Community Highlights
The Lustgarten Foundation is proud to highlight community activities and events that are helping to support critically needed research. Special thanks to everyone who has joined the fight by creating or participating in a community activity.
To add your story to our Community Highlights section, please call Kim Johnke at 516.803.2306.
Putt for a Cure
The Montana State University Billings (MSUB) men's and women's golf teams donated money for every birdie made during their March 20-21, 2010 Tournament to help fight pancreatic cancer. Everyone wore purple hats in a show of support for pancreatic cancer research. Together with community donations, more than $2,000 was raised. Special thanks to MSUB Head Men's and Women's Golf Coach Shawn O'Brien, the MSUB men's and women's golf teams, and everyone who supported this event.
2nd Annual Dennis T. Davis Memorial Bike Ride
For a second year, friends and family gathered in June 2010 to celebrate and honor the life of Dennis T. Davis. More than 25 cyclists embarked on a 30-mile trek throughout Manhattan, Brooklyn and Queens, touring many places that represented milestones in Dennis' life. Several honored Dennis at the finish line by practicing yoga, one of his favorite pasttimes.
The celebration continued with friends and family in Rego Park, NY for food, drinks, and raffles that included autographed sports memorabilia and other exciting prizes. Known for his handlebar moustache, many participants grew moustaches to honor and remember Den's signature 'stache, and a prize was awarded for "best moustache!" (The winner is already planning to defend his title at next year's event.) Together, friends and family raised close to $6,000 for needed pancreatic cancer research, bringing the total raised to date by this event to more than $10,000! Congratulations and thanks to the family and friends of Dennis T. Davis. Read an Article About the Event
Zumbathon Rocks Brooklyn
On July 31, 2010, a local Brooklyn community joined together to raise awareness and money for pancreatic cancer research. Karen Barone, who has been battling pancreatic cancer for two years, along with Christine and Roseanne Barranca and their family and friends, created the Zumbathon as a fun way to raise support for this special cause. In partnership with Brooklyn-based Physique Fitness, the event welcomed hundreds of participants. DJ "Trio" donated their time to spin tunes, while Physique Fitness’ Zumba instructor Natalie Ann Russell kept the group rocking. Special thanks to everyone who participated in and/or supported the event. Together, more than $28,000 was raised!
Santaniello Memorial Golf Tournament Celebrates 10 Years
In March 1998, following a courageous battle with pancreatic cancer, beloved wife, mother, grandmother and friend, Barbara Mantoni Santaniello, was lost to the disease. After learning of The Lustgarten Foundation, the Mantoni and Santaniello families decided to send a generous donation in support of research. But they didn’t stop there. The family established the Barbara Mantoni Santaniello Research Fund and began plans for a fundraising golf tournament in memory of Barbara. By reaching out to family, friends and colleagues, the families were able to attract the support of more than 40 generous sponsors. On June 27, 2001, the families hosted the inaugural Barbara Mantoni Santaniello Memorial Golf Tournament at Franconia Golf Course in Springfield, Massachusetts. The day commenced with a shotgun start, followed by a day on the links. Later, golfers and their guests enjoyed a reception at The Carriage House at Barney Estates, which included an auction and prize raffles. The inaugural event was a success, raising $25,000 for the work of The Lustgarten Foundation.
Each year since, the families have continued their homage to Barbara with a day on the links to raise funds for research. 2010 marked the Tournament’s 10th year, and once again, more than 100 friends enjoyed a familiar pastime at Franconia Golf Course. Later that day, a surprise performance by a 25-piece marching band energized the 200 guests who gathered for a special dinner and reception. Congratulations to the Mantoni and Santaniello families for ten years of success.