June 25, 2018
On June 25, 2018, the Roger Hamilton Memorial Golf Invitational returned for its 16th presentation to the Napa Valley Country Club generating funds for mesothelioma cancer research and clinical trials that will lead to better treatment options. This year’s event saw a turnout of 140 golfers and generated approximately $65,000! As always, 100% of the funds generated will go toward supporting Dr. Parkash Gill’s research at the USC Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center.
The Roger Hamilton Event would not be possible without the continued support of Doug Gamble and Mel Breshears of the Heat and Frost Insulators. For the third year, Gamble, the International Vice President, and Breshears, the Business Manager of Local 16, have planned and hosted the event. We thank them both as they have taken it upon themselves to ensure the continuation of the event and the honoring of Roger Hamilton’s memory. To date, the Roger Hamilton Memorial Golf Invitational has raised approximately 1.7 million dollars for mesothelioma research! For the continued success, we owe our gratitude to the Western States Conference Heat and Frost Insulators, the Local 16 Heat and Frost Insulators, as well as all of the building trades groups and vendors who continue to support the battle to defeat mesothelioma cancer.
After a great round of golf, supporters reconvened in the clubhouse for drinks, dinner, and learn how their donations are being used. Doug Gamble and Mel Breshears were the first to speak, thanking both the sponsors for their support and the volunteers for their roles in making the event a success. Elizabeth Paul, Executive Director of the Foundation informed the sponsors about the history of the Foundation, pointing out its critical help in the development of better treatment options for mesothelioma. Dr. Parkash Gill, Chairman of the Foundation’s Medical Advisory Committee then highlighted the use of immunotherapy treatment PD-1 antibody in combination with EphB-4 and the successes shown in the laboratory. Dr. Gill added that there have been several recent research publications in collaboration with doctors affiliated with UC Davis and University of Chicago regarding EphB-4! To close, the two acknowledged the continual support from the staff and family of the Local 16 Heat and Frost Insulators, and for their role in assuming the direction of the event.
An event of this magnitude takes too many people to thank, but certain individuals played a pivotal role in ensuring its success. To Committee Chairman Doug Gamble, Co-Chair Mel Breshears, Stan Danielson, Bill Hodges, Mark Plubell, Ben Espinoza, Chris Greaney, Fortino Curiel, China Soto, Geoff Millar, Alan Pierce, Jerry and Elizabeth Paul, and Shane Rucker: we wish to express our greatest appreciation. Without your efforts and energy this event would not have been possible. Your enduring support guarantees continued research into mesothelioma. With sustained effort, a cure will hopefully be found!
