August 23, 2026 - 19th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution

The Mayfield Minute - August 23, 2026

     

Good Morning!

   

Celebrating Passage of the 19th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution   This Wednesday, August 26th, we celebrate Women's Equality Day, commemorating the adoption of the 19th amendment to the United States Constitution, which prohibited states from denying citizens the right to vote based on gender.   On August 26th, 1920, U.S. Secretary of State Bainbridge Colby signed the proclamation certifying the amendment, marking a historic victory for the Suffragette movement. In 1972, President Richard Nixon became the first president to formally recognize Women's Equality Day, and every president since has continued the tradition.   In his 1986 Proclamation honoring Women's Equality Day, President Ronald Reagan stated, "Sixty-six years ago our Constitution was amended for the nineteenth time -- to grant women a cherished privilege of citizenship in a free Nation, the right to vote. Since then, women have not only availed themselves of their access to the voting booth, they have gone on to take part at every level of politics and government. We as a Nation are much the better for this fundamental enlargement of our public life."   He went on to say, "Women's growing participation in public life has been paralleled by their increasing importance in every field. All of us benefit from the accomplishments of women in commerce, law, science, medicine, the arts, and every other area of human activity. We are most grateful for all of these achievements, just as we are for women's special role at the heart of the family and for the freedom of opportunity women have to determine the vocations they wish to pursue."   Today, 155 women serve in the United States Congress: 27 in the U.S. Senate and 128 in the U.S. House of Representatives. Additionally, 60 women serve in the Florida Legislature: 14 in the Florida Senate and 46 in the Florida House of Representatives. These historic numbers reflect a growing representation of women whose professional and personal experiences continue to shape public policy in Florida and across the nation.   As we reflect on this milestone, we honor the relentless efforts of those who fought tirelessly to secure this fundamental right for women.   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!

 

Floridian Making an Impact

 

Tim Tebow   This week, I’m proud to highlight philanthropist and former NFL quarterback Tim Tebow.   Mr. Tebow was born in the Philippines in 1987 to Robert and Pamela Tebow, who were serving as Baptist missionaries. When he was three years old, his family moved to Jacksonville.   Mr. Tebow was homeschooled by his parents but played high school football at Trinity Christian Academy before transferring to Allen D. Nease High School in St. Johns County, where he played quarterback.   In 2006, Mr. Tebow joined the University of Florida’s football team and served as a backup quarterback on the 2006 National Championship team. In 2007, he won the starting quarterback job and the Heisman Trophy. In 2008, he led Florida to another National Championship while serving as a team captain.   In 2010, Mr. Tebow was selected by the Denver Broncos in the NFL Draft, where he spent two seasons. He went on to play for the New York Jets, New England Patriots, and Philadelphia Eagles before finishing his football career with the Jacksonville Jaguars. He also played minor league baseball with the New York Mets.   Since his playing career, Mr. Tebow has been heavily involved with the Tim Tebow Foundation, which focuses on combating human trafficking and child exploitation, orphan care, children’s medical needs, and ministry for children with special needs. Since opening in 2010, the foundation has operated in more than 115 countries. In 2013, Governor Rick Scott designated Mr. Tebow a “Great Floridian,” a recognition provided to individuals who have made major contributions to the progress and welfare of Florida.   Earlier this year, Mr. Tebow strongly advocated for the Renewed Hope Act of 2026, a bipartisan bill sponsored by Florida Congresswomen, Laurel Lee and Debbie Wasserman-Schultz. The Renewed Hope Act of 2026 aims to fund additional victim-identification analysts, forensic specialists, and investigators at the Department of Homeland Security to locate and rescue children depicted in child sexual abuse material.   Mr. Tebow currently resides in Jacksonville with his wife Demi, and their young daughter.   I want to commend Tim Tebow for his hard work and dedication to helping children in need around the world. His commitment to serving others and using his platform to make a difference is an example of how leadership extends far beyond the playing field.   To learn more about the Tim Tebow Foundation, click here.

 

Statewide Update

 

Florida is First State to Respond to National Call to Action on Academic and Operational Excellence    Last week, Governor DeSantis announced that Florida is the first state in the nation to formally respond to the U.S. Department of Education’s National Call to Action on academic and operational excellence.   All 40 public postsecondary presidents, 28 from the Florida College System and 12 from the State University System, signed a joint statement affirming Florida’s commitment to rigorous teaching, pathbreaking research, and national service.   “Florida’s colleges and universities offer world-class opportunities for learning, research, and career pathways. We’ve ignored the noise and focused on merit, and the results speak for themselves, said Governor DeSantis.” “We led the way in answering the call from the Department of Education to affirm Florida’s commitment to rigorous instruction, groundbreaking research, and service to our country in higher education.”    The National Call to Action asks institutions nationwide to publish public commitments by the end of 2026 addressing seven areas: admissions transparency, free speech, intellectual pluralism, affordability, academic rigor in the AI era, protection from foreign influence, and prioritizing American workforce needs.   To read the announcement in full, click here.     FDOT Receives Federal Funds to Improve Safety at Railroad Crossings   The Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) was recently awarded a $356 million grant through the Federal Railroad Administration's (FRA) Federal-State Partnership for Intercity Passenger Rail Grant Program.   Coupled with Florida’s $100 million investment, FDOT will use this total investment of $456 million to revamp over 900 rail crossings throughout the state. Specifically, these funds will be used to upgrade existing crossing infrastructure and deploy innovative safety technology such as:   ·     Upgrade of pedestrian-activated warning systems  ·     Refinement and enhancement of pavement markings included at crossings  ·     Installation of overhead-mounted signals at crossings ·     Enhancement of lighting at crossings  ·     Installation of LED-enhanced “DO NOT STOP ON TRACKS” signage at high-speed rail crossings ·     Installation of “ANOTHER TRAIN COMING” warning signs at locations with at least two tracks ·     Installation of additional physical barriers, such as double gates   “This is truly a transformational opportunity for rail safety in Florida. FDOT’s bold and aggressive approach will improve safety and save lives for years to come,” said FDOT Secretary Jared W. Perdue, P.E. “Thank you to FRA for supporting our vision with this funding and helping to accelerate these major improvements to rail corridors across the state.”     Governor DeSantis Announces Cancer Innovation Funding and Launches 26-27 Application   This week, Governor Ron DeSantis announced the opening of applications for the Florida Cancer Innovation Fund’s 2026-2027 funding cycle and highlighted the $60 million awarded during the 2025-2026 funding cycle. The upcoming cycle will provide $70 million in available funding, representing a $10 million increase from the previous year.   I am honored to serve on the Florida Cancer Connect Collaborative, which supports a focused area of cancer research through funding provided over a five-year period. This work reflects Florida’s continued commitment to advancing innovative approaches to cancer research, prevention, and treatment.   The Cancer Innovation Fund was created in 2023 with an initial $20 million investment. The program supports Florida researchers, medical institutions, startups, and other organizations working to develop innovative solutions that can improve cancer prevention and care.   Applications are now being accepted for the 2026-27 funding cycle. A complete list of the 2025-26 award recipients, along with application details for the next round of funding can be found here.

 

Constituent of the Week

 

Sergeant Willie L. Stephenson, Jr.   Our Constituent of the Week is Sgt Willie L. Stephenson, Jr., Cocoa Police Department.   Sgt. Stephenson grew up in Satellite Beach where his father, a 25-year U.S. Air Force Veteran, was stationed at Patrick Space Force Base. After graduating from Satellite High School, he enlisted in the U.S. Army in 1991.   He completed his basic training at Fort Jackson, South Carolina and was assigned to the 24th Transportation Company based at Fort Riley, Kansas. He then deployed to Mogadishu, Somalia in East Africa.   In 1993, while serving in Mogadishu, Sgt. Stephenson was on a roving patrol when he confronted an individual ransacking a temporary housing facility. During the confrontation, a second person struck him on the left side of his head with a razor wire post. The blow caused a serious gash and mild brain trauma. He received stitches and spent 10 days in the hospital recovering.   For the injuries he sustained and his courageous service, Sgt. Stephenson was awarded the Purple Heart, U.S. Army Achievement Medal, National Defense Service Medal, and the Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal, among others. On July 21, 1995, Sgt. Stephenson was honorably discharged from the U.S. Army.   After his military service, Sgt. Stephenson returned home, earned his associate degree from Eastern Florida State College, and continued his life of service. In 2007, he joined the Cocoa Police Department as a patrol officer. He later served as a field training officer and working in the Street Crimes Unit and on the Game Over Task Force.   Sgt. Stephenson advanced through the ranks, becoming a Corporal before being promoted to Sergeant in 2018. As Sergeant, he was assigned to supervise the Foxtrot Squad and the Community Engagement Unit. Additionally, he leads the City of Cocoa Beach Honor Guard.   Last month, I had the honor of presenting Sgt. Stephenson with a certificate of appreciation at the Brevard Veterans Memorial Center’s 10th Annual Purple Heart Recognition Day ceremony. More than 30 years after his injury in Mogadishu, Sgt. Stephenson was recognized along with nine other heroic Purple Heart Medal recipients as they were officially welcomed into Brevard County’s Purple Heart Club.    Today, Sgt. Willie L. Stephenson, Jr. continues the same mission he began as a young U.S. Army Specialist, protecting and serve his community.   SD 19 is truly grateful for Sgt. Stephenson's exemplary career, his enduring commitment to those in need, and the selfless sacrifice he has made in service to our nation.

 

District Highlights

 

NASA Administrator Jared Isaacman Announces MAX POWER Air Show   Last week, NASA Administrator Jared Isaacman and NASA KSC Director Brian Hughes joined members of Florida’s congressional delegation for a press conference at Kennedy Space Center to announce the upcoming MAX POWER airshow.   In honor of America’s 250th birthday, MAX POWER will pay homage to our nation’s remarkable past, explore current missions, and lay a foundation for our nation’s future endeavors to reach the Moon, Mars, and beyond.   The event will take place on November 7th and 8th and will feature immersive experiences such as air shows, skydiving stunts, technology demonstrations, spaceflight hardware, military aircraft, and behind‑the‑scenes access to America’s spaceport.   MAX POWER is organized into three separately ticketed experiences:   ·     Park One (Presented by Air Dot Show) is a multi-day air show featuring military aircraft and flyovers by NASA, the Department of War, and the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds. ·     Park Two (Presented by UP.Summit), is a hands-on technology showcase of futuristic aircraft, drones, autonomous vehicles, and more mobility innovations. ·     Park Three (Presented by the KSC Visitor Complex) includes an all-access pass to the KSC Visitor Complex exhibits and attractions and behind-the-gates tours of NASA’s Kennedy Space Center.    For additional information, and to purchase tickets, click here.     Brevard Public Schools Board Approves Updated AI Policy   Last week, Brevard Public Schools Board announced the approval of a new Artificial Intelligence (AI) policy that establishes clear guidelines for the responsible use of AI across the district. The policy supports innovation while prioritizing student learning, data privacy, and ethical use of technology.   Under the policy, students may use AI tools only when authorized by their teacher and only for approved educational purposes, such as research, writing assistance, data analysis, language translation, and accessibility support. Unauthorized use of AI for assignments may be considered academic dishonesty.   The policy also allows employees to use approved AI tools to enhance instruction and improve efficiency in tasks such as developing materials, drafting communications, and analyzing information. Staff are responsible for reviewing all AI-generated content for accuracy and compliance with district standards.   To protect students and employees, all AI tools must undergo a review process to ensure compliance with federal and state privacy laws. The policy prohibits the use of AI systems that do not provide appropriate safeguards for confidential district, staff, or student information.  For more information, click here.     Historic Cocoa Village Main Street Selected as Florida Main Street Program of the Month   Secretary of State Cord Byrd recently designated Historic Cocoa Village Main Street (HCVMS) as the July 2026 Florida Main Street Program of the Month.   "Historic Cocoa Village Main Street has successfully transformed its rich heritage into a vibrant downtown destination celebrating local history, supporting small businesses, and strengthening community connections for residents and visitors alike," said Secretary Byrd.   The City of Cocoa's origins date back to the 1860s when fishermen moved into the area. In 1871, the first post office was established, and the first commercial building was constructed in 1881. The area became a commercial and maritime hub along the east coast and was originally named "Indian River City." However, the U.S. Post Office deemed the name too long and it was renamed "Cocoa" in 1884 after a locally popular beverage at the time, Baker's Cocoa.   Despite setbacks, including an 1890 fire and the devastating Great Freeze of 1894–95, Cocoa continued to grow, later experiencing a major population boom when NASA and the space industry arrived in Brevard County in the 1960s. Today, HCVMS attracts visitors for its historic charm and more than 100 locally owned shops including S.F. Travis Hardware, founded in 1885, which remains Florida’s oldest continuously operating hardware store.   Since joining Florida Main Street in 1995, HCVMS has generated $132.4 million in public and private investment, added 653 net new businesses, created 2,082 jobs, and logged 25,019 volunteer hours.   To read the announcement in full, click here.

 

Upcoming Events

 

Inaugural Space Coast Constitutional Officers Forum   The Inaugural Space Coast Constitutional Officers Forum will be held on Wednesday, August 26th from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at the Space Coast Association of Realtors (2950 Pineda Plaza Way) in Melbourne.   The Constitutional Officers Forum features a panel discussion with Brevard County's Constitutional Officers: Sheriff Wayne Ivey, Property Appraiser Dana Blickley, Tax Collector Lisa Cullen, Supervisor of Elections Tim Bobanic, and Clerk of Courts Rachel Sadoff. Participants will learn more about the role of the impact their offices have on businesses, residents, and the community overall.   The event is hosted by the Greater Palm Bay Chamber and the Space Coast Association Realtors. Tickets are $35 for members of the Greater Palm Bay Chamber and $45 for guests.   For more information and to purchase tickets online, click here.     Celebrating America 250: Separation of Powers Event   The Brevard County Library System and the League of Women Voters of the Space Coast will host a Celebrate America 250: Separation of Powers discussion on Saturday, August 29th from 3:00 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. at the Satellite Beach Public Library (751 Jamaica Blvd.)   Christopher Spinale, Ph.D., Associate Director of the Lou Frey Institute of Politics & Government, will lead the discussion about the history of the Separation of Powers and its impact on branches of government today.   The event is open to the public and free of charge. Registration is requested but not required and can be completed here.     Turtle Krawl 5K Walk/Run   The 2025 Turtle Krawl 5K Walk/Run will be held on Saturday, September 12th at James H. Nance Park (201 Miramar Avenue) in Indialantic. The 5K start time is 7:30 a.m.   The registration fee is $45 for adult runners and $40 for runners ages 12 and under. The fee will increase by $5 beginning September 9th.   Advance registration and packet pickup takes place on Thursday September 10th and Friday, September 11th from 10:00 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. at Running Zone (3696 N Wickham Road) in Melbourne. Late registration and packet pickup will be available on the morning of the race, from 6:00 a.m. to 7:15 a.m., at the race site.   An awards ceremony will begin immediately following the race. All proceeds benefit the Sea Turtle Preservation Society and their mission to help sea turtles survive and thrive.   For more information and to register, click here.     13th Annual "Lines in the Lagoon" Junior Fishing Tournament   The 13th Annual "Lines in the Lagoon" Junior Fishing Tournament will take place on Saturday, September 12th from 7:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Students in grades K-12 are invited to participate. All fishing must take place between the Sebastian Inlet and Fort Pierce Inlet in the Indian River Lagoon by boat, from a dock, seawall, or the shore. Inlet fishing is not permitted.   The registration fee is $25 per angler and will increase to $35 on September 1st. Registration will close on Thursday, September 9th with no exceptions. All participants are required to attend the mandatory Captain's Meeting on Friday, September 11th at 5:30 p.m. at White's Tackle (3006 Cardinal Drive) in Vero Beach.   Participants will receive a T-shirt, goody bag, and a complimentary awards dinner after the tournament from 3:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. at Walking Tree Brewery (3209 Dodger Road) in Vero Beach.   For contest rules, tournament prizes, registration, and general information, click here or email info@linesinthelagoon.com.

         

Contact Information   Melbourne Office  900 East Strawbridge Avenue, Suite 408, Melbourne, FL 32901r 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