The centerpiece of the meeting was the planning for the upcoming veterans parade. The committee addressed the logistics of the event extensively. A crucial aspect of the discussion was ensuring the presence of bands and other participants. While 12 groups have registered for the parade, no bands had yet confirmed their participation, prompting the committee to strategize outreach efforts to secure school bands. To enhance participation, flyers will be distributed, and efforts will continue to contact past participants, such as the American group, which has not confirmed involvement this year. The 501st Legion, a Star Wars-themed group, was confirmed to participate, with arrangements for their changing area underway.

Logistical preparations were a focus, with the committee confirming the use of 18 golf carts for VIP transportation, replacing the previously used Jeeps. This shift necessitated discussions regarding signage and staging areas to accommodate the golf carts. The committee also secured sponsorships from Grand Headquarters Toyota, Zen K9 Club, and True Green, contributing to the logistical preparations, notably the distribution of 30,000 water bottles along the parade route. Volunteers will be stationed strategically to assist with water distribution.

In addition to the parade, the committee discussed catering options for the event, with a particular emphasis on Mission Barbecue. Known for providing generous portions at discounted rates, Mission Barbecue had been a successful partner in past events. While specific pricing for the current year was not finalized, the committee showed interest in inviting representatives from Mission Barbecue to future meetings for discussions. The event will cater to veterans, volunteers, and attendees, with meal requests typically ranging from 100 to 200.

The committee explored entertainment options, considering the involvement of mascots and performers from local sports teams. The Dolphins, Panthers, and Marlins were discussed, with varying costs associated with their participation. While mascots were seen as a way to engage younger attendees, there was debate over balancing entertainment expenses with the event’s primary purpose of honoring veterans. Ultimately, a motion was passed to approve the Marlins and their dancers, but discussions continued regarding the costs associated with the Dolphins and Panthers.

Attention then shifted to the memorial project, with the committee approving a payment of $700 for architectural renderings. These renderings, produced at a notably low cost by a local architect, are seen as a critical step in fundraising efforts for the memorial. The committee expressed optimism that publicizing the renderings would attract financial contributions, with plans to acknowledge the architect’s work through a letter of thanks from the mayor. The memorial project, estimated at $380,000, will not seek funds from local residents but will instead explore public and grant funding opportunities. The committee is considering sponsorship levels, with discussions about the criteria for names to be engraved on the memorial.

Progress was also reported on sponsorship efforts for the Veterans Committee’s 5K event. A significant sponsorship of $5,000 was secured from Insurance Nation, contributing to a total of $33,500 raised so far. The committee aims to surpass last year’s fundraising totals, although a sponsor downgraded their contribution from platinum to gold, necessitating clarification. Volunteer management for the 5K was discussed, with plans for overseeing package pickup and bag stuffing in December.

Additionally, the committee discussed the upcoming Veterans Golf Outing Tournament, with a proposed date of February 27th. However, ongoing construction at the golf course raised concerns about the viability of the venue. The committee agreed to monitor construction progress closely to ensure the tournament’s success.

The meeting concluded with discussions on several upcoming events, including the Veterans and Orphans Fishing Day and the Casino Night organized by the American Legion. An invitation was extended to the committee for the Public Safety Committee’s “Cars for Heroes” event, aimed at first responders and featuring emergency vehicles.