Last month we celebrated the 27th Annual Puerto Rican Day Parade & Festival, presented by U.T.B. United Third Bridge, Inc. at Fred Poppe Regional Park. Even though it rained, we partied through it! I was both honored and surprised to have the very own Tito Puente Jr. pull me up on stage to embrace my musical talents! It was truly a great event, and I cannot wait until next year!

We also celebrated our annual Fall Fest at Fred Poppe Regional Park and if you didn’t get a chance to attend, be sure to come out next year! This year’s event was even bigger than last year, with the most vendors and attendees we’ve ever had!

This past year the City held nine Fun Friday events and Octobers was one for the books! Look out next year for more concerts and in events in the future.

Join me in congratulating Marc’s Auto & Tire Center on becoming the fourth quarter Mayor's Business Spotlight Program winner for 2024! Marc’s Auto & Tire Center, located at 6351 Minton Road in Palm Bay, has been family-owned and operated since 2018, offering high-quality automotive parts and maintenance. Known for its warm and friendly service, Marc D’Amelia, the owner, works alongside his staff daily to ensure top-notch customer care. Originally starting as Oil & Lube Express in 2005, the business has grown, doubling its staff and contributing to Palm Bay's economic growth. Marc’s Auto & Tire Center recognizes the importance of our first responders and military personnel. They offer discounts and promote recognition to those who have served our country. Congratulations to Marc’s Auto & Tire Center for receiving the Mayor’s Business Spotlight award! This recognition highlights their dedication to exceptional customer service, community involvement, and the positive impact they've made on Palm Bay’s economy. Their hard work and growth since opening demonstrate their commitment to both their customers and the city.

Don’t forget to join me on Saturday, November 9, at 10:00 AM for the 2024 Palm Bay Veterans Day Parade. The parade will start at the Tony Rosa Community Center at 10:00 AM, head east on Port Malabar Blvd, and end at Veterans Memorial Park. Our Grand Marshals will be the Gold Star Family of SSgt. Tristen K. Wright, his parents Ricky and Novolia Wright and his sister Demyia Biggs. The parade will be followed by an event in the park until 3:00 PM with food, drinks, and entertainment. I hope you'll mark your calendars and join me in honoring our veterans! 

Every November 11, we honor a group that holds a special place in my heart—America’s veterans. These courageous men and women showed remarkable selflessness and bravery when they chose to serve in the United States Armed Forces. To every hero who has worn the uniform and left the comforts of home to defend our freedoms, we offer our deepest thanks. Thank you for your sacrifices, for the challenges you've endured, and for the unwavering commitment you've shown. Your service has shaped our nation, safeguarded our liberties, and upheld the values we cherish. To all veterans, we salute you. We are grateful for the battles you've fought, the victories you've earned, and the boundless love you've shown for our country. May your courage continue to inspire us, and may we strive to honor your service each and every day. Happy Veterans Day!

I also want to recognize the 249th birthday of the United States Marine Corps. Happy Birthday and Semper Fi to my fellow Marines! Our core values—Honor, Courage, and Commitment—remain at the heart of who we are and guide us both in service and in battle. May God bless each of you and continue to bless our great nation, the United States of America. OOH RAH!

Later this month, we will come together with family and friends to celebrate Thanksgiving. I am truly thankful for each one of you and honored to serve as Mayor of the greatest city on the fac of the earth! This season is a time to appreciate our blessings, unite as a community, and reflect on all that we are grateful for. To all Palm Bay residents—wishing you a joyful, healthy, and safe Thanksgiving!