Subzero Heroes raises almost $70,000

HIGHLAND, NY — The Alzheimer’s Association Hudson Valley Chapter’s 13th annual Subzero Heroes fundraiser at Berean Lake has raised nearly $70,000 to date. 

Heroes on 19 teams took the plunge into Berean Lake, where some unexpected snow added to the atmosphere.

“It was a truly frigid day—the perfect atmosphere for our heroes to take the plunge,” said David Sobel, executive director of the chapter. “All the money raised helps families living with Alzheimer’s and other dementia, as well as research seeking a cure.”

The event started with an opening ceremony in which the top three fundraising teams were revealed. Strike Out Alz, from Sullivan County, came in first at $14,144.

For those who might not have had a chance to donate and would like to do so, fundraising will remain open through Monday, March 20 at SubzeroHeroes.org.

Rail trail, park development grants for Liberty and Rockland

LIBERTY, NY — The Town of Liberty has been awarded the 2022 Golden Feather community impact grant for its continued development of the O&W Rail Trail between Parksville and Livingston Manor. 

The town was awarded a $250,000 state grant—secured and presented by Assemblywoman Aileen Gunther—and a $100,000 Gerry Foundation grant presented by Sandra Gerry, founding chair of Sullivan 180 and Sullivan Renaissance. 

The town’s in-kind contribution is $50,000.

The funding, said Liberty supervisor Frank DeMayo, “will begin development of a connection between the Parksville and Livingston Manor sections of the Sullivan O&W Rail Trail. This was a collaborative effort between the Town of Liberty and its many partners, who have shown unwavering support and volunteerism.”

“I am always so proud to see the tradition of the Golden Feather continue, with more fantastic projects funded throughout the region,” said Gunther, congratulating the town. 

The towns of Liberty and Rockland have each been awarded $50,000 Silver Feather community impact grants for projects in their respective communities. 

The Town of Liberty will use its award to begin Phase 1 improvements and expansion at Creekside Park in the Village of Liberty, including the stabilization of a collapsed culvert.

The Town of Rockland will focus its award funding on Riverside Park in Roscoe, including the creation of a new park plan and expanded programming and equipment.

“The Riverside Park project is something that I am extremely passionate about,” said Chrissy Routledge, councilwoman for the Town of Rockland, “and this grant will allow us to move forward on creating what will undoubtedly be a great asset to our community.”

Chamber honors Mike Kuzmiak III

The Chamber of the Northern Poconos recently recognized outstanding business leaders and important county figures. Pictured are Joe Regenski, left; …

HAWLEY, PA — The Chamber of the Northern Poconos awarded Paupack Watering Hole owner Mike Kuzmiak III its Young Entrepreneur award. 

The award recognizes an individual aged 40 or younger, who “has shown an entrepreneurial spirit in their dedication and commitment to our community through their interest in business, leadership and personal achievement,” the Chamber stated. 

Kuzmiak was honored at the annual membership meeting at Ladore Lodge in Waymart.

Kuzmiak is a graduate of Wallenpaupack High School and Johnson College. After college, he began working for his father, the owner of Mike’s Auto Service & Towing. The son started the 24-hour towing portion of the business.

In 2021, Kuzmiak purchased the former Pines Tavern. Now the Paupack Watering Hole, the pub features live music, trivia nights and a menu with a gourmet twist for lunch and dinner.

The chamber thanked PPL, Honesdale National Bank, Brookfield Renewable, Grimm Construction, the Dime Bank, Wayne Bank and Bold Gold Media Group for sponsoring the event.

For more information about the chamber, visit www.northernpoconos.org, or email chamber@northernpoconos.org.

New time for caregiver support group

ONLINE — The caregiver support group at Cornell Cooperative Extension’s Caregiver Resource Center now starts at 6 p.m. every Wednesday.

Run by Bonnie Lewis, the long-time Cornell Cooperative Extension educator, the online meetings have plenty of time for questions, advice, successes and more from the people who get it—other caregivers.

Caregivers can learn about existing aging and health services, new programs and upcoming events, and share coping strategies. 

“Caregivers run errands, prepare meals, drive loved ones to appointments, manage medications, provide hands-on care and so much more in this demanding role,” said Lewis. “The support group is there for the caregiver, and it is an opportunity to take a break and recognize that they too need relief and a space to seek others on the same journey.”

Caregivers are encouraged to register in advance for this meeting, at sullivancce.org/events. After registering, participants will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting. 

All support groups are free and confidential. For questions, call Cornell Cooperative Extension Sullivan County at 845/292-6180.