Daily News

Dancing a la Carte Announces Fundraiser for Harmony House

SPRINGFIELD — Lou Brunetti lived life to the fullest as an active member of his hometown of Chicopee, participating in community and church life. He lost his fight with cancer earlier this year, while spending his last days in the care of Harmony House, a home for the terminally ill. In memory of his life and his last days at Harmony House, a ballroom and Latin dancing event will be held on Saturday, May 25 at 7 p.m. at the Sheraton Hotel in Springfield.

Organized by David Rosinski of Chicopee, the evening promises to be an exciting showcase of local and national dancers. Rosinski, who operates Dancing a la Carte and is a teacher, choreographer, and coach, is a former U.S. and world exhibition champion. He has won every major ballroom competition in the country with his partner, Michelle Evans. He appeared on Star Search in 1990 and performed with Juliet Prowse.

There will be a VIP wine and cheese reception prior to the show for those who choose to donate $100 for available VIP seating. Only 50 of these VIP seats will be sold, so it is encouraged to get tickets early. Hosting the VIP event will be Fr. William Tourigny of Ste. Rose de Lima Parish in Chicopee, where Brunetti was a lifetime congregant and an active volunteer.

Tickets range from $30 to the $100 VIP donation and are available in advance from Rosinski by calling (413) 519-2435 or at Ste. Rose de Lima church before and after weekend masses.

Harmony House currently occupies a small house in Chicopee, which was offered by a local family for use while the organization is in the process of renovating a much larger home in the Aldenville section of the city. Staffed mainly by volunteers of all kinds — nurses, CNAs, caregivers, companions, and more — Harmony House is totally privately funded through the generosity of individuals, businesses, and foundations. Contributions are gratefully accepted at all times.

Volunteers are needed for the direct care of residents, as well as for housekeeping, food preparation, and groundskeeping. For more information, visit www.harmonyhousewma.org or call (413) 331-5252.