Politics

Dave Weldon Announces Candidacy For U.S. Senate

2012-05-18T15:39:00.001-07:00

MELBOURNE, Florida -- In a surprise announcement today, former U.S. Congressman Dave Weldon of Indialantic, Florida, announced that he had thrown his hat in the ring for the Republican primary nomination to unseat Democratic incumbent Florida U.S. Senator Bill Nelson.

Weldon had represented the 15th Congressional District of Florida which covers portions of Brevard County (also known as Florida's Space Coast) for fourteen years from 1994 to 2008. Coincidentally, it is the same U.S. Congressional seat that Nelson held for twelve years from 1978 to 1990.

Like Florida U.S. Senator Mel Martinez, Weldon did not seek re-election after voting for the Troubled Asset Relief Program in 2008, better known at TARP, which fueled the anti-bank bailout Tea Party movement across the nation and also in heavily Weldon's very conservative Central Florida congressional district.

Despite a lack of banking experience, Martinez took on a prestigious banking job with Chase Bank after voting for TARP and leaving the U.S. Senate. Weldon did not go into banking after voting for TARP and leaving politics, but instead has laid low from the political spotlight for the last four years practicing medicine and chairing the International Israel Allies Caucus Foundation.

Weldon made the following statement on his campaign for U.S. Senate facebook page:

"Today I announced that I am officially running for the United States Senate. Many Floridians feel President Obama has traded America's greatness for international acceptance, turned his back on our Constitution and the intentions of our founding fathers, people of faith and the economic engine that helped make America great. Someone has to do something to provide a Conservative answer to the problems the Administration has created and the current Senate has endorsed. We can’t keep racking up debt and placing it on the backs of our children. It’s time to stop the spending and balance the budget again. Together, we can change Washington – I helped do it once – and I can help do it again."

A rival candidate for the Republican nomination for the U.S. Senate, Senator George LeMieux, said during a Brevard Times interview last month that he "would not have voted for TARP" and that "government should not be business of picking winners and losers."

Mitch Needelman Named Finalist For 'Tax Cutter' Award

2012-05-17T13:38:00.000-07:00

BREVARD COUNTY, Florida -- According to a press release release sent to Brevard Times, Brevard County Clerk of Court incumbent candidate Mitch Needelman has been named a finalist for the Tax Cutter Award by the Florida Taxpayer's Union. The release follows in its entirety, which is followed by a response from Needelman's opponent, former Brevard County Clerk of Court Scott Ellis:

(Article Revised 05/19/12) The Florida Taxpayers Union, Florida’s largest taxpayer organization has selected Brevard Clerk of Courts Mitch Needleman to receive the FLORIDA TAXCUTTER AWARD for 2012.

“The committee was very impressed with Mr. Needleman’s success in reducing overhead, lowering taxes by returning tax dollars to the county coffers and the expanded use of outsourcing to provide permanent reductions to taxpayers,” stated Keith Recine, Chairman of the Florida Taxpayers Union.

In addition to a savings of over $1.4 million to taxpayers by reducing overhead and sourcing remaining services, FTU representatives included the following in their report:

“Needelman adjusted outdated pay rates to reflect current times and increase staff moral by raising pay-grades, reduced payroll expenses by outsourcing entry and early level staff payroll to a private company, reduced insurance costs by illuminating the need to pay more than $300K in premiums on employees who refused benefits, and renegotiated contracts to lower service costs. Needelman returned $200K to taxpayers via the State of Florida and Brevard County Board of Commissioners. Needelman extended services and a new program, the “One Stop Passport Service, introduced “Attorney-view” software for court users. As a direct result of Needelman’s actions, while 65/67 County Clerks consider laying off 900 deputy clerks, Needelman can absorb an additional $1 million in 2012 budget cuts without taking such measures.”

Other nominees that were vetted included: Governor Rick Scott (R-Florida); Senator Marco Rubio (R-Miami); The Honorable Randy Johnson (R-Sebring); Ax the Tax Chairman Doug Guetzloe; State Senator Greg Evers (R-Baker); Osceola County Clerk of the Courts Malcolm Thompson (D-St. Cloud); Mayor Carlos Gimenez (R-Miami/Dade); The Honorable Tony Ferentinos (R-Kissimmee); The Honorable Mark Cross (R-Kissimmee).

The TAXCUTTER AWARD will be presented at the upcoming annual luncheon of the Florida Taxpayers Union to be held in Orlando on May 30^th.

The FTU is the official affiliate of the National Taxpayers Union (NTU), America’s oldest and most venerable taxpayer organization.

Further information including the 2012 Legislative Agenda for FTU can be found at: www.FloridaTaxpayersUnion.Org.

Scott Ellis Response:

Garrett Pomichter may handle press releases for various candidates, but I bet you other candidates do not pay Garrett Pomichter $1,000 a month from the taxpayer’s dollars to be their Public Spokesman.

I also do not believe Mr. Pomichter has EVER identified himself to the media to be a paid spokesman for the Clerk’s Office. The Press Release (which I had not seen) should be clearly identified as a product of the Brevard County Clerk’s Office. This is just another example of the 2012 campaign being run at the expense of the taxpayers as the resources of the Clerk’s Office are used for re-election. Back in 2008, Garrett Pomichter and Matt DuPree fabricated a Veteran’s award for Mr. Needelman.

I expect it has never been awarded again. In this case a fabricated story (I believe) was sent to the Taxpayers Union. I have requested the story for a week, no response from the FTU awards group. None. Matt Nye [Chairman of the Republican Liberty Caucus of Florida] requested the same. Nothing. The man rarely comes to work, so the long hours comment is ludicrous.

No doubt the Florida Taxpayers Union received the same song as dance as we have received here about all the millions of dollars allegedly saved. However, if one truly has saved ‘millions’ I expect more than just $104,000 to be returned to the funding body. Virtually nothing has been saved, money has simply been shifted into millions of dollars of no-bid contracts. I checked out the Florida Taxpayers Union website and nothing is there at all for 2012. Scott Ellis (his own public relations spokesperson and not on the county nickel).

Garret Pomichter Response:

I would note in the interest of accuracy, that I have not been under contract to the Brevard Clerk’s Office since near this time last year and have not received any further compensation. Also of note, my information was received from the Florida Tax Payers Union, and confirmed through Mitch Needelman directly, and not from the Clerk’s office.

Commissioner Infantini Walks Out Of Commission Meeting

2012-05-17T03:45:00.002-07:00

VIERA, Florida -- In a contentious discussion regarding the merits of funding a North Brevard Enterprise Zone with property tax and tangible tax waivers during last night's Brevard County Commissioners' meeting, Commissioner Trudie Infantini walked out of the meeting after fellow Commissioner Robin Fisher took a personal jab at Infantini.

While discussing the financial numbers and the impact of the Enterprise Zone on the rest of Brevard County, Infantini said, "I know its going to create in excess of an $82 million hole when it was just based on real property, but when you factor in tangible property, that number goes up to over $92 million, and that's based on Department of Revenue data...over a 30 year period, that's over $92 million dollars. I know I was called a liar and told that I was throwing out bogus numbers when I said $70 to $100 million, but the low estimate is $82 million. Now its probably $82 million to $200 million.

"It doesn't raise taxes on anybody, it doesn't create a hole, and it doesn't create the need for additional services," said Commissioner Chuck Nelson.

"If you have five people go out and have a $10 lunch, that's a $50 bill, now if one person says they don't have their wallet, that's $50 divided by four people. So four people will now pay $12.50," Infantini said. "Well, in the economic zone, that $10 tax, but we are going to call it a dinner bill, went from $10 per person to $12.50 per person. The person in the economic zone will also be paying $12.50 because whatever tax is assessed on those four people will be taxed on the people in the zone. The people in the zone will also be paying a higher amount of tax."

"That analogy makes no sense," said Nelson.

Commissioner Andy Anderson said, "I know there is a Certified CPA on the floor. Can we move his card up? I'd like to hear another CPA's take."

"A real CPA? [implying that Infantini is not a real CPA]" Fisher asked, then chuckled.

"They are both real CPA's," Anderson replied.

"Oh that's funny. You know people say that I'm argumentative. You're the only one who name calls... In Robert's Rules of Order, is this appropriate behavior? Is there anybody that is suppose to be monitoring the actions of the Board? Or is this name-calling thing going to continue on?" said Infantini. "Because if it is, I'm going to walk out. Frankly, I've had enough of this. You know what, you can have this meeting, Robin. You are out of line."

Ron Paul Has Not Suspended His Campaign

2012-05-14T21:47:00.004-07:00

The Ron Paul 2012 Campaign announced on its website that it has not suspended its campaign despite rumors to the contrary. The Ron Paul rumors were spurred by Ron Paul's announcement yesterday that he would no longer spend campaign cash for the GOP nomination in the Republican Presidential Primary.

Instead, the Ron Paul campaign said that it is focusing its efforts on gathering delegates before the 2012 REpublican National Convention in Tampa, Florida.

“As I reflect on our 2012 Presidential campaign, I am humbled by the supporters who have worked so hard and sacrificed so much. And I am so proud of what we have accomplished. We will not stop until we have restored what once made America the greatest country in human history."

“This campaign fought hard and won electoral success that the talking heads and pundits never thought possible. But, this campaign is also about more than just the 2012 election. It has been part of a quest I began 40 years ago and that so many have joined. It is about the campaign for Liberty, which has taken a tremendous leap forward in this election and will continue to grow stronger in the future until we finally win."

“Our campaign will continue to work in the state convention process. We will continue to take leadership positions, win delegates, and carry a strong message to the Republican National Convention that Liberty is the way of the future."

“Moving forward, however, we will no longer spend resources campaigning in primaries in states that have not yet voted. Doing so with any hope of success would take many tens of millions of dollars we simply do not have. I encourage all supporters of Liberty to make sure you get to the polls and make your voices heard, particularly in the local, state, and Congressional elections, where so many defenders of Freedom are fighting and need your support."

“I hope all supporters of Liberty will remain deeply involved – become delegates, win office, and take leadership positions. I will be right there with you. In the coming days, my campaign leadership will lay out to you our delegate strategy and what you can do to help, so please stay tuned.

For Liberty, Ron Paul.”

Gary Harrell Drops Out Of Sheriff's Race, Endorses Wayne Ivey

2012-05-14T12:13:00.000-07:00

This week, the "Wayne Ivey for Sheriff Campaign Team" announced that former Sheriff's candidate and Brevard County Law Enforcement Officer Gary Harrell endorsed former Resident Agent in Charge Wayne Ivey from the Florida Department of Law Enforcement in his candidacy for Brevard County Sheriff.

Sergeant Gary Harrell stated, "In August of last year, I filed and announced as a Republican candidate for Brevard County Sheriff. Being an Army veteran and having proudly served more than thirty years as a law enforcement officer, including significant time as a homicide investigator and patrol supervisor here in Brevard, I believed that I could well serve the agency and citizens as their Sheriff with my experience and passion for the job.

“During the campaign process I have spent a lot of time with Wayne Ivey and got to know him on a more personal level. I found myself agreeing with his innovative vision for the Sheriff's Office and appreciating his skill at galvanizing people in support of the agency's mission. He has conducted himself with class and composure during this rigorous race and has truly earned my respect. He possesses a great combination of charismatic leadership, a genuine concern for the needs of our employees at every level of operation, and the know-how experience to get things accomplished.

“I have made the decision to exit the Sheriff's race and do so feeling excited that Wayne will confidently move our outstanding agency forward. I ask my supporters who have worked so hard and all my friends in this community whom I have met during this great adventure to join me in supporting Wayne Ivey for Brevard County Sheriff."

Wayne Ivey stated, "I am honored to have received the endorsement of Brevard County Sheriff's Office Sergeant Gary Harrell. Gary is an outstanding and accomplished law enforcement officer who has served and protected our communities for many years. Gary has represented the agency and his family in a very professional manner during this campaign and cares as passionately for our communities and the Sheriff's Office as I do. The Team Ivey family has grown today and proudly welcomes the addition of Sergeant Gary Harrell and his lovely family."

Wayne Ivey has previously received the endorsements of hundreds of Community Leaders and Law Enforcement Officers, to include Florida Agricultural Commissioner Adam Putnam, FDLE Commissioner Tim Moore (ret.), Florida House Representative Steve Crisafulli, and is strongly supported by current and former Brevard County Chiefs of Police. All of Wayne Ivey's endorsements can be found on his endorsement page at ElectWayneIvey.com.

Harrell had garnered anywhere from 5 to 10 percent of the ongoing BrevardTimes.com viewer poll for Brevard County Sheriff. BrevardTimes has elected to leave the poll as is because previous Harrell supporters are still able to change their vote to another Brevard County Sheriff's candidate rather than starting the poll all over again. BrevardTimes.com made the decision to keep the poll as is because all of the candidates' camps and their supporters have put a tremendous effort in showing their support for their respective candidate.

RELATED STORIES:

Sheriff and State Attorney Candidates Address Trayvon Martin Case: VIDEO

Brevard Sheriff Candidate Wayne Ivey Responds To Opponents' Attacks

Brevard County Constitutional Officers Debates May 24

2012-05-12T12:13:00.002-07:00

MELBOURNE, Florida -- The Brevard County Conservative Coalition, comprised of Brevard 912, Republican Liberty Caucus of East Central Florida, and the Space Coast Patriots will hold Brevard County Constitutional Officers Debates on May 24, 2012 at the Holiday Inn at Viera located at 8298 North Wickham Road, Melbourne, Florida (just east of I-95).

Doors to the event will open at 5:30 p.m. with opening ceremonies beginning at 6:00 p.m. The first debate will be between candidates for Brevard County Property Appraiser from 6:10 p.m. to 7 p.m. followed by a debate between candidates for Brevard County Sheriff from 7:10 p.m to 8 p.m. The final debate will be between former Clerk of Court Scott Ellis and current Clerk of Court Mitch Needelman from 8:10 to 9 p.m.

Each candidate will be given two minutes to introduce themselves at the start of the debate. Answers to questions will be limited to 90 seconds with a time keeper alerting candidates of wrap-up time.

A straw poll will be conducted by the Brevard County Supervisor of Elections with electronic voting machines from 7 p.m. until 9:15 p.m.

Senators Marco Rubio and Bill Nelson At Odds Over Student Loans

2012-05-09T09:15:00.002-07:00

U.S. Senators Marco Rubio (R-FL) and Bill Nelson (D-FL) find themselves on opposite sides over whether or not to keep student loan rates down through government subsidization. While both from Florida, the Senators reflect a general party divide between Republicans and Democrats on the issue.

Proponents of increased student aid such as student loans say that these programs provide opportunities for Americans to get ahead through education. Many critics however, point out that each time student aid and loan limits are increased, so too does the cost of education which leads to tuition prices outpacing the overall inflation rate.

“I think I am one of the only senators here who still has a student loan. As someone with a student loan and with a state with so many people with student loans, I support a hundred percent making sure that the interest rates on student loans do not go up," Rubio said in a press release.

“I cannot support the way the Democrats want to do it, however, because, they want to do it by raising taxes on small businesses, very small businesses. The kinds of small businesses that give jobs to graduates who not only need low interest rates but need jobs in order to pay their student loans. We have a plan to keep student interest rates low that doesn’t raise taxes, and I hope the Democrats will give us a vote and a chance to pass that.”

Last week, Nelson sent an e-mail to his Florida constituents supporting keeping student loan interest rates low:

"I recently met with a group of students at one of Florida’s largest universities – and was really moved. We talked mostly about the cost of college and student loans.

Several students said an increase in interest rates on student loans – which could happen very soon if Congress doesn’t act - would not only hurt them now, but definitely put graduate school out of reach for them.

It was five years ago that I voted for legislation to lower government-backed student loan rates to the present-day level of 3.4 percent. But those lower interest rates are set to expire July 1. After that, they will go back up to 6.8 percent – which would an add an estimated $1,000 in debt to each student loan.

Fortunately, we still have a chance to extend the 2007 measure and keep the interest rate at 3.4 percent. In fact, a vote is scheduled in the Senate on May 8.

You can bet I’ll be supporting it again, because I believe we have to do all we can to help keep college affordable."

Below is Senator Rubio's YouTube video on the issue of student loan interest rates.

May 8, 2012 Republican Presidential Primary Results

2012-05-09T04:29:00.001-07:00

Republican presidential frontrunner Mitt Romney swept three states on May 8, 2012 which edges him closer to the 1,144 delegates needed for the GOP nomination. Romney won over 60% of the vote in North Carolina, Indiana, and West Virginia. Ron Paul, the only other Republican candidate still in the race challenging Romney for the nomination won 11%, 15%, and 11% in those states, respectively.

Following are the 2012 election GOP Presidential Primary results for West Virginia, North Carolina, and Indiana along with the latest delegate totals for Mitt Romney and Ron Paul reported by each state's Secretary of State (unofficial):

West Virginia

Mitt Romney 51,470 69.36%

Rick Santorum 9,027 12.17%

Ron Paul 8,281 11.16%

Newt Gingrich 4,661 6.28%

Buddy Roemer 763 1.03%

Indiana

Newt Gingrich 38294 6.418%

Ron Paul 92607 15.522%

Mitt Romney 385764 64.660%

Rick Santorum 79933 13.398%

North Carolina

Newt Gingrich 73,859 7.64%

Ron Paul 107,087 11.08%

Mitt Romney 634,718 65.66%

Rick Santorum 100,661 10.41%

No Preference 50,318 5.21%

Delegate Count (Includes Recent Ron Paul Delegate Wins In Caucus States)

Mitt Romney 864

Ron Paul 207

Santorum Begrudgingly Endorses Romney

2012-05-08T10:10:00.000-07:00

Whether former Pennsylvania Senator Rick Santorum truly believes what he said on the campaign trail that former Massachusetts Governor Mitt Romney is the 'worst candidate' for the GOP nominee, or that Romney is the 'worst Republican' in the country, one thing is certain, Rick Santorum's endorsement of Romney is lukewarm at best. Rick Santorum's endorsement of Mitt Romney follows in its entirety for our readers to judge:

"On Friday, Governor Romney came to Pittsburgh for an over-hour long one-on-one meeting. The conversation was candid, collegial and focused on the issues that you helped me give voice to during our campaign; because I believe they are essential ingredients to not only winning this fall, but turning our country around.

While the issue of my endorsement did not come up, I certainly have heard from many of you who have weighed in on whether or not I should issue a formal endorsement. Thank you for your counsel, it has been most helpful. However, I felt that it was completely impossible for me to even consider an endorsement until after a meeting to discuss issues critical to those of us who often feel our voices are not heard by the establishment: social conservatives, tea-party supporters, lower and middle income working families.

Clearly without the overwhelming support from you all, I never would have won 11 states and over 3 million votes, and we would not have won more counties than all the other candidates combined. I can assure you that even though I am no longer a candidate for president, I will still continue to fight every day for our shared values - the values that made America the greatest country in the history of the world.

During our meeting I felt a deep responsibility to assess Governor Romney's commitment to addressing the issues most important to conservatives, as well his commitment to ensuring our appropriate representation in a Romney administration.

The family and its foundational role in America's economic success, a central point of our campaign, was discussed at length. I was impressed with the Governor's deep understanding of this connection and his commitment to economic policies that preserve and strengthen families. He clearly understands that having pro-family initiatives are not only the morally and economically right thing to do, but that the family is the basic building block of our society and must be preserved.

I also shared with Governor Romney my belief that we cannot restore America as the greatest economic engine the world has ever seen until we return America to being a manufacturing superpower. He listened very carefully to my advice on this matter, and while our policy prescriptions differed, he clearly expressed his desire to create more opportunities for those that are feeling left behind in this economy.

As it is often said, "personnel is policy." I strongly encouraged Governor Romney as he builds out his campaign staff and advisors that he add more conservative leaders as an integral part of his team. And you can be sure that I will work with the Governor to help him in this task to ensure he has a strong team that will support him in his conservative policy initiatives.

Of course we talked about what it would take to win this election. As you know I started almost every speech with the phrase that this was the most important election since the election of 1860 and four more years of President Obama is simply not an option. As I contemplated what further steps I will take, that reality weighed heavy on me. The America we know is being fundamentally changed to look more like a European socialist state than the land of opportunity our founding fathers established.

Freedom and personal responsibility are being replaced with big government dependency. The greatest and most productive workers in the world are being hamstrung by excessive regulations making it impossible to compete. Our healthcare system had been socialized, and the worth of each life dictated by some government bureaucrat. Our allies are insulted while our enemies are appeased. And our religious beliefs and freedom have come under attack.

What is even more troubling is what a second term of an Obama administration could bring. President Obama's admission to the Russians that he will have more flexibility in a second term can only be translated to "if you thought I was liberal in the first four years you haven't seen anything yet!"

The primary campaign certainly made it clear that Governor Romney and I have some differences. But there are many significant areas in which we agree: the need for lower taxes, smaller government, and a reduction in out-of-control spending. We certainly agree that abortion is wrong and marriage should be between one man and one woman. I am also comfortable with Governor Romney on foreign policy matters, and we share the belief that we can never allow Iran to possess nuclear weapons. And while I had concerns about Governor Romney making a case as a candidate about fighting against Obamacare, I have no doubt if elected he will work with a Republican Congress to repeal it and replace it with a bottom up, patient, not government, driven system.

Above all else, we both agree that President Obama must be defeated. The task will not be easy. It will require all hands on deck if our nominee is to be victorious. Governor Romney will be that nominee and he has my endorsement and support to win this the most critical election of our lifetime.

My conversation with Governor Romney was very productive, but I intend to keep lines of communication open with him and his campaign. I hope to ensure that the values that made America that shining city on the hill are illuminated brightly by our party and our candidates thus ensuring not just a victory, but a mandate for conservative governance.

Karen and I know firsthand how difficult the campaign trail can be particularly as governor Romney faces relentless attacks from the democrats. We have been praying for him and his family and will continue to do so in the weeks and months ahead.

I look forward to working together to defeat President Obama this fall and to protect faith, family, freedom and opportunity in America."

Brevard County Clerk of Court Debate In Melbourne: VIDEO

2012-05-08T07:03:00.002-07:00

MELBOURNE, Florida -- On May 2, 2012, a Brevard County Clerk of Court debate between former Clerk of Court Scott Ellis and current Clerk of Court Mitch Needelman was hosted by the Melbourne Area Federated Republican Women’s Club at the Holiday Inn located at 8298 North Wickham Road, Melbourne, Florida.

The two candidates have had several rounds of often heated debates against one another. Below are other debates that have been held around Brevard County over the last few months.

Brevard Clerk of Court Debate Republican Club of Brevard

Fourth Brevard Clerk of Court Debate

Clerk Debate in Titusville

Ron Paul Wins Maine, Nevada

2012-05-06T16:22:00.002-07:00

The Ron Paul 2012 campaign is celebrating two victories this weekend in Maine and Nevada. On its campaign website, the Paul camp asserts that it locked up both of those state's delegates with Ron Paul supporters. Paul's victories come on the heels of last week's win in the delegate elections in Louisiana and Iowa. The Paul camp also alludes to on its website that it had picked up a large number of delegates in Colorado and Massachusetts,

Ron Paul's strategy of targeting non-binding caucus states where delegates are elected without regard to straw poll 'beauty contests' is finally paying off for Paul. No longer can rivals say that 'Paul needs to win a state' because he has now one more states than Newt Gingrich who only won South Carolina and Georgia.

The wins in those four states pushes Ron Paul's delegate count to 201 delegates while at the same time pushing the projected delegate count for Mitt Romney to just under 800 delegates.

There are still over 700 delegates up for grabs in the 2012 Republican Primary which is not enough for Paul to attain the 1,144 delegates needed to win the GOP nomination. But there again lies another Paul campaign strategy which was to create an unlocked convention by denying the other candidates the ability to reach 1,144 votes. If the convention became unlocked, the Paul supporters hope, the delegates at the Tampa convention would no longer be bound to vote for Mitt Romney and could for anyone, including Paul.

Two big primary elections are taking place within the next 30 days which will show if Paul has attained the 'ant-Mitt' choice of conservative Republican voters. The first big primary election is in Texas on May 29, 2012 with 155 delegates at stake. The second big primary will occur in California on June 5, 2012 with 172 delegates at stake.

Todd Maddox Pancake Meet and Greet in Titusville

2012-05-06T09:50:00.000-07:00

TITUSVILLE, Florida -- Todd Maddox, a Republican candidate for Brevard County Sheriff, will hold a pancake meet and greet on Saturday May 19, 2012 from 8am-11am at the Polish National Alliance Lodge located on 2701 Garden Street, Titusville, Florida.

If any candidate running for office in Brevard County is holding an event, and would like to submit an event for publication in Brevard Times, contact us via email , Twitter, or Facebook.

In order to keep the events newsworthy rather than minor day-to-day campaign events, the event must have the candidate present and at least 25 supporters in attendance.

Is It Mitt Romney's Fault Ron Paul Is Winning Delegates?

2012-05-03T09:30:00.002-07:00

As the Mitt Romney 2012 campaign takes on President Barack Obama as though the Republican Presidential Primary is over, the Ron Paul 2012 campaign carries on its well-planned strategy of picking up delegates in caucus states.

Ron Paul's campaign website continues to announce one state after another the delegate wins in Louisiana, Minnesota, Iowa, and Colorado to the chagrin of ant-acid popping establishment king makers in the national and state Republican parties. Ron Paul's team also alludes to picking up more delegates in other states in the near future, including Mitt Romney's home state of Massachusetts.

While critics may claim that Ron Paul supporters are hijacking the delegate process, the real reason why Ron Paul is able to garner votes could be due to the type of Republicans he attracts: informed, active, and enthusiastic.

Meanwhile, it is no secret that Mitt Romney has had to rely on a huge war chest to decimate his opponents with negative ads while not giving voters a reason why they should choose him other than he is not Obama. Casual voters who are easily swayed by negative campaign ads was the demographic that the Romney campaign went after to compensate for an otherwise weak candidate with a moderate message.

Romney had as many bad gaffes as Texas Governor Rick Perry during this election cycle and would have otherwise fallen by the wayside early like Perry but for millions of dollars of Super PAC cash propping up a yawn of a campaign with those signature white shirt and blue jeans singing performances of 'America the Beautiful'.

For a supporter to participate in the time-consuming delegate process from precinct to county to congressional district to state convention requires belief and commitment to a candidate's message. Had Romney been able to attract people passionate for his campaign with a strong political message, he would have had no problem picking up delegates commensurate with the popular vote. As the old saying goes, money can't buy love (even if it can win an election).

Political Commentary.

Ron Paul Wins Maine, Nevada

Ron Paul's Young Voter Popularity Shows Media Bias

Why Should Ron Paul Supporters Stay In The GOP?

Brevard Times Endorses Ron Paul For GOP Nominee

Brevard Donates Most To Paul Out Of GOP Candidates

Obama Administration Outlines What It Opposes In SOPA

New York Times Reporter: "We Should Have Done More Earlier" to Defeat Ron Paul

Can A Gannett Newspaper Endorsement Be Trusted?

Brevard County Democrats Announce First County Caucuses

2012-05-02T07:04:00.004-07:00

BREVARD COUNTY, Florida -- The Brevard Democratic Executive Committee today announced that statewide county caucuses will be held on Saturday, May 5, 2012. Caucuses will be held from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm at two locations. Those in Congressional District 15 will gather at the OMNI Building, 2nd Floor Conference Room, 1344 South Apollo Blvd., Melbourne, FL 32901. Those in Congressional District 24 will meet at the Cocoa Civic Center, 430 Delannoy Ave., Cocoa, FL 32922. The first ever statewide caucuses will kick-off the delegate selection process, which will determine who will be part of the Florida delegation that will attend the national convention in Charlotte, North Carolina.

“Florida Democrats are looking forward to the National Convention this summer and are energized heading into 2012,” said Florida Democratic Party Executive Director Scott Arceneaux. “The county caucuses are an exciting chance for Democrats to get involved and help rally support for President Obama. Whether you’ve volunteered in the past or are brand new to the party, we urge you to join us on Saturday, May 5th and we hope to see you in Charlotte this summer.”

After being selected at the county level, delegates will proceed to the party’s statewide convention where they will take part in the final phase of the delegate selection process in Tampa, Florida on June 1-3, 2012. Those selected at the state convention will attend the Democratic National Convention in Charlotte, North Carolina this summer.

MORE INFORMATION ABOUT THE FLORIDA DELEGATION

The county caucuses will be held statewide on May 5, 2012 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and all registered Democratic voters are invited to attend to cast a ballot for their county’s delegates to the State Convention in Tampa, June 1-3, 2012.

The location of each county’s May 5, 2012 Caucus, along with contact information, is available on the State Party’s website at www.fladems.com/timetoshine.

The Florida Democratic Party is committed to diversity in our delegation, and to this end has adopted goals to ensure that Florida's delegates accurately reflect our electorate. More information about FDP's diversity policy is available online www.fladems.com/timetoshine.com.

This year, Florida will send its largest delegation ever to the National Convention with a record 300 delegates and 23 alternates. A majority of the delegates (184) will be elected at the Congressional District level. Only individuals elected as State Convention delegates at the May 5 caucuses can run for District-Level delegate positions.

The FDP has created a special website for those interested in taking part in the 2012 Delegate Selection Process. Please visit www.fladems.com/timetoshine, for more information on this exciting event.

Banks Win, Local Governments Lose, Again

2012-04-30T22:45:00.000-07:00

PALM BAY, Florida -- As though it wasn't bad enough that banks circumvented payment of filing fees to local county government, a ruling last year in City of Palm Bay v. Wells Fargo Bank, NA, held that local code violation fines do not hold a superior lien over mortgages.

So for all of those neighborhoods with abandoned homes with 4-foot-tall dandelions, sitting-water mosquito factories, or rat colonies as the new tenants, the city is powerless to do anything to correct blighted homes facing foreclosure.

The only way for local governments to have a superior lien would be by a new law enacted by the Florida Legislature that would grant superiority.

Scott Ellis Wins Clerk of Court Viewer Poll

2012-04-30T07:59:00.001-07:00

VIERA, Florida -- Former Brevard County Clerk of Court Scott Ellis won the Brevard Times viewer poll against current Brevard County Clerk of Court Mitch Needelman 52% to 39%, respectively. Clerk of Court candidate Rodney Kernan placed a distant third with two percent of the vote.

Six percent of viewers indicated that they would rather vote for someone other than those who are currently declared candidates in this heated race.

Like a straw poll, the viewer poll is unscientific and cannot be given any weight as to how voters will actually vote come election day. However, it can indicate the level of energy and enthusiasm political activists have for a particular candidate this early in the race.

A new Brevard Times viewer poll of the Brevard County Sheriff's race begins today and will end on May 31, 2012. Viewers are able to make more than one selection in the poll because this race includes two party primaries along with a non-party affiliated candidate:

Adrian Moss-Beasley (D)

Mark Steven Orndoff (D)

Ernest Cathy (NPA)

Gary Harrell (R)

Wayne Ivey (R)

Larry “Todd” Maddox (R)

Any Republican

Any Democrat

Any Non-Party Candidate

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Taxpayers Give Billions To Student Loan Collection Companies For No Reason

2012-04-28T05:25:00.003-07:00

As President Barack Obama and Former Massachusetts Governor Mitt Romney go back and forth as to how the government-invented student loan crisis should be handled, including preventing student loan interest rates from doubling, a more systemic look at how waste in the system can be eliminated for the benefit of both U.S. taxpayers and student loan borrowers should be taken. Namely, that the U.S. Government paid over $2 billion to private debt collection contractors to collect just under $1 billion for Fiscal Year 2011.

While researching data in 2011 regarding the topic that the Obama administration wanted to make it easier for private companies contracted by the U.S. Department of Education to collect student loan debt by calling cell phones, a little publicized fact came to light: U.S. taxpayers are needlessly losing billions of dollars each year in collections costs that the U.S. government could be collecting without the help of private debt collection contractors.

According to the most recently available data, total student loan debt in collections that was collected for FY 2011 as of July 2011 amounted to $10,410,993,183.

Of that amount:

1. 42% was rehabilated into a non-defaulted loan;

2. 25% was consolidated into a Direct Federal Loan.

3. This leaves 33% that had to be collected by Administrative Wage Garnishment, Treasury Offset (taking a borrower's income tax refund), and regular collections.

4. The most amount collected was by Treasury Offsets 16% at $1,609,108, 522, followed by Regular Collections 9% at $973,874,789, then Administrative Wage Garnishments 8% at $849,332,994.

So without the expense of contracting private collection companies for regular collections, the U.S. Government would have received $2,458,441,516 into the U.S. Treasury.

But since those are defaulted loans, the amount collected first goes to the private contractors who hold the debt contracts even if they didn't have a hand in actually collecting the money.

According to the Department of Education's website:

"Pursuant to the Higher Education Act and the terms of most borrowers' promissory notes, you are liable for the costs of collecting your defaulted Federally-financed student loans.

The largest of these costs is usually the cost of contingent fees that may be incurred to collect the loan.

The Department gives you repeated warnings before it refers a debt to a collection contractor.

If those warnings do not persuade you to reach repayment terms on defaulted loans, the Department refers those loans to collection contractors.

The contractors earn a commission, or contingent fee, for any payments then made on those loans.

The Department charges each borrower the cost of the commission earned by the contractor, and applies payments from that borrower first to defray the contingent fee earned for that payment, and then to interest and principal owed on the debt.

As a result, the amount needed to satisfy a student loan debt collected by the Department's contractors will be up to 25 percent more than the principal and interest repaid by the borrower.

On each billing statement, the Department projects an estimate of the total amount needed to satisfy the debt on the date of the statement, including collection costs that would be incurred by payment in full of that amount." (Emphasis Added).

So while President Obama was hailed for cutting out the middle man by offering direct student loans to college students, he certainly made it up with the graft given to private debt collection companies.

It is obvious that this is the next middle man that must be cut out of the student loan program.

Termination or restructuring of these contracts would immediately bring in an addtional $1 billion into the U.S. treasury.

Statistical Source: http://www.fsacollections.ed.gov/contractors/ga/stats/090611.htm

U.S. Dept. of Ed. payment policy: http://www.fsacollections.ed.gov/contractors/ga/stats/090611.htm

Uncle Sam Is The New Rumpelstiltskin

Beauty School Beats Brevard Community College In Student Loan Default Rate

ACLU To LSAT: Give Nursing Moms More Time

Obama Proposes Student Loan Forgiveness With "Pay As You Earn"

Chris Christie Does Better As VP Than Marco Rubio In Poll

2012-04-24T06:38:00.004-07:00

Although former Florida Governor Jeb Bush has suggested that Florida Senator Marco Rubio be Mitt Romney's choice for the vice-presidential ticket, other vice presidential running mates would make a stronger ticket against against President Barack Obama and Vice Joe Biden.

Texas Congressman Ron Paul, New Jersey Governor Chris Christie, Former Pennsylvania Senator Rick Santorum, and former Arkansas Governor Mike Huckabee all fair better as a running mate with Mitt Romney than Rubio in a recent Public Policy Polling Poll.

Speculation about Romney’s potential running mate ramped up almost as soon as Santorum dropped out of the GOP primary battle, and PPP finds that Santorum would be one of the only running mates that would immediately help Romney at this point. A unity ticket would bring the contest to a 48-46 edge for Obama, as would a matchup featuring fellow social conservative Mike Huckabee on stage with Romney.

But the option that would make the national popular vote tightest would be Chris Christie. In that case, the Obama-Biden and Romney-Christie tickets would tie at 47% apiece. Jeb Bush would make it a one-point contest, with Obama edging Romney 48-47.

On the other end of the spectrum are the potential vice presidents who would hurt Romney’s odds at the outset. They are led by Sarah Palin. Obama-Biden would top Romney-Palin, 50-43. “It” kid, Florida Sen. Marco Rubio, would also drop the GOP ticket three points to 49-43. House budget author Paul Ryan would do almost as poorly as the #2, with Obama up 48-43. Ron Paul’s presence would make Romney lag, 48-44. “As expected, Republicans are consolidating around Romney as Democrats rally to Obama,” said Dean Debnam, President of Public Policy Polling.

President Obama opens what is now effectively the general election contest with a three-point lead over his nearly-crowned opponent Mitt Romney in PPP’s latest national poll, 49-46. Both parties are coalescing around their standard-bearers, with Obama up from 79% to 84% of Democrats in the last month, and Romney up from 78% to 82% of the GOP. Obama leads 52-43 with independents, up from 48-42.

Romney’s favorability numbers are still poor, but they have already begun to rebound since it became clear he would be the nominee. In March, only a third of American voters saw him favorably and 58% unfavorably. That is now 39-51. Republicans have quickly joined ranks, moving from only 49-42 to 67-22. Independents have improved their view of him as well, from 29-58 to 36-50, but that is balanced out by Democrats growing even more sour on their autumn foe (20-71 to 14-79).

PPP surveyed 900 American voters from April 12th to 15th. The margin of error for the survey is +/-3.3%. This poll was not paid for or authorized by any campaign or political organization. PPP surveys are conducted through automated telephone interviews.

Complete polling results can be found here.

Ron Paul Attacks Obama, Romney On Civil Liberties

2012-04-24T03:29:00.001-07:00

Texas Congressman Ron Paul, the only remaining GOP candidate who is actively campaigning against Mitt Romney, has stepped up his attacks on President Barack Obama and Former Massachusetts Governor Mitt Romney on their positions regarding civil liberties for U.S. citizens. The Paul campaign says explicitly on its blog that, "Obama worse than Bush on civil liberties, Romney no different from Obama."

In particular, the Ron Paul 2012 campaign cites both Romney and Obama's support for the National Defense Authorization Act which permits the detention of U.S. citizens without the right to counsel or an initial hearing before a judge to determine whether the detention is lawful if the U.S. citizen is accused of terrorism.

Paul's criticism comes just as U.S. Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL) joined Romney on the campaign trail in Pennsylvania. Rubio also came under attack last year by Tea Party members and libertarian-leaning Republicans for his support of NDAA which prompted Rubio to issue a letter where he attempted to explain why he supported the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2012:

"Several people have asked about my votes on the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2012. In particular, some people are wrongly suggesting that this legislation will allow the military to capture and indefinitely detain any American citizen, and that the US Armed Forces would be able to perform law enforcement functions on American soil because of the authority conferred under Sections 1031 and 1032 of the Act. While I do have other serious concerns with this legislation, those particular assertions could not be further from the truth. I want to take this time to explain what the law actually does, what my position is on these issues, and why I joined with Senators Demint, Coburn and Lee to vote for those specific sections, but against cloture on the final bill.

Section 1031 of this act merely affirms the authority that the president already has to detain certain people pursuant to the current Authorization for Use of Military Force; in fact, this same section of the bill specifically states that nothing stated in Section 1031 is intended to expand the president’s power. In addition, this section sets specific limits on who can be detained under this act to only those people who planned or helped carry out the 9/11 attacks on the United States or people who are a member of, or substantially support, Al-Qaeda, the Taliban, or their respective affiliates. There is no language that could possibly be construed as repealing the Posse Comitatus Act and allowing the US military to supplant your local police department in carrying out typical law enforcement activities."

Rubio endorsed Romney last month, a week after former Florida Governor Jeb Bush's endorsement. Rubio said that Mitt Romney offers "A stark contrast to the President's record.... I think all of the candidates who have run in the race have a lot to be proud of - they offered a lot to the debate. But I just can't buy into this idea that, by their own admission, there saying the only way they can win this race is by having a floor fight in Tampa in August, and I think that's a recipe to deliver four more years to Barack Obama - and our country, forget about the Republican Party, our country cannot afford that. And so we have got to come together behind who I think has earned this nomination, and that's Mitt Romney."

Rubio's letter where he defended his support for NDAA can be read in its entirety here.

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Brevard County Clerk of Court Debate in Titusville: VIDEO

2012-04-23T14:43:00.002-07:00

TITUSVILLE, Florida -- The Republican Club of North Brevard hosted a debate between current Brevard County Clerk of Court Mitch Needelman and former Brevard County Clerk of Court Scott Ellis on April 17, 2012 at 7:00 p.m. at the La Cita Country Club located at 777 Country Club Drive, Titusville, Florida.

There will be another Brevard County Clerk of Court debate hosted by the Melbourne Area Federated Republican Women’s Club on May 2, 2012 at 11:00 a.m. at the Holiday Inn located at 8298 North Wickham Road, Melbourne, Florida. RSVP is required for this debate by April 27, 2012. Call (321) 727-1212.

RELATED ARTICLES: Brevard Clerk of Court Debate BREC Fourth Brevard Clerk of Court Debate

A video of last week's debate can be viewed below:

Posey Introduces RACE for Space Act, Encourages Privatization

2012-04-23T06:50:00.003-07:00

VIERA, Florida -- Congressman Bill Posey (R-Rockledge) introduced legislation to allow for private sector investment in the Department of Defense for space transportation in an effort to modernize America’s defense capabilities, promote America’s commercial space industry and help America regain the loss of commercial launches.

“A priority for me is working to secure America's leadership in launch vehicles, technology and operations and this bill helps us do that,” said Congressman Bill Posey. “We have been losing launches to overseas competitors and that is not good for our economic competitiveness or our national security. We need to change that direction and my bill will do that. This bill is a win-win.”

Posey added, “Space is the 21st Century military high ground and so much in our daily lives is now dependent on space and space technology from cell phone and wireless communications to bank transactions, weather reports, GPS and the Internet.”

“We commend Congressman Posey for his tenacity in stripping away bureaucratic impediments,” said Frank DiBello, President of Space Florida. “This new relationship will assure a more robust partnership between the State and the Pentagon. Through this legislation the taxpayer and the war-fighter will benefit as the commercial and military activity in Brevard move into a stronger and more diversified future.”

According to Posey's office, the RACE for Space Act (Revitalizing America’s Commercial Entrepreneurs (RACE) for Space Act) expands the Department of Defense’ role to enhance strong partnerships between the Department of Defense and the private sector commercial entities. The legislation does not spend any taxpayer money but does allow commercial space companies to use Defense Department space transportation infrastructure such as launch pads.

“Imagine a day without the ability to do basic things like use an ATM or make a phone call. The targeting of satellites and the International Space Station are very real scenarios and in the modern age, the Defense Department should have the best capability to protect us from space-born threats,” said Posey. “Assured access to space is key for our national security, our economic security, and restoring America’s leadership in human space flight. With Russia and China investing heavily to surpass us in space, now is the time to return to engage fully in the race for space and H.R. 4401 helps us do just that.”

Posey's RACE for Space Act has been referred to the House Committee on Armed Services

Earth Day 2012: Are Boomers Greener Than Their Parents?

2012-04-21T12:47:00.002-07:00

As the 42nd Anniversary of Earth Day is celebrated on April 22, 2012, there now exists an entire generational record to determine whether Baby Boomers were actually greener than their parents, the Greatest Generation, after the 'Earth Day' movement created in 1970.

When each portion of life is examined, it appears the Baby Boom generation 'spun their wheels for not' to be "green" versus their parents. Only a handful of life examples are given.

Let's begin with the morning routine:

Greatest Generation: Orange Juice, seasonably available, fresh squeezed by hand, tiny glass cup rewashed and reused for years.

Boomers: Orange Juice, transported across the globe for year-round availability [fossil fuel], machine squeezed [fossil fuel], in a carton or plastic container thrown away after use [fossil fuel and landfill waste].

Greatest Generation: Coffee or Tea, percolated or brewed, same cup used throughout the day for years. Tea bags often used twice.

Boomers: Coffee or Tea, instant or picked up at fast food or Starbucks, styrofoam or paper cup thrown away that day, gasoline used to go to location and wait in drive-thru. Also, morning soda in cans or bottles, water in bottles. All plastic bottles are petroleum based.

Lunch:

Greatest Generation: Left-over fried chicken, white bread sandwich, or the like. During cold months, left-over soup in thermos rewashed and re-used.

Boomers: Drive somewhere to lunch, order lunch and have someone drive to us, or microwave a frozen lunch in a plastic container. Soup not homemade, ramen noodles before paycheck.

Dinner:

Greatest Generation:

7-year-olds-and-up peeling potatoes and cutting other vegetables. Kneading dough for pasta, dumplings, or pastries for dinner and desert.

Boomers: Pick-up from fast-food joint, grocery-deli because no time to cook. Have to pick kids up on the way from soccer, girl scouts, boys scouts, and anything else that is cheaper then a babysitter.

Life:

Greatest Generation: Blue jeans, white shirts, and crew-cuts are not a fashion craze. Cut close to the scalp so they don't need another haircut for one for a month or two. White shirts can be bleached until they are rag quality. Jeans can be cut at the knees when worn out. Calf port of jeans can be reused as patches for the knees. Frugality is celebrated amongst peers.

Boomers: Garments shipped globally. Trash or donation if tax benefit. Would never send a kid with patches, someone might think family is 'poor.'

Early life:

Greatest Generation: Cloth diaper reused.

Boomers: Explosion in use of petroleum-based disposable diapers since. Year that Earth Day (197 0) was started is the same year as explosive disposable diaper consumer use.

Later life:

Greatest Generation: Shared cemetery plot.

Boomers: 50% chance of death-do-us-part. Tons of energy used for vehicle mileage with shared custody, separate households, legal fees, two incomes means two commutes which negates fuel efficiency for automobiles for the last 30 years.

Guiding Principle:

Greatest Generation: Make use of everything for more coin in pocket to leave to my kids.

Boomers: Make everyone else pay via regulation, government spending, and taxation to stay 'Green' to benefit corporations with the best lobbyists.

Florida AG To Convene First Task Force On Prescription Drug Abuse, Newborns

2012-04-21T02:19:00.001-07:00

TALLAHASSEE, Florida -- On Tuesday, April 24, Attorney General Pam Bondi will convene the first Statewide Task Force on Prescription Drug Abuse and Newborns meeting. Gil Kerlikowske, Director of the Office of National Drug Control Policy, will participate in the meeting as a special guest. Dr. Stephanie Haridopolos, wife of Florida Senate President Mike Haridopolos of Merritt Island, Florida, is a member of the newly created task force.

WHO: Attorney General Pam Bondi, Director of the Office of National Drug Control Policy Gil Kerlikowske, and members of the Prescription Drug Abuse and Newborns Task Force

WHAT: First meeting of the Statewide Task Force on Prescription Drug Abuse and Newborns

WHEN: Tuesday, April 24, 2012 at 2 p.m.

WHERE: Cabinet Meeting Room, Lower Level, The Capitol, Tallahassee, Fla.

The Task Force was created during the 2012 to examine the scope of the problem of prescription drug abuse by expectant mothers, the costs associated with caring for babies suffering from neonatal withdrawal syndrome, the long-term effects of the syndrome, and prevention strategies.

Members of the Task Force include:

Florida Attorney General Pam Bondi

State Surgeon General Dr. Steven L. Harris

Florida Department of Law Enforcement Commissioner Gerald M. Bailey

Agency for Health Care Administration Secretary Elizabeth Dudak

Department of Children & Families Secretary David Wilkins

Dr. Stephanie Haridopolos

March of Dimes Assistant State Director Keith Nash

Dr. Robert Yelverton of the Florida Medical Association

Pediatrix Medical Group Medical Director Dr. Kenneth Solomon of the Florida Hospital Association

Florida Nurses Association Executive Director Willa Fuller

Dr. David Dixon of the Florida Osteopathic Medical Association

Senator Joe Negron

Representative Dana Young

BayCare Behavioral Health Executive Director Doug Leonardo

Healthy Start Executive Director Jane Murphy

Poll: Chris Christie Does Better As VP Than Marco Rubio

2012-04-20T15:53:00.000-07:00

Complete polling results can be found here.

Rhoden First Public Defender Candidate To Qualify By Ballot In A Decade

2012-04-20T13:05:00.000-07:00

BREVARD COUNTY AND SEMINOLE COUNTY, Florida -- First time candidate, Republican Ken Rhoden, is the only candidate in his race who qualified for the ballot by Petition. Rhoden is running for the office of Public Defender, 18th Judicial Circuit, encompassing Brevard and Seminole County. No candidate has qualified for this position by petition for more than a decade.

Qualifying by petition is no easy task. Candidates for Public Defender must either pay $9,004.62 or have 6,240 verified voter signatures to qualify for the ballot. According to the Florida State Department, Division of Elections, Ken Rhoden is the only candidate in the race for Public Defender (18th Circuit) who qualified by ballot petition.

Rhoden said, “Our team did an outstanding job. During the petition drive we collected over 10,000 signatures and distributed more than 25,000 campaign handouts.” The Ken Rhoden campaign submitted 8,766 petitions and 7,275 were certified by the Supervisor of Elections.

The Public Defender’s Office sought by Rhoden serves all of Brevard and Seminole counties. This office represents indigent criminal defendants and employs approximately 100 people including 64 attorneys.

Rhoden is a Florida native and has been a resident of Brevard County since 1975. He is a graduate of Brevard Community College, University of Central Florida, and Florida State University School of Law. A former construction worker and carpenter, Rhoden has been an attorney since 1986, serving 12 years as an Assistant Public Defender and in private practice for the last 14 years. He is one of a few local, private attorneys and the only candidate in this race qualified under Florida Supreme Court Rules to handle death penalty cases. He is currently a managing partner with Mario, Gunde, Peters, Rhoden & Kelley, Brevard County’s largest criminal and family law firm.