Dutchess/Ulster Walk to End Alzheimer's set for Oct. 19

On Saturday, Oct. 19, people will gather on the Highland side of the Walkway Over the Hudson for the Dutchess/Ulster Walk to End Alzheimer’s.

Registration for the walk starts at 9 a.m. with the opening ceremony kicking off at 10 a.m. There will be a variety of family-oriented activities including an arts and crafts tent for kids, Bee Bee the Clown, face painting by Let’s Do Paint with Jill Dunay and Parrots for Peace. Breakfast snacks provided by Hannaford will also be available during registration.

There will be a selfie photo booth on site as well as a tribute tent where people can honor loved ones. Participants can also check out the exhibitor tables, which will include sponsors Edward Jones and Mac-Testa Contracting Corporation.

“The 2019 Planning Committee is looking forward to a terrific event,” said Walk Manager Tina Eckert. “They have worked diligently since January to make sure they are providing the best experience for all our walkers, sponsors and volunteers. We are so excited that Dutchess and Ulster counties are uniting in the fight against Alzheimer’s.”

Prior to the opening ceremony, Jim Gordon of Laughing at Aging will lead participants in a laughter yoga exercise.

The Ancient Order of Hibernians will start off the walk playing bagpipes, and walkers will be treated to an a cappella performance by the Evergreen Chorus when they reach the Poughkeepsie side of the Walkway. A lunch of hot dogs and hamburgers provided by the 110 Rod and Gun Club will be available for walkers when they return to the Highland side.

So far, more than 550 people are registered to participate, and nearly $110,000 has been raised to date, which is 60 percent of the event’s overall fundraising goal of $180,000. Fundraising will continue past the actual walk date, with donations accepted through Dec. 31. Those interested in registering or making a donation can do so at WalkwayWalk.org.

About the Walk to End Alzheimer’s

The Walk to End Alzheimer’s is the nation’s largest event to raise awareness and funds for Alzheimer’s care, support and research programs. Participants learn about Alzheimer's disease, advocacy opportunities, clinical-study enrollment and support programs and services.

About the Hudson Valley Chapter

The Hudson Valley Chapter serves families living with dementia in seven counties in New York including Dutchess, Orange, Putnam, Rockland, Sullivan, Ulster and Westchester. To learn more about programs and services offered locally, visit alz.org/hudsonvalley.

About the Alzheimer’s Association

The Alzheimer’s Association is the leading voluntary health organization in Alzheimer’s care, support and research. Its mission is to eliminate Alzheimer’s disease through the advancement of research; to provide and enhance care and support for all affected; and to reduce the risk of dementia through the promotion of brain health. Its vision is a world without Alzheimer’s. Visit alz.org or call 800.272.3900.

If you go

What: Dutchess/Ulster Walk to End Alzheimer’s

When: Saturday, Oct. 19. Registration starts at 9 a.m. Opening ceremony is at 10 a.m. followed by the walk.

Where: Walkway Over the Hudson, starting on the Highland side. Parking for the event will be at the Bridgeview Plaza in Highland, with shuttle buses available starting at 8 a.m. to bring participants to the Walkway.

Register: WalkwayWalk.org