Italian Consul General Arnaldo Minuti joined Haverhill officials and the public Friday in observing Columbus Day, in honor of explorer Christopher Columbus voyage of America 531 years ago, as well as October’s Italian Heritage Month. Massachusetts is one of 16 states that observes today exclusively as Columbus Day. Minuti, however, focused on honoring Haverhill Mayor James J. Fiorentini on his retirement after 20 years in office.

“It is a special moment for you after 20 years of service to the community. I understood that in these 20 years of service to the community, a side of your heart has always been devoted to the Italian heritage,” he said. Minuti, whose Boston consulate covers all of New England, also acknowledged Italian Heritage Month. He said the Italian community in the United States is a source of inspiration.