Local Republican benefit raises $2,500 for Veterans Count

Kathy Flynn, Director of Development for Veterans Count, left, is presented a check from Carlton Cooper, of the Rochester Regional Republican Committee, right. as a pair of volunteers from Veteran Count hold the donation. (Courtesy photo)Veteran

ROCHESTER - On June 13, the Rochester Regional Republican Committee hosted the Horseshoes & Heroes, a fund-raising event held at Hills Horseshoes in Farmington, NH.
This event was created to raise money in support of the Seacoast Veterans Count which is a program of Easter Seals. Veterans Count provides critical and timely financial assistance to service members, veterans, and their families.
"We had outstanding support from local business sponsors, political candidates, and great people who wanted to show their support for our veterans" stated Carlton Cooper, of the Rochester Regional Republican Committee. "Our goal was to find a cause to support that has a great mission with great results and have fun while supporting them. It was a great success!"
The event, which raised some $2,500, kicked off with the Pledge of Allegiance, performed by retired US Army General Don Bolduc, then followed by the singing of our National Anthem by NH State Representative Sue DeLemus. At 1 p.m. the team at Hills Horseshoes paired up all the teams and play began. The teams were composed of local league players, and area veterans ready to pitch some shoes on a beautiful New Hampshire day. Play continued for a few hours and came down to a playoff match to determine 1st place, then the top three teams all were given trophies, cash, and other special prizes.

The event attendees and guests were provided lunch cooked by backyard chefs Paul and John Callaghan who slaved over the grill on a very warm day. Guests were also entertained by DJ John Cox of Rochester.
Sponsors of the event included: Cox Overhead Door, Tri-City Towing, First City Cars and Trucks, Don Bolduc, Country Tire & Service Center, Rochester Country Club, PIP Rental, Intec Automation, Inc., First Class Heating, Cooling & Air Quality, Redi Peel Potatoes Inc, and Pierce Heating.
The donation was presented to the Seacoast Veterans Count just before the beginning of their 4th Annual "Jeepin 4 Vets" ride on July 25 in Portsmouth.