On August 20, the Palm Bay Police Department gathered alongside city leaders, fellow officers, and community members to honor the life and legacy of Sergeant Frank Tobar with the unveiling of a commemorative plaque at Sacrifice Park. The ceremony marked the fourth anniversary of his passing in the line of duty on August 20, 2021.

Sergeant Tobar began his service with the City of Palm Bay in 1995 and transitioned into law enforcement in 2004. He served our community with dedication and heart, rising through the ranks to become a Master Police Officer. Perhaps most notably, he devoted more than 16 years to mentoring young people through the Police Explorers program—a role that showcased his deep commitment to inspiring the next generation.

Now, his name is permanently etched into the Wall of the Fallen at Sacrifice Park, serving as a solemn reminder of the sacrifices made by those who protect and serve. The ceremony was a moving tribute to a man whose life reflected courage, mentorship, and unwavering service to Palm Bay.

To Sergeant Tobar's family, loved ones, and colleagues, we continue to hold you in our hearts and stand beside you in gratitude.

On August 21, I had the honor of joining L3Harris Technologies, community leaders, and industry partners to celebrate the ribbon-cutting of their new Satellite Integration and Test Facility right here in Palm Bay. This state-of-the-art facility marks a major step forward for our region’s role in space innovation and national defense.

We are proud that L3Harris continues to choose Palm Bay as a place to grow and innovate. This milestone highlights the power of public-private partnerships and the importance of fostering a strong business environment where companies can thrive.

I’m grateful to L3Harris for their leadership and commitment to our city, and I look forward to seeing the impact this facility will have on our local economy, workforce, and national mission.

This Labor Day, I want to take a moment to recognize the hardworking men and women who keep our communities and our country moving forward. This day is a tribute to the dedication, resilience, and achievements of American workers across every industry.

Here in Palm Bay, I'm especially grateful for the commitment of our City employees. Their service makes a meaningful difference in the lives of our residents every single day. To all of you who work hard to build a better future for your families and this community, thank you. Wishing everyone a safe, restful, and well-deserved Labor Day.

The City of Palm Bay will host its annual Patriot Day Ceremony on Thursday, September 11, at 10:00am to honor the fallen. This year, the ceremony will be at Sacrifice Park located between City Hall and Franklin T DeGroodt Memorial Library. Speakers this year include Keith Van Buren (Afghanistan Deployment) Commander of the Military Order of the Purple Heart Chapter 453 and Sgt. Lyndsay Gray (Afghanistan Deployment) with 115th and 44th Medical Brigade CONUS with Walter Reed Army Medical Center. Each life lost on September 11 had meaning and purpose. It is our duty and obligation to ensure they are Never Forgotten.

Each year on September 11, I find myself reflecting not only on the immense loss we suffered as a nation but also on the strength, unity, and resilience that rose from the ashes of that day.

Like so many of you, I remember exactly where I was when I heard the news. The shock. The heartbreak. The uncertainty. But I also remember how Americans came together, neighbors helping neighbors, strangers lifting each other up, first responders running toward danger without hesitation.

Patriot Day is a day to honor the lives lost and the families forever changed. We pay tribute to the heroes who served with courage and compassion. And we recommit ourselves to the values that carried us through unity, sacrifice, and love for one another.

Let us never forget the lessons of that day. And let us always strive to be the kind of community and the kind of people that make our country stronger.

I'd like to wish all my fellow Palm Bayers a Happy Hispanic Heritage Month! In Palm Bay, we're fortunate to be part of a vibrant and culturally rich community. From September 15 to October 15, we celebrate and honor the history, contributions, and culture of Hispanic Americans, both locally and nationally.

Lastly, I want to invite you all to the 28th Annual Puerto Rican Day Parade & Festival that will be held on Saturday, October 4. The parade will begin at 10:00am, with the festival to follow at Eastern Florida State College Palm Bay Campus, located at 250 Community College Parkway. For more information, visit utbunitedthirdbridge.org.