There’s still time to sign up for the Relay for Life June 4 & 5

FALLS VILLAGE — Teams have already formed for the Housatonic Valley of Connecticut Relay for Life event, set for the weekend of June 4 and 5. But there’s still time for newcomers to sign up for the fourth annual relay, one of many that will be held across the nation to benefit the American Cancer Society.The Relay for Life turns the track and athletic field at Housatonic Valley Regional High School into a virtual tent city full of families who want to raise money for a good cause — and who are there to support a cancer patient, celebrate a cancer survivor or remember a loved one who was lost to the disease.Organizers Dan Wouri and Ashley Allyn said last week that fewer teams have signed up for the fourth annual Relay. The upward trend over the last three years had been amazing, however, and set a high level of expectation. Experience has also shown that many people will come out during the event to make donations and participate in some of the numerous ways available. “We have about 200 people signed up on teams,” Wouri said. “That’s pretty low for us. We have 32 teams, some with only one person. We were up to more than 40 teams [in previous years].” They particularly hope that area residents will sign up for the CSP-3 survey that the Northwest Corner Relay has been selected to participate in. The American Cancer Society chooses areas where the response to Relay for Life has been especially passionate. That kind of commitment is needed for the success of the survey, which spans multiple years. It is the third in a series that began in the 1950s.The survey questionnaires are sent out by mail and are simple, anonymous and few and far between. But they provide vital research information for the cancer society.Participation begins with a registration process on June 4 from 3 to 7 p.m. Participants need to be between the ages of 30 and 65, without a prior cancer diagnosis. Participants do not have to live in Connecticut. No appointment is needed.The goal is to register 160 participants; the Cancer Society is looking for a minimum of 128. So far, about 50 people have registered.It is not necessary to register ahead of June 4, but doing so will help ensure enough supplies are on hand.“Numbers are down for all the relays that have been held so far this year,” Wouri said. “We need to get people out there and show them what we’re made of.”Relay for Life is an all-nighter for many. Teams are supposed to keep members on the track at all times. It begins June 4 at 2 p.m. with lots of festive activities. Walking begins with special laps that recognize those battling cancer, survivors and caregivers. Themed laps will be held throughout the Relay.There is a dinner for cancer patients and their families. There will be a bounce house, face-painting and massages.The Steven Dunn Band will be among the live performers.Always the most moving portion is the lighting of the luminarias, purchased in honor or memory of cancer patients, which will encircle the track. At dark on Saturday, about 9 p.m., the luminarias are lit and walkers parade around the field with candles.There are lots of ways to connect and keep up with Relay information. To register for the CPS-3 survey, or for information on forming a team and other ways to help, contact dan0462@yahoo.com or 09ALALLY@alma.edu.There is also www.relayfor life.org/housatonicvalleyct and a Facebook page at Housatonic Valley Relay for Life.

Latest News

Wake Robin public hearing closes

Aradev LLC’s plans to redevelop Wake Robin Inn include four 2,000-square-foot cabins, an event space, a sit-down restaurant and fast-casual counter, a spa, library, lounge, gym and seasonal pool. If approved, guest room numbers would increase from 38 to 57.

Provided

LAKEVILLE — The public hearing for the redevelopment of Wake Robin Inn is over. Salisbury Planning and Zoning Commission now has two months to make a decision.

The hearing closed on Tuesday, Sept. 9, after its seventh session.

Keep ReadingShow less
Celebrating diverse abilities at Stanton Home fundraiser

The Weavery is Stanton Home’s oldest activity space, featuring a collection of vintage and modern floor looms. It offers opportunities for building dexterity, creative expression, and social connection through fiber arts.

Provided

Stanton Home is holding its annual Harvest Roast fundraiser on Saturday, Sept. 13 in Great Barrington, an evening of farm-to-table dining, live swing music, and community connection.

For nearly 40 years, Stanton Home has supported adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities through residential programs, therapeutic services and skill-building activities.

Keep ReadingShow less
Sharon Playhouse presents staged reading of ‘Die Mommie Die!’
Charles Busch wrote and stars in ‘Die Mommie Die!’ at Sharon Playhouse.
Provided

Following the memorable benefit reading last season of Charles Busch’s Tony-nominated Broadway hit, “The Tale of the Allergist’s Wife,” the Sharon Playhouse will present a one-night-only staged reading of his riotous comic melodrama “Die Mommie Die!” on Friday, Sept. 12 at 7 p.m.

The production —a deliciously over-the-top homage to classic Hollywood mid-century thrillers — ­­continues the Playhouse’s artistic partnership with Busch, who reprises his iconic role of the glamorous yet troubled songstress Angela Arden.

Keep ReadingShow less