Today we want to pause and say thank you. 

So much of today happened because of the DirtDawgs softball team, especially the leadership and coordination of Coaches Josh, Jessica, Karen, and Marcus, along with the DirtDawgs families and community. What unfolded at Mac’s Tavern for the Bingo & BBQ fundraiser was the result of weeks of planning, outreach, and follow through, and we are incredibly thankful for the way this group stepped up and carried it forward. 

We also want to recognize Jim, the owner of Mac’s Tavern, and Phil, the manager, who were an integral part of making today possible. From opening their space, to reaching out across their networks, coordinating with partners, and contributing gift cards, their generosity, initiative, and behind‑the‑scenes work were foundational to bringing this day together. 

From family bingo and Smokin J’s BBQ (Thanks Coach Josh!), to raffles, March Madness brackets, music, and time spent simply being together, today reflected what happens when a team and a community work together with purpose. 

This event also came together through generous planning and support from many people and organizations. While this is not a complete list, we want to acknowledge a few who helped make today possible. The Orange County Sheriff’s Office donated a basketball signed by the UNC head coach. US Foods generously donated all of the food prepared for the event. Yuengling and other beer representatives contributed their support, along with Albatross Golf Bar. We are thankful to Tory and Chris Lukasina for donating a stay at their Beech Mountain cabin, to David McGee, who donated multiple signed NC State basketballs, a game worn jersey, and helped connect additional donations, and to others who quietly stepped in along the way. Apologies for missing anyone. 

Support came in from many directions today, and each contribution, large or small, was a reminder of how strong community can be. Being able to spend part of the day there together made the care and effort behind this event feel especially real to us. 

We would also like to offer a heartfelt thank you to the Cary Fire Department first responders who showed their support today. Many of those present were connected to the response on February 6. Being able to stand alongside them, not in crisis, but in community, was deeply meaningful for our family. Chelsea attended Camp Ignite last summer, a firefighter camp for high school girls sponsored by Cary, Apex, and Morrisville FD, and knowing that what she learned there came full circle through the training, professionalism, and care of the first responders added a layer of meaning we will always carry with us. 

As we continue to support Chelsea and navigate this chapter one day at a time, we are reminded that strength often comes not in one moment, but in the people who show up again and again. 

Thank you to everyone who organized, donated, attended, shared, or supported us in any way today and beyond. We are deeply grateful to be part of such a strong and compassionate community. 

With sincere appreciation and love,
Kara, Mike, Cullen, Chelsea & Family💗