Cranberry CUP continues to ‘give people hope’
Members of Cranberry Township gathered Saturday morning, Aug. 3, to celebrate the kick off the annual Cranberry CUP.
This year, the community’s attention was focused on the Tuite family. Rick Tuite, who in April of 2023 was diagnosed with squamous cell carcinoma, attended the opening ceremony with his family.
Cranberry CUP board member Robin Schaffer said that before the Cup had stepped into his life, Rick “had given up already,” Schaffer told the crowd. “But from the moment he met us he wanted to live and fight this disease. That’s the power of all of you who are here today and who participate throughout the weekend in some way. You give people hope and help ease their troubles, so that they can concentrate on healing and being with their families.”
A crowd spanned the bleachers and hillside facing the softball fields. Parents, children, and senior citizens all showed up to make their support for the event and the Tuites known.
The Cranberry Fire Department entered with a firetruck and sirens to sound off the big event. Seneca Valley Cheerleaders stood on the boundary of the softball field as members of the Cranberry Township Council and the Cranberry CUP Board spoke to the crowd.
State Rep. Stephanie Scialabba said, “This is such a special place. And it’s not special because of the beautiful parks and places. It’s special because all of you … the people who live here. The people who care.”
After the board members and several town representatives took turns at the microphone, the winners of last years’ event were celebrated. The board also honored Taryn Wilson, a Seneca Valley graduate who was awarded a $2,000 scholarship this year.
The Cranberry CUP will feature multiple events like a softball tournament, a cornhole competition, and even live music from Long Shot, Water View Band, and Phase 4. The 2024 Cup will conclude on Sunday, Aug. 5, with the championship softball game.
