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On Saturday, October 10, 2015, Brevard County residents will begin celebrating the 4th Annual Viva Brevard Festival in recognition of Hispanic Heritage Month, which runs from September 15th through October 15th. On October 3rd, at the Viva Brevard Gala, Congressman Bill Posey will present Congressional Medals of Recognition to five local Hispanic leaders for their service to our community.

“VIVA Brevard is an opportunity for us to come together as a community, share and experience the diversity of cultures from Latin American countries, and celebrate the achievements and contributions of truly great Americans,” said Congressman Posey.

Viva Brevard will be a day full of great Latin American cuisine, culture, and entertainment. The Viva Brevard Festival will take place on October 10th near the Ted Whitlock Community Center in Palm Bay Regional Park, which is located in the City of Palm Bay, Florida. Festivities will run from 1PM to 8PM.

At the Gala, Congressman Posey will present special Congressional Medals of Recognition to:

Dr. Manuel Garcia (posthumous) – In 1974, Dr. Garcia became Assistant Director at the Brevard County Health Department in Florida and was made Director in 1977. In 1994, he set up the PATH (Primary Access To Health) Clinic, aimed at treating poor, uninsured patients with no access to medical care.

Marta Fiol – Marta Fiol grew up in Cuba and has spent her life giving back to our community as
a long-time volunteer with the Cancer Care Foundation and the marketing manager for Cancer Care Centers of Brevard (CCCB). She has provided health care needs to families in their most critical moments.

Fernando Dominicis – Longtime Melbourne resident born in Cuba, Fernando Dominicis served for many years as an executive with Boeing and founded the Cuban American Association of Brevard. He is known for his organized volunteer groups, working with the Cuban community to assist in the Daily Bread of Melbourne, Ascension Catholic Church, and the Master' Workshop, Inc. located in South Melbourne, serving at-risk children.

Fernando Palacio – Mr. Palacio came to the United States in 1961 from Cuba, where he earned a Juris Doctor degree from the Universidad de la Habana. After being certified by the University of Florida and successfully taking the Bar Exam, he practiced law in Brevard County for 35 years, specializing in immigration and naturalization law. Fernando has been admitted to practice law before all State Courts and was appointed a member of the Judicial Nominating Commission for the 18th Judicial Circuit by Governor Jeb Bush.

Dr. Fredy Delacruz – After many years of hard work, Fredy Delacruz dedicates his time to performing charitable work in benefit of those who are most in need. His extensive background and philanthropy have moved him to not only serve the Hispanic community in the US, but also volunteer in Haiti.