More Than 800 Bikers Unite Tires To Pavement And Hearts
SOUTHINGTON, CT. – More than 800 bikers revved up for the 10th annual MS Motorcycle Ride. The 50-mile ride, led by WFSB Channel 3 anchor Kevin Hogan, raised more than $32,000.
“These funds are vital in the fight against multiple sclerosis,” said Karen Butler, vice president of communications with the National MS Society, Connecticut Chapter. “The money raised helps ensure that research keeps moving forward toward a cure. Funds also stay right here in Connecticut, allowing the chapter to reach out and provide helpful programs and services to people in our state battling the effects of this unpredictable and potentially debilitating disease.”

Longtime supporters in the fight against multiple sclerosis, Dexter Balyeat, Jr., special events coordinator for Haymond Law, and Connecticut Cruise News publisher Don Clady take a moment to pose at the 2010 MS Motorcycle Ride Sunday, July 25, at Cadillac Ranch in Southington. The ride attracted more than 800 bikers and raised more than $32,000.
Finish line activities included a steak and chicken lunch compliments of Outback Steakhouse, live music by Hot Box, drawings for prizes and an awards ceremony hosted by Don Clady, publisher of Connecticut Cruise News and a longtime supporter of the ride and the fight against MS.
“This ride was the best yet,” said Newington resident Bill Windish, who was diagnosed with MS in 1996 and who served as this year’s ride spokesperson. “Seeing so many bikers come out in support of people with multiple sclerosis means so much. The motorcycle community is charitable and supportive. It is this kind of outreach that affects change and moves us closer to a cure.”
7th Annual Tour Raises $86,000 for Center For Cancer Care Fund
Torrington, CT – The results are in and the 7th Annual Tour of the Litchfield Hills Cycling event raised $86,000 to aid cancer patients residing in Northwest Connecticut. 1,160 enthusiastic athletes participated in the event held on August 1st taking part in 12, 30, 55, 75 and 100 mile cycling routes and 2, 4, and 8 mile walking routes across Litchfield County.
All proceeds from the Tour of Litchfield Hills will be donated to The Center for Cancer Care Fund, Inc., an organization that provides financial assistance and community resources to help with the care, treatment, education and prevention of cancer in the area.
The 2010 Tour of Litchfield Hills was presented by Torrington Honda in conjunction with founding sponsor Northwest Community Bank. The Tour is supported by diamond sponsors Campion Ambulance Service, Inc., and Hatfield Jewelers, as well as numerous other sponsoring businesses and organizations throughout the region.
“On behalf of the Tour Committee, we are pleased with the success of the 2010 Tour of Litchfield Hills and we are delighted to be able to support the needs of cancer patients through this event.” says Marty Mancuso, co-chair of the Tour Planning Committee made up of volunteers. Mancuso also recognizes the work of the numerous people who made the event possible. “The Tour would not have been nearly as successful without the assistance of our dedicated volunteers. These individuals begin preparing for the event in January, and work long hours to staff rest areas, assist with course set-up and registration, and help to ensure that cyclists remain safe on the road.” she added.
In addition to the cycling and walking routes, other highlights of the day included a celebratory picnic and awards ceremony. At the awards ceremony, the Mayor’s Cup was presented to the team whose members were most successful in raising funds. This year, the award was given to “Team Hope” comprised of staff and friends of Connecticut Oncology and Hematology who raised $2,167. Additionally, a bicycle donated by Benidorm Bikes of Canton was awarded to Jon Thiede from New Hartford, the individual who raised the greatest amount.
Masonicare at Newtown Named a Regional Learning Center for Morrison Senior Living

L to R - Bryan Kirdzik of Morrison Senior Living, Executive Chef at Masonicare at Newtown, and Tom Gutner, President of Masonicare at Newtown
Newtown, CT, – Masonicare at Newtown has been designated as a Regional Learning Center for Morrison Senior Living, the dining services provider for Masonicare and one of the country’s largest senior living services providers.
“This designation is an honor,” said Thomas Gutner, President of Masonicare at Newtown. “We will be one of only twelve Regional Learning Centers in the country. New executive chefs, regional directors, dietitians and dining service directors hired by Morrison in New England and New York City will spend time training here at Masonicare at Newtown. This is recognition of our innovative dining programs and the strong clinical support we provide for our residents’ nutritional well-being.”
Masonicare at Newtown provides long-term nursing care, assisted living including memory care, and short-term and out-patient rehabilitation services for more than 200 residents and patients each day. With the assistance of Morrison, the facility serves an average of 600 meals daily and provides hospitality for numerous in-house and community events throughout the year.
Masonicare at Newtown is an affiliate of Wallingford-based Masonicare, Connecticut’s leading not-for-profit provider of healthcare and retirement living for seniors.


