Big turnout at benefit for family who lost home in fire

AMENIA — More than 250 people arrived at the Immaculate Conception Church in Amenia last Sunday, Oct. 17, in support of the Stanford family, whose home was destroyed by fire near the beginning of the month.

David Stanford is the league president of the Webutuck Valley Youth Soccer League. The benefit event was put on by friends, family, coaches and other people associated with the soccer program.

Most of the spaghetti dinner was donated by local businesses; Cedar Hill Farm contributed meat, T & F Baked Goods donated bread, Freshtown handled some odds and ends and Cub Scout Pack 29 brought baked goods and a large number of Scouts who joined the ranks of the many volunteers helping to cook, serve and clean up.

The five members of the Stanford family have since relocated from their home near the top of DeLavergne Hill in Amenia and are working on the slow process of moving out their belongings.

“It’s been a tremendous past few weeks,� David Stanford told the audience at the dinner. “We’ve been living here full time for 15 years, and this event has shown how wonderful our life is to be connected to so many great people in the community.�

Stanford and his wife, Therese, thanked all of the people who have given their time, effort and encouragement over the past few weeks, especially highlighting the efforts of the Amenia Fire Company and attending companies who were at the scene to put out the fire.

“We’re so grateful for what they do, the training and time that they put in to their work,� he said.

“We’re so lucky to live in a town like this,� his wife added.

All of the proceeds from the dinner will be used to assist the family in their period of transition.

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