November, 2024

News

Nov 24 2024

State Representative Debbie Mayfield – Mayfield Minute 11/24/24

Good Morning!

Happy Thanksgiving!

This Thanksgiving, I’m taking a moment to reflect on the many blessings in my life—and at the top of that list is family.

Holidays like Thanksgiving remind us of what truly matters: the loved ones we share our lives with, the traditions that bring us together, and the quiet moments of gratitude that ground us. I hope your Thanksgiving is filled with good food, great company, and memories that will last a lifetime.

Thanksgiving also serves as a time to reflect and give thanks for the many blessings bestowed upon us and to open our hearts to those less fortunate and in need of our compassion, generosity, and volunteerism.

This holiday season, consider contacting local organizations such as Second Harvest, Daily Bread, or Aging Matters to find out how you can help feed the most vulnerable members of our community.

Wishing you and your family a joyful and peaceful holiday season!

I consider it a great honor to represent House District 32. 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 temporary office number at (321) 312-0124. My staff and I are here to serve you!

Statewide Update

Organization Session

This past week, the legislature held our Organization Session in Tallahassee and I was officially sworn in as your State Representative. We also elected Speaker Designate Daniel Perez as our Speaker for the 2024-2026 term and Representative Wyman Duggan as our Speaker pro tempore. We adopted the House rules, and appointed Jeff Takacs as the Clerk of the House and Russell Hosford as our Sergeant at Arms.

During the Organization Session Speaker Perez addressed the chamber, setting the tone for his term as speaker. In his speech he declared that “We aren’t a debate society, and we shouldn’t be the House of Talk. We should be the House of Action”. To watch the full Organization Session, click here.

This week also provided an opportunity to meet and connect with my new colleagues. There are truly amazing leaders in my freshman class and I’m excited for what’s ahead.I will be returning to Tallahassee the week of December 2 for the House’s first of six interim committee weeks.

As a reminder, if you plan on visiting the capitol, please don’t hesitate to contact my office and we will be happy to assist you as you plan your visit.

Utility Scam Awareness Day

In recognition of Utility Scam Awareness Day, Florida Attorney General Ashley Moody released some tips on how to identify potential utility scams:

Urgent Payment Demands: Scammers often claim that immediate payment is necessary to prevent disconnection;

Unusual Payment Requests: Requests for gift cards, prepaid debit cards or cryptocurrency are common red flags;

Spoofed Caller IDs: Scammers may manipulate caller IDs to make it appear as if a call is from a utility company; and

False Refunds: Bad actors may promise false refunds, free products or services but have stipulations hidden in a contract.

If you believe you may have fallen victim to a utility scam, contact the Florida Attorney General’s Office at 1(866) 9NO-SCAM or file a complaint online at MyFloridaLegal.com.

Law Enforcement Bonuses

The Governor announced that the state has provided 300 new bonuses for Law Enforcement Recruits as part of the ongoing Florida Law Enforcement Recruitment Bonus Payment Program.

The program gives newly recruited officers a one time $5000 bonus after taxes. The goal of the program is to make Florida the most supportive state in the nation for law enforcement officers.

The latest round of bonuses were given to officers serving in areas that have been affected by recent Hurricanes Debby, Helene, and Milton.

To date more than 6,400 bonuses have been dispersed. Recipients of the bonus have relocated to Florida from all 49 other states and two territories.

For more information on the program click here.

Agency Highlight

State Courts Administrator

Last week we highlighted the Florida Supreme Court and its justices. This week we will continue by discussing the management of the state’s judicial system.

The Office of the State Courts Administrator (OSCA) assists the Chief Justice with the administrative functions of the state’s courts, including the Supreme Court, 6 district courts of appeal, 20 circuit courts, and 67 county courts.

In 1972 voters approved a referendum designed to bring greater uniformity to the court system. In addition to creating the State Courts Administrator, the amendment set statewide qualifications to serve as a judge and relieved local governments of the cost of paying judges’ salaries. The administrator is appointed directly by, and reports to, the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court. The current State Courts Administrator is Eric W. Maclure, who was appointed earlier this year.

The Administrator’s office directs all aspects of the court system’s operations throughout the state. Additionally, the State Courts Administrator is the liaison between the court system and the legislative branch, the executive branch, the auxiliary agencies of the Court, and national court research and planning agencies. The OSCA’s legislative and communication functions are handled directly by the State Courts Administrator and his executive staff. This includes responsibility for preparing the Judicial Branch’s annual budget requests.

Many Floridians have been or will be called to serve on the jury of a court proceeding. The State Courts Administrator oversees the jury management system and sets policy for the jury selection process. They are responsible for implementing initiatives to make serving on a jury a more efficient process. Actual jury summons are coordinated by the locally elected clerks of court.

The Office of the State Court Administrator also operates the department of Court Services. They are responsible for training and certifying court interpreters and translators. This allows the court system to better serve Floridians with disabilities. The office also oversees the court system’s data, research, and assessment operations. They provide support to commissions which are responsible for ensuring performance and accountability for individual District and Trial courts.

The State Courts Administrator is also responsible for the Dispute Resolution Center. They inform Floridians of alternative methods of resolving disputes outside of a courtroom. The most common methods of alternative dispute resolution are arbitration and mediation. Unlike a trial which is overseen by a judge, arbitration is conducted by a third party arbitrator, who must be an attorney in good standing with the Florida Bar. Another difference is that arbitration is non-binding, either party can reject the decision of the arbitrator, and the case will go to trial. In mediation, the mediator will assist the parties as they talk about their dispute to help them find and explore mutually acceptable resolutions. If you reach an agreement through mediation, you avoid further legal proceedings through a trial or arbitration. Mediators are required to be certified by the State Court system to practice.

To learn more about the Office of the State Courts Administrator, click here.

Constituent of the Week

Dr. Laura Wilson

In recognition of November as Manatee Awareness Month we are highlighting Dr. Laura Wilson, a scientist and advocate for our local marine ecosystems. She was born in Atlanta, Georgia, and has always been passionate about science. Whenever she visited the coast as a child, she would hunt for shark’s teeth and wanted to learn everything she could about their place in the ecosystem.

This innate passion led Dr. Wilson to pursue an academic career that has taken her all over the country as she studied paleontology and geology. She earned her B.S. in Geology from Washington & Lee University, her M.S. in Earth Sciences from Montana State University, and her Ph.D. in Geological Sciences from the University of Colorado at Boulder.

After earning her Ph.D., she became a professor at Fort Hays State University in Kansas. In this position, she had the opportunity to study the fossils of ancient sea turtles and compare them to modern sea turtles to learn how their ecosystems have changed. At that time she also gained experience educating the public as the Chief Curator at the university’s Sternberg Museum of Natural History. After twelve years as a professor, Dr. Wilson realized that she wanted to do work with a more immediate impact. She began seeking out a role where she could apply her talents and education in advocacy of a mission she believes in.

That unique professional journey led her to Brevard County earlier this year when she became the Executive Director of the Marine Resources Council (MRC). Her leadership skills and experience studying ecosystem changes equipped her to take over the program, which is dedicated to monitoring and restoring the Indian River Lagoon. The MRC seeks to use a combination of Science, Education, and Advocacy (or S.E.A.) to achieve its mission.

The MRC operates a volunteer coastal litter cleanup each month to help reduce the amount of trash in our marine ecosystems. They also have a team of dedicated volunteers that take samples each week to test the water quality in the lagoon. The resulting data is compiled into an annual update to inform the public on the progress of water quality improvements in the lagoon. The findings in the 2024 update indicate some improvements over 2023, but the organization says that there is still much work that needs to be done.

Dr. Wilson is particularly excited about the expansion of the council’s study of mangroves. She believes that mangroves play an important role in the restoration of the lagoon, given their abilities to protect against coastal erosion, provide habitats for fish, and prevent harmful algae blooms.

Outside of work, Dr. Wilson enjoys spending time with her husband and son, including hiking and trips to the Brevard Zoo to share her love for nature

On behalf of House District 32, It is an honor to highlight Dr. Wilson for her contributions to maintaining and restoring our county’s natural resources.

District Highlights

New Brevard County Commission

During the organizational commission meeting of the Brevard County Commission on Tuesday, November 19 three new commissioners were sworn in. The new members are Commissioner Katie Delaney (District 1), Commissioner Kim Adkinson (District 3), and Commissioner Thad Altman (District 5).

During the meeting, Commissioner Feltner (District 4) was elected to serve as the Chair of the County Commission and Commissioner Goodson (District 2) was elected to serve as the Vice Chair. Both votes were unanimous.

For additional information on each of the county commissioners and the area that they represent, click here.

2024 State of The Port

Canaveral Port Authority CEO Capt. John Murray today delivered his annual State of the Port address providing a comprehensive recap of Port Canaveral’s 2024 performance with revenue growth in all business sectors. He also indicated a strong projected outlook for the coming fiscal year. The Port’s total earned revenue in 2024 was $191 million with cruise operations contributing $156 million, cargo $23 million and non-ship operations at $12 million.

Looking toward the future, in FY25 the port is projecting operational revenue growth of more than 12 percent. This projected growth is primarily based upon increased cruise operations. The port is expecting the addition of three new homeported vessels and new partnerships with Princess Cruises and Celebrity Cruises.

“Port Canaveral continues to be a strategic economic driver for creating jobs, helping local businesses to grow and prosper, and bringing more guests to experience all that our Port community has to offer,” stated Capt. John Murray.

To watch the full address, click here.

Dr. Dave Weldon Selected as CDC Director

Brevard medical doctor and former US Congressman, Dave Weldon, was selected by the incoming presidential administration to serve as the director of the Center for Disease Control.

The CDC is a federal agency under the US Department of Health and Human Services. It is the United States’ national public health agency and is headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia. For more information on the responsibilities of the Center for Disease Control, click here.

Congratulations to Dr. Weldon on this prestigious appointment.

Rescue of Brevard Manatee

An orphaned manatee calf sustained an injury to its head last week, in the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge. The calf was rescued through a joint effort involving the Brevard Zoo and the Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission. After the initial rescue, the manatee was transported to Orlando to receive medical treatment and rehabilitation at SeaWorld facilities.

November is Manatee Awareness Month, so click here for educational resources about manatees. When you enjoy a day on the water, be mindful of your surroundings so that we can avoid injuries like this one.

Local Boys Golf Team Win State Championship

The Viera High School Boys Golf Team won the State Championship held in Howey-In-the-Hills, Florida. This is the first time that a Brevard County High School’s boys team has won a state golf championship. Additionally Ryan Woodward, a Viera High School Junior, had the highest score in Viera High School history during the state tournament.

To view the final scores from the tournament, click here and locate the results for the boys 3A division.

Congratulations to all the players for your historic achievement and for a hardworking season.

Upcoming Events

Candlelight Shopping – Tree Lighting Ceremony

Melbourne Mainstreet is hosting candlelight shopping events from 4:00 to 8:00 PM each Saturday until Christmas. The events begin this Saturday, November 30 and will take place throughout downtown Melbourne with new attractions each week.

This week’s attractions are live performances, pictures with Santa and Mrs. Claus, a canned food drive benefiting the Brevard Sharing Center, and at 6 PM there will be a tree lighting ceremony in Campbell Park (929 E New Haven Ave, Melbourne).

For additional information on this event and future events, click here.

Annual Space Coast Turkey Trot 5k & 10k

The Running Zone Foundation will be hosting their annual Space Coast Turkey Trot 5k & 10k on Thanksgiving Day. The race will begin at 7:30 AM at the Front Street Civic Center (2205 Front Street, Melbourne).

Both walkers and runners are encouraged to participate. Registration ends at midnight on Tuesday, November 26.

Click here for more details and to register.

“Christmas at the Movies” Concert

The Space Coast Symphony Orchestra is hosting their Christmas at the Movies concert on Saturday, November 30 at 7:30 PM. The family friendly event will be held at Satellite Beach High School Performing Arts Center (300 Scorpion Court, Satellite Beach)

Visit the website for more information and to reserve tickets.

Green Gables Holiday Events

Green Gables Historic Home (1501 S. Harbor City Boulevard, Melbourne) will host two holiday attractions on Sunday, December 1.

In the afternoon from noon to 3:00 PM, Santa and Mrs. Claus will be present for photos. Each photo will cost $15 per child, which includes a holiday frame with your print. There will be crafts, cookies, and hot cocoa available for your enjoyment.

In the evening from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM, return for the annual tree lighting ceremony. The Melbourne High School Chorus will sing the Songs of the Season. Cookies and cider will be served, but they ask that you bring your own chair.

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Contact Information

Melbourne Office

900 East Strawbridge Avenue

Melbourne, FL 32901

Tallahassee Office

Tallahassee, FL 32399-1100

Staff

Yvette Campbell

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News

Nov 24 2024

US Senator Rick Scott’s Week in Review 11/23/24

Dear Fellow Floridian,

In a dangerous and cowardly break from precedent, the Biden administration refused to participate in the HSGAC annual threats hearing earlier this week. The administration’s refusal to have DHS Secretary Mayorkas and FBI Director Wray testify in a public hearing denies needed accountability and transparency from Florida families and undermines the Senate’s obligation to conduct oversight of the executive branch at a time when the threats to our nation are the highest and most severe in decades. It’s clear that this administration’s failures have caused the American people to lose all trust in our federal government, and the cowardly refusal to show up for this hearing only further erodes the public trust. We have serious problems facing our nation that the Biden administration and DHS have both caused and utterly failed to fix.

During the hearing, I had planned to highlight the facts and expose the failures that created the serious national security threats that Floridians and all Americans are facing right now, but because the Biden administration is too chicken to own its mistakes, I and the American people won’t get that chance. I think it is clear that the American people totally rejected the status quo in Washington and sent a message that they don’t trust their government. I cannot stress this enough—at every event I have done and meeting I have been in for the last six months, since the assassination attempt in Butler, I have asked the Floridians I meet if they believe the federal government is being honest and transparent with them. Not a single person said yes. This isn’t just about the assassination attempt – Floridians don’t trust the Biden administration to secure the border, they don’t trust the federal government to keep them safe right now. Floridians don’t trust them to even tell the truth. This is not a political issue, it’s a safety and national security issue, but let me highlight one more piece of evidence here. In a Reuters poll conducted after the election, 25% of Americans said the top issue President Trump should tackle in his first 100 days is immigration. It was the biggest issue in that poll. The failure at our border was just completely rejected by the American people because they want to feel safe and secure. They haven’t been able to feel safe and secure for the last four years and the administration’s refusal to face these facts is disgusting cowardice that betrays its obligation to serve the American people.

To see the FACTS about the Biden-Harris administration’s failures to keep us safe, click HERE.

Sincerely,

Rick Scott

United States Senator

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Sen. Rick Scott Joins Sen. Rand Paul in Requesting Information on Conversion of Biden Appointees to Permanent Positions

Senator Rick Scott joined Ranking Member Rand Paul and their fellow Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee Senators Ron Johnson, James Lankford, Mitt Romney and Josh Hawley in sending a letter to Office of Personnel Management (OPM) Acting Director Robert Shriver, III requesting additional information on the conversion of Biden administration political appointees into nonpolitical permanent positions, often referred to as “burrowing.”

The letter references current law requiring OPM to provide Congress with quarterly updates on burrowing of current or former political appointees. As the committee of jurisdiction over the federal workforce and OPM, it is imperative that HSGAC have up-to-date and complete information regarding the burrowing of political appointees. The senators note ensuring the integrity of the federal workforce from partisan influence is critical to the public’s trust in government.

Read more HERE.

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Sen. Rick Scott Slams Dept. of Defense Audit Failure, Demands Accountability to the U.S. Taxpayer

Following the news of the Department of Defense (DOD) again failing its annual audit, Senator Rick Scott released the following statement slamming the department for being unable to account for its more than $820 billion budget funded by taxpayer dollars.

Senator Rick Scott said, “The Department of Defense has once again failed to account for its MASSIVE taxpayer-funded budget of over $820 billion. If we want to be the most lethal and powerful fighting force on Earth, we not only need to fund defense but do so smartly. That is impossible when the DoD cannot tell anyone how it spends its nearly $1 TRILLION budget funded by American taxpayers. The U.S. federal government is now more than $36 TRILLION in debt – that’s $9 TRILLION more than when President Biden took office thanks to his addiction to reckless spending. It’s time for a reckoning and I am confident that when President Trump takes office, the Senate confirms Pete Hegseth as Secretary of Defense, and the new Department of Government Efficiency gets working, we will finally have accountability to the American taxpayer, and a lethal, not woke, military that terrifies our enemies and is respected by our allies. After years of the American people footing the bill for the mistakes and failures of the Biden-Harris administration, our government needs the wakeup call and that is what President Trump will soon deliver.”

Read more HERE.

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Sen. Rick Scott Joins Sen. Thom Tillis & Sen. Ted Budd Pushing for Answers on Reports FEMA Avoided Trump Supporter Homes During Hurricane Recovery Efforts

Senator Rick Scott joined Senators Thom Tillis, Ted Budd and 16 of their Senate colleagues in a letter to U.S. Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Administrator Deanne Criswell expressing concern over recent reports that a FEMA employee advised disaster assistance teams in Florida responding to Hurricane Milton to avoid homes that had yard signs supporting President-Elect Donald Trump. The employee has since claimed that the orders came from supervisors at FEMA, raising grave concerns over potential widespread politicization of disaster relief.

The senators wrote, “FEMA’s mission is ‘helping people before, during, and after disasters.’ When a natural disaster overwhelms state and local resources, FEMA is the option of last resort to help American families rebuild their lives in times of great distress and upheaval. For a FEMA employee to withhold aid or support from a household due to political affiliation is unacceptable and frankly reprehensible. While there are many dedicated public servants who are working around the clock to help disaster survivors at their most vulnerable point, it is clear that FEMA has fallen well short of its core mission to provide disaster relief to all Americans impacted by a natural disaster.”

The senators continued, “While we appreciate your swift condemnation of these actions and termination of the responsible employee, your former employee has made subsequent claims that this was not an isolated incident, even happening in Western North Carolina after Hurricane Helene brought devastating rains and floods the likes of which we have never seen. The idea that citizens, whose tax dollars fund FEMA’s Disaster Relief Fund (DRF) and pay FEMA officials’ salaries, may be purposely excluded from vitally needed aid is chilling and further erodes many people’s already tenuous trust in this administration.”

The senators concluded, “We demand answers, accountability, and transparency to hold your agency accountable to the American people and ensure that FEMA employees are providing support to all victims. Given the shocking and reprehensible nature of these allegations, our constituents deserve immediate answers and maximum transparency. As Members of Congress, we are committed to holding those responsible accountable and making sure that rank weaponization against the American public is never tolerated.”

Read more HERE.

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Sen. Rick Scott’s Bipartisan Bill to Name Puerto Rico CBP Office After Fallen Agent Unanimously Passes Senate

Senator Rick Scott’s bipartisan, bicameral legislation to name the Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Air and Marine Operations Mayagüez Unit in Puerto Rico after Agent Michel O. Maceda who tragically lost his life in the line of duty, passed the Senate unanimously and is headed to the president’s desk to be signed in to law. Joining Senator Scott on the legislation are Senators Marco Rubio and Alex Padilla, as well as Congresswoman Jenniffer González-Colón, who is leading the companion legislation in the House of Representatives.

Senator Rick Scott said, “Americans will always be thankful for the bravery of Marine Interdiction Agent Michel O. Maceda who dedicated his life to protecting Puerto Rico and our nation’s borders. I want to thank my colleagues in the Senate and Representative González-Colón for their support and unanimously voting to name CBP Air and Marine Operations Mayagüez Unit in Puerto Rico after him to ensure his bravery, service and sacrifice will never be forgotten.”

Congresswoman Jenniffer González Colón said, “Two years ago, Marine Interdiction Agent Michel O. Maceda died in the line of duty after being shot by drug smugglers during a maritime interdiction operation off the coast of Puerto Rico. His heroic actions contributed to the seizure of over 2,900 pounds of cocaine, preventing them from reaching and threatening our communities. I’m pleased the Senate passed my legislation to designate CBP Air and Marine Operations’ Mayagüez Marine Unit in Cabo Rojo, Puerto Rico in honor of Agent Maceda. This would be a fitting tribute to his memory and sacrifice. I thank Senator Rick Scott for his partnership and look forward to having the President sign the bill.”

Read more HERE.

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Sen. Rick Scott: Biden Admin Refusing to Show Up for HSGAC Threats Hearing is Pure Cowardice, Betrayal of American People

Senator Rick Scott blasted the Biden administration after it refused to have U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas and Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) Director Christopher Wray show up for a public hearing in the U.S. Senate Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs (HSGAC) on Threats to the Homeland.

Read more HERE.

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Senator Rick Scott Joins Senator James Lankford in Pushing Back on Political Discrimination in FEMA Disaster Assistance

Senator Rick Scott joined Senator James Lankford to introduce the Stopping Political Discrimination in Disaster Assistance Act to prohibit discrimination based on political affiliation in federal disaster relief. Following reports that a Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) employee advised disaster assistance teams in Florida, and likely other states, to skip homes with yard signs supporting President-elect Donald Trump, Senator Scott emphasized that federal disaster assistance should never be based on someone’s political beliefs. The Stafford Act mandates that the federal government provide relief in an “equitable and impartial manner, without discrimination on the grounds of race, color, religion, nationality, sex, age, disability, English proficiency, or economic status.” Sens. Scott and Lankford’s bill would add political affiliation to this list. Senators Thom Tillis, Ted Budd, Jon Ossoff, Roger Marshall, Jacky Rosen and Gary Peters also cosponsored this legislation.

Senator Rick Scott said, “The reports we’ve all seen recently, which led FEMA to fire an employee, are horrible, illegal and prove that President Trump was RIGHT. They knew this was happening and allowed it to continue. It’s disgusting. When people needed help the most, the Biden-Harris administration weaponized the federal government against them. We need to help EVERYONE regardless of their politics, and taxpayer-funded federal agencies to do the same. I am proud to stand with Senator Lankford to support a bill to ensure this never happens again, and urge my colleagues for their support.”

Read more HERE.

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Sen. Rick Scott Joins Sen. Joni Ernst in Senate DOGE Caucus to Eliminate Government Waste

Senator Rick Scott, a leading champion for taxpayers in Washington, is announcing that he is joining Senator Joni Ernst in the Senate DOGE Caucus, which will work hand in hand with the Trump administration’s recently formed Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) to identify and eliminate government waste. The newly formed caucus will build upon Senator Scott’s long-time mission to Make Washington Work and expose trillions in waste, fraud and abuse.

Senator Rick Scott said, “It’s past time for big reforms that scale back big government regulation and get our country back on track. Our country is drowning in debt and massive government expansion during Democrat control of Washington is pushing us deeper every day. This is a serious threat to our national security and the American Dream, and I believe DOGE is the answer to fixing it. I’ve spent years fighting against waste, fraud, reckless earmarks and political passion projects or personal favors Washington bureaucrats sneak into bills and try to pay for with hard-earned taxpayer money. Thank you to Senator Ernst for starting this caucus. I am looking forward to slashing government waste and delivering for the American people. Let’s get to work!”

Read more HERE.

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Sen. Rick Scott Issues Weekly Update on Biden-Harris Price Hikes

Senator Rick Scott released a weekly update on his actions to address America’s debt crisis and rising inflation. As Floridians struggle to make ends meet, the Biden-Harris administration continues to recklessly spend taxpayer dollars to fund their agenda. Recently it was reported that the U.S. national debt has risen to $36 trillion and the Biden-Harris administration continues to spend money the country does not have—saddling Americans and future generations with massive debt.

Earlier this week, Senator Scott shared this information with his senate colleagues as part of his Economic Snapshot series where he highlights the state of the U.S. economy. See more from X, formerly known as Twitter, below.

Read more HERE. Lea más en español AQUÍ.

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Tampa Free Press: Florida Senator Rick Scott Slams Department Of Defense After Failed Annual Audit

Tampa Free Press: Florida Sen. Rick Scott Slams Biden Admin Over Homeland Security Hearing No-Show

Florida Politics: Rick Scott takes steps against ‘partisan army’ of Joe Biden appointees

Florida’s Voice: Rick Scott demands accountability after allegations of FEMA political bias post-hurricane

The Floridian: ‘Madness’: Scott Blasts DHS for Border App

The Floridian: Scott Praises Pam Bondi Following Trump’s AG Appointment

Florida Daily: Rick Scott Slams Dept. of Defense Audit Failure

Senator Scott’s Team in Ponte Vedra

Senator Rick Scott’s team attended a K9s for Warriors graduation ceremony.

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Senator Scott’s Team in Tallahassee

Senator Rick Scott’s team also attended the Second Harvest Turkey Drive

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Senator Scott’s Team in Orlando

Additionally, Senator Rick Scott’s team volunteered at the Heart of Florida United Way Meal Packing Party.

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TALLAHASSEE
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Phone: (904) 479-7227

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Phone: (202) 224-5274

Fax: (202) 228-4535

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News

Nov 17 2024

Representative Debbie Mayfield 11/17/24

Good Morning!

2024 Florida Legislature Organization Session

As we continue through this transitional period, please be patient as we convert from a Senate District Office to a House District Office.

Florida Statutes require that each chamber hold an Organization Session fourteen days after a general election, this year it will be held on Tuesday, November 19th. During that organization session we will swear in members, elect presiding officers, adopt rules, and begin appointing committees. The official transfer of leadership in both chambers will also occur during that session. Senate President Kathleen Passidomo will turn the gavel over to President-Designate Ben Albritton. House Speaker Paul Renner will turn the gavel over to Speaker-Designate Daniel Perez.

You can watch Tuesday’s Organization Sessions as they happen via the The Florida Channel. Coverage begins approximately 10 minutes before a scheduled event. The Senate Organization Session will begin at 10:00 a.m and the House Organization Session will begin at 11:00 a.m.

I consider it a great honor to represent House District 32. 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 temporary office number at (321) 312-0124. My staff and I are here to serve you!

Statewide Update

The Unveiling of Florida’s Wildlife Corridor Indicators

Agricultural Commissioner Wilton Simpson and Senate President Kathleen Passidomo unveiled a new marker for the Florida Wildlife Corridor.

The Florida Wildlife Corridor Act was signed into law following unanimous bipartisan support by the Florida legislature during Commissioner Simpson’s term as Senate President. Today, under the leadership of Senate President Passidomo, the Florida Wildlife Corridor has grown to nearly 18 million acres of contiguous wilderness. This land is crucial to the survival of Florida’s 131 endangered species.

The new visual marker is located in Fakahatchee Strand Preserve State Park and serves as a physical and symbolic representation that visitors have entered the protected lands of the Wildlife Corridor.

For more information, click here.

International Trade Office Established in Italy

SelectFlorida ’s mission to Italy, has successfully achieved one of its key goals. The delegation has announced an international trade development office will be established next year in the city of Viareggio.

This office will serve as a conduit for Italian businesses who wish to conduct business in Florida. Currently, Florida has similar trade development offices in 16 nations. Commerce Secretary Alex Kelly has indicated the potential for collaboration in the maritime industry, given that shipbuilding is a field in which both Italy and Florida excel.

To read the full press release, click here.

Florida Legislative Session 2025

To assist in planning and scheduling for the 2025 Legislative Session, the following committee weeks have been agreed upon by the Florida House and Senate. The regular 2025 legislative Session will begin on March 4, 2025 and end on May 2, 2025.

Please see below for the 2024–2025 Committee Meeting Schedule:

December 2 – 6, 2024 (Florida House of Representatives only)
December 9 – 13, 2024 (Florida Senate only)
January 13 – 17, 2025
January 21 – 24, 2025 (Meetings begin on Tuesday due to Monday holiday.)
February 3 – 7, 2025
February 10 – 14, 2025
February 17 – 21, 2025

For more information, click here.

Agency Highlight

The Florida Supreme Court

The highest Court in Florida is the Supreme Court, which is composed of seven Justices. At least five Justices must participate in every case and at least four must agree for a decision to be reached. The Court generally convenes to hear oral arguments on cases before them the first week of each month, except during mid-summer recess. Usually, all seven justices participate in oral argument. These sessions are open to the public and broadcast for the public to watch. The Court’s official headquarters is the Supreme Court Building located at 500 South Duval Street, Tallahassee, FL, 32399.

Every two years by a majority vote of the justices, a chief justice is elected. The chief justice is the top administrative officer of the judicial branch of government in Florida. The Chief Justice is eligible to serve four consecutive two year terms.

The duties of the Chief Justice include:

Presiding at all proceedings of the Court. If the chief justice is absent from Court, the senior justice present becomes acting chief justice.
Assigning justices and judges, including retired justices and judges who consent and are approved by the Court to serve, to duty in courts which require temporary assistance.
Supervising the compilation and presentation of the judicial budget to the Legislature.
Presiding or designating another justice to preside over impeachment proceedings in the Senate.

To be eligible to serve as a justice, a person must be a Florida resident eligible to vote and must have been admitted to the practice of law in Florida for the preceding 10 years.

Justices are appointed under a system called merit selection and retention. The governor appoints new justices from a list of three to six names submitted by an independent panel of citizens called a Judicial Nominating Commission. The governor must select from the list. Once appointed, justices face the voters in a “yes” or “no” vote as to whether they should remain on the Court. This retention vote takes place in the first general election, at least one year after their appointment, and every six years thereafter. takes place. The Florida Constitution also requires Supreme Court Justices to retire when they reach 75 years of age.

Chief Justice Carlos G. Muniz currently leads the Florida Supreme Court. The other six justices on the court are: Justice Charles T. Canady, Justice Jorge Labarga, Justice John D. Couriel, Justice Jamie R. Grosshans, Justice Renatha Francis, and Justice Meredith L. Sasso.

To learn more about the Florida Supreme Court, click here.

Constituent of the Week

Kristin Bakke

Kristin Bakke was born in Wisconsin, where she attended the University of Wisconsin-Madison before leaving the state to live and work in Virginia and then Indiana. In 1988, Bakke began working professionally in the leadership development industry.

As an Associate Director for the National Association for Community Leadership in Indiana, Bakke came to know the leaders of local leadership programs throughout the country. One of those leaders was Jenny Atkinson, the inaugural director of the local nonprofit organization, LEAD Brevard.

When Bakke learned that Atkinson was retiring in 2000, she saw the perfect opportunity to move to Florida while she continued to work in the leadership development field. After speaking with Atkinson to learn more about the program, Bakke went through a competitive nationwide search process and was selected as the next president of LEAD Brevard.

Since 2000, Bakke has served as the President & CEO of the organization. Under her guidance, the program has grown into a beacon for leadership excellence. Her vision has elevated the organization, creating lasting opportunities for individuals to lead and serve. The nonprofit’s mission is: “working together to strengthen our community by inspiring people to lead”.

Bakke has been a cornerstone of community leadership development in Brevard County. At LEAD Brevard, participants engage in a nine-month experiential and practical leadership education journey, addressing local challenges and fostering collaboration across diverse sectors. The program has over 2000 alumni and focuses on building long-term networks, empowering leaders, and delivering meaningful impact to the community. In 2024, through the Community Acceleration Projects, class members contributed $16,878 in economic impact through service hours in partnership with local nonprofits.

Bakke says “Leadership is about inspiring others to see their potential and act for the greater good. Together, we shape the future of the Space Coast”.

Her professional achievements include studying at the Institutes for Organization Management and earning the Certified Association Executive (CAE) designation from the American Society of Association Executives. Bakke received the Preceptor Award, a national acknowledgment from the Association of Leadership Programs.

House District 32 is grateful for Kristin Bakke’s commitment to developing the future leaders in our community.

District Highlights

Northrop Grumman Expansion to Bring Over 1,000 Jobs to the City of Melbourne

Melbourne City Council has approved Northrop Grumman’s request to build their new expansion. This project consists of a 300,000 square foot office building and a 17,000 square foot bay building.

The new facilities will join several other defense contractors in the Industrial Zone near the Melbourne Orlando International Airport. The planned expansion of Northrop Grumman’s business operations will create more than 1000 jobs to the community.

To learn more about career opportunities with Northrop Grumman, click here.

The Disney Treasure Arrives in Port Canaveral

Port Canaveral welcomed another new ship to its impressive lineup of homeport vessels with the arrival of Disney Cruise Line’s Disney Treasure. Disney Treasure is the third Disney Cruise Line ship to be based in Port Canaveral, joining Disney Wish and Disney Fantasy.

“Disney Cruise Line has been a longtime partner of Port Canaveral, and we’re thrilled to welcome this newest addition to its fleet which will provide guests with unforgettable vacation experiences,” said Capt. John Murray, Port Canaveral CEO. “Disney Treasure is the latest chapter of the continued growth at our Port, and we couldn’t be prouder and more honored to serve as the homeport for this amazing ship.”

To learn more about the Disney Treasure’s amenities and itineraries, click here.

City of Melbourne Salutes Hometown Heroes Military Banner Program

The City of Melbourne is now accepting applications for the “Melbourne Salutes Hometown Heroes” military banner recognition program through January 24, 2025. Starting May 1, 2025 thru July 4, 2025, the city will display street pole banners along New Haven Avenue in Downtown Melbourne, each featuring a different veteran’s name, photo, branch of service, and years served.

Click here for more information and to apply.

Sebastian Inlet’s North Jetty Closes for Extensive Repairs

Due to the substantial damage from recent storms, the North Jetty at Sebastian Inlet will be closed while repairs are being made.

To ensure public safety, the jetty will remain closed until the Sebastian Inlet District completes repairs. The repairs are expected to cost $2.5 million and will not be finished until July, 2025.

Updates on the repair project will be posted here.

Upcoming Events

Merry and Bright Tree Lighting Celebration

Join in on the holiday festivities at the Merry and Bright Tree Lighting Celebration on Friday, November 22, from 5-8 P.M. at The Avenue Viera (2261 Town Center Avenue, Melbourne).

Attractions include, a horse drawn carriage, street performers and a live DJ. Santa will lead the countdown to lighting a 40 foot tall tree at 7 p.m. The event is free to attend.

For more information call (321)-634-5390 or click here.

Holiday Market and Snowfest

This Friday and Saturday, November 22-23 there will be a family friendly Holiday Market at the Melbourne Auditorium (625 E. Hibiscus Boulevard, Melbourne) Hours are 3-8 P.M Friday and 10-3 P.M. Saturday.

This event will include a festive shopping market with unique vendors and food. The market is free to attend, but on Friday there will be an additional $5 Kidszone from 5-8 PM which will include a Snow Slide, Santa, cookie decorating.

For more information, call (321) 608-7420 or click here.

40th Annual Festival of Trees

The 40th Anniversary of the Festival of Trees event will take place on Saturday, November 23rd from 9 AM – 5 PM at the Wickham Park Community Center (2815 Leisure Way, Melbourne). The event will include a showcase of trees and festive decor, a silent auction, shopping, and delicious treats.

All proceeds benefit the Junior League of the Space Coast’s mission to improve our community. To attend there is a $5 minimum suggested donation for each attendee ages 12 and up.

For more information, call (321) 610-8950 or click here.

Space Coast VegFest

The Space Coast VegFest, a celebration of all things vegan, will be held on Saturday, November 23, from 10 AM – 6 PM at Cocoa Riverfront Park (401 Riveredge Boulevard, Cocoa).

Enjoy a variety of activities, from enlightening speakers to invigorating yoga sessions, arts and crafts, food, and local businesses.This event is free to attend.

For more information, click here.

28th Annual Artworks of Eau Gallie Fine Arts Festival

The 28th Annual Artworks of Eau Gallie Fine Arts Festival will take place Saturday, November 23 and Sunday, November 24 from 10 AM – 4 PM in Melbourne’s Eau Gallie Arts District (1490 Highland Avenue, Melbourne).

This festival features prominent artists who will be displaying original art for sale. There will also be a porcelain artists show, a “meet the authors” event, live entertainment, and a food court.

For more information, call 321-254-2584 or click here.

Central Brevard Art Association’s Cocoa Beach Holiday Art Show & Sale

From November 22-24, The Central Brevard Art Association will be having their Holiday Art Show & Sale at the Cocoa Beach Public Library (550 N. Brevard Avenue, Cocoa Beach) , November 24. Hours will be 9 AM – 5 PM Friday/Saturday, and 1-4 PM Sunday.

For more information, call (321) 806-8065 or click here.

Suntree United Methodist Church Hosting Raleigh Ringers Concert

Suntree United Methodist Church (7400 North Wickham Road, Melbourne) will host the Raleigh Ringers at 7 PM on Monday, November 18th. The internationally acclaimed, Emmy nominated handbell choir is from Raleigh, North Carolina. The concert is free to attend, with a suggested donation of $20.

Click here for more information, or call 321-242-2585.

Eastern Florida State College Chamber and Community Orchestras Concert

Eastern Florida State College will be featuring the combined performances of both the EFSC Chamber Orchestra and the Community Orchestra, conducted by Justin Walker on Thursday, November 21st at 7:30 PM at the EFSC Cocoa Campus located at 1519 Clearlake Road in the Simpkins Fine Arts Center (Bldg. 4).

Ticket prices and info can be found at efsc.booktix.com

For more information, call (321) 433-7022 or click here.

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Contact Information

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900 East Strawbridge Avenue

Melbourne, FL 32901

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Tallahassee, FL 32399-1100

Staff

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