HomeMy WebLinkAbout04-03-2023 VAB MinutesVETERANS ADVISORY COMMITTEE
MINUTES
MONDAY, APRIL 3, 3:00 P.M.
CITY COUNCIL CHAMBERS
1225 MAIN ST., SEBASTIAN FL 32976
1. Chairman Gary Shaw called the Veterans Advisory Committee meeting to order at
3:00 p.m.
II. The Pledge of Allegiance was recited by all.
III. Roll Call
Gary Spiecker, American Legion Member
Gary Shaw, VFW Commander
Kim Paskiewicz, VFW Auxiliary Member
Neil Baumgartner, VFW Member
Stephen Hamedin, American Legion Member
Also Present:
Brian Benton, Director of Leisure Services
Joseph Perez, AV Technical Assistant
Janet Graham, Technical Writer
IV. Meeting Chair Makes Announcements -- None
V. Auenda Modifications -- None
VI. Approval of Minutes -- January 9. 2023 Meetina Minutes
Chairman Shaw called for a motion to approve the Minutes from January 9, 2023. A
motion approving the Minutes of January 9, 2023 as presented was made by Ms.
Paskiewicz, seconded by Mr. Hamerlin, and approved unanimously via voice vote.
VII. Unfinished Business -- None
Vill. Public Inaut -- None
IX. New Business
A. Memorial Day Event Plan
VETERANS ADVISORY COMMITTEE PAGE 2
MINUTES OF MEETING OF APRIL 3, 2023
Chairman Shaw said this year the VFW is responsible for planning and organizing this
event. He will make sure that the VFW is aware of it so that it gets done. He asked if
there is any special request from anyone or any organization that they would like included
or excluded from it. Mr. Splecker stated that at this time there is nothing, but as the date
gets closer his group will get back to Mr. Shaw. Mr. Benton asked for clarification as to
when the event is going to start and also as the date gets closer to make sure that the
City gets the all the information on the event. Mr. Shaw said the City will make sure that
the City gets all the Information they need.
B. July 4t' Parade Participation Discussion
Mr. Benton stated that the parade will take place on July 4t'. The City would appreciate
as much veteran participation as possible. In the past there has always been good
participation, and he requests that that participation continues. If there are any additional
veterans groups that the City staff needs to contact, or if the Board members can assist
the City with contacting them, the City would like to make if as big as possible and
continue to Increase the size of our parades and the veteran involvement in the Civs
parades is a major part. Everyone enjoys seeing the veterans lead our parade on the 4t'
of July. Mr. Shaw asked if there will be applications to participate in this parade. Mr.
Benton said yes, and he will email out to each of this Board's members the application.
It is ready to go, and it will go online within the next couple of weeks for everyone to apply.
Mr. Shaw asked if the City wants an application from each unit from the VFW and the
American Legon or can both units be covered with one application. Mr. Benton said it
does not matter as long as the application states "AND" for the riders. He is fine with
multiple groups being put on the same application. He explained why the groups should
register — so that the City knows how many groups there will be so that the groups appear
In the parade in the correct order. The City wants to ensure that the veterans lead the
parade. Mr. Shaw asked if the City wants to contact the Honor Guard directly. Mr. Benton
said he would contact the Honor Guard. Mr. Shaw said there is a new person in charge,
Paul Barlbault. Mr. Benton said he will contact him directly.
X. Staff Matters
Mr. Benton addressed the landscaping around the Veterans Memorial. Staff has
recognized the need for replacing some of the landscaping in that area. He stated that
the City will include this Board as well as the veterans groups so that they will have a say
in what is planned for that area to make sure that everyone agrees with what is being
planted around the Veterans Memorial.
XI. Board or Committee Member Matters
VETERANS ADVISORY COMMITTEE
MINUTES Ol� APRIL 3, 2023 MEETING
PAGE 3
Mr. Hamerlin added that the POW/MIA ceremony was great. It was impressive. Mr. Shaw
stated that, as usual, the City came through with everything and more than was needed.
The Board thanked the City for their help with this event.
Mr. Spiecker asked if the Board could ask the Police Department for the lead driver to
stay 50 paces ahead of the veterans. He asked if the lead driver could be asked to
announce over the intercom to please stand for the colors.
Mr. Shaw thanked everyone for their help at the last meeting. Mr. Spiecker asked, for
informational purposes, where is the AED equipment. Mr. Benton explained where it is
situated right outside the City Chambers.
XII. Items for the Next Aaenda and Date: August 7.2023 at 3:00 a.m.
Mr. Benton stated that at that meeting he will address some of the fall events that will take
place at the Veterans Memorial. Also, he will have more information regarding the budget
and discussion on landscaping for the Veterans Memorial area.
XIII. Ad oum
There being no further business, Mr. Shaw called for a motion to adjourn. A motion to
adjourn the meeting was made by Mr. Hamerlin, seconded by Mr. Spiecker, and approved
unanimously via voice vote.
By: �a�. _ Date:
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