State Senator Debbie Mayfield – Mayfield Minute 08/11/24

Aug 11 2024

State Senator Debbie Mayfield – Mayfield Minute 08/11/24

Good Morning!

As many Florida K-12 schools prepare to begin the 2024-2025 school year on Monday, August 12th, we want to wish everyone a wonderful upcoming school year! Fifty-nine out of Florida’s 67 counties will kick off the new academic year this Monday, marking the first day that most Florida students return to the classrooms.

As the new school year approaches, it’s important to get prepared both mentally and physically. One of the first steps is to gather essential school supplies. Many schools provide a list of required items, so make sure to check with your school for the correct supply list.

As we look forward to the new school year, we extend our thanks to our wonderful teachers and parents. Your dedication and support are invaluable, and we appreciate all that you do to nurture and educate children.

Here’s to a fantastic school year filled with learning and new adventures!

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

Update On Hurricane Debby Response

Hurricane Debby hit Florida last week, and the state has mobilized an extensive response to support affected communities. Governor DeSantis announced the activation of the Florida Small Business Emergency Bridge Loan Program, which provides $10 million in zero-interest loans to businesses impacted by the hurricane. Small business owners, including sole proprietors, can apply for these short-term loans through September 30th, 2024, by clicking here.

The Florida Department of Emergency Management (FDEM) has started rapid damage assessments in affected counties and is operating 8 Points of Distribution (PODS) across the state to provide essential supplies. To date, FDEM has deployed over 1.5 million bottles of water, nearly 900,000 shelf-stable meals, and over 17,000 tarps. Approximately 17,000 linemen are working to restore power, with over 680,000 accounts already restored.

The Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) completed preliminary assessments of over 10,000 lane miles of state roads and removed debris from 6,596 miles. Roadways are mostly clear, except for some flooded areas across the state.

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) has deployed additional personnel and specialized equipment, including high-water vehicles, airboats, and drones, to assist in flood response and recovery. FWC officers are working closely with local emergency operations centers and have been crucial in high-water rescues and damage assessments.

The Florida State Guard (FSG) and the Florida National Guard (FNG) are also actively involved, providing support with logistics, road clearing, and flood control. The National Guard has mobilized over 2,300 guardsmen, cleared over 401 miles of road, and conducted over 154 rescues.

The State Assistance Information Line (SAIL) remains operational at 1-800-342-3557 for residents needing resources.

FWC Celebrates National Shooting Sports Month

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) is teaming up with the National Shooting Sports Foundation to celebrate National Shooting Sports Month throughout August. This month-long event encourages participation in shooting sports and emphasizes the importance of firearm safety.

National Shooting Sports Month highlights how target shooters contribute to conservation efforts through excise taxes on archery equipment, firearms, and ammunition, which help fund wildlife management. The FWC invites individuals to visit their supervised ranges and learn from experienced staff.

To celebrate, target shooters can participate in the #RangeChallenge, a series of activities promoting firearm safety, mentorship, and shooting sports awareness. For more details on the annual range challenge, click here.

The FWC manages 11 shooting ranges throughout the state. To find a range near you, click here.

Agency Highlight

The Florida Department of Environmental Protection

This week, we are highlighting the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP). Established in 1993, DEP is the state’s leading agency for environmental management and stewardship, tasked with protecting Florida’s air, water, and land resources.

Secretary Shawn Hamilton has led the Department of Environmental Protection since 2007. With over 20 years of experience in both the public and private sectors, Secretary Hamilton has effectively guided the department through numerous environmental challenges and initiatives. His leadership has been crucial during events like the Deepwater Horizon oil spill and hurricanes Irma and Michael.

DEP oversees a broad range of environmental programs through three primary areas: Land and Recreation, Regulatory Programs, and Ecosystems Restoration. These programs acquire and protect lands for preservation and recreation, safeguard natural resources, and improve water quality and aquatic resources.

DEP oversees air quality through the implementation of the Clean Air Act and related Florida statutes. The department monitors air quality, issues permits to air pollution sources and coordinates the review and certification for building and operating power plants, transmission lines, and natural gas pipelines. It also promotes sustainable initiatives and other programs to protect air quality.

DEP oversees parks and recreation by managing 175 state parks, trails, and historic sites, covering more than 813,000 acres and 100 miles of white beaches. These parks offer year-round outdoor activities for all ages, such as swimming, diving, birding, fishing, hiking, riding on trails, battle reenactments, Native American festivals, art shows, museums, and lighthouses.

The department provides oversight for the management of more than 12 million acres of state-owned lands, including lakes, rivers, and islands. The department acquires land for preservation, sells surplus state property, and provides mapping and survey services for state-owned lands. It also specializes in geoscience research that guides regulatory and policymaking decisions.

DEP implements state and federal laws related to recycling, pollution prevention, and solid and hazardous waste management. The department is responsible for promoting, monitoring, and reporting on recycling and other waste reduction efforts throughout the state.

The department protects and monitors water quality, sets restoration goals for surface waters, and oversees restoration activities. It implements state laws to protect the quality of Florida’s drinking water, groundwater, rivers, lakes, estuaries, and wetlands; reclaims mined lands; and preserves the state’s beach and dune systems. DEP also assists local governments and other entities by providing funding for drinking water, stormwater, and wastewater projects. It oversees water management districts as they implement water supply and water quality protection programs.

DEP helps residents and businesses comply with environmental regulations through compliance assistance, education, and information. The department offers various newsletters and updates, recognizes environmental stewardship, and provides career and internship opportunities across the state.

The department offers a wide range of career and internship opportunities across the state, including roles in administration, accounting, policy analysis, surveying, and water specialties. The department values the service of veterans and supports hiring returning service members and military spouses.

The Florida Department of Environmental Protection plays a crucial role in safeguarding our environment and ensuring sustainable use of natural resources. Through its various programs and dedicated leadership, DEP continues to make significant strides in environmental protection and conservation.

For more information on DEP, click here.

Constituent of the Week

Evan Ernst

This week, we are highlighting Evan Ernst as our Constituent of the Week.

Evan grew up in Cocoa Beach, Florida, where he attended Cocoa Beach High School. While excelling in both academics and soccer, Evan faced a life-altering tragedy in 2007 when his close friend and teammate, Rafe Maccarone, suffered a sudden cardiac arrest and passed away while playing soccer. This tragedy deeply affected Evan and the community.

After graduating from high school, Evan attended Florida State University, where he pursued a degree in Business Management, Entrepreneurship, and Marketing. It was during his time at Florida State that he co-founded Who We Play For, transforming his grief into a mission to save lives through affordable heart screenings for young athletes.

Evan later earned a master’s degree from the University of Pennsylvania’s Nonprofit Leadership Program, graduating with honors. After pursuing his education, he returned to Cocoa Beach to continue serving his community and the state through his role as Executive Director of Who We Play For.

Under Evan’s leadership as Co-Founder and Executive Director, Who We Play For has partnered with schools and communities across the country since 2012, offering ECG screenings to students, regardless of their level of athletics, economic status, or location. The organization has screened hundreds of thousands of students, identified countless life-threatening heart conditions, and saved so many lives.

He has also been a volunteer and speaker for the Serious Fun Children’s Network since 2009. This nonprofit organization is a global community of over 30 camps and programs providing free recreational experiences to children with serious illnesses. These camps offer a supportive environment where children can experience the joys of childhood, despite the challenges of their medical conditions.

Additionally, Evan serves on the Board of Directors for the Economic Development Commission of Florida’s Space Coast. This nonprofit organization is a community coalition focused on supporting Brevard County through economic development. Evan’s role on the board helps drive economic development in Brevard County, supporting local businesses and fostering growth to ensure a thriving community for all residents.

Evan’s efforts have earned him numerous recognitions, including the 4 Under 40 LEAD Brevard Award, the Central Florida Humanitarian Award, and the Local SCA Advocate Champion Award from Parent Heart Watch.

Senate District 19 thanks Evan for his outstanding work in our community and beyond. His efforts to raise awareness and prevent sudden cardiac death in young athletes are inspiring.

District Highlights

Historic Cocoa Village Playhouse Marks 100 Years of Theater

This year marks a major milestone for the Historic Cocoa Village Playhouse as they celebrate their 100th anniversary. Originally opening their doors as the Aladdin Theater on August 18th, 1924, the venue initially showcased silent films. Over time, they evolved into Brevard’s first theater house and earned a reputation as “the showplace of the Indian River Section.”

Through several ownership changes and decades of history, the theater was eventually acquired by the City of Cocoa and rebranded as The Cocoa Village Playhouse. In 1984, the Brevard Community College District Board of Trustees assumed responsibility for the theater, transforming it into a community-centered performing arts venue. This transition led to the formation of a non-profit organization dedicated to ensuring the Playhouse’s operational success through fundraising and grants.

In 1991, the Playhouse was added to the National Register of Historic Places, and their official name was changed to The Historic Cocoa Village Playhouse, Inc. The venue has since flourished, with programs such as the Stars of Tomorrow youth initiative and a dedicated group of over 600 volunteers who contribute to its productions.

Significant renovations and expansions have been made over the years, including the addition of a Technical Support Annex and extensive upgrades to the auditorium and lobby. In 2011, ownership was returned to the City of Cocoa, which has since partnered with the Playhouse for ongoing improvements.

As a beloved community fixture, the Playhouse continues to serve as a vibrant hub for the performing arts in Cocoa Village, embodying the spirit of “Broadway on Brevard.”

For more information on the Playhouse’s history and upcoming events, click here.

Caroline Marks Wins Gold in the 2024 Olympics

This week, Caroline Marks, from Melbourne Beach, won the gold medal in the women’s surfing category at the 2024 Olympics in Tahiti. Caroline grew up in Melbourne Beach, where she spent the first 12 years of her life surfing.

By age 13, she became the youngest female to compete in a World Surfing League event and, at 15, was the youngest to qualify for the Women’s Championship Tour. Her Olympic gold medal underscores a career marked by dedication and talent.

Brevard County and the nation proudly celebrate her remarkable achievements. For more information about her career, click here.

Guardian Program Set to Begin in Brevard Schools for the 2024-2025 Academic Year

Starting in the 2024-2025 academic year, Brevard County Public Schools will implement a new guardian program as part of their initiative to enhance student safety. This program, known as the Sheriff Training On Site Marshal Program (S.T.O.M.P.), is designed to allow selected school staff members to carry firearms on campus after undergoing extensive training.

The guardian program is open to non-classroom staff members who volunteer, are vetted by their school’s principal, and receive comprehensive training and evaluation in partnership with the Brevard County Sheriff’s Office. This initiative aims to ensure that when parents drop their children off at school, they can feel confident in their children’s safety throughout the day.

Participants in the S.T.O.M.P. program will undergo 176 hours of rigorous training, surpassing the state’s requirement of 140 hours for guardians. This training includes defensive tactics, firearms proficiency, and mental health awareness. The goal is to prepare staff to handle real-life scenarios, such as an active shooter situation, with precision and minimal risk of collateral damage.

Veteran firearm instructor Corporal Jose Centeno, who has 25 years of experience, will lead the training. The program also includes blocks of instruction on how to holster and retain a weapon safely and how to manage situations without resorting to deadly force.

For more information on the S.T.O.M.P. Program, contact the Brevard County Sheriff’s Office at 321-264-5201.

Florida Tech Expands Aviation Training with $1 Million Grant

This week, Florida Tech received a $1 million grant from the Emil Buehler Perpetual Trust Fund, allowing the university to acquire cutting-edge flight simulators and strengthen its renowned flight training programs.

President John Nicklow announced the grant during a ceremony at the Emil Buehler Center for Aviation Research, where Florida Tech also welcomed four new Piper Pilot 100i planes to its fleet. The arrival of the four new Piper Pilot planes completes the University’s goal of having eight planes announced earlier this year.

The Buehler Trust Fund grant will allow Florida Tech to purchase two FRASCA Mentor 242 simulators, which replicate the multi-engine Piper Seminole aircraft, a vital part of the university’s 47-plane fleet. These simulators, equipped with G3 Touch Avionics, will provide students with the opportunity to practice their flying skills in a virtual environment.

Simulators play a crucial role in aviation education, and this investment will ensure that Florida Tech continues to prepare students for successful careers in aviation.

For more information on Florida Tech’s aviation program, click here.

Upcoming Events

Vendor Registration Opens for 7th Annual Green Gables Harvest Festival

Registration for vendors opens on Tuesday, August 13th, for the 7th Annual Harvest Festival at Green Gables (1501 S Harbor City Blvd). The event is scheduled for Saturday, September 21st from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. This popular event will feature local vendors showcasing crafts, jewelry, food items, gifts, and more, all set on the scenic grounds of Green Gables.

Visitors can look forward to children’s activities, food trucks, and live entertainment. The festival is free to attend, with parking available next door at Reflections. Tours of Green Gables will be offered for $10 per person.

Vendors can secure their spot by registering between August 13th and September 10th. The registration fee is $35, but there is no charge for nonprofits with a copy of their determination letter. Spaces are limited and will be allocated on a first-come, first-served basis. Interested vendors must complete the registration form available on our website and submit it with payment to confirm their participation.

For more information on how to register, click here.

Aerospace Aviation Job Fair

On Wednesday, August 14th, CareerSource Brevard Flagler Volusia (CSBFV) is holding a job fair for individuals seeking career and training opportunities in the aerospace and aviation industry. The event will take place from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

An initiative of the Florida Atlantic Workforce Alliance, the event is hosted in partnership with World Innovation Network. The event is taking place at the Sands Space History Center (100 Spaceport Way) in Cape Canaveral and is free to the public.

Those seeking jobs will have the opportunity to meet with both private employers and government contractors looking to hire for a wide range of positions, from administration to engineering. CareerSource Brevard Flagler Volusia (CSBFV) has also received grant funding for individuals interested in pursuing careers in these high-demand fields which provides access to education and training. By attending this job fair, individuals can gather information and explore career opportunities with many of the county’s growing employers, community partners, and training providers convening in one place.

For more information on the event, click here or call 321-504-7600.

Flick and Float at McLarty Aquatic Center in Rockledge

On Friday, August 16th, the McLarty Park Aquatic Center (790 Barton Blvd) in Rockledge will host a Flick and Float event featuring the movie Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom.

This is a great opportunity to cool off from the summer heat and enjoy a movie at the same time. The cost to swim is $4.00 per person, and the movie is free to watch whether you’re in the pool or on the park lawn. Lawn chairs and blankets are welcome. Tubes are provided for floating. Outside flotation devices are not allowed. Swimming starts at 7:00 p.m. and will continue until the movie ends.

The event may be postponed in the event of severe weather.

For more information, please call the Central Area Parks Operations office at 321-633-1874.

Follow me on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and visit my Senate website