Ice jump to fight Alzheimer's is Feb. 9 in Highland

On Saturday, Feb. 9, the Alzheimer’s Association Hudson Valley Chapter will hold its ninth annual Subzero Heroes ice jump at Berean Lake in Highland.

Heroes, who must raise a minimum of $200 in order to jump, will plunge into the icy lake to show their support for families living with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia. Their jumping order is determined by the amount of money they have raised -- with the top fundraisers getting in and out of the water first. Those who would rather not take the frigid plunge can also support the cause as Sidekicks, who do not jump, but help Heroes with fundraising and offer support on the day of the event.

While wearing costumes is a long-standing tradition for Heroes and Sidekicks, last year was the first time the event featured a costume contest, which will be held again this year. In addition, there will be a hot chocolate bar with marshmallows from Hudson Valley Marshmallow Company. Culinary Institute Chef Scott Swartz and his students will also provide soup for event attendees.

Subzero Heroes started in February 2000, when 25 Heroes jumped into a frozen lake as approximately 80 others watched. The event has expanded dramatically since then, and more than 1,000 people are expected to participate this year.

To register, make a donation, or for additional details, visit subzeroheroes.org. With questions, contact Event Manager Lauren Voorhees at lvoorhees@alz.org. Those interested in the event can also follow @Subzeroheroes on Facebook.

If you go

What: Subzero Heroes Ice Jump

When: Check-in from 10:30-11:30 a.m. Jumping starts at noon.

Where: Berean Park. On-site parking is limited, so participants are asked to park at Bridgeview Plaza, 3650 Route 9W, Highland in the Tractor Supply parking lot. There will be shuttles running in a continuous loop from 8:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.

Cost: Must raise $200 to be a Hero and jump; there is no cost to be a Sidekick, but Sidekicks are encouraged to help Heroes raise money.

To register or donate: Visit subzeroheroes.org

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 www.alz.org/hudsonvalley or call 800.272.3900.