Subzero Heroes raises more than $92,000 to fight Alzheimer's

Despite frigid, blustery weather on Saturday, Feb. 9, more than 150 people showed up at Berean Lake in Highland to take part in the Alzheimer’s Association Hudson Valley Chapter’s ninth annual Subzero Heroes ice jump.

Heroes, who had to raise a raise a minimum of $200 to take the plunge, jumped into the icy lake to show their support for families living with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia. The lake was frozen solid, so members of the Ulster County Sheriff’s Office Dive Rescue had to cut an opening for jumpers with a chainsaw.

How much money teams raised determined the jumping order, with the top fundraisers getting in and out of the water first. Heroes were assisted by Sidekicks, who did not jump themselves, but assisted with fundraising for the Heroes’ teams and stood by with towels for the Heroes as they emerged from the water.

Many Heroes wore creative and colorful costumes, and for a second year, the event included a costume contest. The contest winners were The Lloyd Police Contingent for Best Team Theme, The Storm for the Coolest Costume, Team Frank for the Warmest Costume and Mid Hudson Valley Federal Credit Union for the Most Original Costume.

Attendees were also treated to live bagpipe music by Evan Cross and Seamus Cassidy Rattigan of the Capital District Youth Pipe Band, who played as Team Doyle Divers made their way to the lakeside and took their plunge.

Participants had access to a variety of refreshments including mulled hot cider from Minard Farms Beverage Company, a hot chocolate bar with marshmallows from Hudson Valley Marshmallow Company and gourmet soup by Culinary Institute Chef Scott Swartz and his students. Bread Alone donated bread to be served with the soup and Hard Roll Deli and The Pastry Garden provided cookies. Cheesecake Heaven was also on site with free samples and a silent raffle to benefit the Association.

To date, the event has raised more than $92,000 toward its goal of $100,000. There is still plenty of time for Heroes and Sidekicks to meet this goal, since Subzero Heroes fundraising will continue through June 30.

“We are so grateful to our Heroes, Sidekicks, sponsors, volunteers – and everyone else who helped make this year’s event such a success,” said Event Manager Lauren Voorhees.

Those who would like to support the cause by backing a Hero should visit subzeroheroes.org to make a donation.

The first Subzero Heroes was held on a chilly morning in February 2010 when 19 brave souls jumped into a frozen lake, and approximately 80 others watched -- raising around $6,000. Since then, the event has grown dramatically, and this year 75 Heroes jumped with the goal of raising $100,000.

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.