Strike 3 Foundation

The Strike 3 Foundation heightens awareness, mobilizes support, and raises funding for childhood cancer research.

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Third Annual First Pitch Celebrity Gala, Nov. 13, 2010

Strke 3 Foundation logoThird Annual · November 13, 2010 · Stamford, CT

Over 450 people converged on the Stamford Hilton Hotel in support of the Strike 3 Foundation's First Pitch Celebrity Gala. Major League Pitcher Craig Breslow was joined by celebrities: Andrew Bailey, Boof Bonser, Rajai Davis, Vin Mazzaro, Kevin Slowey, Howard Finkel, Seargant Slaughter, Suzyn Waldman, and Ed Randall at a gala hosted by Bobby Valentine and Karl Ravech. Sister Hazel provided musical entertainment for the evening, and Andre Norma served as the keynote speaker. The event raised $210,000 and invaluable awareness for local pediatric cancer research and treatment centers, including a 5 year pledge to Yale New Haven Children's Hospital as a founding sponsor of the region's first pediatric bone marrow transplantation program.

ESPN's Baseball Tonight Anchor Karl Ravech called the night "rewarding and inspiring."

Twelve-year-old Daniel Trainor received the Isaias Valentin Award for Courage. Trainor, diagnosed with brain tumors 3 years ago, has endured over 12 brain surgeries and had this to say: "The First Pitch Gala was an awesome evening that I will never forget. I want to thank the Strike 3 Foundation and Yale Childrens Hospital for the award I received. A special thanks to Craig Breslow and all his efforts to raise so much money for pediatric cancer. It means a lot to me and all of the other kids and families who are dealing with this disease."

Steve Montovano was honored with an Outstanding Service Award. Montovano said, "Receiving the Outstanding Service Award was not only a surprise and honor but more importantly reflects the gratitude of Craig, Joe and the entire Strike 3 Foundation of my efforts. Although I try to remain anonymous in these efforts, receiving this award and the gratitude it came with will remain with me the rest of my life."

Strike 3 Founder Craig Breslow had this to say about the evening "2010 has been a year marked by tremendous progress, and I think we saw the culmination of that growth tonight; 450 people, $210,000, both doubling last year's figures. We may have outsized many of the banquet facilities in the area, but that's a good problem to have." Chief Operator Joe Lizza added "The night can be viewed as nothing other than a complete success. Thanks to the generosity of many people, we will be able to fulfill our pledge of $100,000 to Yale Children's Hospital as well as award satellite grants for the first time. I can't wait to head into the office on Monday and try to figure out what we can do for next year."

An extended cocktail reception highlighted by appetizers from Kona Grill, Wilson's BBQ, and Saugatuck Kitchens, and a wine tasting presented by Dovalle presented the backdrop to an extensive auction list that included a trip to Maui, front row Elton John concert tickets, a Chanel watch, and tickets to the Yankees vs Red Sox at Fenway Park, including field passes and name in lights. Dessert represented another grand display, featuring a cake from Carlo's Bakery, gourmet coffee from North Star Fine Coffees, sundae bar, and fried treats.

Humility and generosity were pervasive themes; first time Gala attendee Kevin Kulinowski challenged the crowd to match his $2,000 pledge resulting in an additional $12,000 in revenue, and topping the $210,000 mark. Pharmaceutical company Aptuit CEO Tim Tyson spoke to the importance of development and research in cancer treating drugs, and Andre Norman, former felon, captivated the audience with his coming of age story.

Presenting sponsor Diamond Elite joined Texas Liquids, Manfredi Jewels, Aptuit, Playstation, E*Trade, and Moffly Media in helping create the most profitable night in Strike 3 history.

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Mission Statement

The Strike 3 Foundation heightens awareness, mobilizes support, and raises funding for childhood cancer research.

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Strike 3 Foundation
PO Box 191
Monroe, CT 06468

(203) 724-1067

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