Big band sound and swing dancing at USO event Sept. 12

NORTH CANAAN — It was during World War II that the USO (United Service Organization) was founded. Its primary goal was to boost the morale of troops and civilians. And of the ways they did it was through dances featuring  the era’s popular big band sound.

On Sept. 12, from 6 to 9 p.m., Geer Village will recreate the unique atmosphere of a USO dance as part of an effort to support the nation’s troops.

Bob Hughes’ The Big Band will headline. The Marine Corps League Northwest Detachment will present an honor guard. A local dance school will offer a swing dance demonstration.

Tickets are $40 per person, and the price includes beer, wine and an array of hot and cold hors d’oeuvres. World War II veterans and their dates are invited to attend at no cost.

Proceeds will go to the USO’s Care Package program.

“They have a lot of volunteers and expertise to make the most of the money we raise, and they know exactly what the troops need and want,� said Geer Administrator John Horstman. “We’re hoping to raise a significant amount for that, and raise awareness that we have soldiers fighting overseas.�

The USO is a nonprofit, non-government corporation funded almost entirely by donations. It reports that 89 cents of every dollar it receives go to programs and services for troops. It has more than 130 facilities in the U.S. that are visited annually by 5 million service members and their families.

Latest News

GNH blanks St. Paul 34-0 in Turkey Bowl

Wes Allyn breaks away from the St. Paul defense for a reception touchdown Wednesday, Nov. 26.

Photo by Riley Klein

BRISTOL — The Gilbert/Northwestern/Housatonic co-op football team ended the season with a 34-0 shutout victory over St. Paul Catholic High School Wednesday, Nov. 26.

It was GNH’s fourth consecutive Turkey Bowl win against St. Paul and the final game for 19 GNH seniors.

Keep ReadingShow less
Students curate Katro Storm portraits at HVRHS

“Once Upon a Time in America” features ten portraits by artist Katro Storm.

Natalia Zukerman

The Kearcher-Monsell Gallery at Housatonic Valley Regional High School in Falls Village is once again host to a wonderful student-curated exhibition. “Once Upon a Time in America,” ten portraits by New Haven artist Katro Storm, opened on Nov. 20 and will run through the end of the year.

“This is our first show of the year,” said senior student Alex Wilbur, the current head intern who oversees the student-run gallery. “I inherited the position last year from Elinor Wolgemuth. It’s been really amazing to take charge and see this through.”

Keep ReadingShow less
Mini horses, big impact: animal learning center opens in Sheffield

Le Petit Ranch offers animal-assisted therapy and learning programs for children and seniors in Sheffield.

Marjorie Borreda

Le Petit Ranch, a nonprofit offering animal-assisted therapy and learning programs, opened in April at 147 Bears Den Road in Sheffield. Founded by Marjorie Borreda, the center provides programs for children, families and seniors using miniature horses, rescued greyhounds, guinea pigs and chickens.

Borreda, who moved to Sheffield with her husband, Mitch Moulton, and their two children to be closer to his family, has transformed her longtime love of animals into her career. She completed certifications in animal-assisted therapy and coaching in 2023, along with coursework in psychiatry, psychology, literacy and veterinary skills.

Keep ReadingShow less