Franklin Lakes, New Jersey October 10, 2023 — In a heartfelt tribute to Nicholas “Nicky” Storms, a 9-year-old who passed away following a valiant fight with cancer, the Spring Lake Toys Foundation hosted a sold-out charity golf outing to aid children with rare illnesses and their families. Spearheaded by Founder and CEO Paulette Pera Laurenzi, the event took place at Green Brook Country Club, in North Caldwell, under sunny skies, with temperatures hovering around a delightful 75 degrees.
Photo Credit: Images by Ania Nowak.
“Anytime we can bring the community together for a cause like this is always a day worth celebrating,” said Pera Laurenzi as she greeted the players.
Attendees then enjoyed a day of golfing, vying for generous prizes in categories including ‘Closest to the Pin’, won by Bryan Jones (Hole #5) and Frank Soto (Hole #17); ‘Longest Drive’, achieved by Steve Taggart and Trista Ricciardelli, in the Men’s and Women’s categories respectively; and the ‘Lowest Scoring Foursome’, was achieved by Caillin Boles, Evan Boles, Ethan Thompson and Gabby Cali.
Once the rounds of golf were completed, attendees enjoyed cocktails and dinner, at which Jim Daley, Nicky’s grandfather, shared cherished memories of his grandson. The evening also featured a 50/50 and a silent auction. The big 50/50 winner was Howard Weinberg, who donated the majority of his winnings back to the charity.
The event garnered robust support, boasting over 25 company sponsors including title sponsors Commerce Park Investors, Complete Roof Systems, and Inserra Supermarkets. Notable premier sponsors included Charity Realty International, Legacy Real Estate Developers, and Alfred Sanzari Enterprises, along with the gold sponsor Gerard Construction Corp.
Success of the tournament was due largely in part to the dedicated work of Thomas Tomesco, Dean Logan, Roy Pascal, and of course, Paulette Pera Laurenzi.
“We couldn’t have asked for a more beautiful day. It’s as if Nicky brought the sunshine,” remarked Pera Laurenzi as she thanked sponsors and key contributors to the event. “The event turned out to be a memorable way to keep Nicky’s spirit alive while raising money to help other children just like him.”
The Spring Lake Toys Foundation is a nonprofit, 501c3 corporation dedicated to providing financial assistance for medical and related expenses to children with severe illnesses and special needs.