Wrestling fans in Long Island were treated to a rare visit from Dr D David Shults, perhaps the most controversial, and elusive, wrestler in recent times. John Pantozzi was able to secure the services of Dr D for an October 7, 2006 PWHF Fundraiser in Pantozzi’s hometown of Franklin Square, New York.

The event was held at the Franklin Square Veterans Memorial Hall and also included appearances by JJ Dillon, Missy Hyatt, Hillbilly Cousin Luke, Irish Davey O’Hannon, Tony Cosenza, Joe “Butcher Brannigan” Nova, Manual Soto, Larry Dwyer, Tito Torres, Crusher Townsend, Billy Caputo and Al Samson Vass.

A big-screen television set showed classic matches from the 1950’s as fans and wrestlers mingled and indulged themselves in a Long Island-style buffet. The highlight of the buffet was homemade lasagna by Mrs. Pantozzi. Programs and posters were available to attendees for autographs by the wrestlers.

As a unique feature of this particular dinner, John Pantozzi asked several non-wrestlers such as publicity agent Scott Epstein, entertainment producer Rich Orenstein, wrestling historian Tom Burke, referee Billy Caputo and long-time fan Professor Elliot to speak from the podium.

Of course, the highlight of the evening was Dr D David Shults, who praised the efforts of the PWHF and then took questions from the audience. Earlier in the day, Dr D filmed a “Shoot Interview” with RF Videos. As part of his agreement to do the interview, Dr D requested that RF Videos make a five-hundred dollar donation to the PWHF Building Fund in Dr D’s name. Later in the evening, the check was presented to PWHF President Tony Vellano.

For those people who attended the dinner and want a remembrance of the event, and for those who were unable to be present, RF Videos recorded the proceedings. For information on obtaining this DVD, please access RF Video.com.

Please look for a more complete story on this event in a future issue of Wrestling Revue.


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