Good Morning!

This past week, the Brevard Veterans Memorial Center held a moving tribute for their volunteers. Over the past year, 87 of their volunteers contributed approximately 17,797 hours of their time in support of local Veterans and their families throughout the community.

The following Individuals were recognized for their volunteer contributions:

Kay Achee, Ross Amelio, Doug Bisset, Kristi Blanchard, Dave Boyd, Connie Calub, Jim Carleton, Dave Clayton, Karen Croft, Bill Dansbury, Joe Davie, Norm Desmarais, Bill Ellis, Eleanor Fadok, Bob Finke, Wayne Fried, Jay Longway, Helen Magner, Garet McKimmie, Shaun McKinney, Ray Norman, Rita Perini, Ed Pingston, Bill Pollock, Mick Ray, Hank Rhodes, Vic Rogers, Wayne Rowe, Dean Schaaf, Gina Schlegel, Rita Shapiro, Jalaine Spears, Allen Spence, Rich Tomasso, Mary Ann Tucker, Dorothy Walsh, Donn Weaver, Brian Whalen, and Rob Whisenhant.

The Brevard Veterans Memorial Center also welcomed their 2024-2025 Board of Directors:

Executive Committee: Dean Schaaf, Donn Weaver, Don Pearsall, Jim Carleton, Kristi Blanchard, Dave Clayton

BVC Board of Directors: Paul Julian, Crystal Turman, Bill Pollock, Joe Davie, Vic Rogers, Chip Hanson, Rodger Pickett, Ted Suzor

VMC Board of Directors: Ed Pingston, Dorothy Walsh, Harry Beaver, Garet McKimmie, Jay Longway, Jalaine Spears, Dennis Herring

I’d like to thank everyone who has taken their time to serve as board members or volunteers in support of our Veterans and their families. There is no greater gift and blessing then to serve our Veterans and others in need.

For more information on volunteer opportunities, please visit the BVMC’s volunteer website by clicking here.

I consider it a great honor to represent District 19. Please share this link with your friends and family so they too, can sign up for the Mayfield Minute.

If you or someone you know needs my assistance, please do not hesitate to contact my office. My staff and I are here to serve you!

Statewide Update

New Opportunities for Anglers: FWC Receives Fishing Permits for Red Snapper Studies

This week, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) announced that they have been awarded Exempted Fishing Permits (EFPs) by NOAA to conduct unique studies aimed at collecting better data on Atlantic red snapper and other snapper-grouper species.

The studies will improve the management of these critical species in the South Atlantic. EFPs allow for harvesting activities otherwise prohibited under current federal regulations, providing a unique research opportunity.

The studies, which will run through August 2025, are set to take place off Florida’s east coast from the Florida/Georgia line south to the Dry Tortugas. The FWC Study Fleet and the FWC Hot Spot Fleet will operate from the Florida/Georgia line to Cape Canaveral, while the FWC Southeast Florida Snapper Grouper Fleet will cover the area from Cape Canaveral south to the Dry Tortugas. Each study will test an aggregate snapper-grouper bag limit to reduce discards, improve reporting of catch and discard information via an FWC app, and evaluate the satisfaction of EFP participants compared to those adhering to federal regulations.

FWC Chairman Rodney Barreto stated, “For years, FWC has heard that anglers want to directly provide data to improve the management of Atlantic red snapper, this is your opportunity to do so! Your participation is not just desired; it’s essential for these studies to be a success and improve management.”

The first application period extends to July 17th, with additional application periods in October 2024, January 2025, and April 2025. The FWC strongly encourages recreational saltwater anglers to apply to participate.

For more information on the FWC Atlantic Red Snapper Exempted Fishing Permit Project, click here.

Commissioner Simpson Announces Land Conservation Through the Rural and Family Lands Protection Program

This week, Florida Commissioner of Agriculture Wilton Simpson announced a major achievement in the state’s land conservation efforts with the addition of the preservation of South Prong, a 2,400-acre timber and hunting property in Baker County. This preservation was achieved through the Rural and Family Lands Protection Program.

The Rural and Family Lands Protection Program purchases development rights from agricultural properties, ensuring these lands remain dedicated to agriculture while preventing future development. This initiative supports Florida’s economy and the production of vital resources such as food and timber.

South Prong is a diverse property, featuring 1,427 acres of uplands managed for timber and agriculture, and over 970 acres of wetlands and natural areas. The property supports different activities, including managed hunts and serves as an educational site for youth groups.

The program, established in 2001, plays a crucial role in maintaining Florida’s agricultural heritage amid increasing urban development pressures. By working with farmers and ranchers, it ensures sustainable agricultural practices and the conservation of natural resources.

In the 2024 Legislative Session, Commissioner Simpson and Legislature secured $100 million for the program, with an additional $100 million annually to support the Florida Wildlife Corridor. This funding will facilitate the acquisition of conservation easements, further bolstering the state’s commitment to land preservation.

Commissioner Simpson’s has been dedicated to land conservation since his role as Senate President, where he was instrumental in passing the Florida Wildlife Corridor Act and securing significant funding for the Rural and Family Lands Protection Program.

For more information on the Rural and Family Lands Protection program, click here.

Agency Highlight

Florida Department of Juvenile Justice

This week, we are highlighting the Florida Department of Juvenile Justice (DJJ). The mission of the DJJ is to enhance public safety through high-quality, effective services for youth and families delivered by professionals dedicated to building a stronger, safer Florida.

In 1994, the Legislature created the DJJ, transferring powers, duties, and resources from the HRS Juvenile Justice Program Office to the new agency. DJJ was assigned responsibility for juvenile delinquency cases and children and families in need of services. DJJ approaches juvenile cases as children in need of treatment and reform rather than criminals in need of punishment.

The DJJ’s structure includes several key program offices: Administrative Services, Prevention and Victim Services, Detention Services, Probation and Community Intervention, and Residential Services. These offices are dedicated to providing services for the prevention, early intervention, control, and rehabilitative treatment of delinquent behavior.

One of the notable programs within DJJ is the Florida Scholars Academy (FSA), a unified education system for DJJ students provided through a partnership with Florida Virtual School. This program aims to enhance the academic achievement of students in the care of DJJ by helping them achieve a high school diploma or enrollment in a postsecondary program at a Florida college, university, or technical college.

The DJJ also offers various resources and programs aimed at supporting youth and families. The Florida Coalition Against Domestic Violence offers information on understanding the cycle of domestic violence and connects families to the nearest local certified domestic violence center. Additionally, programs like Secure Florida provide internet safety tips to help youth stay safe from internet predators and cyberbullying.

Parents struggling with a child’s addiction or mental illness can find support through Treatment 4 Addiction, which offers assistance with alcoholism, drug addictions, codependency, depression, and other conditions. The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration provides hotline information for various trauma and abuse services. Programs like Florida Kid Care and Medicaid offer affordable health insurance and assistance for eligible children.

The DJJ also collaborates with other organizations to enhance its services. The Hope Florida initiative utilizes ‘Hope Navigators’ to guide Floridians on a path to prosperity and self-sufficiency, focusing on community collaboration between the private sector, faith-based communities, nonprofits, and government entities. This initiative includes Hope Navigators within DJJ who assist Florida families in need by connecting them to local resources in their communities.

Through these comprehensive programs and initiatives, the Florida Department of Juvenile Justice is committed to supporting and rehabilitating youth, ensuring they have the resources and opportunities to lead successful lives. For more information on services provided by the DJJ, click here.

Constituent of the Week

Neal Johnson

This week, we are honored to feature Neal Johnson as our Constituent of the Week. Mr. Johnson’s dedication to our community is exemplary, spanning decades of service and leadership.

Mr. Johnson graduated with a Business Administration degree from Eastern Florida State College. Since then, his leadership and advocacy for economic development have left mark on Brevard County.

Mr. Johnson has been involved in various organizations and nonprofits that have built and expanded the Space Coast for decades. He has served on the Economic Development Commission (EDC) of Florida’s Space Coast Board of Directors, including a term as Chair during the Fiscal Year 2004/2005. His efforts were instrumental in preserving thousands of jobs by successfully advocating to keep Patrick Air Force Base’s Naval Ordinance Test Unit off the BRAC closure list.

In addition to his role at the EDC, Mr. Johnson has made significant contributions to community initiatives and organizations such as the Melbourne Regional Chamber of Commerce, LEAD Brevard, AMIKids Space Coast, Space Coast Home Builders and Contractors Association, Business Voice Political Committee, Tied Together Space Coast, Brevard Civilian Military Council, and the Brevard Zoo Aquarium Project Campaign Cabinet.

As a Veteran and leader in the community, he has been actively engaged in supporting military advocacy efforts, specifically assisting military spouses on the Space Coast. His dedication to community service and civic engagement serves as an inspiration to others.

Mr. Johnson has been recognized for his outstanding contributions, receiving awards such as the EDC’s Volunteer of the Year for his dedicated service and leadership in economic development and military advocacy efforts.

Senate District 19 thanks Mr. Johnson for his exceptional service, leadership, and commitment to making Brevard County a better place to live and work.

District Highlights

Space X Celebrates 50th Launch of 2024 at Cape Canaveral Space Station

This week, SpaceX celebrated its 50th launch from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station and NASA’s Kennedy Space Center, continuing the Space Coast’s record rocket launch pace. A Falcon 9 rocket carrying a Turkish communications satellite, Türksat-6A, lifted off from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station’s Space Launch Complex 40 at 7:30 p.m. on Monday.

This mission marked the 15th flight of the first-stage booster, this launch highlights the success and increasing capabilities of Cape Canaveral Space Force Station and NASA’s Kennedy Space Center, projecting to surpass last year’s record of 72 launches.

Türksat-6A, Turkey’s first domestically built communications satellite, will serve India, Thailand, Malaysia, and Indonesia, expanding its geographic reach from 3.5 billion to 5 billion people. This satellite will expand commercial services across these regions. The success of these mission’s shows the significant role of the Space Coast in driving technological advancements and space exploration.

For more information on Space X launches, click here.

Positive Steps for Indian River Lagoon Recovery

Over the last 15 years, many residents have witnessed the devastating effects of algal blooms in the Indian River Lagoon (IRL), leading to significant seagrass loss and the starvation of manatees. In 2007, the IRL boasted 32,600 hectares (80,000 acres) of seagrass, equivalent to 40,000 football fields.

Recent data suggests a positive shift in seagrass recovery. Between 2021 and 2023, official mapping by the St. Johns River Water Management District shows a 24% increase in seagrass cover, amounting to 2,400 hectares. This progress shows significant improvements in restoring the IRL’s ecological health, with clearer waters and the return of various fish species.

Thanks to the diligent efforts of organizations like the St. Johns River Water Management District, Brevard County Save Our Indian River Lagoon Plan, and the Indian River Lagoon National Estuary Program, hundreds of restoration projects have been completed, making this remarkable recovery possible.

For more information on seagrass restoration in the IRL, click here.

Space Coast League of Cities

It was an honor to receive the Florida League of Cities Legislative Appreciation award last week during the Space Coast League of Cities monthly meeting. The statewide League of Cities and the local League of Cities organizations work tirelessly to empower local government, support local voices, and to protect and advance Florida’s communities.

Florida’s Space Coast League of Cities represents 16 cities throughout Brevard County, all working together for the benefit of our neighborhoods, towns, and the county at large.

Monthly meetings are open to the public and allow for a great opportunity to meet the leadership of the municipalities and to learn more about the issues and events occurring throughout the County. 

For more information on the Space Coast League of Cities, click here.   

Upcoming Events

Florida Tech to Feature Exclusive Screening of “Show Her the Money” Documentary

On Tuesday, July 16th, from 3:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., Florida Tech’s weVENTURE Women’s Business Center (WBC) and the Florida Tech Center for Advanced Manufacturing and Innovative Design (CAMID) are hosting an exclusive screening of the ” Show Her the Money” documentary at Florida Tech’s Gleason Auditorium (150 West University Boulevard) in Melbourne.

This documentary addresses how women receive less than 2% of venture capital funding. It features female investors who support women entrepreneurs with world-changing innovations. The screening will be followed by a panel discussion with film producers, featured investors, and female founders. This event is part of the Florida Techcelerator Summit and is open to the public with free registration available.

For more information, contact event organizer Kathryn Rudloff at [email protected] or 321-674-7007.

Cape Canaveral Lighthouse Foundation Hosts Christmas in July Event

On Thursday, July 18th, Cape Canaveral Lighthouse Foundation will host the 2nd Annual Christmas in July Raffle Drawing & Party from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Rising Tide Tap and Table (523 Glen Cheek Dr) in Port Canaveral. This event features opportunities to win great prizes, including a $5000 first prize (winner need not be present) and a $1000 second prize (winner must be present).

Limited to just 250 tickets, each raffle ticket admits two guests to the party where attendees can enjoy complimentary drinks, delicious food, and participate in door prizes and a live auction offering special tours to the top. Each ticket purchase also includes a one-year membership, providing access to the Membership Caravan to the Lighthouse in December, decorated festively for the holidays.

Tickets are available for a $100 donation each and can be obtained through board members or by emailing [email protected] for more information on ticket purchase and event details.

Moon Fest Weekend at Kennedy Space Center

On Friday, July 19th, and Saturday, July 20th, Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex (Space Commerce Way) is hosting their annual Moon Fest Weekend.

Moon Fest Weekend celebrates the 55th anniversary of Apollo 11’s historic moon landing on July 20th, 1969. The event honors this monumental achievement in space exploration history.

Moon Fest Weekend is open to all ages, attendees will have the chance to immerse themselves in the legacy of the Apollo Program and get updates on the upcoming Artemis missions. The weekend’s activities include a variety of engaging and educational experiences spread across the visitor complex.

At the Space Shuttle Atlantis, families can enjoy all-day activities, including a Silent DJ from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. and interactive exhibits featuring competition robots and mini robots presented by The Pink Team 233. Over at the Apollo/Saturn V Center, guests can watch “Astro and Orbit,” a comedy duo performing at the People’s Moon exhibit playing throughout the day, as well as take photos with the Moon rover.

In the Journey to Mars section, there will be “Apollo to Artemis” presentations by space experts at 1:00 p.m., 2:00 p.m., and 3:00 p.m. Additionally, the Rocket Garden will feature the “One Giant Leap” short film, playing at the top of each hour.

Moon Fest Weekend is a chance to reflect on the incredible achievements of the past and look forward to the future of space exploration. For more information on how to purchase tickets, click here.

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Contact Information

Melbourne Office 

900 East Strawbridge Avenue

Melbourne, FL 32901

(321) 409-2025

Tallahassee Office

400 Senate Office Building

404 South Monroe Street

Tallahassee, FL 32399-1100

(850) 487-5019

Staff:

Yvette Campbell

Kelli Lane

Samantha Scaringe