PALM COAST, Fla. (November 3, 2024) – What does it take to be the cutest baby in America? Turns out Palm Coast residents Randy and Rhonda Stapleford are finding out while supporting their young grandson Ben, who is competing against the nation’s cutie pies in the ‘Baby of the Year’ contest.
He’s made it to the quarter finals and casting a ballot each day, they’re hoping friends, neighbors and even fellow Flagler County residents will be inspired to help Benjamin make it to the next level by Thursday, November 7th.
Benjamin is a rainbow baby, a child born after the pre-term loss of a sibling, and for his parents Alison Krall and Brian Reynolds, he’s a blessing they cherish dearly.
Coming from a long line of high achievers, you may even know his grandfather, Randy Stapleford. Two weeks ago Randy was named the Grand Marshal of the 2024 Veterans Day Parade by Bunnell Police Chief David Brannon, and before that Randy was named Flagler County’s Veteran of the Year in 2023. After a long, distinguished career in the U.S. Navy, Randy now serves as the veteran’s affairs officer under U.S. Congressman Mike Waltz, and as the Florida Inland Navigation District Commissioner for Flagler County.
Serious when it comes to getting the job done, Randy is a big softie when it comes to his grandson Benjamin, and Rhonda is the endlessly doting grandmother.
“Having a grandchild later in life is a blessing that we never thought we would get. It is wonderful to experience our daughter as a mother and to see how fiercely she protects her child. That being said, he has a smile that lights up his face and readily shares that smile and laughter! He is the happiest baby that makes anyone around him laugh or at the very least smile,” shared Rhonda Stapleford.
Rhonda hopes winning the competition will help Benjamin’s family with a move to Palm Coast where they can snuggle and love on him even more, and maybe even help with his future education.
“Winning this contest would help his parents be able move to Palm Coast to be closer to us as well as give Benjamin a nest egg for his future education! His mother works from home and keeps him at home so living closer than the 1 1/2 they do now would be a tremendous help to them. They say it takes a community to raise a child and I am hoping that our community can pitch in by voting daily until the conclusion,” added Rhonda.
There is no cost to vote and you can vote daily, helping the Stapleford and Reynolds reunite here in Palm Coast and making Benjamin the 2024 Baby of the Year!
About the Baby of the Year Contest:
The Baby of the Year will star in an ad campaign in Good Housekeeping, a beloved magazine adored by over 47M+ readers. Additionally, the winning baby will receive a $25,000 cash prize, perfect for a future college fund, setting up a savings account, or creating unforgettable family memories.
Overseen by Colossal and DTCares, the Baby of the Year contest benefits Baby2Baby, a support organization that helps impoverished families with essentials such as ‘diapers, clothing and all the basic necessities that every child deserves’ according to Baby2Baby board member Jessica Alba.
Vote for Benjamin Reynolds at https://babyoftheyear.org/2024/benjamin-reynolds.
