"Palm Bay's Pulse: Controversy, Crisis, and Cash for Clunkers!"

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October Edition

Greetings

Hey there, amazing readers! 👋

Happy October 01, 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

Chemical Plant Leak in Palm Bay Prompts Investigation and Raises Safety Concerns.
Palm Bay Event Sparks Outrage Over Derogatory Remarks Against Indian Americans: Advocating for Inclusivity and Respect in Brevard
Lethal Bronzing Disease Threatens Palm Trees in Brevard County: Urgent Call for Action

Get Out & Go!

October Monthly Luncheon
Joe Reid & Heartland Live @ The Shack Riverfront
Hail Mary Band @ Siggy’s American Bar

Business Buzz

Erdman Automotive Revives Cash for Clunkers Program: Receive $5,000 Guaranteed Towards New Car Purchase for Any Trade-In Vehicle
Cory Skeates Appointed President and CEO of Greater Palm Bay Chamber of Commerce, Driving Economic Growth and Community Support.

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 type of rock, primarily composed of calcium carbonate, forms much of Florida's bedrock and is responsible for its flat terrain?

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!

Chemical Plant Leak in Palm Bay Prompts Investigation and Raises Safety Concerns.
Palm Bay Event Sparks Outrage Over Derogatory Remarks Against Indian Americans: Advocating for Inclusivity and Respect in Brevard
Lethal Bronzing Disease Threatens Palm Trees in Brevard County: Urgent Call for Action

📰 Palm Bay – News Highlights

Tuesday, September 30, 2025

🌤 Weather & Natural Events

Earlier this month, an EF-0 tornado passed through Palm Bay, damaging fences, trees, and roofs in a narrow path.

Cleanup efforts are still ongoing in affected neighborhoods as officials assist residents with recovery and insurance claims.

🚨 Crime & Public Safety

A Palm Bay couple has been charged with felony child neglect after authorities discovered six children locked in a home under unsafe and unsanitary conditions.

In another case, residents are voicing concerns after a hit-and-run crash in southeast Palm Bay, the second incident in two months in the same area.

Additionally, officials confirmed that a recent chemical plant emission that released an orange plume posed no immediate health risk to the public.

🎪 Community & Events / Infrastructure

The Palm Bay City Council is preparing for a public hearing on Annexation Ordinance 2025-28, scheduled for October 2.

Residents were also advised to disregard a mistaken text from the city’s solid waste provider about extra carts, with follow-up notices only sent to affected households.

Meanwhile, city leaders continue addressing the aftermath of a major wastewater spill from earlier this summer, working with state agencies on mitigation plans and long-term water project solutions.

Also happening...

Chemical Plant Leak in Palm Bay Prompts Investigation and Raises Safety Concerns.

In a breaking news report, three individuals were rushed to the hospital after a chemical plant leak in Palm Bay.

Emergency responders quickly arrived at the scene to assess the situation.

The incident raised concerns about potential environmental impact and safety hazards in the area.

Residents are urged to stay indoors and follow instructions from authorities.

The chemical plant leak has prompted an investigation to determine the cause and ensure measures are taken to prevent future incidents.

Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story.

In a recent event in Palm Bay, speakers made derogatory remarks against Indian Americans, sparking outrage and condemnation from the community in Brevard, Florida.

The offensive comments targeted a specific group of individuals based on their ethnicity, highlighting the importance of promoting inclusivity and respect for all cultures.

Such discriminatory behavior not only perpetuates division but also goes against the values of a diverse and harmonious society.

It serves as a reminder of the ongoing work needed to foster understanding, acceptance, and unity among people of different backgrounds for a more inclusive and equitable community.

In Brevard County, a deadly disease called lethal bronzing is threatening the palm trees, causing widespread devastation.

The disease, spread by an insect called a planthopper, has already led to the loss of many iconic palm trees in the area.

Once infected, the trees slowly decline and die within a few months.

This alarming situation calls for immediate action to protect and preserve the remaining palm trees in Brevard County.

It is crucial for residents and authorities to work together to prevent the spread of this destructive disease and safeguard the local ecosystem and landscape.

Today's Weather Outlook

🌤️ Palm Bay Mid-Week Forecast (Oct 1 – Oct 3, 2025)

Looking ahead through the coming days in Palm Bay?

Here's your forecast snapshot:

Wednesday, October 1, 2025: High: ~85 °F, Low: ~74 °F – Partly cloudy with occasional sun breaks.

A slight chance of isolated showers late in the day.
Thursday, October 2, 2025: High: ~86 °F, Low: ~74 °F – Warm and humid.

Expect scattered afternoon thunderstorms with periods of sunshine.
Friday, October 3, 2025: High: ~87 °F, Low: ~75 °F – Mostly cloudy with a good chance of showers and thunderstorms in the afternoon and evening.

Overall: Hot, humid, and typical for fall in Florida with daily chances of storms—especially in the afternoons and evenings.

Mornings are likely the driest windows for outdoor plans.

Stay weather-aware and keep your umbrella close by!

🌴

DIY Wednesday ✨

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

DIY Spice Rack | Home With Stefani

✨ Upcycled Glass Jar Organization: Creative Ways to Store Small Items

Don’t toss out those empty glass jars—turn them into stylish and practical storage solutions!

With a little creativity, you can upcycle jars to neatly organize your home while reducing waste and adding a rustic, eco-friendly charm.

Use small jars to hold office supplies like paperclips, push pins, and rubber bands.
Store spices, herbs, or loose-leaf teas in labeled jars for a tidy kitchen setup.
Keep craft items—buttons, beads, or sewing needles—organized and easy to find.
Turn jars into mini first-aid kits by storing cotton balls, bandages, and swabs.
Create a bathroom set by using jars for cotton rounds, hair ties, or makeup brushes.

🌟 Tip: Add decorative touches—painted lids, twine wraps, or chalkboard labels—to make your jars both functional and beautiful.

With upcycled jars, you’ll save money, stay organized, and bring a touch of creativity to every corner of your home.

♻️✨

🌳GET OUT & GO

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

October Monthly Luncheon
Joe Reid & Heartland Live @ The Shack Riverfront
Hail Mary Band @ Siggy’s American Bar

🎉 Palm Bay Events

Wednesday – Friday • October 1–3, 2025

📅 Wednesday • Oct 1

October Monthly Luncheon
🕒 12:00 PM – 1:30 PM | 📍 Community Credit Union, Palm Bay, FL
Networking and awards ceremony featuring local businesses and community leaders.

📅 Thursday • Oct 2

Joe Reid & Heartland Live @ The Shack Riverfront
🕒 6:00 PM – 10:00 PM | 📍 The Shack Riverfront Restaurant & Outback Tiki Bar, Palm Bay, FL
Enjoy country-style live music, food, and drinks riverfront.

📅 Friday • Oct 3

Hail Mary Band @ Siggy’s American Bar
🕒 8:30 PM | 📍 Siggy’s American Bar, Palm Bay, FL
An evening of live rock & cover songs with Hail Mary.

🎶 From live music to community gatherings—Palm Bay has something for everyone this week!

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!

Erdman Automotive Revives Cash for Clunkers Program: Receive $5,000 Guaranteed Towards New Car Purchase for Any Trade-In Vehicle
Cory Skeates Appointed President and CEO of Greater Palm Bay Chamber of Commerce, Driving Economic Growth and Community Support.

"Erdman Automotive Revives Cash for Clunkers Program: Receive $5,000 Guaranteed Towards New Car Purchase for Any Trade-In Vehicle"

Erdman Automotive is bringing back the "Cash for Clunkers" program in October, offering $5,000 guaranteed for any vehicle.

This program is aimed at helping people get rid of their old cars and upgrade to newer, more fuel-efficient vehicles.

Customers can trade in any vehicle, regardless of its condition or age, and receive $5,000 towards the purchase of a new car.

The program is expected to benefit both consumers and the environment by encouraging the turnover of old vehicles and reducing emissions.

The Greater Palm Bay Chamber of Commerce has appointed Cory Skeates as its new President and CEO.

Skeates, a Florida native with a background in business management and community development, brings a wealth of experience to the role.

His leadership is poised to drive the chamber's mission of promoting economic growth and supporting local businesses in the Palm Bay area.

Skeates' vision and strategic approach are expected to bring fresh perspectives and initiatives to the chamber, fostering collaboration and prosperity within the community.

Green Living Tip✔️

🌼 Planting for Pollinators

Creating a haven for bees and butterflies in your Florida garden

Pollinators like bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds are vital for healthy gardens and ecosystems.

In Florida, you can create a welcoming environment by planting nectar-rich flowers, providing shelter, and reducing pesticide use.

A pollinator-friendly garden not only supports wildlife but also boosts the productivity and beauty of your outdoor space.

🌺 Choose Native Plants

Opt for Florida-native wildflowers like blanketflower, coreopsis, and milkweed.
Plant a mix of species that bloom at different times to provide food year-round.
Avoid invasive plants that may crowd out native species.

🐝 Support Bees

Provide clusters of flowering plants for easy access to nectar and pollen.
Leave small patches of bare soil for ground-nesting bees.
Include flowering herbs like basil, thyme, and oregano in your garden beds.

🦋 Attract Butterflies

Plant host plants like milkweed for monarchs and passion vine for gulf fritillaries.
Provide nectar sources such as pentas, lantana, and salvia.
Place shallow water dishes with stones for butterflies to perch while drinking.

🌱 Garden Practices

Avoid pesticides—use organic alternatives or integrated pest management.
Plant in sunny areas, as pollinators are most active in the sun.
Provide shelter with shrubs, grasses, or small brush piles for resting spots.

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:

**Limestone** forms much of Florida's bedrock.

🌐 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