Good Morning!

Last week on July 27th we honored National Korean War Veterans Armistice Day. This day is dedicated to commemorating the more than 35,000 U.S. service members who lost their lives during the Korean War.

The Korean War began on June 25th, 1950, when the North Korean People’s Army crossed the 38th Parallel, dividing Korea into North and South. The conflict continued until July 27th, 1953, when an Armistice Agreement was signed, bringing an end to the war.

This agreement, signed by U.S. Army Lt. Gen. William Harrison, Jr., representing the United Nations Command, and North Korean General Nam Il, representing the Korean People’s Army and the Chinese People’s Volunteer Army, established the Korean Demilitarized Zone, a border between the two nations, enforced a cease-fire, and finalized the return of prisoners-of-war.

The Veterans who served during this time were ordinary men and women who showed extraordinary courage fighting far from their home to defend a country they did not know and people they never met.

This year marks the 71st anniversary of the signing of the Armistice. As we reflect on this day, we honor the soldiers who served and lost their lives during the war.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to all the Korean War Veterans for their bravery and sacrifice. We honor their legacy today and always.

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

Back to School 2024 Sales Tax Holiday

This week begins the Back-to-School Sales Tax Holiday, starting on Monday, July 29th, through August 11th. This annual holiday aims to ease the financial burden on families as they prepare for the upcoming school year by offering significant savings on essential items.

The Back-to-School Sales Tax Holiday encompasses a wide range of items crucial for students’ success. School supplies such as binders, notebooks, pens, pencils, and lunch boxes, all selling for $50 or less per item, are included in the tax-free promotion. 

Additionally, learning aids like interactive books, jigsaw puzzles, and other educational toys priced at $30 or less per item are tax-exempt.

Parents can also take advantage of tax-free clothing and footwear, with items such as backpacks, pants, shoes, shirts, and sweaters selling for $100 or less per item.

Personal computers and related accessories purchased for noncommercial home or personal use, including laptops, flash drives, printers, and headphones, are tax-free if they sell for $1,500 or less per item.

This Back-to-School Sales Tax Holiday runs alongside the Freedom Summer Sales Tax Holiday, which continues through July 31, 2024. The Freedom Summer Sales Tax Holiday offers tax-free purchases on items such as fishing supplies, outdoor recreation equipment, and admission to state parks and museums.

For more information on the Back to School Sales Tax Holiday, here.

First Lady DeSantis Hosts Cooking Classes for Florida Youth in Foster Care

Last week, First Lady Casey DeSantis, alongside Department of Children and Families Secretary Shevaun Harris and Guardian ad Litem Executive Director Dennis Moore, hosted a hands-on, healthy cooking class for Hope Florida mentors and Florida youth in foster care.

This event showcased the successful partnership between Hope Florida and the Guardian ad Litem program, which has paired hundreds of mentors and mentees since September 2023.

“It’s incredible to see the difference a mentor makes in the lives of youth aging out of foster care,” stated Executive Director Dennis Moore. “We encourage anyone with a heart to serve to join this program.”

Secretary Shevaun Harris emphasized the importance of mentors, stating, “Every child should have a mentor to guide them into adulthood. We are fortunate for First Lady Casey DeSantis’ leadership in recruiting more mentors and expanding opportunities for community involvement.”

Since its launch, Hope Florida has matched nearly 900 foster youth with mentors. More mentors are urgently needed, especially in the Orlando area, where over 100 foster youth await mentorship. Floridians seeking support or foster youth needing a mentor can connect with Hope Florida by clicking here or by calling 850-300-HOPE.

Honoring the 2025 Teacher of the Year Finalists

Last week, Governor DeSantis recognized the 5 finalists for the 2025 Florida Teacher of the Year. During a special ceremony, each finalist was presented with a $20,000 check in honor of their exceptional contributions to education. These distinguished educators have demonstrated outstanding dedication and innovative teaching methods, earning them this prestigious recognition.

The finalists include:

• Samantha Nelson from Leon County
• Jennifer Brown from Marion County
• Jaime Suarez from Hernando County
• Dr. Clayton Nylund from Hillsborough County
• Heather Stewart from Walton County

At the Annual Teacher of the Year Gala on Thursday, July 25th, Commissioner of Education Manny Diaz, Jr., announced Jaime Suarez as the 2025 Florida Teacher of the Year. Ms. Suarez is a mathematics teacher at Challenger K-8 School of Science and Mathematics in Hernando County. Commissioner Diaz stated, “It is because of inspirational and dedicated educators like Jaime, that Florida’s students continue to exceed expectations and raise the bar for education.”

These educators represent the best of Florida’s commitment to quality education and the Governor’s support for the teaching profession. Their dedication and passion for educating Florida’s students inspire their peers and pave the way for future generations.

Agency Highlight

The Florida Department of Military Affairs

This week, we are highlighting the Florida Department of Military Affairs (DMA). The DMA, headquartered at St. Francis Barracks in St. Augustine, FL, is composed of the Florida Army National Guard and the Florida Air National Guard. Both branches are administered by the state Adjutant General, an appointee of the Governor of Florida, and fall under the command of the Governor.

The Florida National Guard traces its roots back to 1565, when the Spanish founders of St. Augustine mustered their first company of Citizen-Soldiers. For over 450 years, these Citizen-Soldiers have defended their local communities and continue to serve in units across the state, consistent with Article I, Section 8 of the U.S. Constitution.

The DMA provides management oversight and administrative support to the Florida National Guard, operating within the policy and fiscal frameworks of both federal and state authorities. Managing a force of over 11,000 National Guard members, including more than 2,300 full-time military personnel and over 500 state employees and contractors, the DMA is dedicated to serving the interests of the nation, the state, local communities, and Florida’s citizens.

One of the key programs offered by the Florida DMA is the Educational Dollars for Duty (EDD) program. This initiative helps pay tuition for Florida National Guard members pursuing higher education. It covers up to 100% of tuition for courses leading to Technical Certificates, Associate’s, Bachelor’s, or Master’s degrees. The annual budget for EDD is over $5 million, enhancing the recruiting and retention programs of the Florida National Guard and improving the education level of its members.

Another important initiative is the Family Program, which provides support to military families through Family Readiness, Family Assistance, and Child and Youth initiatives. Services include family communication support, resilience promotion, and assistance with benefits and entitlements.

Additionally, the Joint Enlistment Enhancement Program (JEEP) incentivizes Soldiers, Airmen, and retirees to assist in recruiting new members to the Florida National Guard.

Through its programs and initiatives, the Florida Department of Military Affairs remains committed to the welfare of its service members, their families, and the communities they serve.

For more information about these programs and how to get involved, click here.

Constituent of the Week

Ramone D. Hemphill

This week, we are featuring Ramone Hemphill as our Constituent of the Week.

Mr. Hemphill grew up in Charlotte, North Carolina where he developed an early interest in aviation.

He earned his Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science from North Carolina A&T State University and later completed an MBA in Project Management from Florida Institute of Technology, where he currently serves on the Alumni Association Board.

Throughout his career, Ramone has worked in various roles within the aviation industry. He started as a Systems Engineer in Avionics at Rockwell Collins in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, where he contributed to developing flight decks for commercial aviation customers like Boeing, Bombardier, Airbus, and Embraer. His journey continued at the Honda Aircraft Company in North Carolina, where he played a crucial role in the HondaJet program and became a private pilot in 2012. His career also included positions at BendixKing/Honeywell, Moog Aircraft Group, and Northrop Grumman, where he led a team of engineers for a defense contractor in Central Florida.

Mr. Hemphill is known throughout Brevard County for the creation of a non-profit organization called “The 99th Squadron,” named after the 99th Pursuit Squadron, part of the Tuskegee Airmen. This organization aims to introduce young students, particularly those from underprivileged backgrounds, to the vast opportunities in the aviation industry.

The 99th Squadron offers a free five-week curriculum covering various aviation topics, designed to spark interest in aviation and STEM fields among middle and high school students. At the end of the program, Ramone schedules introductory flights for the students, often accompanied by their families, to provide a hands-on experience.

Ramone’s dedication to the community and his work with the 99th Squadron has made a significant impact on helping underprivileged youth explore aviation opportunities. By exposing young students to the aviation industry, he is not only opening doors to new career paths but also fostering a sense of possibility and ambition. The program builds confidence and skills in students, empowering them to pursue their dreams and contribute positively to their communities.

Ramone’s contributions have earned him several awards, including the Humanitarian of the Year from the Space Coast Black Chamber of Commerce, the Community Leadership Award from HUAMI Magazine, Florida Today’s Volunteer of the Year Award in 2023, and the Brigadier General Charles E. McGee Aviation Inspiration Award from the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA).

Senate District 19 thanks Ramone Hemphill for his service to the community. His efforts with the 99th Squadron inspire the next generation of aviators and make a lasting impact on the community.

For more information on the 99th Squadron, click here.

District Highlights

Cape Canaveral National Cemetery Announces Expansion

Last week, Cape Canaveral National Cemetery in Brevard County announced a major expansion to create additional gravesites for veterans. This initiative will provide tens of thousands of new gravesites to serve veteran families over the next decade.

Cape Canaveral National Cemetery is increasing its capacity by 30 acres, which will accommodate around 32,200 additional gravesites. This expansion is necessary to meet the growing demand for burial space. Currently, the cemetery spans 117 developed acres and is the resting place for 17,000 veterans. The cemetery holds up to a dozen committal services daily, seven days a week, to honor veterans.

Cemetery director Cindy Van Bibber stressed the importance of treating veterans and their families with the utmost respect and dignity during these ceremonies.

A dedicated group of volunteers known as the Cape Canaveral Ladies ensures that no veteran is laid to rest alone. Since the cemetery’s opening in 2016, 46 volunteers have contributed nearly 16,000 hours, attending every service.

The volunteers continue to support all families at the cemetery, offering solace and honoring the service of veterans. The cemetery also welcomes volunteers for holiday activities, such as placing wreaths on gravesites and flags for Memorial Day. 

For more information on Cape Canaveral National Cemetary, click here.

Rockledge Opens a New Rainbow Bridge Pet Remembrance Path

Last week, Brevard County introduced a touching new tribute for pets who have passed away with the opening of the Rainbow Bridge Pet Remembrance Path. The ribbon-cutting ceremony took place at Hounds Town Space Coast pet daycare center, located at 3905 U.S. 1 in Rockledge.

The Rainbow Bridge Pet Remembrance Path provides a space for community members to honor their cherished pets. Visitors are invited to leave a collar, a leash, or purchase a plaque to memorialize their beloved companions.

Rockledge Mayor Tom Price, along with Council members Mike Cadore and Duane Daski, joined Hounds Town Space Coast owners Leslie Bottesch and Jane Banke for the special opening.

Upcoming Events

Viera Middle School Ribbon Cutting

On Tuesday, July 30th, 2024, Viera Middle School will host a ribbon cutting ceremony to celebrate the opening of Brevard County’s newest educational institution. The ceremony will take place at 6093 Stadium Parkway, marking the completion of a much-anticipated project that will welcome between 650 and 700 seventh and eighth graders when the school year begins on August 12th.

The new campus features a one-story, 137,369-square-foot facility divided into three main buildings. The school will offer classes in robotics and aerospace, reflecting a commitment to providing students with innovative and engaging educational opportunities.

Principal McNutt expressed her enthusiasm for the new programs, noting the positive impact they will have on students. “These programs will inspire our students and prepare them for future careers in high-demand fields.”

The ribbon cutting ceremony on July 30th is open to the public, and all are encouraged to attend and celebrate this significant milestone for the Viera community.

For more information, click here.

Doing Business in Brevard County Event

On Thursday, August 1st, the Orlando Business Journal will host the 2024 Doing Business in Brevard County Expo. The event will take place at the Hilton Melbourne Beach Oceanfront (3003 N Hwy A1A) from 2:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. This event will feature a panel of distinguished regional experts who will discuss current Brevard County projects and initiatives making headlines in 2024.

Attendees will have the opportunity to network with professionals from various industries and discover new region-specific opportunities that may benefit their companies or organizations.

Panelists include:

• Robert Long, President and CEO, Space Florida
• Capt. John Murray, Chief Executive Officer, Canaveral Port Authority
• Lynda Weatherman, President & CEO, Economic Development Commission of Florida’s Space Coast
• Kelle Wendling, President, L3Harris Technologies
• Janice Zilch, Vice President, Multi-Domain Command and Control (MDC2) and Melbourne Site Leader, Northrop Grumman Corporation Aeronautics Systems

For more information on how to register, click here. For information on how to become a sponsor, please email [email protected].

Brevard Veteran’s Memorial Center Hosts Annual Coast Guard Birthday Celebration

On Saturday, August 3rd, Brevard Veteran’s Memorial Center will host the Annual Coast Guard Birthday and Family Day at Coast Guard Station Port Canaveral (9235 Grouper Rd) from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. The event is sponsored by the USO, MOAACC Good Deeds, VFW 10131, and other community organizations.

Attendees can enjoy free food, fun activities for kids, and a variety of sponsor booths. This is a wonderful opportunity to celebrate the Coast Guard’s birthday and show support for the station’s personnel and their families. Access and parking are available just before the closed entrance to the Space Force Station Cape Canaveral south gate.

For more information, contact Brevard Veteran’s Memorial Center at 321-453-1776

Brevard Veteran’s Memorial Center Hosts Annual Purple Heart Recognition Ceremony

On Sunday, August 4th, Brevard Veteran’s Memorial Center will host the Annual Purple Heart Recognition Ceremony at Gray Hall (400 S Sykes Creek Pkwy) from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. The event is sponsored by Chapter 453 of the Military Order of the Purple Heart.

This special ceremony will honor ten Purple Heart recipients and one Gold Star Family, sharing their stories and recognizing their sacrifices.

For more information, contact Donn Weaver at 757-871-6576.

Brevard Children and Families in Need Gala 2024

The Brevard Children and Families in Need (BCIN) Gala 2024 will take place on Friday, September 13, 2024, from 6:30 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. at the Hilton Cocoa Beach Oceanfront (1550 N Atlantic Ave). This year’s event celebrates its 13th anniversary and features a grand prize of $13,000, with a total of $16,000 in raffle ticket prizes.

Guests will enjoy an evening of entertainment, auctions, and opportunities to support Brevard’s children and families in need. Food will be served starting at 6:30 p.m., and complimentary beer and wine will be available, along with cash bars.

Interested in becoming a sponsor? Sponsorship opportunities are available for those looking to make a significant impact. By partnering with the BCIN Gala, sponsors contribute to meaningful change and support the mission to improve lives in the community.

Tickets are priced at $150 each, which includes admission for two, with only 400 tickets available. To purchase tickets, click here text “BCINGALA” to 76278. Additionally, Alcohol Cooler Tickets can be purchased through the same link.

All proceeds from the event go to the Space Coast Association of Realtors Foundation to support families in need throughout Brevard County.

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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