For well over a decade, the Clara Maass Medical Center (CMMC) has been holding their annual golf invitational, where community members venture out in support of NJ’s most affluent and devoted hospital. The fundraiser generates hundreds of thousands of dollars every year to support the center; as well as its mission to help patients by providing them with expert care.
The event has long since garnered the attention of a number of personalities, including former New York Giant and two-time Super Bowl champion David Diehl, who started as a spokesperson for Barnabas Health and has been an honorary chairman of the event for the past few years. Assuming the role of active participant this year, The “CMMC Golf Invitational Featuring David Diehl” took place on May 9.
The day began bright and early with a brunch for the 250+ golfers who committed their time to the event, which featured a number of friendly celebrity faces including current and former professional football players such as Plaxico Burress, Justin Pugh, and Tony Siragusa.
David Diehl Headlines Clara Maass Golf Invitational
“It’s great, the attention David Diehl has brought to the fundraiser, really expanding [the fundraiser’s range],” said Chris Coyne, Vice President of CMMC Foundation and Development, about how Diehl brought in friends and fans to significantly aid the hospital, and even helped the invitational gain sponsorship from the New York Giants. “And the committee of community members and employees and doctors of the hospital and their families also work very hard to get this event sold out and [gain great sponsors] every year.”
The event also had a silent auction with mobile bidding, with proceeds benefiting the CMMC. The auction featured a number of expensive items donated by selfless organizations, which included signed memorabilia, sports and concert tickets, and services and merchandise from several local businesses.
During the lovely dinner, Master of Ceremonies and ABC anchor Ken Rosato briefly spoke about the hospital and the incredible fundraiser. CMMC’s President and Chief Executive Officer, Mary Ellen Clyne, PhD., also provided some kind words and thanked each individual who helped aid the medical center.
This year’s CMMC Golf Invitational Featuring David Diehl was the most successful outing yet. A combination of dedicated employees from Belleville’s CMMC, members of the community, and friends and family came together at West Orange’s Montclair Golf Club to take part in an annual tradition that has done a lot to support the hospital, which in turns allows patients to receive better care and treatment. Thanks to David Diehl and his friends, the Clara Maass Medical Center is becoming bigger and better than ever.
All Photos: © Patrick Lombardi / Best of NJ