The serene landscape of Kane, Pennsylvania, once again prepares to host its most impactful annual gathering, the Screw Cancer Festival, a vibrant community event dedicated to fighting cancer and honoring loved ones.

This poignant festival originated from a deeply personal place, conceived by the family of Ron Zampogna, the revered founder of Flickerwood Wine Cellars, following his courageous battle with pancreatic cancer, a fight he ultimately lost on August 27, 2024.

Ron’s legacy lives on through his children, who, led by his daughter Julie Wehner, meticulously organize this yearly fundraising event, driven by a profound desire to unite their Kane community in support and raise critical cancer awareness.

Demonstrating remarkable success as a charity festival, the Screw Cancer Festival has collectively amassed over $30,000 for the Warren General Cancer Care Center in its first two years alone, enabling the acquisition of essential medical equipment to aid patients.

This year promises an even grander experience, featuring an all-day lineup of live music performances, an array of enticing raffle baskets, and engaging silent and live auctions, all complemented by delicious local food and the renowned Flickerwood wines.

A unique and interactive element for attendees is a large community art project, where participants are invited to contribute their creative touch to a mural displayed at the winery, fostering a collective sense of contribution and pride.

As dusk settles, the festival culminates in a deeply moving Chinese lantern release ceremony, a visually stunning and emotionally resonant moment for participants to remember those affected by cancer, symbolizing hope and remembrance across the sky.

The unwavering spirit of Kane residents, continually coming together for such significant causes, truly embodies the cherished small-town ethos of mutual support and collective action, leaving every contributor with a profound feeling of local impact and accomplishment.