January 23 Event Wrap-Up, and A Message from Friends of Sandy:

January 23rd was an emotional roller coaster for the Mellen family, and those involved in the planning of the Friends of Sandy Fundraiser.  Sandy Mellen, a single mother, had been battling cancer on and off for more than 2 years.  On the very day that the Fund-raising event was scheduled, Sandy Mellen passed away.  Sandy is now in a better place, joining her father in fighting bigger battles.

The Mellen family wanted me to say that Sandy was at ease in her final days knowing that so many people stepped up to help her and Douglass, and the entire family was touched.  It was a wonderful night that turned into a celebration of her life and a promise to a secure future for Douglas, her 16 year old son.

The story behind why we were all brought together in helping Sandy and Douglas was very sad.  Both the Mellen family and the Friends of Sandy learned that there are many truly warm-hearted, giving people in the community, and on behalf of the Mellen Family, we would like to thank all of you, and highlight the following:

The following performers all donated their services to the event:

• Emcee Tony Machine
• DJ Myles Prior
• Magician Patrick Terry
• A capella group Wide Variety

The following companies donated services to the Mellens and our cause:

• Landmark Print
• Tech-Spectrum
• The Law firm of Reda, Schwan and Associates, L.L.P

The following people were keys in helping me with the planning of the event:

• Robert Manea
• Legislator Ed Day
• Bruce Rapaport
• Mike Di Bella
• Ron Mellen
• Jayne Mircica

La Terrazza, the restaurant where the event was held, was extremely gracious, both the dinner and service was fabulous.  Thanks to Brett and John, the owners.

The Rotary Club of Congers/Valley Cottage, which I am a proud member, made a substantial donation and purchased a substantial auction item. The New York Soccer Academy also made a significant donation.

The Friends of Sandy will still keep this website running to accept donations and sell t-shirts.  It’s important that we keep focus on this, to help Douglas financially and in any other way he may need.

Thanks to all you,

Michael Seidenfrau
President of BNI Businesss Exchange
Friends of Sandy