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winter2015–Vol.29,No.1

The Don Monti Memorial Research Foundation

F o u n d e d J u n e 2 1 , 1 9 7 2

Tita and Joseph MontiFounders

Dear friends,I am writing this letter to you in December 2014, immediately after attending the patient Christmas Party that our Foundation hosts every year at North Shore University Hospital. My heart is filled with so much happiness and fulfillment, because at times like this I can see first-hand all that the Don Monti Memorial Research Foundation does for those individuals forced on this journey of living with cancer.

Yes, we work for a cure; this goal is most important. But along the way our patients are coping with all of the physical issues associated with becoming healthy again. It is a long and challenging road, and they travel it with dignity and grace.

I saw today, as I do every day, the difference we make; the difference you make. Without your support none of this would be possible. When you support the Don Monti Memorial Research Foundation, you can see the results of your generosity on a daily basis. You effect positive change with every donation you make.

And so, as you read this in the new year, I would like to thank you all for your incredible support of our Faith, Hope & Love Giving Campaign. It is obvious that we have achieved our goal and beyond. Our commitments to our patients and our research will be honored and hopefully we will soon see a world without cancer.

May God bless you and your loved ones with health and happiness in the new year. I am forever grateful; because of you, the Don Monti Memorial Research Foundation is alive and well.

With Faith, Hope & Love,

Caroline Monti Saladino, PresidentThe Don Monti Memorial Research Foundation

Richard Monti, Chairman; Caroline Monti Saladino, President; Arthur Saladino, Chairman

Caroline Monti Saladino and Bro. Joshua DiMauro, OSF with St. Anthony’s High School Gregorian Schola

St. Anthony’s High School Gregorian Schola, led by Bro. Joshua DiMauro, OSF, performs for the patients and staff of 7 Monti

PLATINUM ($10,000+)

Banfi Vintners

Judi & Richard Bua in loving memory of Scott Bua

Lauren Cona & Family in loving memory of Scott Bua

Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory

Danielle & Joe Faria & Family

Michele & Robert Fitzsimmons & Family

Anna & Steve Gevinski & Family

The Goodrich Family

Niki & Joe Gregory & Family

Terry & Stuart Hayim

The Kitt Family

Jackie & Paul Lomtevas & Family in honor of the Monti & Saladino Families

Richard & Erin Monti & Family

Jane & Michael Norman

Geanine & Malcolm Palmer & Family in loving memory of Scott Bua

Kathy Rayfield in loving memory of Scott Bua

Ronald Rose

Arthur & Caroline Monti Saladino

Don & Melissa Saladino & Family

Joe & Sarah Saladino & Family

Mr. & Mrs. Edward Travaglianti & Family

Friends and Family of Tory Zabatino

BENEFACTOR ($5,000+)

The Aiello Family

David & Bernadette Strianese Borg in loving memory of Bobby Strianese & Carol Wenk

Mr. & Mrs. Robert Cassandro, Jabb & Co.

The Croation American Charitable Foundation, Mr. & Mrs. Wally Szczerbiak & Family

The Damaghi Family in honor of Stuart Hayim

Estee Lauder Co.

Carmela & Jack Kelly & Family

Mr. & Mrs. Carl Lombardi

Mr. & Mrs. Michael Mazzei

Mr. & Mrs. Chris Mitchell

Mr. & Mrs. Scott Murray in loving memory of William John Murray

Joel Simon & Family in loving memory of Ellen Simon, the Mayor of 7 Monti

The Soviero Family

Ella & Bernard Strianese

Top Banana

Dr. & Mrs. James Watson

GOLD ($3,500+)

Air Stream Foods

Mr. & Mrs. Carmine Fiore

Dr. & Mrs. William Healy

Mr. & Mrs. Kevin Plancher in honor of Robert & Sylvia Aiello

Two Cousins Fish Market

SILVER ($1,500+)

Calavo Growers

Cassmon Realty

Edward Chernoff

The Employees of Crest Hollow Country Club

DeMatteis Organizations

Dortoni Bakery

F & F Roofing

Mr. & Mrs. Dominick Foresto in loving memory of Joseph & Tita Monti

Friends of TJ Foundation

Ally Gottesman, Candy Cures Cancer

Amy & John Hughes & Family in honor of the Monti & Saladino Families

Jack & Rose Floral Design, Jack Rutigliano

Mr. & Mrs. Alan Kugelmass in honor of Ari Kugelmass and Shana & Scott Stevens

Dr. & Mrs. Leon Lachman in loving memory of Louis Lachman

Long Island Jewish Medical Center, Chantal Weinhold

Howard & Margaret Cuomo Maier

Gary Melius, The Elena Melius Foundation

Pet Peeves, Janine Dion

Mr. & Mrs. Joseph Schumm

Simon Paston & Sons

Southern Wine & Spirits

SYSCO Long Island

Chuck Weinstein, Design Audio Visual

Mr. & Mrs. Jeffrey Weinstein in honor of the Saladino Family

BRONZE ($500+)

Above All Storefronts

Mr. & Mrs, Anthony Alizio in loving memory of Josephine Marie Alizio

Nino Antuzzi

Arrow Concrete Corp.

Mr. & Mrs. Andrew Balducci

Susan Baran

Bazzini Co.

Mike & Elyse Besso

Drs. David Bernstein & Helen Kim

Bisset Nursery

Blue Bell Beer Distributors, Mike Severino

Mr. & Mrs. John Bolz

Gary Bronz

Candor Janitorial Supply, Salvatore Giglio

Cardinali Bakery

Mr. & Mrs. Robert Carlson

Celebi Produce

Mr. Frank & Dr. Elizabeth Chau

Checkmate Security Systems

Classic Galleries, the Fromkin Family

Coast Tropical Texas

Thomas Colace

County Line Hardware

Dr. & Mrs. Nicholas D’Arienzo in loving memory of Tita & Joe Monti

Del Rey Avocado

Mr. & Mrs. Robert Demar

DePinto Electric in loving memory of Tita Monti

Lorinda DeRoulet

Mr. & Mrs. Matt Dolinger

Mr. & Mrs. Charles Drakos in loving memory of Constance Denslow and Nicholas Koumas

Empire Merchants

Eventful Productions

Fade to Black in honor of all those who have suffered

Mr. & Mrs. David Feinblatt

Feriani Floral

Fierman Produce Exchange

Fine Art Photography

Finishing Touch

Fire Command Company

Flowers by Brian, Brian Cohen

Mr. & Mrs. Douglas Fox

Freedom Freight

Glenmar Photographer

Vincent & Ally Gottesman in loving memory of Helaine Gottesman

Edward Hand, Eco-Lab

Harvest Sensations

Joan Heaney in loving memory of Peter Heaney

JET Sanitation Service

John C. Schmitt & Associates

Mr. & Mrs. Robert Karin

Mr. & Mrs. Edward Keenan

Mr. & Mrs. Richard Kleinknecht

Ari Kugelmass in honor of Sandra Kugelmass

Landscapes by Bob Dohne

Ken Latham

Lieber Bros.

Lloyd Staffing, Merrill Banks

Mr. & Mrs. Joseph Mattone in loving memory of Irene Mattone & Jessie Pessolano

Mr. & Mrs. Mario Mavricos

Mr. & Mrs. Michael McDevitt

Mid-Atlantic Electrical

Mr. & Mrs. Walter Morris

Natalie’s Orchid Island

Nathel & Nathel

Nicolock Paving

Steve & Connie Olish in honor of Connie Olish

Patken Photographer, Inc.

Marlene Patrella in honor of Vincent Vinciguerra, MD

Mr. & Mrs. John Pufahl

R & J Graphics

Richards Security, Bill Richards

Rigo Produce

Jack Rubenstein, Esq., Meyer, Suozzi, English & Klein

Sam Tell Companies

Peggy Scherr in loving memory of Dr. Lawrence Scherr

Schuckman Realty

Jerry Segura

Signature Bank

S. Katzman Produce

St. Mary’s High School

Dr. & Mrs. David Steinberg

Nadya Swedan, MD, and Robert McIntyre in loving memory of Tita & Joe Monti

Stylish Events

Sterling Foundation

TAD Exterminating

Dr. & Mrs. Frank Tomao

TPP

Triple T Transport

Tuxedo Park

John Vassilaros, Vassilaros & Son

Victor Joseph & Son

Mr. & Mrs. Barry Weisfeld in honor of Stuart Hayim

Mr. & Mrs. Jerry Wood

Xtreme Sounds DJ

FRIENDS

740 Franklin Avenue Holdings

AC Video & Photography, Adam Cooper

A Ruggiero Consulting

Fabiola Abarca

Joseph Abruzzo

Accolade Building Maintenance

Mr. & Mrs. Murray Ackerman

Advantage Rental Center in loving memory of Matthew Enste

ADG Designs

AE Technology in loving memory of Michele Roberts

Mr. & Mrs. Paul Aidala

AK Food Brokers

Sima Ali, Esq., Ali Law Group

American Classics Ice Cream

Rob Appel

Atlantic Beverage

Theresa Attard

Edna Auerbach in loving memory of Ellen Simon

Balco Industries

Martin Bass

Mr. & Mrs. Jeff Barber

Hannah Bayarin in loving memory of Allan Bayarin

David Beebe

Mr. & Mrs. Ken Bell

Mr. & Mrs. Warren Bellock in loving memory of Ellen Simon

Lester Bellows, Jr. in loving memory of Marion Bellows

Patricia Berger in loving memory of Thomas Berger

Mr. & Mrs. Richard Bermudez

Mr. & Mrs. Donald Bianchi

Bissett Nursery

Blue Moon Carpet Care

Mr. & Mrs. Robert Boistis in loving memory of Hugh Kenary

Bora Bora Fresh Squeezed Juices & Smoothies

Mr. & Mrs. Peter Boulukos

Bright Star Foods

Calixtro

Felicia Callan, MD in honor of Carmela Rasmussen and Vito Tirico

Camelot Specialty Limos

Louise Campbell

Maureen Cannon, RN

Honorable Rose Caputo

Gina Carella

GIVING CAMPAIGN 2014

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TEthel Caruso

Elizabeth Caserta

Vivian Casil in loving memory of Ellen Simon

Craig Cassano

Bernadette Castro

Chasan Food Distributors

Mr. & Mrs. Ken Cherry in loving memory of Ellen Simon

Christina Renna Foundation

Murray Cohen

Ann Coleman

Maria Conti in honor of Patricia Bonadonna

Dolores Costello

Costello’s Ace Hardware

County Line Hardware

Coutros Bros. Produce

James Cozza

Pierre Crosby

Crystal Valley Foods

Gene & Kelly Culbreath

Mr. & Mrs. Claude Cuvier

Rose Czerniawski

D’Arrigo Bros.

Drs. Carol & Michael Dannenberg

Jerome Dano in loving memory of Janet McHale

Mr. & Mrs. Ken Darby

Mr. & Mrs. Daniel Delahanty

Mr. & Mrs. Larry Dell Aquilla

Patricia Devlin 14-year AML survivor

Judy Diana in loving memory of William Diana

D. Klaus Dittmar

Mr. & Mrs. Vincenzo Domingo in loving memory of Soccorsa Saracino

Mr. & Mrs. Thomas Dowling

Earthbound Farms

Ed Miniat, Inc.

Elegancia Entertainment

Empire Reporting

Rosemarie Ennis

Rabbi Michael Erlich

Mr. & Mrs. Mark Ermann in loving memory of Annette Iaquinta

Essential Nail Spa

Joseph Failla in loving memory of Karl Hofmeister

Louis Failla

Dennis Fassman

Mr. & Mrs. Burt Faustman

Sarah Fisher

Mr. & Mrs. Harry Fishman in loving memory of Ellen Simon

Cynthia Flaim in loving memory of Sara Flaim

Jill & Lloyd Flaxman

Dominck Florio

Mr. & Mrs. Kevin Frank

Freeman Engineering

Fresh Pick Produce

Fresh Start Produce

Anne Gaipa in loving memory of Ellen Simon

The Stanley & Eve Geller Family Foundation

Mr. & Mrs. David Givner in honor of Sarah Givner’s graduation from Medical School

Mr. & Mrs. Frederic Gold

Mr. & Mrs. Thomas Graham

Kathleen Grant

Greenvale Chemist

Mr. & Mrs. Richard Grosso in loving memory of Evelyn Citrin

Grumman Retiree Club

H2M Architects & Engineers

Janet Hagerman

Eleanor Halpern in honor of Arleen Uroff

Hanan Products Co. Inc.

Linda Harney in loving memory of Vivian Harney

Bess Hatsis

Mr. & Mrs. Albert Haug

Lenore Hayde

Mr. & Mrs. Robert Hennessey

Hicksville Window Cleaning

Dolores Hoffman

Mr. & Mrs. Chris Homer

Mr. & Mrs. Francesco Ierardo in loving memory of Ellen Simon

Jack Berlith & Sons Plumbing

Jeffrey Studio

Diana Jindra

J. Margiotta Bakery

Gloria Jones in loving memory of Albert Brunnhoelzl

Karen Jordan in loving memory of Ellen Simon

Mr. & Mrs. Alex Kalb

Mr. & Mrs. Nat Kantor

Susan & Jay Kaplan

Mr. & Mrs. William Kelleher

Kettle Cuisine

Mr. & Mrs. Gary Klein

Joan Komorowski

Joseph Koneski in loving memory of Valerie Koneski

Mr. & Mrs. Marvyn Kornberg in loving memory of Stuart Dix

Carol Krohn

Ari Kugelmass

Lakota Construction

Landmark Foods

Lapinskas & Associates

Irene & Gene Leff

Elizabeth Leonard

Mr. & Mrs. J. J. Lesko

Let’s Trick Cancer Michael, Catherine & Mario Fuentes, and Caroline McGrath

Margot Ligh in loving memory of Alfred M. H. Tsai

Lighter Than Air

Mr. & Mrs. Jacques Linden in honor of Dr. Lovecchio

Marie Lobosco in loving memory of Charles and Joseph Lobosco

Lochness

Mr. & Mrs. Scott Lohan

Mr. & Mrs. James Longworth

Kathleen Lopez in loving memory of Jim DiCicco

Mr. & Mrs. Terry Lynam

Marie Mack in loving memory of Lawrence Mack

Main Street Nursey

Mammoth Painting

Margolin & Margolin

Mark of Elegance Limousine Service

Martin Delgado, Inc.

Clayton Martorello

Mr. & Mrs. John Martuge

Dr. & Mrs. Thomas Mauri

MaxTex

Mr. & Mrs. Kieran McGowan

Mr. & Mrs. Aaron Menkin

Mr. & Mrs. Richard Merzbacher

Charles Migliore in loving memory of Vincent Migliore, Sr.

Fay Milea

Theresa Milo

Janice & Bruce Minerley in loving memory of Scott Bua

Mr. & Mrs. John Mitchell

Jon Monge

Rev. Nick Montanino

Mr. & Mrs. John Morhardt in loving memory of Raymond and Margaret Croak

Josef Mortak

Mr. & Mrs. Howard Moy

Mark Mulvey

Mr. & Mrs. Stephan Muto

National Waste Services

NS Electrical Supply

NYU Entertainment

Oceanside Christopher Federal Credit Union

Kristin & Peter Ognibene in loving memory of John & Lois Saladino

Y. D. Oleksiw

Bernice Orol

Karen Orzel

Rita Palmieri in loving memory of Anthony Palmieri

Patchogue Plate Glass

Pat Pruzan Design

Mr. & Mrs. Anthony Pepe in honor of Drs. Bradley and Vinciguerra

Kathy & Phil Peranzo in loving memory of Kaleigh Fallon

Phillips Mushroom Farms

Mr. & Mrs. John Piazza

Piccola Bussola in loving memory of Pasquale Lubrano

Mr. & Mrs. Carmine Pisano

Planet Party Planners

Plant Doctor

Linda Platzer

Edward Polk

Frank Pomponio

Produce Alliance

The Projekt

Paula Ptaschnik in loving memory of Gene Taubel

Mr. & Mrs. Vincenzo Pugliese

Mr. & Mrs. Roland Puton

Pyramid Air Conditioning

Mr. & Mrs. Joseph Quatela in loving memory of Pasqua DeCarlo

Scott Raffa, Encore Events

Lawrence Restieri

Mr. & Mrs. Joe Rispoli

Lisa Roberts

Ronald Rose

Carol Roseberry in loving memory of John Roseberry

Rubin Bros. Produce

Ryder in honor of Bob Fitzsimmons

Sam Tell Company

Satur Farms

Mr. & Mrs. Richard Savetsky

John Saxe

Mr. & Mrs. Erik Schaeffer

Mr. & Mrs. Lowell Schindler

Elaine Schmelkin in loving memory of Alvin Glasser

Mr. & Mrs. Ronald Schneider in loving memory of Anna Cosimano

Arlene Scholer in loving memory of Margaret Scholer, who received home visits from the Don Monti Mobile Van

Pamela Schrank in loving memory of Ellen Simon

Mr. & Mrs. Jerry Schulman in honor of Fran & Steve Friedman

Serruto Builders in honor of Matt DeGiaimo

Rev. Vincent Sica

Sheila Silver in loving memory of Mrs. Renee Ginsberg

Sherry Silverman in loving memory of Ellen Simon

Dr. Steven Silverman

Carol Silverstein in loving memory of Edith Greenberg

Sir Oliver Limousine

Sister Mary Eileen in loving memory of Sister Florence Marie

Smith Electrical Services

Smith & Sons

Mr. & Mrs. Joseph Snailer

Gloria Sombrotto

Phyllis Somma in honor of Phyllis Antonucci

Mr. & Mrs. George Sorensen

Angela Sottovia in loving memory of Julian Sottovia

Michael Spinelli in loving memory of Scotty Bua

St. Patrick’s Church, Rev. Monsignor John Bennett, Pastor

Stein, Devisser & Mintz

Rise & Alan Stern in loving memory of Ellen Simon

Mr. & Mrs. Bob Stevens in loving memory of Arnold Hertz

Shana Stevens

Strauss Bakery

Linda Stuhl in loving memory of Ellen Simon

Summit Harvest

Edith Sussman

Pauline Szturma

Mr. & Mrs. Ignacio Tamburello in loving memory of Karl Hofmeister

The Don Monti Memorial Research Foundation would like to extend its deepest gratitude to our many supporters for their ongoing dedication to our mission. Because of you, we are able to meet and even surpass, our commitments to the patients being treated in the four Don Monti Cancer Centers; the scientists working diligently in the Joseph & Tita Monti Research Center at the Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory; and the students in the Masters Program in the Joseph, Tita and Don Monti Genetics and Human Development Lab at LIU Post. Please note that it is possible that some donations arrived just after this publication went to print; we apologize for any inadvertent omissions, and are truly grateful for every contribution.

www.donmontifoundation.org 3

CONTINUED ON PAGE 4

4

TAnnual Christmas Party

The annual Christmas party on the 7th floor of the Monti Pavilion at North Shore University Hospital has become a truly heartwarming tradition over the years, and this past year, was made even more so by a special performance from St. Anthony’s High School Gregorian Schola. The Schola, under the direction of Brother Joshua DiMauro, OSF, is a select ensemble of Juniors and Seniors from St. Anthony’s High School in South Huntington. The group performs more advanced pieces of Gregorian Chant and Liturgical music required for Masses and special events throughout the school year. The Schola travels across Long Island each season, to local churches, hospitals and nursing homes providing concert repertoire and seasonal songs to entertain and inspire their audiences.

The patients, staff and volunteers of 7 Monti were all deeply moved by the recital. “The performance by St. Anthony’s was inspirational,” said Caroline Monti Saladino. “Both my parents were opera singers and life-long patrons of the arts. They had a profound

understanding of how music and song can touch people’s lives in such a positive way, and I could feel them smiling down on this beautiful gathering today. It was wonderful to see the patients enjoying the music so fully, and solidifies our feelings about our Complementary Therapies program.”

The students were also moved by the experience. “We were very happy to sing for the patients to raise their spirits during this Christmas season,” said one student. “Their appreciation for our music made this event stand out as one of the most significant presentations of our season.”

The Don Monti Memorial Research Foundation is grateful to Brother Joshua and the Gregorian Schola for sharing their talent with us in this very meaningful way. We also extend our heartfelt thanks to Bunny Burns and her daughters Collen DeGaetano, RN, and Kelly Lewis and their families for their tremendous efforts in making the Christmas party the joyful event that it always is.

Audrey Weissman, NP; Bunny Burns; Francine Rella; Qi Lin, RN; Kelly & Robert Lewis, Pasquale & Louisa Barba; Louise Weck

Caroline Monti Saladino, Melissa Saladino and Eileen Fitzgerald-McGrath, RN, deliver presents to patients

Bunny Burns and Craig Devoe, MD

Cathy, Maria Sotir, Beatriz Guzman, Vanessa Ortiz, Dayana Hurtado, Santa, Louise Weck, Maria Tekie, Primrose Lee, Manuel Cunha, Qi Lin

Qi Lin, Nurse Manager, RN, holds up the telephone so that patients in isolation who were unable to attend the party could hear the performance

Bunny Burns with her granddaughter, Shannon Lewis, who is a member of the Schola

Dr. & Mrs. Salvatore Tangredi in loving memory of Elena Ciriello

Mr. & Mrs. Daniel Telep

Thomas Martin Plumbing

Florence Todisco

Tony Lante Photography

Total Quality Logistics

Twin County Pool

Mr. & Mrs. Robert Tyrie

US Foods

V & J Auto Body in loving memory of Giuseppe Cacciatore

Via Trento

Vincent DeRosa Provisions

Louis Vinciguerra in loving memory of Valerie Vinciguerra & in honor Vincent Vinciguerra, MD

Mr. & Mrs. John Vlismas

Rocelle Wasserman in loving memory of Ellen Simon

Mr. & Mrs. George Watson

We Like 2 Party

West Side Foods

White Coffee Corp.

White Toque

Williams Candy Shoppe

Marsha Winkler in loving memory of Harold Plutes

Ya-Whooo Organic Garden

Linda Zamojcin in loving memory of Thomas Zamojcin

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 3

Patient Allison Main celebrates the season with her mom, Dale Main.

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CSHL: 125 Years Fighting Cancer on Long IslandFounded in 1890, Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory (CSHL) has been at the forefront of cancer biology and genetics for most of its 125-year history. From the beginning, the financial support and friendship of local partners has enabled CSHL to perform innovative cancer research. Today, with friends like the Don Monti Memorial Research Foundation, CSHL is one of the nation’s top National Cancer Institute-designated Cancer Centers, developing new ways to diagnose and treat even the most intractable cancers. All here in your backyard on Long Island!

FROM THE VERY BEGINNINGIn the earliest days of CSHL, scientists developed the first strains of mice with increased susceptibility or resistance to cancer. This technology became the basis of the mouse models on which modern cancer research depends.

From the 1930s to 1950s, cancer research at CSHL could be found in an unexpected place: the plant biology labs. Dr. Barbara McClintock’s Nobel-Prize winning discovery of “jumping genes” later helped explain the genetic changes in diseases like leukemia.

After winning the Nobel Prize in 1963, Dr. Watson became Director of CSHL, where he initiated research that brought CSHL to the front lines of contemporary cancer research. In 1972, the Laboratory received its first cancer grant from the National Institutes of Health. CSHL was designated a National Cancer Institute Cancer Center in 1987.

THE NEXT CENTURYThe 21st century heralded the genomics era, bringing new understanding of the genetic changes that cause cancer. CSHL scientists are now developing a technique called single-cell sequencing that will produce inexpensive, noninvasive cancer diagnostics to detect cancerous cells in ordinary blood samples. Other technologies from CSHL can shut off any gene in the genome – a boon in developing new cancer drugs.

Seizing on these revolutionary developments, CSHL President and Cancer Center Director Dr. Bruce Stillman charted a new course called the Cancer Therapeutics Initiative (CTI). The goal: informing the development of improved cancer diagnostic and therapeutic strategies. Funded primarily through philanthropy from foundations and private individuals, including the Don Monti Memorial Research Foundation, the initiative integrates the genetics of cancer with cutting-edge tools to bring the best drugs to the clinic faster.

CLINICAL TRIALS TODAYThe CTI has several clinical trials underway, with more to come. CSHL is already producing promising results for the next generation of cancer therapies – ones that will work against even the most intractable forms of the disease. These therapies are not only more effective, but are also highly targeted, with fewer unwanted side effects.

“There’s no longer a need for drug development to be a shot in the dark. We are drawing bull’s-eyes for drug discovery,” says Dr. Chris Vakoc.

Dr. Vakoc’s work has identified several promising leukemia targets – one of which brought a drug inhibitor to clinical trials. He has teamed up with Dr. Stillman to study another strong leukemia drug target. This effort builds on previous work from Dr. Stillman’s lab, which uncovered a gene that is required for colon and breast cancer progression. Together, Drs. Vakoc and Stillman have demonstrated in pre-clinical studies that inhibition of this gene is also very effective in treating a lethal form of leukemia.

The CTI’s success is grounded in basic molecular biology and genetics –

the core of CSHL’s history of scientific advancement. Dr. Nicholas Tonks discovered an entirely new class of enzymes that work to regulate how cells respond to their external environment. One particular member of this new class is involved in insulin response, but Dr. Tonks found that it also plays a role in breast cancer, particularly a subset of breast cancers that express the cancer-causing gene HER-2. Following up on this basic research, Dr. Tonks has identified a drug that inhibits the enzyme and has shown in pre-clinical studies that it blocks breast cancer metastasis. CSHL is now partnered with North Shore-LIJ Cancer Center to test this new HER-2-positive metastatic breast cancer treatment.

“The ability of CSHL researchers to develop novel technologies that drive bold programs like the CTI demonstrates the power of private philanthropy,” says Dr. Stillman. “Thanks to continued support from The Don Monti Memorial Research Foundation, CSHL’s basic research programs are yielding advances that impact patients in the clinic.”

CSHL Professor Nick Tonks is working on a breast cancer drug with North Shore-LIJ.

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TLet’s Trick Cancer

Ten-year-old Michael Fuentes has always been interested in magic, and as luck would have it, he happened to receive a magic kit for his birthday on July 30, 2014. After mastering several of the more difficult tricks, Michael took to the local beach to perform. As his skills grew, he found that his audience was so appreciative that they started tipping him for his performances. Having accumulated a fair amount of money, Michael wondered how he could use it to help people.

Michael was inspired to help find a cure for cancer in two significant ways: the Fuentes family has, in recent years, lost two close friends to cancer; and Michael’s aunt, Eileen Fitzgerald-McGrath, RN, has been an Oncology Nurse in the Don Monti Division of Oncology Bone Marrow Transplant Unit for many years. Eileen’s dedication to her patients is very much a part of who she is, so it is only natural that her family is well acquainted with her work. Michael decided that he would donate all of the proceeds from his magic tricks to the Don Monti Memorial Research Foundation, so that he could directly help fund patient care, research and education – all of which will help to find a cure one day.

Not to be outdone by their older brother, 8-year-old Catherine and 6-year-old Mario, Jr. decided to join the fundraising effort by selling their handcrafted bracelets on the beach as well.

On the morning of November 21, 2014, Michael, Catherine and Mario came to visit the Don Monti Foundation office before school with their parents, Tara and Mario Fuentes Sr., as well as their aunt Eileen and cousin, Caroline McGrath. Thirteen-year-old Caroline has also joined the family’s fight against cancer by donating her beautiful hair to make wigs for children who have lost their own hair during chemotherapy.

After formally presenting their donation to foundation president Caroline Monti Saladino and chairman Arthur Saladino, the family had the opportunity to tour the Joseph and Tita Monti Research Center at the Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory. Watson School of Biological Science graduate student, Anja Hohmann, was happy to explain her leukemia research to the group. Anja showed the children some of the equipment she uses and demonstrated how cells can change in different environments.

It was a truly heartwarming visit for all present, as the children had the opportunity to see how their hard-earned dollars will be utilized, and the adults were able to witness the spark of enthusiasm come alive in young hearts and minds. We are most grateful to the Fitzgerald-McGrath and Fuentes families for their dedication to our mission.

Anja Hohmann describes her

research to the group.

Eileen Fitzgerald McGrath, RN; Arthur Saladino; Caroline McGrath; Caroline Monti Saladino; Tara Fuentes; Mario Fuentes Sr.; Michael Fuentes; Catherine Fuentes; Mario Fuentes Jr.

Cousins Caroline McGrath and Michael, Catherine and Mario Fuentes with Caroline Monti Saladino.

Caroline McGrath shows Caroline Monti Saladino her before and after likenesses.

Don Monti Cancer Survivors DayWe are thrilled to share the wonderful news of the naming of Don Monti Cancer Survivors Day, to be held

Saturday June 6, 2015 at the North Shore-LIJ Cancer Institute at the Center for Advanced Medicine. The event is an uplifting celebration of life, with cancer survivors coming together to share their experiences and their strength

with one another. Dancing, lunch and a special guest speaker will round out the festivities.

www.donmontifoundation.org 7

HScotty’s WalkHeritage Park in Mount Sinai was once again the beautiful setting for Scotty’s Walk, held on September 13, 2014. The annual walk honors the life of Scott Bua, who lost his battle with leukemia on August 17, 2011, at age 37. The walk was organized by Scott’s parents, Judi and Rich Bua, and their dear friends, Kathy Rayfield, Lauren Cona and Geanine Palmer.

The day was a beautiful tribute to Scott, with so many of his friends and family coming together in his memory. Scotty’s family wanted all of the money raised from the event to go directly toward patient care, research and education through the Don Monti Memorial Research Foundation’s many programs on Long Island. We are grateful for their continued support for our mission.

EVENT SPONSOR - $20,000• Two foursomes, including golf, brunch,

barbecue and cocktail hour/dinner• One tee sign and one flag pin flag• Recognition on the website• Recognition in event program

DINNER SPONSOR - $10,000• One foursome, including golf, brunch,

barbecue and cocktail hour/dinner• Four additional dinner reservations• One tee sign• Recognition on the website• Signage at dinner• Recognition in event program

COCKTAIL HOUR SPONSOR - $7,500• One foursome, including golf, brunch,

barbecue and cocktail hour/dinner

• Four additional dinner reservations• One tee sign• Recognition on the website• Signage at cocktail hour• Recognition in event program

BRUNCH SPONSOR - $7,500• One foursome, including golf, brunch,

barbecue and cocktail hour/dinner• One tee sign• Recognition on the website• Signage at brunch• Recognition in event program

EAGLE - $5,000• One foursome, including golf, brunch,

barbecue and cocktail hour/dinner• One tee sign• Recognition on the website• Recognition in event program

INDIVIDUAL FOURSOME - $3,000• One foursome, including golf, brunch,

barbecue and cocktail hour/dinner

PATIO BARBECUE SPONSOR - $2,500

GOLF CART SPONSOR - $2,000

DRIVING RANGE SPONSOR - $2,000

PUTTING GREEN SPONSOR - $2,000

INDIVIDUAL - $750• One golf entry, including golf, brunch,

barbecue and cocktail hour/dinner

TEE SIGN - $1,000

COCKTAIL HOUR/DINNER ONLY - $250

SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES

The Don Monti Memorial Research Foundation Inaugural Golf EventMonday, May 11, 2015 • Old Westbury Golf & Country Club

Volunteers manning the registration booth.

The 4th Annual Scotty’s Walk kicks off at Heritage Park.Kathy Rayfield, Caroline Monti Saladino, Richard & Judi Bua, Lauren Cona, Geanine Palmer.

Please call (516)367-5036 for more information

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Don Monti October 11, 1955 – June 21, 1972

FOUNDER & FORMER PRESIDENTTita Scandalis Monti, FFSC

FORMER CHAIRMAN OF THE BOARDJoseph R. Monti, BFSC, KM

PRESIDENTCaroline Monti Saladino

CHAIRMEN OF THE BOARDRichard D. Monti Arthur J. Saladino

EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT TO THE PRESIDENTJackie Lomtevas

EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENTSMatt DeGiaimoDanielle & Joseph Faria, Esq.Michele & Robert Fitzsimmons Anna & Stephen Gevinski Pat & Edward Travaglianti

ADVISORY BOARDLori Attivissimo, MDRuthee-Lu Bayer, MD Alessandro Bellucci, MDDavid Bernstein, MDHoward & Margaret Cuomo Maier, MDJane & Michael G. Norman, CPAGeorge Raptis, MDJoan & David J. Steinberg, PhDBruce Stillman, PhDNadya Swedan, MDVincent Vinciguerra, MDGary Wadler, MDJames D. Watson, PhD

BOARD OF DIRECTORSSylvia & Robert Aiello Donna & Frank AndreaChristine & David Boccia Judi & Richard BuaBunny Burns

Melanie & Robert Cassandro Gwen & John CooleenJanine DionCaroline B. FariaDebora & David Feinblatt Christina & Carmine A. Fiore Katy & Marc Goodrich Fran & Alan Gorman, DDSNiki & Joe GregoryJoann & Alex Hatsis, MD Stuart HayimSusan & Robert JohnsonCarmela & Jack KellyMadelyn & Carl Lombardi Terry LynamValerie & Dan MartinMary-Lynn & Timothy McDevitt Victoria & Edward Meagher Donald MontiErin Monti Karen Orzel Bro. Edmond Precourt, FSC Randi Monti PuccioKathy Rayfield Sarah & Joseph Saladino Melissa & Don SaladinoAnthony ScottoChristine & Denis Sheahan Lori & Robert Soviero Shannon & Wally SzczerbiakDonna Monti TrinkoGeorge Tsunis Kenneth Villani, R.Ph.

HONORARY BOARD OF DIRECTORSHon. Mario M. & Matilda R. CuomoThomas J. Degnan, MDDennis DowlingJohn S. T. GallagherMsgr. Thomas HartmanJoan Klocke, RN, MSN, OCNElla & Bernard V. Strianese

The Don Monti Memorial Research Foundation

For more information, visitwww.donmontifoundation.org3

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Who's Who

Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory One Bungtown Rd. Cold Spring Harbor, NY 11724

Donate online at www.donmontifoundation.org

Howard Maier

Howard Maier is President of Maier Ventures, a Long Island based marketing company, and creator of the Yoga Zone television series and videos. Prior to establishing Maier Ventures, Howard was President of The Maier Group, which he sold to Time-Warner. The Maier Group was the leading marketer of exercise videos in the United States, and was widely known for its “Buns of Steel” exercise video series.

Prior to his entrepreneurial years, Howard was in senior marketing positions at Clairol, Inc. and Alberto-Culver.

Howard devotes significant time and effort to charitable organizations. In 1994, he established the Maier Foundation, a nonprofit organization that provides grants to charities including cancer care, special education and Holocaust education. Howard was Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Holocaust Memorial and Tolerance Center of Nassau County from 2004-2012 and currently serves on its Executive Committee. He transformed the Center to fight discrimination and intolerance today. Under his leadership, the Center provides tolerance and anti-bullying workshops to students throughout Long Island and added a program for police officers, “Law Enforcement and Society.”

Howard has been a Trustee of North Shore Long Island Jewish Health System, Vice Chairman of Gilda’s Club Worldwide Cancer Organization, and is a member of the Advisory Board of The Don Monti Memorial Research Foundation. As a dedicated member of our Board, he has taken on the leadership role as Chairman of the Inaugural Golf Outing. Howard’s dedication to our common mission helps to ease the burden of Long Islanders living with cancer. We are most grateful for his commitment to our cause.

Howard and his wife, Dr. Margaret Cuomo Maier, reside on Long Island and have five children and two grandchildren.

Save the Dates

Inaugural Golf EventMonday, May 11, 2015Old Westbury Golf & Country ClubHoward Maier, Chairman

44th Anniversary Ball of the YearNovember 14, 2015Crest Hollow Country ClubWoodbury, NY