The Sparkling Ice team announced today the selection of three finalists for its second annual Cheers to Heroes campaign and contest celebrating everyday heroes from across the country. This year’s finalists are being honored for their support and continued dedication to their local communities and are now in the running to be named the winner of this year’s Cheers to Heroes contest to a cash prize of $10,000.
In addition to the $10,000 grand prize, nominees will have a chance to win first, second, and third place prizes valued at $7,500, $5,000, and $500, respectively. The brand will award 300 nominees with the 3rd place cash prize, as a way to celebrate even more heroes for their community service. In total, the brand will be giving away over $170,000 in cash prizes throughout the contest period.
Between April and May, we received over a thousand nominations submitted from over 905 cities across the country, highlighting everyday heroes ranging from first line responders, community activists, teachers, office managers, doctors, nurses, friends, neighbors and more, for the notable and heroic work they’ve done in their communities. Now, we’re asking America to join us in celebrating these everyday heroes by voting for one of the following finalists.
After careful consideration, our finalists include:
Kay Menashe – Ozone Park, NY
Kay Menashe is dedicated to strengthening children’s education in her local community. When the local public libraries in Howard Beach and Ozone Park closed due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Kay stepped up and decided to set up an outdoor library in front of her home where she encouraged her neighbors to bring a book and grab a book to take home. She inspired her community to take action, as many began donating books and gift cards to help build “The Community Library.” Kay continues to evolve the neighborhood collection throughout the pandemic and now hosts events and educational activities for children, putting her energy back into her community that she loves.
Michael Bayer – Ballston Lake, NY
After serving his country for 25 years in the US Navy, Michael Bayer has continued his service through volunteering in his community. While many people tend to slow down after retirement, this veteran dedicates his time to the local food pantry where he collects groceries for families in need. As a way to honor his brothers in arms, he volunteers at the local cemetery, assisting in organizing the processionals for his fellow veterans and offering support to those visiting the cemetery. Michael is known for always lending a helping hand and has become an integral member of the neighborhood grounds committee, where he helps with home repairs, especially to the elder residents in his community. In addition, Michael shares his talent of singing by volunteering his time at the local children’s choir and sings on the local town community choir.
Ryan Dwyer – Kenmore, WA
Ryan Dwyer is known for his passion, leadership, and dedication to his local community. Ryan founded a nonprofit Fine Dine Front Lines (FDFL) to thank the healthcare workers that helped his 10-year-old stepdaughter through her cancer treatment. Ryan, who has also been battling leukemia since May 2019, partners with restaurants to provide meals which he then donates to local hospitals, as a way to support the restaurant industry while also showing appreciation to local healthcare heroes. Despite his personal battles over the last few years, Ryan has selflessly continued to deliver 15,000 free meals to essential workers throughout the 21+ hospitals in Washington, without compensation.
From now through July 31st, Sparkling Ice fans can cast their vote at www.sparklingicerewards.com/cheerstoheroes. The winner will be announced on August 13th and the nominator of the winning hero will also receive a $500 prize.
For more information on Sparkling Ice and the Cheers to Heroes contest, please visit: www.sparklingicerewards.com/cheerstoheroes.