The Cranberry CUP (Community Uniting People) is proud to announce that the Ron Butschle family is among the additional beneficiaries of this year's CUP.

Each year, the Cranberry CUP names an "Inspirational Family" to receive the majority of the proceeds from a three-day charity event. That family for 2008 is the Emil Steinmetz family of Jackson Township. Steinmetz, a former volunteer fireman, is on the waiting list for a heart transplant.

The CUP also reserves some of the proceeds for additional beneficiaries. This year, they will include the Butschle family. Nate, the one-year-old son of Seneca Valley Head Football Coach Ron Butschle and his wife Kelly, has been diagnosed with Langerhans cell histiocytosis (LCH). LCH is a rare disorder, primarily affecting children, that occurs when a form of white blood cell (histocyte) is too numerous and can settle in different organs, causing a variety of complications. The treatment for the disease is similar to that for cancer. Nate's doctors currently are exploring treatment alternatives available in Texas.

The Cranberry CUP, which will be held August 1-3, includes a Golf Classic, Kick-Off Party and a two-day Softball Tournament. It has raised more than $475,000 since its inception in 2000. Funds are raised through registration fees, raffle ticket sales, individual and business contributions and corporate sponsorships. The CUP benefits people in the Seneca Valley School District, which includes Cranberry, Forward, Jackson and Lancaster townships and Callery, Evans City, Harmony, Seven Fields and Zelienople boroughs.

Help Nate get the treatment he needs. Support the Cranberry CUP!