One of the primary focuses of the meeting was the Reindeer Run, an event that has garnered $34,500 in collected sponsorships and $47,000 pledged, with the council setting a goal to reach $50,000. The council discussed the logistical details of the event, including the late arrival of medals in California and the execution of a contract with Clear Channel for billboard advertising. The council member estimated the billboard’s value to be over $5,000. Fundraising efforts were highlighted, with members working to reconcile discrepancies in pledged amounts and expressing confidence in receiving pending contributions from organizations like Southeastern Shot and J&A.

The council also discussed the logistics of the event, including the distribution of goodie bags scheduled for December 8th and 9th, and the selection of a “Miami Lakes blue” color for participant shirts, a change from previous years. The inclusion of community involvement was emphasized, with plans to invite nonprofits to set up tents at the event. Nest Church and the American Legion post were mentioned as participants, with the council supporting the involvement of religious organizations. There was also a suggestion to invite more groups like the Knights of Columbus to enhance community representation.

Further discussions centered around securing food vendors for the event, with Chick-fil-A mentioned for providing fruit cups, and inquiries made about popular vendors like Asai Express. The council also addressed the need for invoices from vendors to manage financial commitments effectively. Social media promotion was also on the agenda, with a $2,000 budget approved to drive sign-ups, though it was unclear if this plan had been activated, prompting an email follow-up.

Moving on to the veterans park and wall project, the council revisited the previously approved $700 payment to the architect, Julio Brea, and the need for proper documentation, including an invoice. The project aims to enhance town facilities that honor veterans, and the council is in communication with the town manager about project phases and briefing packets to solicit sponsorships and legislative funding. The use of the grants department was highlighted as a crucial resource for developing a comprehensive package that includes the town’s history and visual representations to secure necessary funding and support.

The meeting concluded with a discussion on the Veterans Casino Night at Pace High School, which received positive remarks for sponsor support and collaboration with groups like the Knights of Columbus and the American Legion. An after-action report on a recent parade was also discussed, with acknowledgments of successful elements and concerns raised about safety, such as a golf cart incident involving a child driver and the inappropriate throwing of candy, which violated pre-established guidelines.