"Shocking News: Deadly Shooting, Dog Heartbreak, and Armed Student Entry Prevented at Palm Bay Schools!"

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November Edition

Greetings

Hey there, amazing readers! 👋

Happy November 26, 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

The Holiday Surprise That Can Break a Dog’s Heart
2 Dead, 2 Officers Wounded in Palm Bay Domestic Disturbance Shooting
Weapons Detection System Prevents Armed Student Entry at Palm Bay Magnet High School

Get Out & Go!

Palm Bay Turkey Trot Prep Expo
Thanksgiving Day Community Walk
Black Friday Outdoor Market

Business Buzz

Don't Let Utility Scammers Catch You Off Guard
DC Roofing Recognized Among Nation's Top Roofing Companies

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 unique wildlife!

What small, burrowing mammal, native to Florida, is known for its ability to dig extensive tunnels and is a keystone species for many other animals?

🐢 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!

The Holiday Surprise That Can Break a Dog’s Heart
2 Dead, 2 Officers Wounded in Palm Bay Domestic Disturbance Shooting
Weapons Detection System Prevents Armed Student Entry at Palm Bay Magnet High School

📰 Palm Bay – News Highlights

Tuesday, November 25, 2025

🌤 Weather & Natural Events

Palm Bay saw mild and pleasant weather today, with highs in the upper 70s and mostly sunny skies.

A light breeze from the east kept conditions comfortable.

No coastal alerts or storm disturbances were reported, and the forecast suggests stable weather moving into mid-week.

🚨 Crime & Public Safety

The Palm Bay Police Department released new arrest updates from Nov.

24–25, noting several vehicle-related offenses and probation violations involving local residents.

Increased patrols remain active along major corridors as part of seasonal safety efforts.

In another incident, crews responded to a minor brush fire near the Jordan Boulevard area early this morning.

The fire was quickly contained, and no property damage or injuries were reported.

Officials remind residents to avoid burning debris during dry, windy conditions.

🎪 Community & Events / Infrastructure

The Greater Palm Bay Chamber of Commerce continues its small-business support series this week, featuring a workshop on marketing strategies for local entrepreneurs.

The event aims to help business owners prepare for the upcoming holiday season.

Public Works crews announced temporary lane closures along Emerson Drive for pavement improvements scheduled throughout the week.

Drivers are encouraged to plan extra travel time and follow posted detour signs while repairs are underway.

Also happening...

The Holiday Surprise That Can Break a Dog’s Heart

As the holidays near, Brevard County animal advocates urge families to think twice before adopting a pet on impulse.

Denise Dubrowski-Buchanan, a local rescue president, notes that many people underestimate the commitment.

Young dogs require significant time, energy, and money, especially in their first two years.

Veterinary expenses, regular care, and emergency costs can quickly add up, often surprising new owners.

Local shelters like SPCA of Brevard are at capacity, facing a steady stream of owner surrenders.

To help, the Brevard Humane Society launched “Home for the Holidays,” letting families host a shelter pet temporarily for the season — no permanent commitment required.

Experts recommend fostering first to test readiness for a lifelong responsibility.

By making thoughtful choices, families and pets alike can enjoy a happier holiday season together.

A violent encounter in Palm Bay, Florida, turned deadly Sunday afternoon when a domestic disturbance spiraled into a shootout, leaving two people dead and two officers injured.

Police responded to a call on Forgal Avenue NE and found 24-year-old Brandon Kapas armed and defiant. An exchange of gunfire wounded two responding officers, who were rushed to the hospital and are expected to recover.

Kapas fled, fatally shooting his grandfather, 78-year-old William Kapas, before officers killed him to prevent further tragedy.

Investigators later discovered that Kapas had already killed two others, retired priest Robert Hoeffner, 76, and his 69-year-old sister, Sally Hoeffner, whose ties to Kapas remain unclear.

Palm Bay Police Chief Mariano Augello praised the officers’ bravery and promised zero tolerance for attacks on law enforcement.

The Florida Department of Law Enforcement is actively investigating this incident, highlighting the risks police face and the deep scars domestic violence leaves in the community.

A 17-year-old student in Melbourne was stopped this morning after attempting to bring a loaded handgun to Palm Bay Magnet High School. The school's OPENGATE Weapons Detection system identified the firearm during routine check-in, triggering an immediate response from staff.

The weapon was quickly confiscated, and the student was taken into police custody without incident. No one was harmed, and the student never passed the security checkpoint or threatened others.

Charges against the student include possession of a firearm on school property and possession of a firearm by a minor. Melbourne Police are now investigating the case thoroughly.

School officials praised staff for their alertness and credited the OPENGATE system for averting danger. This event highlights the critical value of advanced security technology in keeping school communities safe.

Today's Weather Outlook

🌤️ Palm Bay Mid-Week Forecast (Nov 26 – Nov 28, 2025)

A glance at the weather outlook through mid-week:

Wednesday, November 26, 2025: High: ~79 °F, Low: ~61 °F – Partly sunny with light northeast winds; mild and comfortable.
Thursday, November 27, 2025: High: ~80 °F, Low: ~62 °F – Mostly sunny; warm afternoon conditions with a gentle coastal breeze.
Friday, November 28, 2025: High: ~78 °F, Low: ~60 °F – Partly cloudy; slightly cooler, with a chance of brief morning cloud cover.

In summary: Expect a mild and mostly sunny stretch with warm afternoons, cooler evenings, and no major rain chances.

A great few days for outdoor plans in Palm Bay.

Tip: A light jacket may be helpful in the mornings, but afternoons will feel pleasantly warm!

😊

DIY Wednesday ✨

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

Mothers Day DIY Recipe Card Holder | Welcome to Nana's

🛠️ DIY Wednesday: Easy Recipe Card Holders to Keep Your Favorites Organized

If you love cooking or collecting handwritten recipes, a simple recipe card holder can keep your kitchen neat and your favorite meals accessible.

These DIY holders are fun, affordable, and customizable to match your kitchen’s style.

Wooden Block Holder: Use a small stained wood block and cut a thin groove on top to slide in recipe cards securely.
Binder Clip Stand: Paint or decorate a large binder clip, then mount it on a mini wood base for a cute, functional card stand.
Clothespin Clip: Attach a decorative clothespin to a piece of scrap wood or a coaster—perfect for holding cards upright.
Picture Frame Holder: Repurpose a small standing frame by inserting a blank card or patterned paper to back your recipe card.
Magnetic Holder: Add magnets to the back of a clip or mini board for fridge-friendly recipe display.
Chalkboard Stand: Use a small chalkboard easel to hold your card and jot down cooking notes or substitutions.

💡 Tip: Choose materials that match your kitchen aesthetic—wood for rustic charm, acrylic for a modern look, or colorful clips for a playful touch.

With these quick and creative recipe card holders, keeping your favorite dishes within reach becomes both practical and stylish.

🍽️✨

🌳GET OUT & GO

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

Palm Bay Turkey Trot Prep Expo
Thanksgiving Day Community Walk
Black Friday Outdoor Market

🎉 Palm Bay Events

Wednesday – Friday • Nov 26 – 28, 2025

📅 Wednesday • Nov 26

“Palm Bay Turkey Trot Prep Expo”
🕙 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM
📍 Tony Rosa Community Center, 1502 Port Malabar Blvd NE, Palm Bay, FL 32905
Pick up race packets, enjoy warm-ups, and join fun pre–Thanksgiving wellness activities.
🌐 View details

“Family Craft Night: Fall Decorations”
🕕 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM
📍 Franklin T.

DeGroodt Library, 6475 Minton Rd, Palm Bay, FL 32908
Create simple fall décor using provided supplies—great for kids and parents.
🌐 Library events

📅 Thursday • Nov 27

“Thanksgiving Day Community Walk”
🕗 8:00 AM – 10:00 AM
📍 Fred Poppe Regional Park, 1951 Malabar Rd NW, Palm Bay, FL 32907
A light and friendly holiday walk—open to families, seniors, and pets.
🌐 Event info

“Holiday Volunteer Meal Drive”
🕛 12:00 PM – 3:00 PM
📍 Various Palm Bay drop-off centers
Residents donate ready-made meals and non-perishables supporting local shelters.
🌐 Volunteer details

📅 Friday • Nov 28

“Black Friday Outdoor Market”
🕙 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
📍 Palm Bay Community Park, 306 Freymuth Ave SE, Palm Bay, FL 32909
Local vendors, handmade items, food trucks, and holiday gift shopping.
🌐 Community events

“Space Coast Harley: Post-Holiday Fun Ride”
🕓 4:00 PM – 7:00 PM
📍 Space Coast Harley-Davidson, 1440 Sportsman Ln, Palm Bay, FL 32905
A casual evening ride to wrap up Thanksgiving week.
🌐 spacecoastharley.com/events

📆 Events curated from city & local community listings.
For latest updates, visit the City of Palm Bay Events Calendar.

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!

Don't Let Utility Scammers Catch You Off Guard
DC Roofing Recognized Among Nation's Top Roofing Companies

Don't Let Utility Scammers Catch You Off Guard

Florida residents are facing a rise in sophisticated utility scams as the year ends.

Criminals are targeting homes and businesses with fake calls, texts, emails, and even in-person visits, pretending to be from trusted utility companies.

These scammers often pressure victims with urgent threats of immediate service disconnection to push for quick payments.

Residents should remain wary—legitimate utilities never demand prepaid cards or cryptocurrencies and employees must always show official identification.

It’s vital to use only the numbers and contacts listed on your official utility bills and to ignore unsolicited payment requests.

Never trust unfamiliar online links or websites when searching for utility contacts, as scammers can create convincing fakes.

If approached suspiciously, Floridians should contact law enforcement, their utility provider, or the Florida Attorney General’s Office immediately.

Staying informed remains the best protection against fast-evolving scam tactics.

DC Roofing, a family-owned company based in Melbourne, Florida, has earned recognition as one of America’s top roofing firms.

This distinction highlights their commitment to superior workmanship and outstanding customer service.

Founded by state-certified contractors David and Colleen Arambula, DC Roofing is praised for its professionalism and trusted reputation.

David’s general contractor license further demonstrates their dedication to high standards.

The Arambulas are also active supporters of the Space Coast, recently donating $110,000 to Brevard Public Schools and sponsoring the 2024 Space Coast Symposium at Kennedy Space Center.

Specializing in sturdy metal roofs, DC Roofing offers solutions built for Florida’s tough weather, providing long-lasting protection and energy savings.

They also install shingles and clay tiles, ensuring customers have a full range of options for their homes.

DC Roofing’s dedication continues to raise the bar for quality and community involvement.

Green Living Tip✔️

🍃 Sustainable Leaf Management: Composting & Mulching Fallen Leaves for Healthier Soil

Turn autumn leaves into a valuable resource.

Composting and mulching help enrich soil, support healthy gardens, and reduce waste naturally.

Fallen leaves are nature’s fertilizer.

Instead of sending them to the landfill, using them as compost or mulch keeps nutrients in your yard and improves soil structure, moisture retention, and plant health.

🧺 Compost Leaves Naturally

Shred leaves to help them break down faster in the compost bin.
Mix brown materials (leaves) with green materials (food scraps, grass clippings).
Turn your compost regularly to maintain airflow and speed decomposition.

🌿 Mulch for Moisture & Weed Control

Spread shredded leaves around trees, garden beds, and shrubs.
Apply a 2–3 inch mulch layer to help retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Refresh mulch as needed to maintain coverage throughout the season.

🌎 Reduce Outdoor Waste

Keeping leaves onsite reduces yard waste sent to landfills.
Mulching with leaves eliminates the need for store-bough mulch.
Supports a natural habitat for beneficial insects and soil life.

🍂 Create a Leaf Mold Pile

Store leaves in a simple wire bin or covered pile.
Keep leaves slightly moist to promote slow decomposition.
After several months, you'll have rich, earthy leaf mold perfect for garden soil.

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:

The **Gopher Tortoise** is a small, burrowing mammal native to Florida and is a keystone species.

🌐 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

Check out our local business directory: https://zaarhub.com

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See you tomorrow,

- The Palm Bay Pulse Team