Relay for Life returns to Mahopac

Mahopac came together in the fight against cancer at the annual Relay for Life on May 30, raising funds and awareness while honoring survivors, supporting those still battling the disease and remembering those who have passed.

Hundreds braved cold temperatures and wind gusts of up to 40 m.p.h. to take part in the event, joining survivors, relay teams, local officials and community partners for a day focused on hope and the fight against cancer. Despite the challenging conditions, participants rallied in support of the American Cancer Society’s mission to improve the lives of people with cancer and their families through advocacy, research and patient support.

The day opened with 2026 Survivor Honoree Vincent Valenti, owner of TFW Mahopac, sharing his journey through cancer.

“His story was moving and inspired us all! He even had his bone marrow donor on FaceTime from Germany there to be part of the celebration!” American Cancer Society Senior Development Manager Kate Corsitto said.

In addition to the Relay for Life committee, Valenti was recognized by Assemblyman Matt Slater and Putnam County Executive Byrne “for his bravery and courage in the face of cancer,” Corsitto said.

“I would be remiss if I didn’t add that Vin was celebrating his 50th birthday at Relay, so we sang him Happy Birthday as a community and gave him a special cake to commemorate his dedication to our mission and having his party at Relay for Life for this milestone!”

Vanessa Toleda of The Hive Dance Center was recognized as 2026 Community Partner Honoree.

“The dance that has been performed at Relay and brings tears to our eyes because of how moving it is, is her passion project,” Corsitto said, adding that Toleda and her dancers “pour so much heart and soul” into the performance each year.

“It’s modern dance mixed with a cancer survivor’s journey that leaves us all in awe of how their creativity can capture all the feelings from diagnosis to survivorship through dance,” Corsitto said.

“We watched The Hive Dance Center once again perform a very moving dance that led into our most special Survivor Lap as we cheered them on. These are our neighbors, our family and our friends who fought so bravely. They are the reason we Relay!”

As always, the Relay was about celebrating survivors, remembering those who’ve been lost, and honoring those currently battling cancer.

This year, organizers were inspired by the United Against Cancer theme to start something new—a lap just for veterans.

“Members of the VFW and American Legion walked in memory of Jack O’Hara who recently lost his battle to cancer,” Corsitto said. “Veterans, families and the community walked to honor his memory and to honor all our veterans, especially those who have faced a cancer journey.”

Sunset brought one of the most moving parts of the event as the track was lit by thousands of Luminaria bags decorated and dedicated in honor, memory and support of loved ones near and far.

“County Executive Kevin Byrne played the bagpipes as we closed our ceremony and took to the track during this time of quiet reflection to honor all those touched by cancer. It is one of the most magical and special parts of Relay.”

Steven Tantalos, the 2026 event lead, called this year’s event “an incredible Relay for Life of Mahopac.”

“I am so grateful for our dedicated committee, volunteers, survivors, caregivers, sponsors, and the entire community who came together to make this event such a success,” Tantalos said. “Seeing people unite, create memories, celebrate survivors, remember loved ones, and support the fight against cancer is what makes this event so special. This is why we do it—to bring hope, raise critical funds, and show those facing cancer that they are never alone. On a personal level, I do this to honor the family members and friends who have been impacted by cancer and to set a positive example for my children by showing them the importance of service, compassion, and giving back. Thank you to everyone who helped make this year’s Relay for Life of Mahopac unforgettable. Together, we are making a difference.”