Relay for Life marks 26th year at Mahopac High as community, cadets and dancers honor survivors

The 26th annual Relay for Life at Mahopac High School drew school leaders, American Cancer Society representatives, law-enforcement cadets, local elected officials and community groups to honor cancer survivors and raise funds for research and support programs.

Host Eric Gross opened the Spotlight on Mahopac Schools segment and introduced Superintendent Christine Toner and Kate Quercito of the American Cancer Society. Quercito said the ACS has spent “110 plus years of our mission to end cancer as we know it for everyone,” and highlighted community Relays, including a new Relay for Life of Eastern Putnam set for next Saturday at Brewster High School.

The school superintendent thanked residents for approving the district budget for “2425,” saying the vote preserved student services and added programs. “Thanks again to everyone in the community for supporting the school budget for 2425,” Toner said.

Speakers emphasized the emotional significance of the event. Gross described watching survivors walk the track: “You see them walk that line with such pride, such dignity.” Toner said it is important to remember those lost, support those fighting cancer now and honor survivors.

Putnam County Sheriff Kevin McConville and Deputy Paul Magliotti, the school resource officer for Mahopac High, attended with cadets. McConville said the department attends to show support, and Magliotti described the cadet program as “a pillar of helping out in the community,” with cadets assisting at events and performing support tasks.

Sergeant Demiro, who organizes cadets, said he brings them together to help set up tents and assist attendees. Cadet Nicholas Tedesco said he participates to help his community and to learn more about law enforcement.

Local community groups also participated. Andy McCormick and members of the Penny Lane Dancers said they brought performers aged roughly 5 to 17 to celebrate a survivor named Gabby Strong and to support the Relay; they provided a contact (pennylanedance.com) and a phone number on-air.

Councilman Rob Kearnsen and County Executive Kevin Byrne spoke about personal family experiences with cancer and described Relay events as community rallies for support and cure. Byrne said Relays are special countywide gatherings that bring people together around survivors and fundraising.

Organizers urged continued community support for the American Cancer Society’s work and pointed viewers to www.mayopac.org and the district YouTube channel (mcsd.news) for more information. The broadcast also noted upcoming high school graduation events for seniors.

The segment closed with thanks to participants and organizers and a reminder of the Eastern Putnam Relay schedule.