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April 19, 2026 - April is Earth Month!

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The Mayfield Minute - April 19, 2026
Good Morning!
April is Earth Month!


The first Earth Day was proposed in 1970 by U.S. Senator Gaylord Nelson of Wisconsin following a massive oil spill off the coast of Santa Barbara in 1969. Senator Nelson envisioned Earth Day would become a national “teach‑in” to bring environmental issues to the forefront of the political agenda.


On April 22, 1970, an estimated 20 million American students, teachers, families, faith groups, and community organizations participated in rallies, cleanups, conservation, and sustainability events nationwide. It became the largest single-day public demonstration in U.S. history at the time.


The first Earth Day event created momentum for the landmark environmental legislation passed throughout the 1970s, including the Clean Air Act, Clean Water Act, Endangered Species Act, and the creation of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).


Earth Day is now observed on April 22nd in more than 190 countries and has expanded into Earth Month through throughout the month of April. Earth Day is one of the few civic observances shared across cultures, generations, and political boundaries.


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 at (321) 409-2025. My staff and I are here to serve you!
Statewide Update

Special Session Called by Governor DeSantis



Last week, Governor DeSantis called for the convening of the Legislature in Special Session from Tuesday, April 28th, through Friday, May 1st. The purpose of the Special Session is specifically to consider legislation related to the drawing of congressional districts, creating strong consumer protections for artificial intelligence, and expanding medical freedom in our state.


To view the Governor's proclamation, click here.

 

Florida Celebrates Major Milestone in Everglades Restoration



Last week, Governor DeSantis announced a major milestone in Everglades restoration with the full execution of all federally funded contracts required to complete the Everglades Agricultural Area (EAA) Reservoir, confirming that the project is now on track for completion in 2029, five years ahead of its original schedule.


“This milestone brings us a step closer to delivering on our commitment to restore the Everglades,” said Governor DeSantis. “The July 2025 agreement between the State of Florida and the federal government has made all this possible by cutting red tape with an all-hands-on-deck approach. This is a major victory for America’s Everglades and a testament to the progress our joint federal and state teams have made in just nine months.”


This acceleration is the result of a 2025 state and federal agreement that allows Florida to take a leading role in carrying out key components of the Comprehensive Everglades Restoration Plan while coordinating closely with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.


The EAA Reservoir will become a cornerstone of Everglades restoration, improving water storage, reducing harmful discharges, and restoring natural flow south into Everglades National Park and Florida Bay, supported by nearly $8 billion invested since 2019.


To read the announcement in full, click here.




Florida Office of Statewide Prosecution Launches “Cold Case” Initiative


Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier recently announced a new statewide partnership designed to help law enforcement agencies solve long‑standing cold cases using advanced forensic DNA testing and genetic genealogy.


The initiative connects the Office of Statewide Prosecution with Othram, a leading forensic technology company specializing in human identification. The goal is to proactively identify unsolved cases across Florida that may be solvable using existing biological evidence that could not be analyzed with older technology.


“For too long, many victims and their families have been left without answers,” said Attorney General Uthmeier. “Our partnership with Othram will add an invaluable tool to our proactive approach for solving cold cases. We hope this effort brings answers and some measure of closure to those who have waited years.”


The initiative begins with three multi‑circuit homicide investigations from the 1970s through the 2000s, spanning South and Central Florida. With more than 21,000 unsolved murders and nearly 900 unidentified remains statewide, officials hope this proactive, statewide approach will help local agencies uncover new leads.


The program is expected to expand beyond homicides to include serial sexual battery cases, strengthening Florida’s broader efforts to pursue justice for victims of violent crime.


To read the announcement in full, click here.




Florida WildQuest, FWC’s Statewide Scavenger Hunt, Begins April 25th


The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) invites Florida residents and visitors of all ages to join Florida WildQuest, a free statewide scavenger hunt experience on Florida’s Wildlife Management Areas (WMA).


WildQuest takes place Saturday, April 25th, through Sunday, May 3rd. Participants will complete wildlife photo and video "missions" and prompt- based challenges while exploring Florida’s public conservation lands.


How to play:
  • Download the GooseChase app and create an account.
  • Enter the WildQuest game code EBN6F2 to register and receive updates.


How to win:
  • Participants are eligible for a prize drawing by completing 10 missions during the event and completing a short survey.
  • All missions must be submitted by Sunday, May 3rd.
  • Winners will be selected at random on Tuesday, May 12th at 10:00 a.m.


For more information about WildQuest, click here. To locate the nearest WMAs, click here.
America's 250th Anniversary
This year, we will celebrate the 250th anniversary since the United States of America was founded on July 4, 1776. Over the next 12 weeks, leading up to July 4, 2026, I will share updates on how the 250th anniversary is being recognized across the State of Florida as well as information on our nation’s history, government, and more.


Over the last several weeks, Governor DeSantis and Secretary of State Cord Byrd have commemorated America250 by honoring past Presidents, the Founding Fathers, and American Statesmen with visits to the following counties:

 
  • Monroe County: In honor of President James Monroe for his influential role in U.S. history including the signing of the Adams‑Onís Treaty, which marked Spain’s cessation of Florida to America in 1819, and the signing of the Monroe Doctrine in 1823, which opposed any foreign interference in the Western Hemisphere.
  • Hamilton County; In honor of Founding Father Alexander Hamilton for his fight for independence, contributions to writing the Federalist Papers, and his public service as a diplomat and as ‘Father of the Treasury.’
  • St. Johns County: In honor of American Statesman Frederick Douglass, author, orator, abolitionist, for his Civil Rights speech in St. Augustine in 1889 which permanently linked his legacy to the civic and historical heart of America’s oldest continuously inhabited European settlement. 
  • Jefferson County: In honor of President Thomas Jefferson as a Founding Father and principal author of the Declaration of Independence.
  • Franklin County: In honor of Benjamin Franklin as a Founding Father and for his contributions to American independence, diplomacy, and civic life.
  • Leon County: In honor of George Washington as America’s first president and his foundational role in the founding of our nation.
  • Polk County: In honor of President Calvin Coolidge at Bok Tower Gardens commemorating his impact on the garden sanctuary and for his legacy of leadership in limited government, fiscal responsibility, and civic virtue. 


These visits throughout Florida serve to celebrate America’s 250th by connecting Florida counties with the legacy of our nation.


For more information about Florida activities to celebrate America250, click here.
Bill Action by Governor DeSantis
As of Sunday, April 19th, Governor DeSantis has received a total of 41 bills for his consideration, of which four remain pending and 37 have been signed into law. Upon receipt of a bill, the Governor has seven days to sign, veto, or take no action at which point the bill will automatically become law.


Bills Pending Governor's Action:


CS/CS/SB 182 – School Teacher Training and Mentoring Program
CS/CS/CS/SB 686 – Agricultural Enclaves
CS/CS/HB 1103 – Local Administration of Vessel Restrictions
CS/CS/CS/HB 1093 – Vertiports


If you have an interest or concern regarding any of the above bills, you can contact the Governor's office directly here.


Bills Signed this Week:


CS/SB 246 – Specialty License Plates
CS/CS/HB 679 – Registration of Trademarks
HB 4019 – Compensation for Health Care Services for Inmates in Lake County
HB 4041 – Compensation for Health Care Services for Inmates in Indian River County
HB 4059 – Compensation for Health Care Services for Inmates in Polk County
SB 628 – Transportation Facility Designations/Warrior Sacrifice Way
Constituent of the Week
Mr. Travis Proctor, President & CEO of Artemis IT


Our Constituent of the Week is Mr. Travis Proctor, President & CEO of Artemis IT, a premier information technology services firm on Florida’s Space Coast.


Mr. Proctor is originally from Montrose, Colorado. He has always been interested in entrepreneurial activities and co-founded his first company providing computer support while a junior in high school. He moved to Florida in 1994 to attend the Florida Institute of Technology (Florida Tech). Mr. Proctor founded Artemis IT during his sophomore year of college and graduated at the top of his class with a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science Information Systems degree in 1998.


Under Mr. Proctor’s visionary leadership, Artemis IT's offerings have expanded to include managed IT services, cybersecurity solutions, cloud computing, and disaster recovery, catering to small and mid-sized enterprise businesses. The company has garnered multiple accolades including the GrowFL “Companies to Watch" award,” the Economic Development Commission of Florida’s Space Coast's “Innovative Company of the Year” award, and the Space Coast Chamber’s “Business of the Year” award.


Beyond his corporate achievements, Mr. Proctor is deeply committed to fostering entrepreneurship and innovation in the Space Coast region. He holds leadership roles in various organizations, including serving as the past chair of the board of trustees for Florida Tech and the Economic Development Commission of Florida's Space Coast. Mr. Proctor’s community involvement extends to board positions with the United Way, CivMil, the Brevard Heart Foundation, Brevard Achievement Center, Brevard Symphony Orchestra, Salvation Army, Space Coast Chamber, and Junior Achievement.


He is the current chair-elect of the United Way Space Coast Executive Board of Directors, and in 2024, he served as Campaign Chair when the organization raised nearly $5 million.


Mr. Proctor's dedication has been recognized through numerous honors, including being named one of Florida's top young entrepreneurs by Governor Rick Scott in 2012, receiving Florida Tech's College of Engineering "Alumnus of the Year" award, and the University’s Presidential Medal.


In 2019, he was a finalist for Florida Today's "Citizen of the Year" award, highlighting his significant contributions to the community. In 2022, he was inducted into the Junior Achievement of the Space Coast's Business Hall of Fame, awarded the Space Coast Chamber's "Legacy Award" in 2025, and received the Scouting America "Golden Eagle Award" in 2026.


Mr. Proctor and his wife, Teresa, reside in Viera and they have one son, John.


SD 19 genuinely appreciates Mr. Proctor’s longstanding commitment and the positive impact he has made throughout Brevard County. Through his leadership, Artemis IT has grown into a highly respected and innovative company, community nonprofit organizations have excelled in supporting those they serve, and underserved communities have experienced new opportunities to thrive.
District Highlights
2026 Enlistment Ceremony of the Space Coast


Last week, I was honored to participate in the 2026 Enlistment Ceremony of the Space Coast, a special event recognizing more than 225 Brevard County residents who have committed to serve in the United States Armed Forces.


Hundreds of families, friends, and community members attended the event to show their support and appreciation as the enlistees took the oath of enlistment.


This special event honored the dedication, courage, and patriotism of each recruit for their decision to serve and protect our nation. A decision of this magnitude is a testament to one’s character, commitment, and ability to overcome any challenge, no matter how difficult it may be.


Congratulations to the 2026 Enlistment class, please know that you carry the support and gratitude of the Space Coast and the entire State of Florida with you on this noble and exciting journey.




Brevard County Launches Digital Permitting Platform for Residents and Business Owners


The Brevard County Planning and Development Department has launched a new digital permitting platform, “Permit Assist,” for home and business owners. The digital platform provides the ability to view permit requirements, zoning regulations, and associated fees.


For those interested in starting a business, the Zoning Portal provides information to help you find a suitable location for your business, and the Commercial Portal calculates the permits and licenses necessary to open or expand your business. 


Additionally, homeowners can use the Residential Portal to determine which documents and fees are necessary for home improvements or new construction projects.


For more information, click here.




Sea Turtle Preservation Society Celebrates 40 Years


Founded in 1986, the Sea Turtle Preservation Society (STPS), a Brevard County nonprofit dedicated to protecting sea turtles, is celebrating 40 years of service.


In 1982, Peter Brandre found 40 to 50 dead hatchlings in a parking lot in Indialantic. He surmised that the hatchlings were following the bright lights of the boardwalk in the opposite direction of the ocean. The experience led him to begin rescue efforts and form the STPS in 1986.


This year, on March 22nd, the Society located the first Leatherback sea turtle nest of the 2026 season at Long Point Park near Sebastian Inlet. In 2025, more than 50,000 nests were counted on Brevard County beaches.


Today, the organization continues their mission of saving struggling hatchlings, documenting nests, conducting research, and educating the public about the lives of sea turtles.


If you spot a distressed, injured, or deceased sea turtle, you are urged to call STPS 24-hour hotline at (321) 206-0646.


For more information about the Sea Turtle Preservation Society, click here.
Upcoming Events
Space Force STARCOM Civilian-Job Career Fair


The U.S. Space Training and Readiness Command (STARCOM) will hold a Civilian Job-Training Career Fair on Tuesday, April 21st, from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at the Tides Club (1001 North State Road A1A) in Patrick Space Force Base.


Job opportunities are available for mid- to senior-level professionals in the following areas:

 
  • Operations and Research: education, training, and wargaming
  • Professional Services: general attorneys, historians, and public affairs
  • Acquisitions and Contracting
  • Logistics, Engineering, and Infrastructure
  • Administration and Office Management: inspector generals, financial management, human resources, safety, and security


To view openings and application details at STARCOM's careers page, click here. Applicants can email resumes and job titles of interest in advance to hq.starcom.s1jobs@spaceforce.mil.




Amphitheater at Veterans Memorial Park Grand Opening


The community-wide grand opening celebration for the new Amphitheater at Veterans Memorial Park will be held on Thursday, April 23rd from 4:30 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. at Veterans Memorial Park (400 South Sykes Creek Parkway) in Merritt Island.


The new Amphitheater is designed to become the Space Coast’s premier outdoor venue for concerts, ceremonies, festivals, and community gatherings.


The amphitheater features a 6,700‑square‑foot stage, tiered lawn seating for approximately 2,350 guests, with additional space and parking to accommodate more than 5,000 attendees. Other amenities include concessions, a picnic pavilion, paved walkways, restrooms, backstage areas, and much more.


For more information, contact the Brevard Veterans Memorial Center at (321) 452-1776 or click here.




Surfrider Foundation Earth Day Events


The Surfrider Foundation of the Space Coast will hold two Earth Day events in Brevard County.


The “Celebrate Earth Day Planting” event will take place on Friday, April 24th from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. at William Dewey Park located at the intersection of Orlando Boulevard in Ocean Terrace in Indialantic. Participants are asked to bring water, sunblock, gloves, and weeding tools if you have them. To register for this event, click here.


The “Earth Day Cleanup & Surf Day” event will take place on Saturday, April 25th from 8:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. at Paradise Beach (113 Paradise Boulevard) in Indialantic. Surfrider volunteers will have grabbers and buckets for the cleanup activity and surfboards will be available for rent. To register for this event, click here.




Green Gable Classic Motorcycle Show


The Green Gables 5th Annual Classic Motorcycle Show will be held on Saturday, April 25th, from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at the Green Gables Historic Riverview Village (1501 South Harbor City Blvd.) in Melbourne.


To participate in the show, motorcycles must be 30 years or older and the registration fee is $10. There is no fee for the public to attend. Other activities include food trucks, music, a 50/50 drawing, and trophies for the motorcycle show participants.


For more information, click here.




Liberty Bell Museum “Civil War Day" Event


A “Civil War Day” event will be held on Saturday, April 25th, from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at the Liberty Bell Museum (1601 Oak Street) in Melbourne.


Activities include Civil War reenactments, characters in Civil War era uniforms, living history demonstrations, educational displays, and tours of the Liberty Bell Museum. Admission to all activities and museum tours is free and open to all ages.


For more information, click here or email duvcwfl15@gmail.com.




American Cancer Society Relay for Life


The American Cancer Society Relay for Life of Brevard County event will be held on Saturday, April 25th at 3:00 p.m. at Riverfront Park (430 Delannoy Avenue) in Cocoa.


A Survivors Luncheon will take place at 1:30 p.m. at the Porcher House (434 Delannoy Avenue); pre-registration is required. Those participating in the relay are also encouraged to register in advance. There is no cost to participate in the luncheon or the relay.


Other activities include a scavenger hunt, DJ, and tug-of-war contest. Luminaries will be available for those who wish to honor survivors and the lives lost to cancer.


To register for the luncheon, email Kathy Petsos at kcpgatorx@gmail.com by Wednesday, April 22nd. To register for the relay, click here. 
Contact Information


Melbourne Office 
900 East Strawbridge Avenue,
Suite 408,
Melbourne, FL 32901
321-409-2025



Tallahassee Office
400 South Monroe Street,
302 Senate Building,
Tallahassee, FL 32399-1100
850-487-5019




Staff
Yvette Campbell
Christian Chesnut
William Gooden
Kelli Lane

 

April 19, 2026 - April is Earth Month...
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