DRIfocus Newsletter Winter 2014

Diabetes Research Institute Foundation

DRIfocus

Winter 2014 / Volume 41 / Issue 1

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SUPPORT FOR THE DRI BIOHUB SWELLS WITH RECENT GIFTS TOTALING MORE THAN $4 MILLION Leading with vision and passionate commitment, Camillo Ricordi, M.D., director of the Diabetes Research Institute, has devoted his life’s work toward finding a cure for diabetes. Acknowledged by his peers as one of the world's top scientists in cure-focused diabetes research and cell transplantation, Dr. Ricordi is wellknown for inventing the machine that makes islet transplantation possible.

becoming the newly-appointed president of the Ri.MED Fondazione in Palermo, Italy.

“After attending the presidential installation board meeting for the Ri.MED Foundation, I am happy to report that I will be donating my compensation as president to the DRI Foundation,” said Dr. Ricordi, whose gift is the total of the honorarium he will receive for serving in this position over the next five years (read Ri.MED article pg 11).

Today, Dr. Ricordi and his team at the DRI, together with partners around the world that are part Dr. Camillo Ricordi, who was recently appointed of the DRI Federation, are combining a multi- president of the Ri.MED Fondzione, made a tremendous disciplinary approach to create a DRI BioHub, financial contribution to support the research.

Cover Story Continued on Page 9 an integrated mini organ that mimics the native pancreas and restores natural insulin production in diabetes patients. Dr. Ricordi DRI FOUNDATION APPOINTS anticipates some pilot clinical trials to begin JOSHUA REDNIK PRESIDENT AND CEO in 2014 and states, “We are putting the pieces Effective January 6, 2014, Joshua Rednik has been appointed president of the puzzle together to replace the pancreas.” and CEO of the Diabetes Research Institute Foundation. Josh brings to Throughout his tenure, he has personally the organization 17 years of experience in the non-profit sector managing contributed more than $1 million to support organizations and developing and executing multi-million dollar the DRI’s research program and just recently fundraising campaigns.

Continued on Page 2 pledged another $500,000 as a result of

Celebrating Extraordinary Leaders and Milestone Events

The NY Real Estate Division celebrated 30 years at the Empire Ball, honoring Jay Badame, Andrew Cooke and Joseph “Dee”Dussich.

At the 40th Anniversary Love and Hope Ball, we will honor Life Chairman Sonja Zuckerman and Dr. Camillo Ricordi, plus enjoy an exclusive concert by Barry Gibb.

Two remarkable families join forces for one goal – to find a cure for their sons. The Heat’s Ray Allen, his wife, Shannon, and family team up with the Holtz family to host two amazing events in January.

Celebrating its 15th Anniversary, Fall Into Fashion featured a runway show by Donna Karan New York of Americana Manhasset.

> Photos on page 6-7

> Article on page 16

> Article on page 16

> Article on page 19

A Message

from the Chairman Dear Friends, One of the truly remarkable aspects of the Diabetes Research Institute and Foundation is the unequalled passion to cure diabetes that is palpable throughout every level of the organization. As the chairman of the DRIF and a father of a son with type 1 diabetes, I’m humbled by the extraordinary dedication to this mission on the part of our scientists, staff and lay leadership, whose history of commitment continues to fuel our progress.

Throughout this past year, we shared our excitement about developing the DRI BioHub. Those of us who have the opportunity to see the the progress firsthand have never witnessed such promise. So with anticipation and opportunity knocking at our door, we knew that now was the time to increase the investment in the science and give our researchers everything they need to move this initiative along quickly.

But that’s what leaders do; they set the example for others to follow. In our world, that means giving of our time and financial resources to help us reach our goal of a cure for our loved ones and yours.

As you read in the cover story, the Foundation’s leadership has answered the call and the response has been nothing short of exceptional with recent gifts totaling almost $4.0 million. The level of support from them and many other generous contributors will help keep our cure-focused research on track and moving forward without delay. I want to personally thank these donors who joined with my wife, Kelly, and me to support the DRI’s program: the Inserra Family, Joan and Bill Fishlinger, Paola and Piero Gandini, Gisela and Glenn Kleiman, Dr. Camillo Ricordi, and the Stacy Joy Goodman Memorial Foundation.

I hope that these actions will inspire others to follow with gifts both large and small, as well as with voluntary service that can help raise the level of funding needed to reach our final goal.

Another person who I know is going to help us get there is Joshua Rednik.

He has been appointed as our new president and CEO and is truly an impressive individual. Josh has a strong background in fundraising and organizational management, and we are excited for him to join us at such a promising time.

From the major donors receiving Cycle of Discovery awards, to the thousands of men and women of the Building Trades, to our spirited Diabetes Diplomats undertaking myriad projects and to the countless individuals and companies coordinating and supporting our events, many are stepping to the plate to help the DRI and you have our deepest gratitude.

We look forward to sharing more news of progress in the year to come.

As we enter 2014, we will continue to count on all of you as we work together to ensure a future free from diabetes for every child and adult living with this disease.

Sincerely,

Harold G. Doran, Jr. Chairman of the Board

DRI FOUNDATION APPOINTS JOSHUA REDNIK PRESIDENT AND CEO Josh recently served for nearly six years as executive director of The Jewish Community Foundation (JCF) of Greater MetroWest in Whippany, NJ. During his tenure, he and his team created and implemented the JCF’s $100 million “MetroWest Tomorrow” endowment campaign, which exceeded its goal less than two years after its public launch. Josh’s leadership of the organization also resulted in increased funding over goal for its most recent fiscal year, enhanced lay leadership and donor engagement, and decreased expenses.

In his new role with the DRIF, Josh will focus on cultivating major corporations, foundations and affluent individuals with the goal of raising the significant funds needed to fulfill its mission to cure diabetes. Josh comes to the DRIF almost a year after the public launch of the DRI BioHub mini organ and the fundraising campaign that seeks to raise more than $94 million for this initiative over five years.

“What the DRI and the DRI Foundation have achieved thus far is both compelling and inspiring. Having said that, I recognize that there is

important work still to be done before we find a cure for diabetes. I look forward to building upon that progress by helping to fund the research required to cure diabetes now, and I am honored to be joining such a special organization,” said Josh.

Prior to becoming executive director of the JCF in 2008, Josh, 40, held senior leadership roles of increasing responsibility within the planned giving and endowment divisions of UJA-Federation of New York and The Jewish Federation of Greater Washington (Rockville, MD), where he began his career as Campaign Associate.

Josh graduated from Washington University in St. Louis with a bachelor’s degree in psychology and pursued his master’s degree in social service at Bryn Mawr College, Bryn Mawr, PA. He received an executive certificate in financial planning from Georgetown University in Washington, D.C., and is a Certified Financial Planner™ professional. He resides in South Orange, NJ, with his wife and two children.

NEW OFFICERS AND OTHER NEWS ON THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS The Diabetes Research Institute Foundation is pleased to announce the appointment of three new officers to its National and Northeast Boards, plus an exciting video debut, featuring the important work of the DRI and Foundation, and starring one of our own.

3 1 2 4 National Board member Bonnie Inserra now serves in the position of secretary.

She is the executive director and benefactor of the Inserra Family Foundation.

She serves on the boards of the Hackensack University Medical Center Foundation and Tomorrow’s Children, as well as on the Advisory Board of Columbia Presbyterian Babies Hospital 1. Bonnie Inserra, 2. Marc S. Goldfarb, 3. Bruce A. Siegel, 4. Glenn Kleiman for Hope and Heroes. She has received numerous honors for her tireless support of several worthy organizations. A resident of Mahwah, NJ, Bonnie is Bruce is executive vice president and general counsel for First Long actively involved in many of the DRIF’s events from New York to Florida Island Investors, LLC (FLI), which is celebrating its 30th anniversary as a wealth management company in Jericho, NY. He also serves as and serves as a co-chair for NYC’s D.R.E.a.M.S. in the city fundraiser. a member of FLI’s Investment Committee and has worked for the A staunch advocate for medical research, Bonnie is especially knowlcompany since 1989. His responsibilities include wealth management, edgeable of diabetes and cancer. Her son, Lawrence, is a 20-year cancer estate planning, insurance evaluation and acquisition, and real estate survivor. Her daughter, Lindsey, was diagnosed with a difficult-to-manage advisory services. He began his career as an attorney with the U.S. form of type 1 diabetes at age 11 and was the first child in the world to Securities and Exchange Commission. He worked in private practice use the Mini Med Intra-Peritoneal Implanted Pump. Just recently, with a New York City law firm, was assistant general counsel for a public Bonnie experienced one her proudest moments as she watched her company, and managed the Partnership Review Group for Merrill Lynch daughter walk down the aisle for her wedding.

Pierce Fenner and Smith. Bruce was a senior vice president of W.P. Stewart As appointed by National Board Chairman Harold Doran, Co-chairs Marc Asset Management (N.A.) from 1998 to 2003.

S. Goldfarb and Bruce A. Siegel are leading the newly-consolidated Bruce previously served on the Foundation’s Long Island Region Board Northeast Region, which is focused on raising the funds necessary and as a member of its Executive Committee, as well as a member of to move the DRI BioHub forward. These gentlemen are passionately the organization’s National Planned Giving Committee. Prior to that, committed to the cause and will stop at nothing to find a cure for their he served as a volunteer for more than 20 years for JDRF. He graduated daughters, Brooke Goldfarb and Sara Siegel, who both have type 1 diabetes. from Cornell University in 1970 and received a J.D. degree from New York Marc currently serves as senior legal advisor to Kid Brands, Inc. (f/k/a University Law School in 1974. He was admitted to the New York State Russ Berrie & Company), a NYSE-listed manufacturer of infant and Bar in 1975. juvenile products. He formerly served as its senior vice president, general Special thanks are extended to William J. Fishlinger and Marc S. Goodman counsel and corporate secretary. Prior to that, he was vice president, for co-chairing the Northeast Region during the consolidation. general counsel and corporate secretary of Journal Register Company, a NYSE-listed newspaper publishing company, managing In other exciting news, National Board member Glenn Kleiman is the director and general counsel of The Vertical Group, an international spokesperson for a recently-released video highlighting our singular private equity firm, and a partner with a New York City law firm. A mission of finding a cure. The DRI Foundation was selected to participate graduate of Cornell University, Marc also received a J.D. degree from the in the Giving Library, an online tool created by Laura and John Arnold that highlights charitable organizations through a collection of videos.

University of Pennsylvania Law School.

Glenn delivers powerful and heartfelt narration in concert with footage Marc has served on the DRIF’s Northeast Region Board of Directors since from the labs and photos of people with diabetes, including his daughter, 2006 and as a member of its Executive Committee since 2012. He has Alison and his brother, Gary. Once you watch it, we hope you’ll share it! also served as co-chair and a member of the event committee for the View it here: DiabetesResearch.org/Giving-Library organization’s Carnival for a Cure event since 2006 and the 2008 Northeast Research Update.

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HERITAGE SOCIETY MEMBER MARK HARITON LEAVES A LEGACY WITH A BEQUEST

Mark Hariton, who established a bequest to benefit the DRI, lives by the mantra, “Worse than dying is dying without ever having lived.”

Mark Hariton was aware of the Diabetes Research Institute and Foundation, having been on the mailing list and receiving the DRI Focus newsletter, for over 10 years before taking action. But when the time came to plan his estate, Mark knew he wanted to include the DRI. He established a bequest to benefit the Diabetes Research Institute Foundation in his trust.

Mark said, “Of all the diabetes organizations, I chose the Diabetes Research Institute because most of the funds go toward what the gift is intended for—a cure.”

Mark is eager for a cure for diabetes because so many in his family have suffered from it. Mark was diagnosed with type 2 diabetes 40 years ago, just one day before he planned to leave to Mexico for vacation. Mark felt awful that morning and decided to get himself checked out. To his surprise, the doctor reported that his blood sugar level was over 400 and that he need to take action immediately. A lover of travel, Mark decided to go ahead with his trip and take his doctor’s nutrition booklet and a food scale along with him.

Mark says, “I wouldn’t want diabetes if I had the choice, but I’ve made it a positive part of my life. With diabetes, I am forced to recognize that my health is determined by me.”

Mark lost over 60 pounds after his diagnosis and has kept the weight off ever since with a vegetarian diet, occasionally including fish. He also controls his diabetes with medication and exercise. Mark is very diligent about managing his diabetes. His wife, Maria Teresa, a retired nurse, is exceptionally proactive about living a healthy lifestyle and helps him stay on track.

Mark and Maria recently took a tour of the Diabetes Research Institute.

“What we enjoyed most was seeing how dedicated everyone is to finding a cure,” Mark said. “The researchers’ attitudes were wonderful, and the tour was very informative.” Having worked as a registered nurse in Colombia, Maria was especially intrigued by all aspects of the research.

Mark and Maria now live on the beach in Fort Lauderdale with their dachshund, Rudy. Mark still travels, and he enjoys reading and investing.

What he is most proud of is the time he spends with the children he mentors. A graduate of Columbia University’s Teachers College, Mark taught social studies for nine years before developing a successful addressing system business. In his retirement, he has returned to school to mentor two children at Bennett Elementary and two children at Tropical Elementary through the Mental Health Association of Southeast Florida. Mark is also involved with Big Brothers Big Sisters, where he serves as a Big Brother to a young boy named Trevyon, and he loves every minute of it. Mark has incorporated healthy eating tips into his mentoring to steer the children away from developing type 2 diabetes in the future.

Mark’s retirement has allowed him to think about what life is all about.

Now 72 years old, he hopes to live the rest of his life fully by staying healthy and giving back. Mark sees giving as an embodiment of living, and one of his favorite lines is, “Worse than dying is dying without ever having lived.”

Having included the Diabetes Research Institute in his estate plans, Mark has been recognized along with others who have made similar commitments as a member of the DRI Heritage Society. The DRI Foundation is deeply grateful to Mark for his generous support.

For more information on including the Diabetes Research Institute in your will or trust, or becoming a member of the DRI Heritage Society, please contact Jill Shapiro Miller at (800) 321-3437 or jshapiro@drif.org.

THE SIMPLEST WAY TO GIVE Because of its ease and convenience, a bequest is the most prevalent way donors include the DRI Foundation in their estate plans. You can specify a dollar amount or a percentage of your estate as a bequest, or you may direct assets remaining after your loved ones have been provided for to the DRI Foundation. Tangible property such as a home or jewelry can also be gifted through a bequest.

If you decide to provide for the DRI Foundation in your will or through another planned giving vehicle, we would like to recognize your generosity. Upon notification of your intention to the Foundation,

you will be named as a member of the Diabetes Research Institute Heritage Society—a growing group of caring individuals with the foresight and vision to provide for generations to come. Heritage Society members are permanently recognized on a designated wall of honor at the DRI and are presented with a special award.

Remember, the future of those you care about most is a reflection of the plans you make today. We hope you will consider making the Diabetes Research Institute Foundation part of those plans.

BE THE HERO AT ANY STAGE OF LIFE! Diabetes Diplomats are a league of students, teachers, parents, grandparents and other family members and friends who are taking the search for a cure into their own hands. They come from all over the world and serve as advocates, educators and event fundraisers in their schools, neighborhoods and online. Some have diabetes. Some don’t. But they have all decided to “Be the Hero” by helping to find a cure for this disease that affects nearly 26 million children and adults in the U.S. alone.

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Ethan and Olivia have witnessed philanthropic passion in action for all of their lives. Ever since their father, Ben Hatz, was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes in 1985, their grandparents, Jon and Barbara Hatz, have been raising funds and awareness for a cure, and Barbara serves on the NE Region Board, as well as the Executive Committee. This summer the youngsters decided to join the ranks of Diabetes Diplomats – or heroes, as we like to call them! They made Rainbow Loom bracelets and sold them, along with lemonade, with the help of family in front of their home in Jericho, NY. Great job, Ethan and Olivia!

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A college student with type 1 diabetes, Jordan Finn, founder and CEO of InFinnity Promotions, teamed up with a colleague, Lance Sanders of Full Circle, to organize a competition showcase for hip-hop artists.

Approximately 100 people attended the unique fundraiser, which was held at Tipsy Teapot in Greenville, NC. The winner? Sunny Da Man..and the DRI!

When Sandy Shapin learned that her grandson, Declan, was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes, she vowed to do something about it. A resident of a South Florida retirement community, she took a tour of the DRI and decided to hold a fundraiser in her friend's home to support its cure-focused work. Sandy’s son, Kevin, and his family traveled from Chicago, IL, to Boynton Beach, FL, to attend the event, which featured food, drinks, raffles, casino games and a silent auction. The nearly 200 guests in attendance made donations as did others who could not be present. In total, Grandma Sandy raised more than $6,000!

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Rebecca Madan Kollaras is a PR professional who personally blogs as Uncommom. She has lived with type 1 diabetes for 38 years and eagerly continues to find ways to support the DRI in hopes of eliminating the disease not only for herself, but also for the son of one of her closest friends. Before her birthday came this year, she created a fundraising page at DiabetesResearch.org/DiabetesDiplomats and asked her friends and family members to make a donation to the DRI in lieu of gifts. She smashed her goal of raising $1,500 by surpassing the $2,000 mark.

It’s plain to see that whether you are a child, a college student, a professional or a retiree, when you create a fundraiser for the Diabetes Research Institute, you will Be the Hero to everyone who is hoping for a cure. Please don’t hesitate. Email Tom Karlya at tkarlya@drif.org today to get started! You’re never too old or too young to join the Diabetes Diplomats!

1) Olivia, Ben, Jen and Ethan Hatz, 2) Jordan Finn and Lance Sanders, 3) On a tour of the DRI, Ethan, Sandy (in the background), Declan and Kevin learn from a DRI researcher (not pictured Leah and Jerry), 4) Rebecca and Zoe Kollaras 5 |

FOUNDATION DONORS RECOGNIZED Awards from the DRI Foundation’s Cycle of Discovery series were presented to donors who recently made major gifts. The award program corresponds with the Foundation’s cumulative giving designations. Awards were presented individually, at Foundation events and at the Empire Ball Kickoff held at The Durst Organization in New York City.

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DONOR LEVEL Visionaries Chairman’s Council Leadership Council Governors’ Society Distinguished Humanitarians Grand Founders Founders Benefactors

AWARD $10,000,000+ $5,000,000+ $1,000,000+ $500,000+

Innovation Validation Perpetuation Translation

$250,000+ $100,000+ $50,000+ $25,000+

Realization Exploration Hypothesis Query

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EXPLORATION AWARD: George Lewis of Collins Building Services with Joseph “Dee” Dussich, an honoree of the Empire Ball (1), Scott Corneby of Structure Tone (2), Michael Strauss (l) and Richard Laskowski of Vanguard Construction and Development Co., Inc. (3), Mark Varian of John Gallin and Son (4) HYPOTHESIS AWARD: Empire Ball honoree Jay Badame (l) and Frank DeGennaro of Tishman Construction, an AECOM Company accepting two awards (5), Anthony and Rose Vederame of ESS & VEE Acoustical Contractors, Inc./SBA Plumbing Corp. accepting two awards (6).

QUERY AWARD: Tom Amberger (l) and Frank Salerno of Unity International Group (7), Robert and Carrie Baram of Armstrong World Industries (8), Jonathan Bennis of Icon Interiors (9), Leslie Hsu Besner and Willa Besner of Willa’s Wish Foundation with Deborah L. Chodrow DRIF’s chief operating officer (10), Gerry Compton and Scott Stewart of Ware Industries (11), Rick Froio of Atlas-Acon Electric Service Corporation (12), Joseph Nastri of Capital One Commercial Banking Long Island (13),The Spodek Family (Julie, Richard, Jason and Bonnie) of City Lumber with Empire Ball Chairman Peter L. DiCapua (l) and DRIF’s Vice Chairman Charlie Rizzo (r) (14), Brad Vrana of ClarkDietrich Building System (15).

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COVER STORY CONTINUES 1

“I’m hoping that others may possibly match this gift in support of the DRI BioHub,” Dr. Ricordi stated in an email that he sent to National Board Chairman Harold Doran, among others. Without hesitation, Harold and his wife, Kelly, soon after announced that they would gladly match Dr. Ricordi’s contribution.

“When I received Dr. Ricordi’s email indicating that he was going to donate money to further the collaborative research that is being done at the DRI, I was excited and humbled. Excited that since he was willing to make such a financial commitment at this time, the research must be ready to make a quantum leap—which I think it is.” Harold continued, “And humbled that he chose to endow this organization to such a degree financially, when he has already invested 20 years of his time and talent in it. He is not only a world class scientist; he’s a world class guy.”

From there, the wave of good news continued to swell. National Board member Bonnie Inserra and Larry Inserra of Inserra Supermarkets, Inc. and their family announced an extraordinary gift of $2 million.

“In an effort to honor the DRI's accomplishments and their unwavering commitment to a biological cure, our family has followed the generous initiative of Dr. Camillo Ricordi. We will continue to support the DRI's incomparable work to create the DRI BioHub,” stated Bonnie, who serves as secretary of the National Board.

“Each and every time I go into the labs, I learn more about the scientists’ skills, their innovative projects and unique approach to accelerating curefocused research. I leave there more energized with renewed hope and faith, knowing that these brilliant scientists are working for that cure,” said Bonnie, who is often at the Institute accompanying new supporters.

For the Inserra family, their commitment to a cure is deeply personal.

“When our daughter, Lindsey, was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes 18 years ago, our family decided we needed to start searching for a cure.

We looked the world over for the best researchers we could find who wanted to CURE this insidious, merciless disease.” She continued, “When we discovered the DRI, we realized that we had found what we were looking for and even more than we had dared to hope. The passion, collaboration and devotion of every one of the people we met at the DRI were apparent. Nothing was going to stop them from finding a cure.”

Another National Board member, William J. Fishlinger, treasurer, echoed Bonnie’s sentiments.

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“We’ve been supporting the DRI for a long time. Our daughter, Alexandra, was diagnosed at age 6, 20 years ago,” said Bill, who is the chairman and CEO of Wright Risk Management Company, Inc. and WRM Holdings, as well as senior and controlling partner of a New York law firm. Along with his wife, Joan, the couple contributed an additional $250,000 to support this exciting initiative. “In my mind, the DRI BioHub presents the best opportunity for a cure for type 1 diabetes. And as part of the leadership of the DRI Foundation, I think it’s important to show our commitment to the mission.”

Other members of the National Board have increased their support for research, as well.

“My family and I are fully committed to helping the DRI because we know it is the best place to support if you want to find a cure,” stated Piero Gandini of Bovezzo, Italy, who serves as president and CEO of FLOS, an international lighting company known for changing the concept of illumination. He is also the deputy chairman of Sostegno 70, a nonprofit organization headquartered in Milan that provides aid to children and families at the onset of the disease. The Gandinis made a $250,000 gift to fund additional research. “The news about the BioHub is very exciting. It was a natural reaction to make a contribution at this time to support it.”

The father of Chiara, who was diagnosed at 1 and is now 15, Piero explained that families affected by diabetes are very anxious to see an end to this disease, particularly when they feel they have been waiting for a cure for so long. He continued, “All of sudden, something that seemed to be in the clouds before is now something we can really feel on the ground. DRI scientists have one goal—to find a cure for diabetes.

I know when I speak to them that they are committed to that goal… it’s in their eyes and in their voices.”

National Board members Esther and Marc S. Goodman and Ken Shewer, along with his wife Susan Winberg, established the Stacy Joy Goodman Memorial Foundation in 1994 after Marc’s daughter lost her battle with type 1 diabetes at the age of 17. Its mandate is to raise funds to help find a cure, and the DRI is the primary recipient of its funding. Ken, Esther, and Marc have served on the National Board since 1999, and Marc was chairman from 2003-2007. They have been closely watching over the scientific advancements made at the DRI and are more enthusiastic than ever before.

1) Kelly and Harold Doran, National Board chairman (center), generously matched Dr. Ricordi’s gift, 2) The Inserra Family made a $2 million contribution to support the DRI BioHub. Pictured are Bonnie Inserra with her children, Lindsey Inserra-Hughes, John Hughes and Lawrence Inserra, 3) William and Joan Fishlinger, with their children Alexandra Calame and Matthew Fishlinger, are longtime supporters of the DRI, 4) Piero and Paola Gandini of Bovezzo, Italy, want nothing more than a cure for their youngest daughter, Chiara (left), pictured with sisters Elena (center) and Giulia (right), 5) Partners and good friends, Marc and Esther Goodman and Ken Shewer and Susan Winberg created the Stacy Joy Goodman Memorial Foundation, which supports the cure-focused research of the DRI, 6) Glenn Kleiman, whose family has been involved with the DRI since the beginning, continues to support the research, along with his wife, Gisela, and their daughters, Marley and Alison.

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“The science has progressed to a place we only dreamed about years ago,” said Marc, speaking on behalf of the Stacy Joy Goodman Memorial Foundation, which recently made a $250,000 contribution toward the DRI BioHub. “We've always been behind the work of the Diabetes Research Institute, but now more than ever, we truly believe the approach and the groundbreaking strategy behind the BioHub could be the answer we’ve all been waiting for.”

With the leadership of this organization putting their financial support behind this platform, Harold articulated his optimism and thanks.

“I hope their generosity will induce other stakeholders to join us in this campaign as we move to shorten the timeline for the cure. These gifts represent the faith that our board members, who have the vantage point of hearing directly from the scientists, have in the exciting and

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promising science that is going on now at the DRI,” he said.

In response to Harold’s call to action, another National Board member, Glenn Kleiman, made a generous donation to support the research most recently. Along with his wife, Gisela, they will stop at nothing until the DRI finds a cure for their daughter, Alison, as well as Glenn’s brother, Gary Kleiman, DRI’s senior director of medical development.

Glenn summed it up best, “I've never been more optimistic about the DRI's research. Several elements of the BioHub are nearing clinical trials. I'm proud and excited to be a part of this.”

As the momentum continues, hope for a cure is quickly feeling more real than ever before. Join the effort! Learn more at: DiabetesResearch.org/BioHub

YOUNG LAB OBSERVERS Many young people affected by diabetes aspire to make a difference in the lives of others living with it. Some aim to be endocrinologists, diabetes educators and therapists. Others are interested in pursuing cure-focused research to eradicate diabetes forever. To fuel the interest of the latter group, the DRI hosted several young people this past summer who were able to get a firsthand view of the research process in action.

Twin brothers from the Northeast area, Jake and Mike Carrion shadowed Dr. Midhat Abdulreda in the islet physiology program, while Robert Desmond of South Florida observed Dr. Chris Fraker in the bioengineering lab. Charlie Symonds from London learned about biliary tree stem cells following Dr. Giacomo Lanzoni. Side-by-side with the scientists who are actively working toward a cure, the students had eye-opening experiences that will provide an amazing foundation as they move forward with their studies. Pictured (l-r): Charlie, Dr. Luca Inverardi, Jake, John and Debra Carrion, Jenny Symonds, Mike, Dr. Fraker and Robert.

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WITH ALBERTO PUGLIESE, M.D. The immune system serves as our built-in “radar,” continuously scanning the body to determine what is “self” and what is “foreign” and needs to be eliminated. This process of checks and balances is not perfect, and despite many mechanisms of control and regulation, the immune system can make mistakes.

Such mistakes can result in autoimmune diseases in which, like “friendly fire,” our immune system accidentally destroys its own tissues or cells.

To better understand autoimmunity, the process that causes type 1 diabetes, picture a seesaw that you’d find in a playground. On one end is a group of immune system cells, called effector cells, that are responsible for targeting and destroying what is seen as “foreign.” On the other end are regulatory T cells, or T-regs, which control the effector cells and prevent them from attacking the body’s own cells, or “self.” When the two sides are balanced, the immune system works properly.

When there are not enough T-regs, however, a dangerous imbalance occurs. The effector cells, having more “weight,” can take control and mistakenly destroy “self” cells, like the insulin-producing beta cells in the pancreas.

Restoring this balance is key to reversing autoimmunity and it’s the focus of Dr. Alberto Pugliese, head of the DRI’s Immunogenetics Program. For the past several years, he and the DRI’s Dr. Thomas Malek have been studying the role of IL-2 (interleukin 2), a natural substance released by certain types of immune cells.

IL-2 plays a critical role in the function of both effector cells and T-regs. High dose IL-2 has been used in cancer patients as a way to stimulate the effector cells to eliminate the cancer. Dr. Malek’s landmark studies in experimental mice showed that IL-2 also plays a key role in maintaining proper T-reg function, thus preventing autoimmunity.

This past year, Drs. Pugliese and Malek showed that human T-regs are highly sensitive to IL-2 and respond to much lower doses compared to effector and memory immune cells, which need much higher levels of IL-2 to initiate a response. Other researchers also showed that low-dose IL-2 improved T-reg function and was able to reverse autoimmune diabetes in experimental models. These important findings

point to the use of IL-2 itself, at low dose, as a potential therapy for the control of autoimmunity by restoring this critical immunological balance.

Low-dose IL-2 may also play an important role in re-activating a large percentage of beta cells that Dr. Pugliese believes haven’t been destroyed at all, but are just non-functioning.

He further explains this area of research, which is generously funded by the Peacock Foundation and the DRI Foundation, in the following interview.

Q. What is the difference between effector cells and T-reg cells?

A. Effector cells are immune cells that mediate the immune response, often killing or promoting the killing of targeted cells. T-reg cells regulate the function of the immune system and can inhibit the effector cells. They are critical to regulate the immune system and to prevent excessive or unwanted immune responses, such as the ones that can cause an autoimmune disease like type 1 diabetes.

Q. What is IL-2 and how has it been used for other diseases?

A. IL-2 is a natural substance that supports the function of the immune system, promoting the development, survival and function of immune cells, in particular of those called lymphocytes. These include both the effector cells and the Treg cells.

IL-2 has been primarily used in clinical trials in conditions such as cancer and AIDS to boost the immune response against cancer cells or the HIV virus. In that setting it is given at high doses but unfortunately efficacy has been limited.

Q. How will low doses of IL-2 help to rebalance the immune system?

A. We are learning that T-reg cells are very sensitive to IL-2 and can respond to it very effectively even at very low doses. At those low doses, stimulation of effector cells would be minimal, if any. Thus, low dose IL-2 could rebalance the immune system towards a more regulated state, with increased T-reg function and better control of unwanted responses.

Q. Low dose IL-2 has recently been used in clinical trials for type 1 diabetes. What were the results of those studies?

A. Results from the first low dose IL-2 trial conducted in France by Dr. David Klatzmann and his team have been recently reported.

Three different low doses of IL-2 have been given for a short period of time to patients with newly-diagnosed type 1 diabetes, to assess safety and whether IL-2 increased T-reg cells. Overall, there was no evidence of diabetes worsening and at these doses IL-2 was safe with rare side effects, which were never serious.

There was also evidence the T-reg cells increased in several patients. In some, there was evidence that the effector immune responses associated with type 1 diabetes were being inhibited. These results are very promising and we are directly collaborating with Dr. Klatzmann on the study of patients in the trials. For example, together with Dr. Tom Malek, a leading IL-2 expert that co-leads this DRI project, we will examine samples from patients from this first trial to understand better the cellular and molecular changes induced by the treatment, also in relation to how well a patient responded to the therapy.

This will also help identify which patients are more likely to benefit from low dose IL-2 therapy.

Q. How does this research fit into our BioHub approach?

A. The BioHub includes local delivery of medications that can support the function of insulin-producing cells and control the immune system. Low dose IL-2 could be given in this context and, by promoting immune regulation, improve the function, survival of insulin-producing cells in the BioHub. It would also help reduce side effects if it could replace immunosuppressive drugs or reduce their dosage.

Based on current knowledge, IL-2 might be effective without using immunosuppressive drugs, but this remains to be tested.

Q. In a recent Insulin Nation interview, you commented that beta cells are not being entirely destroyed, but rather “switched off.” Can you further explain why you believe this to be the case and why this therapy might be the key?

A. I think that evidence is building up that supports this contention. We have been studying transplant recipients who, after years of normal transplant function, developed diabetes once again because the autoimmune process has been reactivated and now attacks the

AROUND

THE DRI transplanted pancreas, but there is no rejection [Of note: Since these patients are treated with immunosuppressive drugs to prevent rejection, this suggests that anti-rejection drugs do not always prevent or control autoimmunity.]

When we examine the transplanted pancreas, we find that only about 30 percent of the pancreatic islets, the structures that contain the insulin-producing cells, appear affected.

Thus, a large proportion of insulin producing cells are still there and apparently intact.

However, even after specific metabolic tests that stimulate insulin secretion, we observe no or minimal secretory response from these patients. In other words, there are plenty of insulin-producing cells, but they are not functioning.

Moreover, as co-director of the JDRF nPOD (Network for the Pancreatic Organ Donors with Diabetes, JDRFnPOD.org), I am involved in ongoing studies of the pancreas from organ donors with type 1 diabetes. In many of those donors, we are observing the presence of significant numbers of insulin producing cells even many years after disease diagnosis.

Lastly, recent studies have reported that insulin secretion persists in many patients for years after diagnosis. All of the above and other studies not mentioned here point to the chronic nature of the disease process, the potential ability of insulin-producing cells to survive and/or regenerate, both of which suggest a wider therapeutic window for patients with type 1 diabetes.

Typically, most trials have been conducted within 3 months of diagnosis, but based on the above, I suspect that patients may be treated and perhaps recover, at least partially, even years after diagnosis. At the same time, a dysfunctional state may exist, especially at the time of diagnosis that may contribute significantly to the diabetes symptoms besides the actual loss of insulin-producing cells.

Thus, improved regulation of the immune system and therapies that improve the function of insulin-producing cells may be synergistic and afford benefit to patients with type 1 diabetes, hopefully even at later disease stages than previously thought.

RICORDI APPOINTED PRESIDENT OF ITALIAN BIOTECH RESEARCH FOUNDATION DRI Director Camillo Ricordi, M.D., has been appointed president of the Ri.MED Fondazione (Ricerca Mediterranea) in Palermo, Italy. Ri.MED is dedicated to the development of new medical therapies and the rapid translation of innovative results into clinical practice for patients worldwide.

With this prestigious appointment, Dr. Ricordi and the DRI will be able to generate even greater opportunities in the field of cell repair, replacement, regeneration and reprogramming, which are critical to our work in developing a biological cure for diabetes.

The Ri.MED Fondazione was established in 2006 by the Presidency of the Italian Council of Ministers. This international effort is funded by the Italian government, which is one of several partners that also include the Presidency of the Region of Sicily, the Italian National Research Council, the University of Pittsburgh and the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center.

“It is an honor for me to serve as president of Ri.MED Foundation. This will be an important pillar for regenerative medicine and biomedical research in general in Europe and will provide more opportunities for collaboration that will allow us to accelerate research toward a cure for diabetes,” said Dr. Ricordi.

CARMEN FOTINO, PH.D., AWARDED SCHOLARSHIP TO ADVANCE IMMUNOLOGY RESEARCH Since arriving at the DRI in 2009 from the University of Pisa in Italy, Dr. Carmen Fotino has focused her research on preserving the function of beta cells after islet transplantation and ways to teach the immune system to accept these cells long term. A member of the DRI’s Preclinical Cell Processing and Translational Models laboratory headed by Dr. Antonello Pileggi, her goal is to ensure that promising findings can be translated to patients living with diabetes.

Dr. Fotino will have an opportunity to build on that work as the recipient of a scholarship to the 2014 Advanced Course in Basic and Clinical Immunology offered by FOCIS (Federation of Clinical Immunology Societies) in February. She is one of only two researchers from the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine chosen to attend the program after a competitive selection process.

“The FOCIS Advanced Course will give me the opportunity to understand more in-depth the immune pathways relevant to autoimmune diabetes and cellular transplantation. Furthermore, the clinical immunology component will provide valuable insight to strengthen the translational focus of my research,” said Dr. Fotino, who was selected for her commitment to immunologic research. She will be among only 25 researchers from around the country awarded scholarships to attend the course.

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WE LOVE OUR KIDS!

YOUNGSTERS SHARED THEIR HOPES AND DREAMS FOR A FUTURE FREE FROM T1D A doctor, an actor, an advocate, an editor – these are just some of the dreams shared by the group of young people featured in our recent Future Free from T1D campaign. Ten voices of the millions living with diabetes expressed their hopes and dreams, but also their concerns for the future.

“If I’m not healthy now, how will it affect my future,” questioned one. “We have to use needles and insulin just to keep ourselves alive,” said another. And another proclaimed, “No kid should have to deal with this!” Don’t you agree?

Then, they asked you to step to the plate and help find a cure – for them and millions of others – by supporting the DRI. And so many of you did! We want to thank you so much for your generosity and for helping us move our promising research on the DRI BioHub forward.

We also want to thank the families who participated in this campaign. We love featuring those living with diabetes. Send us a photo of your child and tell us what “a future free from T1D” would mean to your family, and you just might get published! Email us at info@drif.org

ANGRY ABOUT DIABETES? “Tell Me More” Parents of the PEP Squad are on Facebook at all hours of the day and night empowering each other with experience, wisdom, guidance and comfort. One concerned mom posted this question recently: There is an underlying theme of anger/frustration regarding having T1D that comes out of my son more than once in a while. I feel it is not far from his thoughts all the time. It might just take a BG check or a POD change or counting carbs to ignite the fire and he'll start expressing his disdain. So...how do we get him past the point of anger/frustration to acceptance?

Dozens of responses instantly populated the News Feed. Since it seems to be a hot topic that most families affected by diabetes come up against at some point, we asked Dr. Wendy Satin Rapaport, the clinical psychologist who mentors the group, to provide some professional advice.

And finally, let me recommend self-compassion, where we are: human not perfect, kind to ourselves, and mindful not reactive (according to psychologist Kristen Neff). It’s the best medicine for all of us.

Don't be afraid of anger. “Tell me more.” Don't shut down anger.

“Tell me more.” Feel glad (that's a paradox!) that your child feels safe to express it. It can be much more of a danger when it goes underground and is not dealt with. Let the answers come from your child. It is your job to listen, and if they allow, hug! So, tell me more.

Join the conversation at: Facebook.com/groups/PEPsquadDRI

According to Dr. Rapaport: Anger is both necessary and important; it’s how we move forward. It is part of the grieving process of the diabetes diagnosis. But it also rears its head during different milestones in growing up and in our daily lives when we place too much emphasis on outcome instead of effort. For example, a parent’s response of, “How on earth did you get that number,” is quite different than, “So glad you tested."

I believe parents have more skills than they even realize. Think about how you might teach a child who is angry to move forward...if they didn't have diabetes. The most important words we might use with our children who are angry are, “Tell me more.” It takes courage to hear it and to say it because all of us are wrapped up with emotional responses to diabetes. As a parent, you’re grieving and dealing with anger, as well.

That’s why I like to think in terms of prevention, prevention, prevention.

Your diabetes healthcare team should include someone who is skilled in health psychology. This field includes: the recognition of grief as response to the diagnosis—expanding coping mechanisms such as self-awareness, honoring and accepting your feelings, positive “selftalk;” expression through conversation, counseling, writing, music and sports; social competence skills—dealing with nagging, criticism, questions or what feels like insults. We need a village of support.

Sometimes it takes retraining and the understanding of letting go of perfection. Adolescence, particularly during puberty, has many changes because of growth and hormones that may impact the outcome of blood sugars. Simply doing what you did before no longer guarantees a predictable number. For instance, when reacting to a blood sugar of 300, the young person and the parents must learn to say, “It’s information, not an indictment or judgment. I will take charge and get the blood sugar down. Later when I'm feeling better, I will think about whether there was anything I might have done differently. I'm a good person who has a 300 blood sugar.”

When your child articulates anger about diabetes, a good response might be, “Tell me more.” Be thankful that he/she is able to express that emotion to you, rather than bottle it up inside.

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YOUTHTOPIA BEVERAGES® OFFERS HEALTHIER HYDRATION, SUPPORTS DRI

Youthtopia™ Beverages, with its breakthrough hydrating sports beverage Alley Oop™, has teamed up with the Diabetes Research Institute Foundation to increase information and education about diabetes and promote Alley Oop™ tastes great and has only 40 calories awareness of healthier and 10 grams of sugar per bottle beverage choices while raising funds for curefocused diabetes research. A portion of sales is donated to the DRIF in support of a future free from diabetes.

“We are incredibly proud to be partnering with such a prestigious and globally-respected diabetes organization,” said Dr. Brenda Faye Jones, creator and founder of Youthtopia Beverages™. “I have seen too many young people with diabetes, and with our DRIF partner, we can both help young people learn more about what they can do to make smarter choices and provide critical resources to find a cure for this dreaded disease.”

• • • • • • •

Low calorie Low sugar Low carbohydrate Caffeine free Gluten free Vitamin enhanced Formulated to hydrate naturally and replenish electrolytes during regular and aggressive activities

Designed specifically for active youth, teens and young adults, each 16 oz. bottle of Alley Oop™ sells for $1.99 at select retailers and can also be purchased at YouthtopiaBevs.com. Its first-available, all-natural flavor is Citrus Grind, with Fruit Punch and Strawberry Mango coming out soon. The DRIF logo will appear on all Alley Oop™ product packaging.

Reflective of its commitment to today’s youth culture, the company also hosts Alley Oop™ radio at YouthtopiaBevs.com, Live365.com and its mobile App, Roku, Tivo and coming soon to iTunes and Pandora.

“We’re happy to partner with Youthtopia Beverages, which is a company dedicated to supporting health organizations and all health and wellness issues facing today’s youth, including type 1 diabetes,” said Tom Karlya, vice president of the DRI Foundation. “We look forward to sampling opportunities at some of our upcoming events.”

Aside from being a DRIF generous partner, Youthtopia truly offers a great product. Alley Oop™ is a better-for-you isotonic/hydration drink that is:

That’s Commitment

LET ME COUNT THE WAYS TO GIVE Niki

Nick Long

Lindsey Inserra-Hughes

Zach Treese John Hughes

D.A.D.’S DAY, A UNION TRADITION As much as Father’s Day is a custom, so is D.A.D.’s Day, thanks to the Building and Construction Trades Department (BCTD), AFL-CIO, led by President Sean McGarvey, who is also a member of the DRIF's National Board. The Dollars Against Diabetes campaign has become a union tradition in which scores of local and state councils participate annually to raise funds for the DRI. “Personally, I have been associated with this program for the past 27 years in one form or another and have seen firsthand the direct impact that our collective efforts are having towards finding a cure for diabetes,” said McGarvey.

What started with a few bucket collections has grown into full scale events, such as motorcycle rallies, walkathons, golf tournaments, softball tournaments and more, held across America.

One of the most successful D.A.D.’s Day efforts in the country is organized by Dan Baumann, Edward Christensen, John NcNerney, and John Valone of the International Union of Elevator Constructors Local 2 in Chicago, IL. They are motivated by tradition, but their work is heartfelt since the family of Tim Nix, a retired member of the union, is affected by diabetes. This year the group held a Dad’s Day Boat Ride on Lake Michigan on September, 19, which featured an evening on the decks of the Anita Dee with dinner and dancing to the sounds of Frank Sinatra.

On September 21, hundreds more gathered at Glen Eagles Country Club in Lemont, IL, to enjoy a gorgeous fall day on the course. Special guests Shaun Gayle, defensive back for the 1985 Super Bowl Chicago Bears, and Bob Love, the beloved Chicago Bulls All-Star, were on hand to play golf and sign autographs as well.

1) Ed Christensen and Tim Nix of the International Union of Elevator Constructors Local 2 in Chicago, 2) Pat Towner, retired member of IUOE Local 612, and John Stockman of Washington State Council of Firefighters, both committee members of the BCTD D.A.D’s Day Washington C.L.U.B. event

Two thousand miles away, the 13th Annual Washington CLUB Charity Golf Classic took place at the beautiful Gold Mountain Golf Club in Bermerton, WA. On June 12 the Pre CLUB featured a 4 person best ball format with options to partake in a “Honey Pot” and “The Cut Line” games. The following day, the Main CLUB began with breakfast, followed a four person scramble format. Many contests and activities were offered on the course, including a new addition this year – the Rainier Investment $1,000,000 Shootout! Organizer Jon Betterdorf was pleased to welcome supporters to the awards banquet, giving special mention to Title Sponsors including Sue & Mike Raney, Washington State Building & Construction Trades, Washington Capital Management, Inc., IBEW Local 46 of Seattle, and National Electrical Contractors Association.

We’re thankful for the longtime support of these councils and so many more that make it possible for DRI researchers to take consecutive steps closer to a cure. Over the years, these men and women have so generously given of their time and efforts that total contributions to the DRI have surpassed $45 million, historically making the BCTD the largest single contributor to our mission.

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15 |

FOR THESE AWESOME UPCOMING EVENTS Featuring celebrity support, family fun, golf, galas, milestones and much more, the 2014 DRI Foundation events schedule is packed and primed to impress! Here’s the scoop on a few of the fundraisers that will start the New Year off right for the DRI. NBA All-Star Ray Allen and his wife, Shannon, have teamed up with longtime DRI supporters Andria and Javier Holtz to hold the Ray Allen Golf Classic and Ray of Hope Luncheon, presented by Hublot, on Monday, January 27. Formerly known as the DRI Golf and Tennis Classic and Friends Celebrating Friends Luncheon, both events will occur at La Gorce Country Club on Miami Beach, FL. Registration for 144 golfers will begin at 10am, followed by brunch and a shotgun start.

At 5 p.m. a cocktail reception and awards dinner will commence at the private club. Beginning at 11 a.m., the luncheon will feature a delicious meal and fashionable surprises, plus a silent auction including the popular vintage handbag corner. Andrew Holtz, now 19, was diagnosed just after his 7th birthday. With their previously held events, the Holtz family has raised nearly $2 million for the DRI. Andrew’s older siblings, Matthew and Nicole, have always been very involved. Walker Allen was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes at 17 months old. The families are thrilled to be combining efforts in their shared quest to a cure. Sponsorship opportunities are available at DiabetesResearch.org/Ray-Allen-GolfClassic and DiabetesResearch.org/Ray-of-Hope-Luncheon.

On Saturday, February 15, music legend Barry Gibb will return once more to the Love and Hope Ball to help commemorate the 40th anniversary of this black-tie affair by giving an exclusive concert.

He and his wife, Linda, serve as Love and Hope International Chairmen, as well as honorary members of the DRI Foundation’s board of directors. The milestone event will be held in honor of Life Chairman Sonja Zuckerman and DRI Director Dr. Camillo Ricordi. According to Executive Chairman Sandra Levy, an extra element of fun has been added to the event, an after-party featuring a popular deejay and a Viennese dessert table that will follow dinner and the concert.

Scheduled to take place at the Westin Diplomat Resort and Spa in Hollywood, FL. The Ball will also recognize: Shirley Harris, Janie and Ronald Kupferman, Barbara and Norman Shapiro, Mercedes and David Carlson, Sandy and Senator Paul Steinberg and Sheila Wohl.

For more information, visit

DiabetesResearch.org/Love-and-Hope-Ball.

Thousands will participate in The DRI Walk for Diabetes & Family Fun Day Presented by Walgreens at the home of the Miami Dolphins, Sun Life Stadium, in Miami Gardens, FL. Once again, a second Walk will take place concurrently on Saturday, March 8, in Tradition Square of Port St. Lucie, FL. Always at the corner of happy and healthy, Walgreens employees invite customers, community members, families and friends to join them at this fourth annual event, which is expected to be the biggest and best yet! Whether they choose to walk as individuals or with a team, everyone involved will be taking steps alongside the DRI toward a cure for diabetes. They’ll enjoy family friendly entertainment, plus music, free giveaways, refreshments, health booths and much more. Watch a video from the 2013 event and learn all you need to know at WalgreensWalkDRI.org. You can also join the conversation on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/ WalgreensWalkDRI. This year, New York City’s Carnival for a Cure and Long Island’s Kids Party for a Cure are merging into one stupendous event renamed Kids’ Carnival for a Cure! Led by Frankie Lam, Sheri Donaldson, Susan Rubinstein and Lauren and Steven Field, the committee invites IVAL families throughout New York to N R CA join them on Sunday, March 16, at Dave and Buster’s at the Mall at The Source in Westbury. Playing their way through the day, children (and adults!) of all ages will spend 1-4 p.m. in revelry, while bonding with other families affected by type 1 diabetes. Attendees will play their favorite video and arcade games and try out those newly released, bounce on inflatables, play pool and more. When in need of recharging, they will enjoy a wide selection of food and beverages sure to please all palates. Thanks to a silent auction, sweepstakes and goody bags, all will depart with something fun in-hand and the spirit of philanthropy in-heart. Sponsorship opportunities and online registration will soon be available at DiabetesResearch.org/Kids-Carnival-for-a-Cure. benefiting

Check the back cover to see more events scheduled for the of 2014!

EVENTS Buy In for a Cure Novices and experienced poker players alike enjoyed the Buy In for a Cure Texas Hold’em Tournament at The Garden City Hotel on Long Island, NY, Thursday, June 20. Participants tried their luck and skill at becoming the tournament champion while enjoying fabulous food, cigars, fine wines and spirits. This year’s honoree was Anthony Vitale, a longtime supporter of the DRI and a member of the Rod Gilbert DRI Golf Classic committee. He is pictured (center) with the chairman of the Buy In for a Cure committee, Allan L. Pashcow (left), and Bob Zuckerman, Buy In committee member and tournament chairman for the Rod Gilbert DRI Golf Classic.

Fishing for a Cure Organized by Scot Stodart, Fishing for a Cure was held on August 3 at Kent Lake in the Kensington Metropark of Milford, MI. Winners of the tournament, Scott Tyrell and Jason Wilbur, are pictured with Stodart’s daughter, Abbi, who has type 1 diabetes. This year the event incorporated a washer and dryer sweepstakes into the mix. Proceeds from the day came close to $5,500!

Chatham Turkey Trot Despite frigid weather, more than 600 community members showed up for the Fifth Annual Thanksgiving Day Chatham Turkey Trot held in the scenic Highlands section of Chatham Township, NJ. Attendees had the option of participating in a One Mile Family Fun Run or a 5K Race. According to event organizer Curt Ritter (pictured), the event raised more than $15,000 for the DRI and the local volunteer fire department. Ritter's 9-year-old daughter, Mollie, was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes five years ago.

Rod Gilbert DRI Golf Classic A sold out crowd joined New York Rangers legend Rod Gilbert (center) at the beautiful Pine Hollow Country Club in East Norwich, NY, on Monday, August 12. Held in memory of Anthony John Vitale and Helaine Shari White, the Rod Gilbert DRI Golf Classic raised $182,000 this year, thanks to Tournament Directors Eric Reeps and Bob Zuckerman and their committee. After a day of birdies and boagies, golfers enjoyed a delicous dinner, a fabulous array of desserts, and an incredible live auction. Gilbert, who served as Honorary Chairman, is pictured with Jerry Weinbrom (left), an executive director, and Adam Weinbrom (right), a tournament chairperson.

17 |

EVENTS Gold Coast Concours/Bimmerstock The sudden roar of engines broke the tranquility of Glen Cove, NY, on Sunday, September 8, when more than 600 exotic cars lined the streets downtown for the 5th Annual Gold Coast Concours/Bimmerstock. Presented by Martino Auto Concepts and Exotics4Life.com, the automobile show has become one of the largest on the eastern seaboard, attracting thousands. According to Chairman Joe LaPadula (center), the event raised $80,000. Also pictured are: (l-r) DRI Foundation Northeast Regional Director Tony Childs, Nassau County Legislator and DRIF board member Delia DeRiggi-Whitton, Tom Suozzi and Jon Holzer.

Phil Peterson’s Key West Poker Run More than 10,000 motorcycle enthusiasts rumbled across the Seven Mile Bridge and onto Duval Street September 19-22 for the biker-style merrymaking that annually accompanies Phil Peterson’s Key West Poker Run. As it has been for 41 years, the festivity in Key West, FL, is also a fundraiser. In the past two decades alone, Phil Peterson and his family have raised more than $500,000 for DRI. Despite the event’s undeniable popularity, organizers Drew Peterson (right) and Dirk Peterson (left), Phil’s sons, ushered in exciting new elements this year, including more opportunities to win prizes! They are pictured with the victor of the Texas Hold ‘Em game, Chuck Heck, who became the proud owner of a new 883 Sportster Iron.

Cocktails for a Cure For the second year in a row, Willa’s Wish Foundation donated $30,000 to the DRI after sponsoring Cocktails for a Cure, which was held at Hudson Terrace in New York, NY, on Saturday, September 21. The Foundation was created by Leslie Hsu Besner and Greg Besner after their daughter, Willa, was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes at the young age of 4. Now the whole family, including Willa's little sister, Lana, is involved in trying to make her wish for a cure come true. Special thanks are extended to everyone who helped make the event such a success!

Pig Roast for a Cure The Otten family from East Islip, NY, has been organizing a traditional backyard barbeque in support of the DRI since 2005. Each fall, hundreds gather to enjoy food, fun and philanthropy. Shown with Tony Childs are Gigi (left), Michael (2nd from right) and Nicholas Otten (right), who has type 1 diabetes. This labor of love has raised more than $150,000.

The Donaldson Organization Golf Outing On September 30, the famed Winged Foot Golf Club in Mamaroneck, NY, played host to the Third Annual Donaldson Organization Golf Outing. Nearly 300 golfers played on two courses throughout the day, and 100 more guests joined them for dinner. Thanks to lead sponsor Bob Donaldson and the hard work and generosity of many others, the event made a record-breaking $700,000. Honorees included Scott Corneby, senior vice president and director of operations at Structure Tone, and Ark M. Latt, Vice President, Construction - U.S. Operations with Brookfield Office Properties. Pictured with Bob (left) are his grandson, Matthew Donaldson, who has type 1 diabetes, and his son, Doug Donaldson, who spoke emotionally about how much he is looking forward to the day a cure is found.

Empire Ball Kick Off On October 17, the New York Real Estate Division of the Diabetes Research Institute, which is led by Chairman Peter L. DiCapua (pictured), held an intimate reception at The Durst Organization’s NYC headquarters, commencing the celebration of 30 years of support for diabetes research. Longstanding and generous donors received crystal Cycle of Discovery awards in recognition of their dedication to the cause. Committee members and past honorees had an opportunity to meet this year’s Empire Ball honorees (see photo on cover): Jay Badame, President and COO of NY/NJ/PA of Tishman Construction, an AECOM Company; Andrew Cooke, Vice President Property Management of Hines as agent for Morgan Stanley; and Joseph "Dee" Dussich, CEO and President of JAD Corporation of America. The 30th anniversary gala was held on December 11 at the Grand Hyatt in NYC. See photos in the next issue.

All in for a Cure The sixth annual All in for a Cure Texas Hold ‘em poker event took place on Tuesday, November 5 at The Grand Havana Room in New York City. More than 200 guests enjoyed fine wines, spirits and cigars, while taking in breathtaking views of Manhattan and playing lively hands of poker. The evening was a great success, raising more than $300,000.

In its six-year history, the event has grossed well over $1 million. Pictured are event co-chairs (l-r) Samantha Shanken Baker, Isaac Khafif, Ricardo Salmon, Jordan Dickstein, Greg Rosenberg, and Troy Gregory. Congratulations are extended to this year's first-place finisher Richard Chamberlain, Jr. and second-place contender Josh Simons.

Fall into Fashion The 15th Annual Fall into Fashion event featured a fabulous runway show by Donna Karan New York at Americana Manhasset, a fantastic luncheon, sweepstakes and a silent auction full of fabulous items.

InStyle Editor-at-Large Hal Rubenstein served as Master of Ceremonies at the event, which was held at The Garden City Hotel in Garden City, NY, on November 7. Raising $180,000 this year, Fall into Fashion has raised $3 million cumulatively. During the program, Doreen Peykar was recognized with the Distinguished Service Award. It was a fabulous affair, thanks to Co-chairs Fran Helfant, Korey Liebman and Eileen Zinn, and Honorary Chair Barbara Hatz (photo on cover) and a hardworking committee.

Love and Hope Preview Party In celebration of its 40th anniversary, Love and Hope kicked off its fundraising season with the Preview Party, which honored Life Chairman Sonja Zuckerman, who has been at the helm of this volunteer group for all four decades (pictured with Neiman Marcus Bal Harbour Vice President and General Manager Frances Esquenazi).

Underwritten once again by Isabel May, the event was held at a new venue, the incomparable St. Regis Bal Harbour Resort, on November 23. According to Executive Chairman Sandra Levy, the event raised nearly $500,000. During the dinner program, honorees for February’s Love and Hope Ball were announced: Honorary Chairman Shirley Harris, Anniversary Honorees Janie and Ronald Kupferman, Love Honorees Barbara and Norman Shapiro, Hope Honorees Mercedes and David Carlson, Ruby Stars Sandy and Senator Paul Steinberg and Silver Star Sheila Wohl.

19 |

DRIfocus

Non-Profit Org. US Postage PAID Diabetes Research Institute Foundation

Diabetes Research Institute Foundation National Office 200 South Park Road Suite 100 Hollywood, FL 33021 address service requested

For information on the events or to make reservations, visit DiabetesResearch.org or call one of the DRI Foundation offices listed below.

CALENDAR Ray Allen Golf Classic Ray of Hope Luncheon January 27, 2014 / FLORIDA (See pg 16)

Out of the Kitchen March 13, 2014 / FLORIDA This spectacular four-course dinner, prepared by up to 20 chefs cooking tableside, will be paired with speciallyA Gift of Love, A Gift of Hope selected wines for each course. To be held February 10, 2014 / FLORIDA at the St. Regis Bal Harbour, the night To be held at The Polo Club in Boca Raton, will also feature live and silent auctions, the 15th annual event, organized by a wine bar, and much more. the Palm Beach Auxiliary, will feature a delightful lunch, a unique boutique Kids' Carnival for a Cure filled with fashionable items, a raffle March 16, 2014 / LONG ISLAND and an afternoon of card-playing.

(See pg 16) Love and Hope Ball February 15, 2014 / FLORIDA (See pg 16) The DRI Walk Presented by Walgreens March 8, 2014 / FLORIDA (See pg 16)

Shell Key West Challenge April 24-27, 2014 / FLORIDA Held in the waters surrounding Key West, this “scavenger hunt” of fishing tournaments will benefit the DRI. By invitation only.

Vince Wilfork Draft Day May 2014 / FLORIDA New England Patriots' Superstar Vince Wilfork and his wife, Bianca, will play host once again to an annual draft day fundraiser in Boston.

Brenda Novak Online Auction for Diabetes Research May 1-31, 2014 / ONLINE NY Times bestselling author Brenda Novak will host her 10th annual online auction at BrendaNovak.com.

Crystal Ball May 3, 2014 / LONG ISLAND This annual black-tie gala always sparkles with a fabulous cocktail reception, gourmet dinner, auctions, dancing and more at the beautiful Garden City Hotel.

DRIfocus

is a publication of the Diabetes Research Institute Foundation.

Winter 2014 / Volume 41 / Issue 1

Marketing & Communications Dept.

Lori Weintraub, APR Lauren Schreier Natasha Norris Laurie Cummings

Contributors Gary Kleiman Glenn Kleiman Melissa Peña Jill Salter Wendy Satin Rapaport Aimee Siegel-Harris Mitra Zehtab, M.D.

Photography DRI / DRIF staff and volunteers Vanessa M. Lam / LAM Studios LLC Marc S. Levine Photography Andrew Milne Photography Donna Victor Francisco Gonzalez Claude Zick Design Franz Franc Design Group Inc.

D.R.E.a.M.S. in the city May 2014 / NEW YORK Hosted at the Pierre Hotel by Alan Kalter of the Late Show with David Letterman, this ninth annual event will feature specialty cocktails, a seated dinner and dancing, a silent auction and mission-based live auction.

Don Strock Diabetes Classic May 2014 / FLORIDA Billed as the area’s longest-running celebrity/amateur charity golf tournament, the 31st annual event will once again be supported by the local produce industry.

Haute Tea May 22, 2014 / FLORIDA The Young Society of Love and Hope will host the third annual event, featuring lunch, champagne, silent auction and prizes for the finest hats.

The Diabetes Research Institute Foundation supports the Diabetes Research Institute at the University of Miami Leonard M. Miller School of Medicine, whose mission is to develop and rapidly apply the most promising research to treat and cure those now living with diabetes. To obtain additional information or request copies of DRIfocus, please call (800) 321-3437 or e-mail lweintraub@drif.org, or visit DiabetesResearch.org.

DIABETES RESEARCH INSTITUTE FOUNDATION National Office / Florida Region 200 South Park Road, Suite 100 Hollywood, FL 33021 Phone: (954) 964-4040 Fax: (954) 964-7036 info@drif.org

Northeast Region / Manhattan Office 381 Park Avenue South, Suite 1118 New York, NY 10016 Phone: (212) 888-2217 Fax: (212) 888-2219 neregion@drif.org

Northeast Region / Jericho Office 410 Jericho Turnpike, Suite 201 Jericho, NY 11753 Phone: (516) 822-1700 Fax: (516) 822-3570 neregion@drif.org