Good Morning!

Tomorrow we celebrate Labor Day, a holiday that honors the achievements and contributions of America’s workforce.

During the Industrial Revolution, workers organized strikes, demonstrations, and rallies to push for improved conditions in the workplace, such as the 40-hour workweek, paid time off, sick leave, and safer work environments.

The first Labor Day was celebrated on September 5, 1882, in New York City with a parade organized by the Central Labor Union. It was a day of speeches, celebrations, and demonstrations, all aimed at drawing attention to the labor movement and the rights of the workers. By 1887, five states including Colorado, Massachusetts, New Jersey, New York, and Oregon had passed laws making Labor Day a holiday.

Over the next few years, many other states followed suit. Labor Day officially became a U.S. federal holiday in 1894 when President Grover Cleveland signed it into law.

This day marks the social and economic achievements of American workers, unions, and labor leaders who have significantly contributed to our nation’s strength, prosperity, and well-being.

We celebrate and thank the workers whose dedication and efforts have shaped our country.

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

State Parks Initiative Update

Recently, the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) officially withdrew its controversial proposals for state parks following significant public feedback. The proposed amendments, part of the “Great Outdoors Initiative” announced on August 19th, included plans to build golf courses, pickleball courts, and hotels at nine state parks.

In response to widespread protests and public concern, DEP decided to withdraw these proposals with the agency stating, “We will shift to discussions with our local park managers and will revisit any park improvements, if needed, next year.”

As a representative of Brevard County, I stand with Florida residents on this issue. I am dedicated to protecting and conserving our state parks. I will continue to ensure they remain natural sanctuaries for future generations. Our state parks are treasures that reflect the beauty and diversity of Florida’s environment, and I am committed to preserving their integrity.

For more information on Florida State Parks, click here.

Lake Mary Wins Little League World Series

Last week, the Lake Mary Little League team made history by winning the 2024 Little League World Series, becoming the first team from Florida to ever win the 12U baseball championship. The tournament was held in Williamsport, Pennsylvania, where Lake Mary triumphed in a 2-1 victory over Chinese Taipei in extra innings.

This victory is a monumental achievement not just for the team, but for all of Florida.

The team’s incredible journey through the series included a hard-fought victory against Henderson, Nevada and a triumphant rematch against Boerne, Texas, showcased their resilience and skill.

As Mayor David Mealor stated, “These young athletes have become role models for future generations, inspiring others with their dedication and teamwork.”

Their championship win was celebrated with a trip to Walt Disney World.

To watch the final innings of Little League World Series title game, click here.

Florida Highlights Law and Order Priorities

Last week, Governor DeSantis and Attorney General Ashley Moody highlighted Florida’s law-and-order priorities focusing on the state’s efforts to combat illegal drugs, illegal immigration, and to support law enforcement. These priorities have been strongly backed by the Florida Legislature which has passed crucial legislation to increase penalties for traffickers and ensure law enforcement has the resources needed to protect communities.

The State Assistance for Fentanyl Eradication (S.A.F.E) grant program was established with legislative support and has been central to these efforts. In 2023, $20 million was allocated to this program enabling law enforcement to conduct successful operations against drug traffickers across the state. These efforts have led to the seizure of significant quantities of fentanyl, cocaine, and other illegal drugs, as well as the arrest of hundreds of traffickers.

Florida Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles Executive Director Dave Kerner praised these initiatives saying, “Florida is a national model in eradicating drugs from our communities and taking criminals off the street. In every corner of this great state you will find State Troopers and local law enforcement working together to interdict drugs and arrest those who profit off of it.”

Attorney General Moody also stated, “Florida’s law-and-order stance is a direct result of the strong collaboration between our Legislature, law enforcement, and state leadership.”

For more information on Florida’s criminal justice programs, click here.

Agency Highlight

This week, we are highlighting the Florida Department of State (DOS), a historic executive agency with deep roots in Florida’s governance.

The Department of State’s origins trace back to 1821, when the office of the Secretary of State was established as one of the oldest executive offices in Florida’s government. Initially, the role of Secretary of State was akin to a lieutenant governor during the territorial period with duties expanding as Florida grew. From its inception, when George Walton served as the first territorial secretary, to the appointment of Florida’s first Secretary of State, James T. Archer, in 1845, the office has been integral to the state’s administration.

Over the years, the responsibilities of the Secretary of State have evolved significantly. Today, the Secretary of State is no longer an elected position but is appointed by the Governor. The role now encompasses a broad array of duties, including serving as the State Protocol Officer and overseeing six key divisions: Arts and Culture, Administrative Services, Corporations, Elections, Historical Resources, and Library and Information Services.

The mission of the Department of State is to enhance the quality of life for all Floridians by preserving the state’s rich historical and cultural heritage, promoting economic development, and ensuring a stable and open government. Through its divisions, the department works to maintain Florida’s important public records, support public libraries, manage corporate filings, and oversee fair and accurate elections, all of which contribute to the state’s economic vitality and community well-being.

The Department is led by Secretary of State Cord Byrd, appointed by Governor Ron DeSantis as Florida’s 37th Secretary of State. A fifth-generation Floridian, Secretary Byrd has a distinguished background in law and public service having served in the Florida House of Representatives, and he plays a crucial role in election integrity efforts. His leadership is characterized by a commitment to individual liberty, economic freedom, and limited government which is reflected in his work across various sectors of the Department.

The Department of State’s structure includes several offices that ensure the smooth functioning of its diverse responsibilities. The Office of Communications manages public information and media relations, while the Office of Administrative Code and Register is responsible for filing and preserving state rules and notices. The Division of Administrative Services supports the department with essential services like Human Resources and Financial Management. Legal counsel is provided by the Office of General Counsel, and the Office of the Inspector General ensures accountability and integrity through audits and investigations. Additionally, the Office of Legislative Affairs supervises the department’s legislative agenda, and the Office of External Affairs promotes the department’s activities and programs. A key initiative under Secretary Byrd’s leadership is the Office of Election Crimes and Security, which was established to safeguard Florida’s elections through rigorous investigations of fraud and irregularities.

For over 200 years, the Florida Department of State has played a vital role in preserving the state’s heritage, promoting economic growth, and ensuring the integrity of its governmental processes. Today, it continues to serve the people of Florida with a commitment to excellence in all of the agency’s priorities.

For more information on the Florida Department of State, click here.

Constituent of the Week

Al Boettjer

This week, we are featuring Al Boettjer as our Constituent of the Week. With a distinguished background in military, law enforcement, and correctional services, Mr. Boettjer has dedicated over 60 years to military and public service.

Mr. Boettjer served four years in the United States Air Force as a Sergeant and four more years as a Sergeant in the United States Army Reserve from 1963-1968. He retired to Florida in 1989 and served as a Sergeant at the Hamilton Correctional Facility in Hamilton County. During that time, he also served in the active Army Reserves in the training unit with the 82nd Airborne. In 2001, Mr. Boettjer then moved to Brevard County and served as a Prison Inspector for Brevard and Indian River Counties.

From 2016-2022, Mr. Boettjer served as the President of the Brevard County Law Enforcement Retirees where he now serves as Vice President of the Brevard County Law Enforcement Retirees 10-13 N.Y.P.D Association. He has served on the board of the City of Cocoa Police Community Relations Advisory Committee since 2019. Mr. Boettjler has also been a member of the Brevard County Chiefs of Police Association and the Brevard County Public Safety Charity for 10 years.

He has also earned recognition from the Police Benevolent Association for his efforts in legislation to improve working conditions for State Correctional Officers. Currently, as the senior staff member for the Coastal Florida Police Benevolent Association, Mr. Boettijer has worked with law enforcement in Brevard, Indian River, and St. Lucie Counties to insure fair and just treatment of police.

As Chief Operating Officer and Treasurer of the New York 10-13 Association of America, Mr. Boettjer plays a critical role in managing the organization’s operations and financial affairs. His leadership to the Brevard County Law Enforcement Retirees 10-13 N.Y.P.D. Association has demonstrated his leadership as a key figure in supporting retired officers and their families.

Further in his other role as, Executive Director of the Survive First Charity in Brevard County, Mr. Boettjer has been instrumental in advancing the organization’s mission to reduce first responder suicides. The Survive First Charity focuses on providing education, peer support, and mental health resources to first responders and their families. By addressing the stigma associated with seeking mental health treatment the charity fosters a supportive community and raises awareness about the challenges faced by those in first responder fields.

For his years of service and dedication, Mr. Boettjer was honored with the Brevard County Sheriff’s Office 2023 Partnership Award. He has had the privilege of serving as he Chairman of Recovery Ministries for he Episcopal Diocese of Southwest Florida for the last 12 years.

Mr. Boettjer and his wife of 27 years, Linda, reside in Port St. Johns.

Senate District 19 thanks Al Boettjer for his years of service and dedication to law enforcement officers and the community.

District Highlights

NASA Announces Efforts to Combat Shoreline Erosion at Kennedy Space Center

Last week, NASA announced efforts to combat shoreline erosion around Kennedy Space Center (KSC), a crucial task for protecting both infrastructure and the environment. With 140,000 acres along the Atlantic coast and within the Indian River Lagoon, KSC has long prioritized the resistance of the shoreline.

Engineers are continuing their work to restore mangroves, natural defenders against erosion, as a part of a broader strategy to repair damages from past hurricanes.

KSC senior construction manager Tyler Sprouse highlighted the challenges of maintaining critical infrastructure, such as the rail lines essential for NASA’s Artemis Program. While temporary reinforcements have been made, long term plans include installing wave breaks, building revetments, and restoring beaches to protect both the shoreline and the wildlife.

Similar efforts are underway at the launch viewing spot at the KSC Saturn V Center, where engineers are working to replicate natural processes to safeguard the area.

For more information on KSC’s past shoreline restoration projects, click here.

Upcoming Events

Rockledge Gardens Hosts First Friday Event

On Friday, September 6th, Rockledge Gardens (2153 US 1) is hosting First Fridays from 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. with dinner specials from the Garden Party and deserts from Mad Utter. The evening features plant shopping, workshops, live music, yard games, and music trivia.

Hannah Stokes will perform live from 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. on the Red Market building porch. There will be Taylor Swift Music trivia at 7:00 p.m. in the Riley Room.

Happy hour runs from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. and offers exclusive drink specials such as wine flights, frozen margaritas, and beer floats at bars inside the red Market building and at the outdoor beer garden.

For more information, click here.

City of Rockledge Hosts 9/11 Remembrance Ceremony

On Saturday, September 7th, the City of Rockledge is hosting a 9/11 Remembrance Ceremony at the Rockledge Civic Hub, next to Rockledge City Hall (530 Barton Boulevard).

The ceremony will begin at 9:00 a.m. and will include various guest speakers, music, and more. This ceremony serves as a way for Rockledge to come together as a community to remember and honor those who lost their lives on 9/11.

For more information, click here.

Disabled American Veterans Chapter 32

9/11 Remembrance Event

The Disabled American Veterans J.L. Golightly Chapter 32 will hold a 9/11 Remembrance Event on Wednesday, September 11th beginning at 5:00 p.m. at the Eau Gallie Civic Center (1551 Highland Avenue) in Melbourne. The theme of the event is to bring Veterans, first responders, and members of the community together in unity and strength.

The event schedule is as follows:

• 5:00 p.m. Food sponsored by Cerrato’s Italian Deli and Doghouse Pizza
• 6:00 p.m. Guest Speakers Commander Michael Fortunato, Commander Laymond Rose, Commander Scott Mostert, and Lieutenant Commander Amir Pishdad

Other highlights include special guests from the Melbourne Fire Department, Melbourne Police Department, and Lieutenant Colonel Todd Balog, Hawk Battalion Instructor, ROTC, Color Guard.

The DAV Chapter 32 recently reported that the Veteran population in Brevard County in 2023 was 63,338. Adding in their significant others, the number rises to 126,676 and represents 20% of Brevard County’s total population. The Chapter 32 DAV membership has increased to over 1,300 and counting,

To RSVP or for more information about the DAV’s 9/11 Remembrance Event and how to get involved, email [email protected].

Annual Brevard County 9/11 23rd Anniversary Memorial Tribute and Patriots Day Ceremony

The annual Brevard County 9/11 23rd Anniversary Memorial Tribute and Patriots Day Ceremony will be held at the (BVMC) Brevard Veterans Memorial Center (400 South Sykes Creek Parkway) in Merritt Island on Wednesday, September 11th from 5:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.

The event is sponsored by the Brevard County 10-13 Club, which is comprised of retired NYPD police and NYFD firefighters, many of whom were in New York City on September 11, 2001. The BVMC and the MOAACC Good Deeds Foundation are also supporting the event. 

The BVMC invites all who wish to join in honoring first responders and civilians who lost their lives, those who succumbed to and may still be suffering from 9/11 related medical challenges, and the courageous military members and Veterans who heeded the call for service, and those who did not make it home. We will forever be grateful.

For more information, contact the BVMC at 321-453-1776.  

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