Good Morning!
This week we celebrate Women’s Equality Day on Monday, August 26th, a day that marks the adoption of the 19th amendment to the United States Constitution. This pivotal amendment prohibited states from denying citizens the right to vote based on gender, signifying a major victory for the suffragette movement.
On August 26th, 1920, Secretary of State Bainbridge Colby signed the proclamation that officially certified the 19th amendment, granting women the right to vote.
President Richard Nixon recognized the day in 1972, and since then, every president has continued the tradition, making August 26th a day to remember the history behind the 19th amendment.
As we reflect on the history and significance of this day, we honor the relentless efforts of those who fought tirelessly to secure this fundamental right for women across the nation.
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!
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Statewide Update
Second Period of the 2024 Disaster Preparedness Sales Tax Holiday Begins
On August 24th, the second period of the 2024 Disaster Preparedness Sales Tax Holiday begins and runs until September 6th. During this time, consumers can purchase a variety of essential disaster preparedness supplies tax-free.
Items covered include wet dog or cat food priced at $10 or less, manual can openers, collapsible or travel-sized pet bowls, cat litter pans, and pet waste disposal bags, all priced at $15 or less. Other covered items include reusable ice and pet leashes, collars, and muzzles, which are available for $20 or less. Cat litter weighing 25 pounds or less can be purchased for $25 or less, and portable self-powered light sources and pet beds are covered up to $40. Additionally, portable self-powered radios, gas or diesel fuel tanks, and select batteries are included for $50 or less. Non-electric coolers and portable power banks are covered for $60 or less, while smoke detectors, fire extinguishers, and carbon monoxide detectors can be purchased for $70 or less.
Larger items like tarpaulins, ground anchor systems, portable pet kennels, dry dog or cat food, and over-the-counter pet medications are covered up to $100. Finally, portable generators, priced at $3,000 or less, used to provide light, communication, or preserve food during a power outage, are also included.
For further details on the Disaster Preparedness Sales Tax Holiday, click here.
Attorney General Moody Announces Arrest of Major Drug Trafficking Ring
Last week, Attorney General Ashley Moody’s Office announced the arrest of William Moyo, a key supplier in the large drug-trafficking ring operating out of Boynton Beach. Moyo faces charges of trafficking in cocaine and conspiracy to traffic in cocaine, following an investigation that revealed he supplied both cocaine and fentanyl to the ring.
“Law enforcement continues to take poison peddlers and their deadly products off our streets, and this latest arrest should serve as a warning to anyone looking to traffic drugs in our state,” Attorney General Moody said. “Florida law enforcement will track you down, and my Statewide Prosecutors will ensure you end up in prison.”
During the execution of a search warrant at Moyo’s residence, authorities discovered over 20 kilograms of cocaine. The investigation has led to the seizure of 50 pounds of cocaine and other illicit substances, with 17 defendants already arrested in connection with the Big Boi drug-trafficking ring.
Funding for this investigation was provided by the State Assistance Enforcement for Fentanyl Eradication grant, managed by the Florida Department of Law Enforcement. Moyo is charged with trafficking in cocaine (400 grams or more, but less than 150 kilograms) and conspiracy to traffic in cocaine (400 grams or more, but less than 150 kilograms). Attorney General Moody’s Office of Statewide Prosecution is handling Moyo’s case, along with the cases of other individuals arrested in connection with the ring.
Thank you to the Attorney General’s office and all law enforcement agencies involved for their dedicated work in keeping our state safe.
For more information on the case, click here.
Florida Department of Education Announces Student Art and Essay Contest for Hispanic Heritage Month
Last week, the Florida Department of Education and Volunteer Florida announced their Hispanic Heritage Month student art and essay contests. Celebrated from September 15th to October 15th, Hispanic Heritage Month recognizes the profound impact of Hispanic Americans.
Commissioner of Education Manny Diaz, Jr. highlighted the educational value of the contests, emphasizing the role of Hispanic culture in Florida’s success. Volunteer Florida CEO Josie Tamayo spoke about the significance of celebrating Hispanic heritage and its influence on community and service.
Students from grades K-12 are invited to participate. Kindergarten through third-grade students can submit original artwork, while students in grades 4-12 can enter the essay contest. Essays should highlight a Hispanic American who has made a significant impact in Florida. Notable examples include Lieutenant Governor Jeanette Nuñez, the first Hispanic female Lt. Governor, Manny Diaz, Jr., Commissioner of Education, Juan Ponce De Leon, the first Spanish explorer to reach Florida, Madeline Pumariega, the first female President of Miami Dade College, and Esteban Bovo Jr., Mayor of Hialeah.
Additionally, the Excellence in Education Award recognizes outstanding full-time educators in Florida. Nominations can be submitted by principals, teachers, parents, or students, and winners will receive $2,500 from Volunteer Florida.
All entries and nominations must be submitted online or mailed to Volunteer Florida by 5 p.m. (ET) on Friday, September 13th, 2024.
For more details, click here.
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Agency Highlight
The Florida Department of Transportation
This week, we are highlighting the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT), an executive agency dedicated to maintaining a safe and efficient statewide transportation system.
FDOT’s mission is to facilitate the smooth movement of people and goods, support economic growth, and preserve Florida’s environment and community quality of life. This is achieved through the development and management of a diverse transportation network, including highways, air, rail, sea, spaceports, transit systems, and expanding bicycle and pedestrian facilities.
The department operates under the leadership of Secretary Jared W. Perdue, P.E., who was appointed by Governor DeSantis in April 2022. Secretary Perdue has dedicated his career to FDOT, starting as a Professional Engineer Trainee and advancing through various roles such as District Geotechnical Engineer, District Traffic Operations Engineer, and CEO of SunRail. His extensive experience is instrumental in driving the Moving Florida Forward Infrastructure Initiative aimed at addressing Florida’s rapid population growth by improving safety, reducing traffic hazards, and enhancing the state’s supply chain.
FDOT’s organizational structure includes a central office that establishes policies and standards, seven districts, and a variation of different offices that support the mission of the department.
The department’s offices include:
FDOT’s comprehensive approach to managing Florida’s transportation infrastructure ensures that the state’s roads, bridges, airports, railways, and transit systems meet the needs of its growing population.
Through its dedicated professionals, FDOT continues to enhance mobility, safety, and economic vitality across the state.
For more information on Career Opportunities at FDOT, click here
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In Memory of Ms. Mary Virginia “Ginny” Annas Fitzgerald
My dear friend and longtime supporter, Mary Virginia “Ginny” Annas Fitzgerald, a beloved resident of Vero Beach, Florida, passed away peacefully at home on August 17, 2024, at the age of 84. Ginny relocated to Vero Beach in 1997, bringing with her a deep sense of community and a lifelong dedication to helping others.
Born on April 22, 1940, in Detroit, Michigan, Ginny pursued her passion for nursing, earning a BSN RN degree from Madonna University. She was a trailblazer in the field of Hospice care, playing a vital role in the creation of the first Hospice program in Southeastern Detroit. Her tireless efforts led to the establishment of two Hospice inpatient programs, reflecting her unwavering commitment to providing comfort and dignity to those in their final days.
In Vero Beach, Ginny spirit of service only grew. She dedicated herself to her community, volunteering extensively with Habitat for Humanity, Riverside Theater, and Indian River Memorial Hospital. Her work with these organizations was a testament to her generous heart and her belief in giving back to the community she loved.
Ginny was deeply devoted to her family, finding joy in every moment spent with them. She loved entertaining, playing tennis, and sharing her passion for music with her family and friends. Her support of the Space Coast Symphony Orchestra was just one way she expressed her love for the arts.
Ginny leaves behind her children Joseph (Elif), Patrick (Dawn), Colleen (Philip), Maureen, Daniel (Angela), and Molly (Shawn); her grandchildren Christopher, Collin, John, Patrick, Maegan, Keaton, Donovan, and Colby; and her great-grandchild Cameron Fitzgerald.
Ms. Fitzgerald will be remembered for her profound impact she left on everyone who knew her.
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Constituent of the Week
County Commissioner Jason Steele
This week, we are featuring Commissioner Jason Steele as our Constituent of the Week. Commissioner Steele has demonstrated a lifelong commitment to public service and community engagement. Before venturing into real estate, Mr. Steele made his mark in the Florida legislature. Serving in the Florida House of Representatives from 1980 to 1982, Commissioner Steele represented District 44, which includes parts of Brevard County.
His tenure was distinguished by his involvement in the committee for Tourism, Economic Development, and Transportation, where he worked on issues critical to Brevard County’s growth and prosperity. He also chaired the Brevard County Legislative Committee, advocating for local concerns at the state level.
Commissioner Steele’s influence extended beyond his legislative role. He played a key role on various boards and committees, including serving as the Chairman of the Florida Real Estate Commission from 1992 to 1994. His leadership in these positions helped shape policies and regulations that benefited both the real estate industry and the broader Brevard County community.
A significant part of Mr. Steele’s legacy is his founding of The Tiger Bay Club of the Space Coast in 1985. As the premier non-partisan political club in the region, the Tiger Bay Club has become a crucial forum for political discourse and engagement. The Club brings together business leaders, elected officials, and residents to discuss pressing issues and participate in debates featuring prominent journalists and political figures. One of Mr. Steele’s notable achievements with the Club is its focus on involving young people in politics. By hosting lively candidate forums and discussions, the Club inspires the next generation to engage with political processes and become informed voters. This emphasis on youth involvement reflects Mr. Steele’s belief in the importance of cultivating
In recent years, Commissioner Steele has continued to contribute to his community through his role as a Director of Government Affairs for Smith and Associates Law Offices and his appointment as Chair of the Brevard County Board of County Commissioners by Governor Ron DeSantis in June 2023. His extensive career in public service and his ongoing efforts to engage and educate the community underscore his enduring impact on Brevard County and the State of Florida.
Commissioner Steele’s career is a testament to his dedication to public service and community engagement. Senate District 19 thanks Commissioner Steele for his lasting impact on local and state politics.
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District Highlights
Titusville-Cocoa Airport Authority Receives $5.8 Million for Infrastructure Improvements
On Thursday, I attended the Titusville-Cocoa Airport Authority’s $5.8 million check presentation. The check, awarded through the Florida Job Growth Grant Fund (FJGGF), will fund the construction of a 3,200-foot roadway, creating direct access from the Space Coast Innovation Park to the Space Coast Regional Airport. This strategic investment is expected to expand business opportunities in the park and create more than 900 high demand jobs for the Space Coast region.
I want to extend my gratitude to Governor DeSantis for his continued support of Florida’s Space Coast. The Space Coast is a vital center for aerospace and defense, and this investment highlights its significance to Florida’s economy. As Governor DeSantis noted, “Florida is the space capital of the country,” and this project will help advance our position as a leader in the space and aerospace industries.
The project is expected to have a positive fiscal impact of over $24.6 million. Roadway construction is set to begin early next year and will take about 12 months to complete.
For more information, click here.
Cocoa Beach High School Celebrates the Grand Opening of the Aquadome Facility
On Thursday, August 22nd, Brevard Public Schools (BPS) celebrated the grand opening of the Aquadome facility at Cocoa Beach Jr./Sr. High School, marking a significant milestone for the school’s Aqua-Science program.
The Aquadome facility features 12 tanks, each holding 450 gallons of water, totaling a 5,400-gallon capacity. It is equipped with state-of-the-art water piping, pumps, an automatic sunshade system, and a diesel generator that can keep the facility operational for up to four days during a power outage.
Rachel Rutledge, Director of Career and Technical Education, highlighted the facility’s impact: “The Aquadome represents a significant advancement in our Aqua-Science program. It provides our students with essential tools for success in environmental and marine sciences and supports our community’s efforts to address environmental challenges.”
Launched in the 2023-2024 school year, the Aqua-Science program has quickly expanded to include 116 students. It combines hands-on learning in the Aquadome with fieldwork through a Floating Classroom, where students gather water and soil samples from the Indian River Lagoon. Last year, 22 students earned Agriculture Associate industry certification.
The Aquadome facility at Cocoa Beach Jr./Sr. High School is designed to prepare students for careers in aquaculture, life support, marine science, and environmental science, with certifications including the Agro Associate Certificate, Agro System Certification, Life Systems Support Certification, and Aquaculture Technician Certification.
For more information, click here.
Successful Raid Shuts Down Illegal Gambling Operations in Brevard County
Last week, Brevard County Sheriff’s Office, in partnership with the Florida Gaming Control Commission, conducted a significant raid on four illegal gambling establishments in Cocoa. This operation resulted in the confiscation of $288,207 in cash, 158 illegal slot machines, and a variety of equipment used in these operations, including computers, televisions, and money counters.
The investigation revealed alarming figures, such as one slot machine that had amassed $1.3 million without paying out a fair share to players, and another machine with over 4,200 games played without awarding a single jackpot. This highlights the deceptive practices at these illegal sites, which offer no consumer protections and evade state taxation.
Sheriff Wayne Ivey expressed gratitude for the collaboration with Florida Gaming Control Commission (FGCC), emphasizing that these raids are a crucial step in ongoing efforts to disrupt illegal gambling in the community. Arrests are expected as the investigation continues, addressing both felony and misdemeanor charges.
The FGCC continues to encourage citizens to report any suspicious gambling activities to help protect the integrity of Florida’s communities.
For more information on the raid, click here.
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Upcoming Events
Florida Wildlife Animal Hospital Hosts an “All about Owls” Event
On Monday, August 26th, from 6:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., Florida Wildlife Animal Hospital will host an owl presentation at the Suntree/Viera Library (902 Jordan Blass Drive). The event will feature fascinating insights into the unique traits that make owls stand out from other birds, including their specialized eyes, ears, feathers, feet, and beaks.
Florida Wildlife Animal Hospital ambassadors and the wildlife team will be there to educate and answer wildlife questions. This event is free for attendees.
For more information on the event, click here.
BVMC Hosts Women Veterans Outreach Potluck Luncheon
On Tuesday, August 27th, the Brevard Veterans Memorial Center will host a Women Veteran Outreach Potluck Luncheon from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. in the VMC Gray Hall (1551 Highland Ave). This event is exclusively for women veterans and will celebrate the first anniversary of the outreach program.
The luncheon provides an opportunity to connect with fellow women veterans, share experiences, and enjoy a meal together. Your participation will help strengthen the community and support the ongoing success of this program.
To confirm your attendance, contact Dorothy Walsh at [email protected].
Space Coast Young Professionals Event
On Tuesday, August 27th, from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., Space Coast Young Professionals are hosting a happy hour event at Venezia Wine Veranda (5475 Lorkey Lane) in Viera.
The event will feature an evening filled with wine, networking opportunities, photo moments, and exciting raffles.
For more information on the event, click here.
City of Melbourne Celebrates Jimmy Buffet Day
On Sunday, September 1st, the City of Melbourne will celebrate Jimmy Buffet Day at the Eau Gallie Civic Center (1551 Highland Ave) from 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. This event is for adults aged 21 and over. Enjoy an evening of live music by the Landshark Band, with food and drinks available for purchase.
Tickets are $40 each and can be purchased in person at the Eau Gallie Civic Center, Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., or by calling 321-608-7400. VIP parking passes are available for $10 per car, but spaces are limited, so be sure to secure yours early. All proceeds will support community recreation programs.
Please note, no vendor sales will be permitted, and any ticket purchases must be made directly through the City of Melbourne.
For more information on how to purchase tickets, call 321-608-7400.
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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
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