Latest news with #ToysforTots
Associated Press
2 days ago
- General
- Associated Press
Marine Toys for Tots and Richard Childress Racing United to Race for Hope with Austin Dillon's No. 3 Chevrolet in Nashville, Tennessee
TRIANGLE, Va., June 3, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Marine Toys for Tots proudly continued its multi-year partnership with Richard Childress Racing (RCR) this past Sunday, sponsoring Austin Dillon's No. 3 Chevrolet at the Nashville race to bring their shared mission of hope to the National stage. Dillon's iconic No. 3 Chevrolet carried the Toys for Tots logo—serving as a high-speed symbol of compassion, resilience, and the power of giving. Taking the track on June 1 at 6:00 p.m., Dillon raced with purpose, representing the millions of families across America who rely on the support and generosity of Toys for Tots and the American public. He raced across the finish line, and his impact reached far beyond the checkered flag. 'This was more than just a race—it was a symbol of the resilience and potential of children across America,' said LtGen Jim Laster, USMC (Retired), President & CEO of the Marine Toys for Tots Foundation. 'Together with Richard Childress Racing, we were honored to bring visibility to our mission and empower communities to make a lasting difference in the lives of disadvantaged children.' More than a Christmastime charity, Toys for Tots delivers joy, emotional support, and a sense of normalcy to children in need all year long—through toys, books, and other meaningful gifts. As the Program expands its reach beyond the Christmas season, its collaboration with RCR and Austin Dillon is helping drive that mission forward with renewed energy and purpose. 'Our commitment to being a constant source of hope and support is stronger than ever—because no child living in poverty should ever be forgotten or left behind,' says LtGen Laster. 'The collaboration with RCR and Austin Dillon creates new opportunities for Toys for Tots to extend its mission, ensuring that disadvantaged children receive the hope and support they deserve.' Beyond the excitement of race day, this partnership is a powerful example of what can happen when passion meets purpose. Like a successful race, helping children thrive takes teamwork, perseverance, and a shared belief in something greater than ourselves. With Austin Dillon behind the wheel, this collaboration continues to raise awareness and mobilize support, ensuring that the spirit of giving extends beyond the holiday season and into the everyday lives of children who need it most. Every lap at Nashville was more than a competition—it was a call to come together and build a future full of hope, promise, and opportunity. To learn more about Toys for Tots or make a donation, visit Media Contact: Ted Silvester VP Marketing and Development (703) 649-2021 [email protected] View original content to download multimedia: SOURCE Toys for Tots
Yahoo
23-05-2025
- Politics
- Yahoo
Gastonia takes over Juneteenth festival after public outcry
A Juneteenth festival in Gastonia is now a city-run event. Last week, organizers revealed that they would have to pay over $15,000 out of pocket for staff required at the event. Now, however, they no longer have to pay for it. Tasha White said a weight has been lifted off her shoulders after the city council unanimously voted to make the Ebonyfest Juneteenth Festival a city-run event. 'I really do feel seen, heard, and valued,' said White. 'We were asking for a reduction in our in-kind costs; what they gave us was even better than we anticipated.' PREVIOUS COVERAGE: Gastonia festival organizers face new costs as city ends free staffing support In January 2024, city leaders voted to change their in-kind services policy. This meant that organizers must cover all staffing costs, such as fire and police. Previously, the city absorbed those fees. However, leaders said they were waiting a year before they officially implemented the change. Councilwoman Jennifer Stepp addressed the police change at Tuesday's council meeting and said it was intended to lower the tax rate. 'I do want to make it clear that there was never any intention to hurt any particular community, and it was all or nothing for everybody. There were other organizations that either had to not have their event or come up with it,' said Stepp. After the public outcry, Councilwoman Cheryl Littejohn made a motion to absorb the staffing costs for the Ebonyfest Juneteenth celebration. 'The biggest reason it's important is that that price tag, that estimate, that bill is gone, that $15,630,' said Littejohn. While White is pleased with the outcome, she is thinking about other community organizers who are uncertain about their future events. 'I will be speaking up for those who are still facing a huge price tag,' said White. 'We want them to create a model that anybody can use, so whether it is the Highland festival or Toys for Tots.' City leaders told Channel 9 they plan to revisit the in-kind services policy next month. VIDEO: Gastonia festival organizers face new costs as city ends free staffing support
Yahoo
19-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Grand Forks International Airport's firefighters vote to unionize
May 19—GRAND FORKS — Grand Forks International Airport's firefighters voted to unionize, according to the interim president of the union local, not because of any current issues, but because of the expected benefits. "It's just, really, the additional benefits," said Tim Burrows, ARFF operations specialist. "It has nothing to do with the politics." At a Thursday, May 15, Airport Authority Board meeting, it was announced that the firefighters had voted to unionize. Among the benefits that led them to make this decision, according to Burrows, were additional training opportunities, additional health benefits, access to an international peer group, the ability to support research regarding firefighter safety — such as cancer and per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) — as well as the ability to participate in charitable events like the Fill the Boot campaign and Toys for Tots. "We look forward to having a great relationship with all constituents that we work for and work with," Burrows said. Ryan Riesinger, executive director of the airport, said he learned about the announcement earlier in the week, but before then, he was unaware there were plans to unionize. Burrows said the group submitted its paperwork a couple weeks ago and is still getting everything in order, so more information is likely to come within the next month. He said the process officially started back in March, before there were any discussions about possible changes in oversight or any other politics ongoing with the Airport Authority. Riesinger said late last week he had not yet received any official paperwork or documentation, either from the local union or the International Association of Firefighters, but did meet with a designated representative and had a good discussion about what the firefighters were looking for — which he said mainly revolved around training. "We meet all of the (Federal Aviation Administration) requirements as it relates to our fire responsibilities, but I believe some on staff, and some in the union, are wanting to look at where we can exceed some of those minimum requirements," Riesinger said. "We already do in some cases, but I think they're looking for additional training, or additional areas where they can really go beyond the minimum requirements. We're open to those discussions." He said he was told directly that the decision to unionize was not related to concerns about pay, benefits or scheduling. "They're happy with all of those things, so I was pleased to hear that," Riesinger said.
CBS News
29-04-2025
- General
- CBS News
Miami veteran creates app to help others find joy and purpose after military service
A Miami Beach veteran who once fought on the frontlines in Afghanistan is now using his experiences to uplift others facing the challenges of civilian life. Alex Kruger Dobrota, Senior Vice Commander of Miami Beach VFW Post 3559, returned home from his deployment as a U.S. Marine Corps Scout Sniper and struggled to adjust. Seeking to reclaim his sense of joy and purpose, Dobrota went back to school and launched a company that created Badger: Operation Gamify, a social app designed to build community through mission-based challenges. "My solution is through a social app where you can connect with other people through competition, so you can have those three pillars — joy, social connection, and purpose," Dobrota said. The app allows users to join "missions" — often centered around community service — and share their experiences by uploading videos. Participants can view and connect with others who completed the same challenges, fostering new bonds and shared accomplishments. Beyond the app, Dobrota has organized numerous service events and outreach programs across South Florida. Lt. Matthew Ross with the U.S. Coast Guard Station Miami Beach said Dobrota's commitment to service extends far beyond the military. "Some recent events we've worked on with Alex are the Toys for Tots delivery of Santa Claus," Ross said. "We brought Santa to the VFW post and helped distribute over 1,500 toys for children in need in the Miami area." Dobrota, a husband and father of two young boys, continues to inspire those around him. Friends and colleagues say he has found a way not only to heal himself, but to create a ripple effect of healing and connection for many others. Send us your story at MiamiProud@
Associated Press
21-04-2025
- Business
- Associated Press
Simply Dental Management 'Completes the Circle' of Dentistry, Cementing Its Role as a Leading, Patient-First DSO
HOPKINTON, MA, UNITED STATES, April 21, 2025 / / -- Simply Dental Management (SDM), a doctor-led Dental Support Organization (DSO), announces its continued growth across New England and beyond—bringing comprehensive support to general and specialty dental practices while maintaining a deeply personal, patient-first approach. Founded by Dr. Sam Alkhoury, SDM helps providers offload administrative burdens—HR, marketing, compliance, and operations—while keeping full clinical autonomy. 'We build practices that feel local but benefit from the strength of a knowledgeable support team,' said Dr. Alkhoury. 'Every decision is rooted in what's best for patients and providers. We're growing, but staying grounded.' SDM partners across all specialties—from Orthodontics and Pediatric Dentistry to Endodontics, Periodontics and Oral Surgery —creating a full-circle model of oral health support. Privately owned and led by a single, engaged founder, SDM remains agile and connected, offering individualized support to every practice in its network. 'As an Endodontist and partner, I now enjoy my profession on a level I never imagined,' said Dr. Karyn Stern of Worcester Endodontics. 'SDM gives me the freedom to focus entirely on patient care and personal growth without the stress of running a business.' Recognized by Inc. 5000 and Becker's '55 DSOs to Know,' SDM continues to scale without sacrificing quality. 'After 31 years in practice, I wanted to keep caring for patients without handling the business side,' added Dr. Dennis Sherman, now-retired orthodontist from Milton Orthodontics. 'SDM made that possible—and helped the practice grow.' Beyond dentistry, SDM supports the community through initiatives like its Toys for Tots campaign (with 3,000+ toys donated), school supply drives, oral health education in preschools, and local youth sports and arts sponsorships. 'Our goal is to be seen—not just as a business, but as a team truly doing dentistry differently,' said Dr. Alkhoury. SDM welcomes conversations with dental professionals, DSOs, and investors looking to grow with a purpose-driven, people-focused partner. About Simply Dental Management Simply Dental Management is a doctor-led Dental Support Organization that owns and operates a network of general and specialty dental practices throughout New England. With a focus on individualized support, clinical excellence, and community connection, SDM provides dentists with the tools and freedom to focus on what matters most—patient care. Learn more at Lexie Becker Fifth & Cor email us here Visit us on social media: Facebook X LinkedIn Instagram YouTube TikTok Other Legal Disclaimer: EIN Presswire provides this news content 'as is' without warranty of any kind. We do not accept any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information contained in this article. If you have any complaints or copyright issues related to this article, kindly contact the author above.
