'Toast to Dennis' Fundraiser Set for Rumson

Known for its annual Run with Dennis, the Lt. Dennis W. Zilinski II Memorial Fund will host its fourth annual Toast to Dennis from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m., Sept. 8 at the riverfront home of Kim and Ron Jaeger in Rumson. 

“This year, guests can take part in live and silent auctions," said Marion Zilinski, mother of Dennis and co-founder of the fund. "We will also have an exciting reverse auction of two companion dogs for veterans, which will benefit K-9s for Warriors. I’m delighted to announce that we have a very special auctioneer: Big Joe Henry of  New Jersey 101.5.”  

The donations raised by the event will benefit the Lt. Dennis W. Zilinski II Memorial Fund. The fund was created and founded in 2006 to honor local resident First Lt. Dennis W. Zilinski II, Army, who was killed in action while deployed in Iraq on Nov. 19, 2005.

Former White House Chef John Grifo is participating for the fourth year and will prepare an extensive tasting menu with an array of fresh seafood and hors d' oeuvres. Grifo has been honored as one of southern New Jersey's top 25 chefs by Atlantic City magazine.

Sponsorships and contributions are still available for the live and silent auctions. Additional volunteers also are still welcome. 

Contact Christine Burke Eskwitt at 732-688-8079 or cburkeassociates@comcast.net, for reservations or more information.  Tickets are $125 per person.  Valet parking will be provided. 

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