy of adoption! 🏠💕🐾 Credits to Karma’s Haven Animal Rescue Inc.

Making it through the mid-week!

Keep your news tips, event submissions, and photos coming!

💡 Answer to Trivia Question:

**Aquifers** are underground water-bearing rock formations that are a primary source of drinking water for much of Florida.

🌐 Stay connected by visiting our website at palmbaypulse.com
📘 Follow us on Facebook for news and updates: facebook.com/palmbaypulse
👥 Join the conversation in our community group: facebook.com/groups/palmbaypulse

See you tomorrow,

- The Palm Bay Pulse Team