We would like to thank all of our sponsors, contributors, supporters and guests for helping us raise over $15,000 and prepare 925 care packages for our soldiers on Saturday, June 20th at Colonial Park in Franklin Township. While we did experience a bit of inclement weather, it only enhanced the passion of Italian-American supporters along with participation of people of all ethnic backgrounds to show their commitment for our soldiers and the Boys & Girls in New Jersey.

There was a Bocce Tournament lasting until 4:00 in the afternoon with Operation Shoebox Bocce Team taking 1st Place and Manville Pizza & Restaurant taking 2nd place. The Bocce Tournament was officiated by America's Mr. Bocce, Phil Ferrari and his assistant, Ciro Poppiti and they organized over 30 teams to compete in two divisions. Will Jimeno, Retired Port Authority Officer and survivor of 9/11 was one hand to throw out the ceremonial ball for Operation Shoebox. Rutgers University football players were on hand to compete in the tournament as well.

Our Entertainers were all determined that the show must go on and would not allow the rain from fulfilling their promise. Viki Wallace, performed a number of songs as well as the tribute to fallen Belleville Police Officer, Kenneth Santucci and a soldier tribute "When Will I See You". Giada Valenti performed songs from her recent CD, "And I Love You So". Bobby Valli was on hand to sing songs from the Four Seasons and his military tirubte "America: Home for You and Me". Moreno Fruzzetti, a classical Italian singer performed many beautiful Italian songs.

Later in the afternoon, Joe Piscopo and The Italian Chicks closed the event with a half hour of comedy and song.

Our event sponsors, Sons of Italy, The Italian Tribune and The Italian American Police Society deserve special mention, for without them this event would not have been possible. More importantly, the volunteers of Operation Shoebox and members of The Boys & Girls Clubs in New Jersey deserve a big thank you for giving us the opportunity to host this event. Additionally, a special thank you to the Somerset County Park staff and rangers for their manpower and support throughout the day.

Last but not least and due to their never-ending committment to this effort, we acknowledge Steve Kaiser of Kaiser Productions for all the video work, Dwight Hurych of Web Center Manager for the website maintenance and David Verdini of Verdini Studios for his ability to endure the weather and get some great shots of the Bocce players, guests and supporters. Their contact information is on the website for viewing.