Good morning, Palm Bay.

Goodwill Industries of Central Florida launches its free Prosperity Platform to help low-income residents set goals and gain stability.

The service meets with members to create plans—covering both immediate needs and future dreams.

Brevard Ocean Rescue officials warned Palm Bay beachgoers today to swim near lifeguards amid a moderate risk of rip currents as the Fourth of July weekend begins Friday, July 3 + three spring drownings highlight the need for caution.

Today at 12:30 a.m. from Cape Canaveral, a ULA Atlas V rocket carried 29 Amazon satellites to orbit, marking the final Atlas V satellite mission as remaining rockets shift to Boeing Starliner missions.

Rockledge High alumnus Jack Smink, now 69, is a globally recognized Elvis tribute artist who has performed over 1,000 shows and lost 90 pounds to boost his health (he remains active in local benefit work).

A new ConsumerAffairs report shows Florida households face high cooling costs this summer with average electric bills around $207—up 39% since 2020—and residents are projected to spend 3.2% of their income, placing them in the top 10 for summer cooling expenses.

More than 120 new Florida education laws took effect on July 1, covering changes from cursive learning requirements to marching band credits for physical education.

The laws also ease reentry for teachers with expired licenses — though they may weaken teachers’ unions.

Palm Bay pet owners can access Dutch for 24/7 online vet care and medication delivery to ease pets' anxiety ahead of Saturday, July 4 (covering up to five per household).

The service offers video consultations before the fireworks.

Veteran Rodney Greene said fireworks trigger PTSD memories for veterans ahead of the Fourth of July; his group, Brevard Veterans Coalition, will host a free cookout and beach party at Pelican Beach Park on Saturday, July 4, and a monthly meeting at Viera Regional Community Center on Saturday, Aug. 1.

Five local restaurants in Melbourne and Cocoa Beach will offer grab-and-go dinner options ahead of the Fourth-of-July fireworks show on July 4; families are advised to call as some spots have limited hours for the holiday.

Palm Bay Independence Day Celebration

5-9 p.m. — Eastern Florida State College Palm Bay Campus — Free admission and parking — Celebrate freedom with live performances, food trucks, and a spectacular fireworks display.

Night Market at Intracoastal Brewing Company

5-9 p.m. — Intracoastal Brewing Company — Free entry — Enjoy a cold pint and shop from local vendors while listening to live tunes in the beer garden.