The most prominent topic of discussion was the planning and approval of the Reindeer Run. The committee detailed extensive plans for the event, including a pricing calendar and special provisions for students and armed forces applicants to run for free. Pre-registration pricing was set at $25 until September 30, with prices increasing as the event date approached. A marketing budget of $2,000 was approved to promote the event, alongside an estimated $900 for bus transportation to accommodate a large band.

The Reindeer Run will also feature unique awards for participants. Medals will be given to the top three finishers in each gender category, with different color bands to denote their placements. Every participant will receive a participation medal, and the overall top finishers will receive medals featuring the Armed Forces emblem. The committee unanimously approved these plans after a motion was made and seconded.

Another topic was the discussion on funding allocations, which included a proposal to allocate $10,000 for family scholarships, $55,000 for the Veterans Memorial, and $1,000 to replenish the American Legion’s Veteran Relief Fund. The committee also debated the inclusion of an additional $1,400 for the cost of bags for participants at the Reindeer Run. After clarifying how the budget would be divided among different funds, the committee approved the amendments to the proposed budget.

The committee then turned its attention to the development of Veterans Memorial Park. A commitment from Senator Renee Garcia was contingent on the approval of architectural drafting plans estimated to cost around $20,000. The committee favored a specific design from several options, featuring a potential bench and service emblems engraved into stone. Concerns about the location and adjustments to the design were discussed, with a focus on fitting the site near Mary Collins. The motion to approve the design and establish a subcommittee for the park’s development passed after being seconded.

Further discussion included the establishment of a permanent subcommittee focused on service dogs and animal therapy for veterans. The initiative aims to coordinate resources and support for veterans, working with programs like “Paws of Valor” and “Starlight of Valor” to provide training and support for service animals at no cost. The motion to create this subcommittee was seconded, and interested members were invited to join.

In addition to these major topics, the committee addressed a financial request from “America’s Finest” for $55,000 to support an upcoming fishing event. The committee noted sufficient time for fundraising efforts and expressed optimism about securing the necessary funds. The discussion also covered the upcoming parade, with a proposal to use golf carts instead of traditional vehicles to enhance visibility for participants. The committee decided to incentivize participation through a decoration contest, with trophies awarded to the best-decorated carts.

The meeting also included updates on a dog adoption event scheduled for September 28 at K9 Cove, organized by Positive Mission. While financial support was requested, it was noted that the event already had adequate funding from various sources, including the American Legion. Consequently, the committee decided not to provide additional funding.

Finally, the committee discussed the upcoming 9/11 remembrance event and the November 30 parade. For the parade, a motion to approve a lunch service for participants with a proposed budget of $1,200 was seconded and passed. The committee emphasized the importance of community engagement and recognition, opting for trophies instead of cash prizes for the golf cart decoration contest to foster community spirit.