SULLIVAN COUNTY - We all know someone that has been affected by Alzheimer's. A unique annual event allows us to join the fight against the disease. On February 10, the Alzheimer's Association Hudson Valley Chapter will hold its Subzero Heroes ice jump at Berean Lake in Highland. Proceeds from the event will help local people across the Hudson Valley, including here in Sullivan County. Last year's event raised over $100,000 dollars.

Heroes, who raise a minimum of $200, will jump 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. Sidekicks do not take the plunge, but help the Heroes with fundraising and offer support on the day of the event.

While it has long been a Subzero Heroes tradition for Heroes and Sidekicks to wear creative costumes, this year will feature the first-ever Subzero Heroes Costume Contest.

Categories include Best Team Costume, Funniest Costume and Best Couples Costume. In addition, for the first time there will be a hot chocolate bar with marshmallows from Hudson Valley Marshmallow Company and syrup from Madava Farm as well as mulled cider from Minyard Farms Beverage Company.

Once again, Culinary Institute Chef Scott Swartz and his students will provide soups attendees can enjoy with rolls provided by Bread Alone.

Subzero Heroes started in February 2000 when 25 Heroes jumped into a frozen lake while approximately 80 others watched. Since then, the event has expanded dramatically, 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 845.471.2655 or lvoorhees@alz.org. Those interested in the event can also follow Subzeroheroes on Facebook.

Volunteers are needed for a variety of roles on the day of the event. To learn more about how you can help, contact Sue Bunce at 845-695-2247.

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 or call 800-272-3900.