Support programs that assist our wounded soldiers
by STAFF REPORT
Posted:06/04/10

Rumson - First Lieutenant Dennis W. Zilinski II, United States Army, was killed in action while deployed in Iraq on November 19, 2005.

Marion Zilinski, mother of Dennis W. Zilinski II - in an effort to preserve the memory of her son, very close friends and family started to meet, forming the organization now know as the Lt. Dennis W. Zilinski II Memorial Fund. Known for its annual Run with Dennis, the Zilinski family is passionate to help those soldiers who answered the call. The board members and various committee members have embraced that same passion and commitment to help.

The Lt. Dennis W. Zilinski II Memorial Fund will host its second annual (Toast to Dennis) held June 26.

"Randy and Maureen MacDonald of Rumson have graciously donated the use of their spectacular riverside home for our second annual toast," said Marion.

"We're extremely grateful for their participation and generosity. Their elegant home is a wonderful backdrop for our event and we truly appreciate their generosity in opening their doors to support the fund," said Marion.

[VIDEO COVERAGE: First annual Toast to Dennis, food and wine tasting event was held September 12, 2009 - at the Macdonald's riverside home.]

Retired Army Colonel James Costigan, a resident of Freehold, NJ, has been tapped to chair the event committee.

John Grifo, owner of Grif's Seaside Catering located in Seaside, NJ, will prepare an extensive menu with an array of fresh seafood and hors d' oeuvres. Grifo was named one of southern NJ's top 25 chefs by Atlantic City magazine.

Guests can take part in live and silent auctions. They can also enjoy the entertainment of The Jazz Lobsters, all for a good cause.

Costigan notes that sponsorships and contributions are still available for the live and silent auctions. Additional volunteers are still welcome.

Contact Christine Burke Eskwitt 732-688-8079 or cburkeassociates@comcast.net, for reservations or more information. Tickets are $100 per person. Valet parking will be provided.

The donations raised by the evening's event will benefit the Lt. Dennis W. Zilinski II Memorial Fund. Information regarding the event is available via the charity's website runwithdennis.org.

About the Lt. Dennis W. Zilinski II Memorial Fund:
The Lt. Dennis W. Zilinski II Memorial was created and founded in 2006 in order to honor Lt. Zilinski's memory and spirit for life. All proceeds raised on behalf of the fund are used to support programs that assist our wounded soldiers and their families, and to provide scholarships in Dennis' name to his alma mater, Christian Brothers Academy. The Fund strives to improve the morale and welfare of members of the United States Armed Forces and their families and provides scholarships that invest in the future of high school students who embody the leadership qualities and community spirit of Lt. Zilinski.

For more information visit: runwithdennis.org. Donations may be sent to: Lt. Dennis W. Zilinski II Memorial Fund, PO Box 35, Holmdel, NJ, 07733.


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