Free Speech in Public Meetings Archives

1st Amendment

Palm Bay City Council Votes to Reconsider Broadcasting Public Comments Amid Transparency and First Amendment Concerns

Robert Burns -

July 18, 2025

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The Space Coast Rocket

5 days ago

1 in 10 Homes in Brevard Rely on SNAP — Why Trump Was Ordered to Fund ItAccording to Florida Health Charts (2023), about 25,749 Brevard County households or 10.2% of all households receive cash assistance or food stamps (SNAP). That’s roughly 1 in every 10 homes relying on this safety net to put food on the table.Statewide, 13.5% of Florida households receive SNAP benefits, meaning Brevard sits just below the state average but still represents tens of thousands of local families who depend on this help every month.Now, here’s what’s important to understand about the national situation:Two federal judges recently ruled against the Trump Administration in separate cases over funding for SNAP. These rulings do not have anything to do with the Senate shutdown despite what many on social media are saying.The courts didn’t “order the Senate” or “force Congress” to act. What they did was require Trump to release emergency funds that were already legally allocated for SNAP to prevent disruptions to the program during the shutdown.The administration had argued it didn’t have to use those emergency funds or that they weren’t available. Both judges disagreed, ruling that the funds had been set aside for exactly this kind of situation to ensure families don’t lose access to food assistance while politicians fight over spending bills.So, to be clear:The judges told Trump to use the money that already exists, not to create new funding.This decision keeps benefits flowing for millions of Americans, including thousands here in Brevard County.And it has nothing to do with the Senate shutdown negotiations happening separately in Washington.When nearly 26,000 Brevard homes count on SNAP, these rulings aren’t just legal footnotes, they’re what stand between local families and empty cupboards. ... See MoreSee Less

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The Space Coast Rocket

6 days ago

Please take a close look at this man. This suspect, Arturo “Arty” Gonzalez, was arrested for Lewd or Lascivious Touching and Offense Against a Student by an Authority Figure. He served as a girls’ volleyball coach at a local high school and also operates a private volleyball club for girls. PBSO detectives believe there may be additional victims. Anyone with information is urged to contact Detective Diez at 561-688-4143 or DiezD@pbso.org. You can remain anonymous by calling Crime Stoppers at 1-800-458-TIPS. ... See MoreSee Less

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The Space Coast Rocket

6 days ago

During government shut down, both chambers of Congress should be forced to remain in chambers until it’s reopened. Yes/no? ... See MoreSee Less

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The Space Coast Rocket

6 days ago

Halloween costume contest. Post yours. Person with the most likes will win a prize. (We will verify it’s you) ... See MoreSee Less

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The Space Coast Rocket

6 days ago

🎃 Sheridan Lakes in West Melbourne goes all out for Halloween — and it’s for a great cause! 👻If you’re looking for a fun (and spooky!) place to take the family tonight, head to Sheridan Lakes in West Melbourne where neighbors have set up two haunted houses and some of the best trick-or-treating around.They’re also collecting canned goods for veterans in need, so if you’re able, bring a few donations when you come by. It’s not required, but it’s a simple way to help those who served while enjoying an incredible community Halloween setup.🕷️ Two haunted houses🕸️ Great trick-or-treating🫶 Supporting local vets📍 Sheridan Lakes, West Melbourne🕔 Trick-or-treating and haunted houses tonight!(Video by Timothy H. Ellison) ... See MoreSee Less

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Tag: Free Speech in Public Meetings

Palm Bay City Council Votes to Reconsider Broadcasting Public Comments Amid Transparency and First Amendment Concerns