| The Mayfield Minute - January 4, 2026 |
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I hope you and your family enjoyed a safe New Year's celebration, filled with joy and laughter, surrounded by family and friends. As I reflect on my own resolutions for the new year, I am reminded of President Ronald Reagan, who spoke of New Year's as a time to work together for a better future, control our own destiny, and find strength in family and faith.
In his 1983 New Year's Day address, President Reagan stated, “I've always thought New Year's Day was an especially American tradition, full of the optimism and hope we're famous for in our daily lives -- an energy and confidence we call the American spirit.”
I hope that you and your family enjoy health and prosperity in 2026!
We are diligently preparing for the 2026 Legislative Session, which is scheduled to begin on Tuesday, January 13th, and end on Friday, March 13th. If you plan to visit the State Capitol during the legislative session and need assistance or an appointment, please call my district office at (321) 409-2025.
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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Three New Florida Laws Take Effect
The following new Florida laws took effect on January 1, 2026:
- SB 158 -- Coverage for Diagnostic and Supplemental Breast Examinations prohibits the state group insurance program from imposing any cost-sharing requirements for a patient regarding diagnostic breast examinations or supplemental breast examinations.
- HB 655 -- Pet Insurance and Wellness Programs established comprehensive guidelines for offering pet insurance. Specifically, the bill sets standards for coverage, policyholder disclosures, and consumer protections.
- SB 1808 -- Refund of Overpayments Made by Patients requires health care facility licensees to issue a refund, due to an overpayment by the patient, in a specified timeline. The bill also establishes penalties for those who do not comply with the new requirements.
To learn more about the new laws, click the link for each bill number above.
$25 Million in Grant Funding Awarded to Support Agricultural Water Resource Projects
Last month, Florida Commissioner of Agriculture Wilton Simpson announced $25 million in grant funding through the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS) Agricultural Regional Projects Program. The initiative supports large-scale, collaborative projects that improve water quality, conserve water, and enhance habitats in the Middle and Lower Suwannee River Basin and the Lake Okeechobee Basin.
“Protecting Florida’s water resources is essential to our state’s future, and Florida’s farmers, ranchers, and growers are central to that mission,” said Commissioner Wilton Simpson. “By funding large-scale, regional projects that are rooted in sound science and real-world practices, we’re proving that environmental stewardship and agricultural productivity go hand in hand.”
Goals for the FDACS Agriculture Regional Projects Program include:
- Reducing nutrient pollution (nitrogen and phosphorus) from agriculture
- Conserving millions of gallons of groundwater annually
- Restoring wetlands and wildlife habitats
- Strengthening agricultural sustainability
Commissioner Simpson emphasized that environmental stewardship and agricultural productivity can work hand in hand, with farmers and ranchers playing a pivotal role in protecting Florida’s water resources.
To view the full list of projects approved for funding, click here. |
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Mr. Harry Van Zandt, United States Navy Veteran
Our Constituent of the Week is Mr. Harry Van Zandt, United States Navy Veteran. Mr. Van Zandt was born and raised in Franklin, Pennsylvania. In November of 1967, he enlisted in the U.S. Navy and reported to Recruit Training Command in Great Lakes, Illinois. In February of 1968, he was selected for specialized technical training as an Electrician's Mate.
Upon graduation, Mr. Van Zandt requested an assignment aboard swift boats in Vietnam. However, through what he humorously describes as “the Navy’s infinite wisdom,” he was instead assigned to Naval Communication Station (NAVCOMMSTA) in Nea Makri, Greece.
Beginning in June of 1968, he served a two-year tour as an electrician. During this time, NAVCOMMSTA Greece played a vital strategic role as a high-level communications relay between the U.S. Sixth Fleet in the Mediterranean and the Pentagon.
In June of 1970, Mr. Van Zandt underwent six weeks of advanced training on aircraft catapult and arresting gear systems, which are essential components for carrier flight operations. He was then assigned to the USS Franklin D. Roosevelt (CVA-42), homeported in Mayport, Florida.
While serving aboard the Roosevelt, the vessel deployed for six months as the flagship of the U.S. Sixth Fleet in the Mediterranean. His maintenance expertise ensured flawless catapult launches and arresting gear recoveries under high-pressure conditions. His steadfast commitment to the Navy’s standards earned him the respect of pilots and peers alike, many of whom credited his professionalism with keeping them safe in the skies.
After returning to Florida, Mr. Van Zandt was honorably separated from U.S. Navy and continued to serve in the Active Naval Reserve in Tampa. While in Tampa, he utilized his GI Bill benefits to complete degrees at Hillsborough Community College and the University of South Florida.
Capitalizing on his navy experience and training as an electrician, Mr. Van Zandt began his career in the private sector with General Telephone and Electronics Corporation (GTE). He began with GTE as a technician, but throughout his career held roles in engineering, planning, and management until his retirement in 2000. Following his retirement, Mr. Van Zandt founded his own telecommunications consulting company, which he managed until 2008.
Mr. Van Zandt is married to Trish, his childhood friend. He has six grown children, nine grandchildren, and six great grandchildren.
SD 19 is grateful to Mr. Van Zandt for his courageous service in the United States Navy and as a Lifetime Member and Volunteer of the Disabled American Veterans (DAV), Chapter 32 in Melbourne where he exemplifies dedication to Veterans. |
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Melbourne Native, Jim Morrison, Posthumously Inducted into Florida Artists Hall of Fame
Last month, Florida Secretary of State Cord Byrd announced the 2025 inductees into the prestigious Florida Artists Hall of Fame. Among the four inductees is Jim Morrison, born in Melbourne in 1943, and the lead singer of The Doors.
Morrison's early life was marked by his father's military career, which involved frequent relocations. After attending Florida State University, he studied film at UCLA. The Doors formed in 1965 and became one of the best-selling bands of the 1960's, selling over 100 million records world-wide. A rebellious and enigmatic figure, Morrison became a counterculture icon known for his poetic lyrics and electrifying stage presence. He died in Paris in 1971 at the young age of 27.
The other 2025 inductees are:
- John Anderson, country vocalist and guitarist from Apopka, best known for his hits, “Swingin” and “Seminole Wind”
- Alvin Downing, jazz musician, educator, and civic leader from Jacksonville, best known as the “Ambassador of Jazz” throughout the Tampa music scene and for his service as a Tuskegee Airman
- Brian Kelly, founding member of the Florida Georgia Line duo from Ormond Beach, best known for the song “Cruise” which was the first country music song in history to sell over 10 million copies
For more information on the Florida Artists Hall of Fame, click here. For the list of all previously inducted members, click here.
Mr. Jared Isaacman Sworn In as 15th NASA Administrator
Last week, Jared Isaacman was sworn in as NASA’s 15th Administrator after being confirmed by the United States Senate.
Mr. Isaacman’s aerospace experience is far-reaching and distinguished. He is an experienced pilot with over 8,000 flight hours in fighter jets and experimental aircraft and is the co-founder of the Black Diamond Jet Team. As a private commercial astronaut, he served as Commander for SpaceX’s Inspiration4, the first all-civilian orbital mission.
In 2024, he commanded the Polaris Dawn mission crew which traveled 900 miles from Earth, the furthest distance humans have flown into space since the Apollo 17 mission in 1972. During the Polaris Dawn mission, Mr. Isaacman completed the first commercial spacewalk in history.
Mr. Isaacman is also a successful entrepreneur and philanthropist. At age 16 he founded Shift4, a payment processing firm which services companies worldwide. Later, he founded the defense aerospace firm, Draken International, which trains U.S. military pilots. Through his Inspiration4 mission, he raised over $250 million for St. Judes Children’s Hospital.
His philanthropy continues as Mr. Isaacman has committed to donating his NASA administrator salary to the U.S. Space and Rocket Center’s Space Camp to "help prepare the pioneers of tomorrow."
Brevard County Seeks Citizen Input for “Speak Up Brevard” Initiative
Brevard County government provides opportunities for public input throughout the year, including the annual “Speak Up Brevard” initiative which runs through Wednesday, January 31st.
The “Speak Up Brevard” program, encourages residents to submit ideas and recommendations aimed at improving County efficiency and effectiveness.
The process for participation is as follows:
- Submission Deadline: All recommendations for the current cycle must be submitted by January 31st.
- Evaluation Period: The County Manager’s Office reviews submissions and provides comments to the Board of County Commissioners.
- Commission Review: Recommendations are forwarded to the Board of County Commissioners which will vote to approve, reject, or revise each proposal.
- Notification: Submitters will receive a one week notice prior to their recommendation being reviewed by the Board. Submitters may present at the board meeting.
- Transparency: A public listing of all recommendations and their outcomes will be available on the County's "Speak Up Brevard" website.
Residents can submit recommendations online here and scroll down.
SBA Extends Loan Deadline Application for Damage Caused by October Storm
The Small Business Administration (SBA) has Physical Damage Loans and Economic Injury Disaster Loans available for Brevard County residents affected by the October 26th severe storm and flooding event. To accommodate residents still in need of disaster loan assistance, the SBA has extended the initial January 6th deadline for 60 days.
Additionally, if you have received a physical disaster loan from the SBA for a previous disaster and are within the first two years of the loan, you may be eligible for additional mitigation funding for mitigation projects.
To review your eligibility and apply for an SBA loan, click here. |
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Brevard County Professional Firefighters
10th Annual Chili Cook Off
The Brevard County Professional Firefighters (BCPFF) 10th Annual Chili Cook Off will be held on Sunday, January 11th from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at the Cocoa Riverfront Park Amphitheater (401 Riveredge Blvd.) in Cocoa.
Chili sampling bracelets are $20, beer bracelets are $20, and event T-shirts are $30. All proceeds benefit local charities.
The annual BCPFF chili cook off features camaraderie, community spirit, and a friendly competition for the coveted “Overall Champion” title.
For more information, call 321-863-4002.
Kennedy Space Center Space Race 3K Walk/Run
The Space Race 3K Walk/Run will take place on Friday, January 16th at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex (Space Commerce Way) in Merritt Island. The race start time is 7:00 p.m.
The registration fee is $40 for adults and $25 for children ages 12 and under. Guests are invited to cheer on the participants for a suggested $5 donation to the United Way of Brevard. Complementary parking is available in parking lots 4 and 5.
Advance registration and packet pickup takes place on Wednesday, January 14th from 10:00 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. and Thursday, January 15th from 12:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at the Running Zone (3696 North Wickham Road) in Melbourne. Late registration and packet pickup will be available the evening of the race from 5:30 p.m. to 6:45 p.m. at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex.
The post-race ceremony includes the winners in each category receiving their award from a veteran NASA astronaut and an after-race party. For more information and to register, click here.
4th Annual Manatee Hustle Indialantic Slow & Steady 5K
The 4th annual Manatee Hustle Indialantic Slow & Steady 5K will take place on Saturday, January 17th at the First Baptist Church of Indialantic (150 Washington Avenue) in Indialantic. The race start time is 8:00 a.m.
The registration fee is $30 for adults and $20 for children ages 17 and under. The registration fee will increase by $5 on race day.
Advance registration and packet pickup takes place on Friday, January 16th from 10:00 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. at Running Zone (3696 North Wickham Road) in Melbourne. Late registration and packet pickup will also be available the morning of the race from 7:00 a.m. to 7:45 a.m. at the First Baptist Church.
The post-race awards ceremony includes a free kids run with prizes, post-race snacks, yard games, musical entertainment, and a “Name the Manatee” contest. For more information and to register, click here.
DEP to Hold Blue Origin Request for Renewal Permit
Public Meeting on January 30th
Since December 4th, I have been working with the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) to ensure that a public hearing is held in Brevard County regarding Blue Origin’s permit renewal and proposed capacity increase for their Industrial Wastewater Treatment Facility. The purpose of the meeting is to allow residents to share their expertise and provide valuable feedback to DEP before a decision is made.
The meeting is currently scheduled for Friday, January 30th, from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at the UF/IFAS Extension office (3695 Lake Drive) in Cocoa. I understand that this location is not optimal, and I will continue to work with DEP to move the meeting to the Viera Government Center, which is more convenient, offers larger formal meeting spaces, and has ample parking. Please monitor upcoming editions of The Mayfield Minute throughout January for potential changes to the meeting location.
Participants in the public meeting will have the opportunity to hear directly from DEP staff, technical experts, and Blue Origin officials, and ask questions about the draft renewal permit.
The public comment period will remain open through February 6th to allow additional time for feedback following the meeting, and for DEP to review and consider all input as part of the permit review process.
For more information, click here. |
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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 |
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