MILFORD — Thanks To Yanks is hosting a free children’s magic show on Sunday, March 15, for families of first responders, veterans, and those currently serving in uniform.
The event will take place at the Italian Vets in Milford (Four Hayward Field), with doors opening at 11:30 a.m. and the show beginning at noon. Magician Tommy James will perform for approximately 45 minutes, followed by free pizza, water, and cookies for attending families.
“The way it’s going to work is the children are going to sit on the floor in front of Tommy and the parents will have chairs,” said Mike Shain of Thanks To Yanks. “Come in, sit down, be entertained, be fed, and have a nice day with the family.”
Shain said Tommy James has performed at previous events for military families and veterans, including shows at the Brockton VA. James was a recipient of the 2010 Kidabra International Family Performer of the Year, and has hosted magic shows across Connecticut, Rhode Island, and Massachusetts for several years.
“If he’s putting on a show for adults or he’s putting on a show for children, he’s always entertaining. He’s very involved,” Shain said. “When he does a children’s show, he adds some humor so adults enjoy it as well… It’s just a marvelous way to spend an afternoon.”
Thanks To Yanks was founded after 9/11 to honor those who serve. The organization’s mission continues to focus on supporting first responders and military families.
“We say, remember, respect and revere the heroes and the victims of 9-11…” says Shain. “It’s always been a benchmark of Thanks to Yanks to really try to thank people who keep us safe, first responders, those in the military.”
Because the event is mission-focused and seating is limited to 120 people, attendance is currently reserved for military and first responder families. However, if seats remain available in the days leading up to the event, Thanks To Yanks may open registration to the public.
The event is sponsored by Milford Federal, and Shain expressed gratitude for continued community support.
“We have been fortunate and blessed not only at this event to work with Milford Federal, but over the years, many, many local community businesses have stepped up and said, ‘yes, we’ll support you’…” mentions Shain. “It’s just a blessing that we live in such a compassionate community that will support the causes of Thanks to Yanks.”
Families interested in attending are asked to reserve seats by emailing [email protected]. Once a request is received, attendees will receive a confirmation email with their reservation details.
Listen to the full interview with Mike Shain on the 101.3 MyFM Soundcloud page.
