On the evening of Tuesday, April 30, the University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine’s Oncology Department will host a benefit at the historic Columbia Restaurant in Ybor City. Proceeds from the Intimate Wine Dinner and Private Reception preceding, will go to Olive’s Way, a foundation set up by Lisa and Harry Posin of Palm Beach to benefit the Oncology Department at the College.
Special honoree will be Jeremy Foley, Athletic Director for the University of Florida, whose dog Gracie, was treated at the Oncology Department. Jeremy will share his experience, and how it inspired him to lend his support for the Olive’s Way Foundation.
The Foundation is named after Lisa and Harry Posin’s beloved Maltese Olive, who at only three years of age, was diagnosed with cancer. Heartbroken, the Posins were determined to give Olive the best care possible. Prepared to go anywhere in the world for her treatment, they were sent to the University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine by the internist at a local specialty hospital. Defying the odds, Olive lived another four good years after her initial surgery. Today, she posthumously sits as the Foundation’s Chair.
Richard Gonzmart, fourth generation family member and president of Columbia Restaurant, also experienced the expertise and compassion of the College’s Oncology Department. His German Shepherd, Rusty, who currently sits on the Board of Directors for Olive’s Way, was successfully treated by the Oncology Department. After making his own donation to the school, Gonzmart, who brings the same passion and energy to worthy causes that he does to his restaurant business, decided to create a private label wine, Rusty Red, and donate a portion of all sales to Olive’s Way.
Sponsored by The New Barker dog magazine, the Intimate Wine Dinner, will include a reception, and an unveiling of a new wine created by Gonzmart. Enzi Chardonnay is named after daughter Andrea’s German Shepherd, who is currently undergoing treatment for cancer at the Oncology Department. Proceeds from the sale of Enzi Chardonnay will also benefit Olive’s Way.
“I have always been a University of South Florida Bulls fan, and a Florida State Seminole fan. But, by God if Rusty and now Enzi didn’t make me a diehard Gator fan,” said Richard Gonzmart.
To purchase tickets to this exclusive event, or to make a donation to Olive’s Way, please contact Melissa Headrick via email at headrick@ufl.edu. For more information on Olive’s Way, please visit www.OlivesWay.com