Sebastian Daily

03/11/2025

Good morning, Sebastian!

03/10/2025

Craving something tasty this week? From March 10th to March 16th, 2025, the Sebastian area is serving up some delicious restaurant specials that'll satisfy any appetite.

Craving something tasty this week? From March 10th to March 16th, 2025, the Sebastian area is serving up some delicious restaurant specials that’ll

03/10/2025

Every 2 minutes a child is diagnosed with cancer worldwide. So I've decided to fundraise for lifesaving childhood cancer research to help kids survive and thrive. Join us in supporting the St. Baldrick's Foundation today.

👉 Click this link to donate:
https://www.stbaldricks.org/participants/mypage/1160300/2025

03/10/2025

A cold front will sweep across Florida on Monday, ushering in a few strong storms with forecast wind gusts of 40-50 mph. Rain and thunderstorms are expected to arrive in Sebastian and Vero Beach between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m.

03/09/2025

In a world where environmental challenges often feel overwhelming, one determined 8-year-old from Sebastian is proving that age is no barrier to making a difference.

In a world where environmental challenges often feel overwhelming, one determined 8-year-old is proving that age is no barrier to making a difference.

03/08/2025

🐶 WoofStock is happening now at Pareidolia Brewing Co. from 1:00 to 4:00 PM, benefiting HALO No-Kill Rescue Shelter. Pets welcome!

03/08/2025

A new ECMWF forecast predicts a “near-average” Atlantic hurricane season for the U.S. through September.

As the Atlantic hurricane season looms on the horizon, a new forecast from the European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts (ECMWF) suggests the

03/08/2025

The Vero Beach Heritage Center was the venue where Impact 100 Indian River unveiled the seven nonprofit finalists competing for four $100,000 grants on March 5.

More than 200 members and guests filled the room as the announcement marked a pivotal moment in the organization’s mission to fund transformative change in Indian River County.

The Meet the Finalists event allowed attendees to get a firsthand look at the organizations advancing in this year’s grant selection process. From youth development to disaster relief, the finalists represent a diverse range of initiatives designed to tackle some of the community’s most pressing needs.

“These projects each represent bold, transformational initiatives aimed at strengthening our local community,” said Suzi McCoy Shriner, president of Impact 100 Indian River. “They reflect the heart of our mission—funding initiatives that create lasting change in Indian River County.”

She took a moment to thank the organization’s generous members, whose contributions make it possible for these nonprofits to dream big and address critical issues head-on.

👉 This year’s finalists include:

• Indian River Soccer Academy, which aims to expand its Fellsmere Player Development Program, offering underserved youth soccer training to foster teamwork and discipline.

• Hibiscus Children's Center, with a project focused on supporting families in crisis to prevent child abuse and bolster family stability.

• New Port Club, planning an Open House Project to create a dedicated space for individuals in recovery, promoting long-term wellness and sobriety.

• Treasure Coast Community Health, Inc., seeking to outfit its Oslo facility with cutting-edge pediatric dental equipment to improve care access for kids.

• Tykes & Teens, launching a Family Peer Support program to address youth mental health challenges and build family resilience.

• United Against Poverty of Indian River County, working to enhance disaster relief capabilities in Indian River County with resources and infrastructure for emergencies.

• Youth Guidance of Indian River County, Inc., offering at-risk youth hands-on training through The Culinary Academy to equip them with life skills and career prospects.

Shriner highlighted the rigorous selection process behind these finalists, crediting 55 dedicated grant panel volunteers who meticulously evaluated each proposal.

“This ensures that each organization is well-positioned to execute its proposed project, sustain its impact beyond the grant period, and effectively manage a $100,000 investment,” she explained.

The final decision now rests with Impact 100’s members, who will gather at the Annual Meeting on April 16 to hear presentations from each finalist and cast their votes.

“This rigorous vetting and voting process sets Impact 100 IR apart from other funding agencies in the county,” Shriner said. “Our process guarantees that every grant dollar goes to projects our members believe will have the greatest transformational impact in our community.”

The evening wasn’t just about the finalists—it was also a chance to recognize the supporters who fuel Impact 100’s mission. Shriner gave a heartfelt shoutout to Diamond Sponsor Beth Livers of Berkshire Hathaway Home Services for her steadfast commitment, as well as the Impact 100 IR Honorary Directors, celebrated as Gold Sponsors for their generous contributions.

Since its founding, Impact 100 Indian River has channeled over $6.6 million into the community, each member contributing $1,100 annually, to fund projects that address Indian River County’s most urgent needs.

As the countdown to the April vote begins, the seven finalists are gearing up to make their case, each hoping to secure a game-changing $100,000 grant. For more details on Impact 100 Indian River and its work, visit the Indian River Impact 100 page.

03/07/2025

Earlier this morning, at a house on South Wimbrow Drive in Sebastian, the Indian River County Sheriff’s Office and their honor guard performed a ceremonial tribute for retired Sergeant Paul Mewborn, who has passed.

Sergeant Mewborn served the agency and community from 2003 to 2023. He worked as a Patrol Deputy and a MACE Detective and was promoted to Sergeant in 2017.

Please keep Sergeant Mewborn’s family and friends in your thoughts and prayers.

03/07/2025

The U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary will host a Boating Safety Training Class on March 15, 2025, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at American Legion Post 189 in Sebastian.

The U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary is helping boaters stay safe on the water with a Boating Safety Training Class. Certified instructors from the Auxiliary

03/07/2025

03/07/2025

The Substance Awareness Center of Indian River County announced this week that it is rebranding as Thrive and is inviting the public to its Grand Opening and Ribbon-Cutting Ceremony on March 25.

After more than 35 years of standing as a pillar in the fight against substance misuse, the Substance Awareness Center (SAC) of Indian River County is

03/07/2025

As spring blooms across the Sunshine State, Florida's shorebirds, seabirds, and wading birds are gearing up for one of their most critical times of the year: breeding season.

You can often see these birds around Sebastian and Vero Beach, near the Indian River Lagoon, or on the beaches along both sides of Sebastian Inlet.

The MyFWC Florida Fish and Wildlife (FWC) is urging beachgoers, boaters, and nature lovers to take simple steps to ensure these feathered residents have a successful nesting season, which has already begun in parts of the state and will continue through the summer.

From the public beaches where shorebirds and seabirds lay their eggs to the mangrove islands hosting colonies of wading birds like herons, Florida's coastlines are bustling with avian activity.

The timing of this nesting season varies depending on the species and region—some birds, such as certain shorebirds, started as early as mid-February, while others won't begin until March or April.

These coastal birds aren't just scenic spots for a day out—they're vital for the survival of waterbirds, serving as nesting, resting, and feeding grounds.

That's why the FWC is calling on the public to pitch in and help protect these vulnerable populations. "Anyone enjoying time near the shore can play a big part in their conservation and nesting success," the agency told Sebastian Daily.

So, what can you do to give these birds a fighting chance? The FWC has laid out a handful of practical, waterbird-friendly tips.

For starters, keep an eye out for Critical Wildlife Areas (CWAs)—designated zones on beaches and coastal islands that are closed to the public during nesting season. These areas safeguard high concentrations of nesting shorebirds and wading birds, and signs will mark where access is off-limits. Whether you're boating or strolling along the shore, respecting these closures, keeping your distance, and lowering the volume on noise can make a world of difference.

If you're hitting the beach, the FWC suggests practicing what they call the "flock walk." Shorebirds and seabirds nest in shallow scrapes in the sand, and their eggs and chicks blend almost invisibly into their surroundings. That camouflage, while a natural defense, leaves them at risk of being accidentally stepped on.

To avoid this, stay at least 300 feet away from nesting birds, steer clear of posted areas, and walk around both lone birds and flocks rather than cutting through them. Getting too close can spook the adults into flight, leaving their eggs and chicks exposed to predators or scorching heat.

Pets are another factor to consider. Even the friendliest dogs can scare nesting birds into abandoning their young, so the FWC advises leaving pups at home. If you can't resist bringing Fido along, stick to dog-friendly beaches, keep him leashed, and ensure he stays far from nesting or resting birds.

Trash is a less obvious but equally serious threat. Leftover food scraps and litter attract predators like raccoons and crows, which prey on eggs and chicks. Discarded fishing line poses an even deadlier hazard, entangling birds, sea turtles, and other wildlife. Beachgoers can help by stashing trash in proper bins, taking gear home at the end of the day, and disposing of used monofilament line at recycling stations provided by Coastal Connections Inc.

Florida's waterbirds face many challenges from human activity, and the FWC hopes these small actions will add up to big wins for conservation. For those eager to dive deeper, the agency's website offers a downloadable brochure, Share the Beach with Beach-Nesting Birds, packed with more info.

The Florida Shorebird Alliance (FSA) Facebook group is another resource for anyone looking to get involved in protecting these species.

03/07/2025

🚨 In reference to multiple police and sheriff’s deputies on South Wimbrow in Sebastian on Friday morning: The sheriff’s office lost a retiree, and their honor guard is there performing a ceremonial tribute. There’s no incident, and the public is safe.

03/07/2025

The Spirit of Sebastian opens Heritage Park to the public for an Agrihood Tour this Saturday, March 8, 2025, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

A new chapter in sustainable living is unfolding in Sebastian, Florida, as the Spirit of Sebastian gated community invites the public to explore its

03/06/2025

Treasure Coast Community Health nabbed a $1M HRSA grant to boost healthcare for inmates nearing release.

For those counting down the days until their release from the Indian River County (IRC) Jail, the road ahead just got a little smoother. Treasure Coast

03/06/2025

Kick off your weekend in Sebastian with live music, outdoor fun, and more! Enjoy Tru Phonic at Earl’s Hideaway, the Craft Show & Treasure Hunt in Riverview Park, or Powerhouse 2.0 at Capt Hiram’s Resort—something for everyone!

Get ready to kick off your weekend with a bang in Sebastian, where live music, outdoor adventures, and community fun collide! Whether you’re grooving to

03/06/2025

Experience the ultimate Mardi Gras celebration at Pareidolia Brewing Co. in Sebastian, Florida! Let the good times roll! Music by Mojo Mike, HairPeace, and other local musicians.