LOCALadk Magazine

LOCALadk | People for Veterans. It is hoped that the integrated, community-based HBA model can be replicated by other interested communities throughout the country. Greg also tells me that HBA has recently been presented with an opportunity and challenge. An organizational supporter has pledged to match any local contributions to the program, up to $150,000.If HBA is fully able to utilize the match, $300,000 in funding will be available to be used as the down payment for a property called the Prescott House. This acquisition would be used largely for their new Veterans Reintegration Academy program. They're already off to a running start with more than $30,000 in local contributions to the fund. With the interest and enthusiasm generated by Greg's participation in Ironman, they are hoping to raise a lot more. In support of veterans everywhere, he also urges, "Please do not take your freedoms lightly. Know and understand that your ability to read these words today, and my ability to write them, has been provided by so very many men and women in our past. Their sacrifices were made willingly to give us what we look forward to." That is why he's setting off, sponsors in tow, to swim 2.4 miles, bike 112 miles, and run 26.2 miles, all on the same day. Greg started running marathons in 2006. Always physically fit and active, Ironman seemed to be the next logical challenge, especially since the swim, bike, and running race are staged within just a few miles of his family's home. He sees it as a perfect venue to challenge himself personally, and at the same time, raise awareness for the ground breaking program that is Homeward Bound Adirondacks. As a local business owner, Greg also understands the positive economic impact the Ironman competition has on the surrounding communities. His custom embroidery and apparel business, Bear Essentials, relies heavily on retail foot traffic through his two shops and welcomes the Ironman crowd. The flood of new customers into town every year during the event always generates new business. In addition to raising awareness and funding for HBA, participating in the Ironman as a competitor also shows his support for the race and the opportunities it brings to town for local businesses every year. So keep your eyes open at Ironman Lake Placid 2013, on July 28th, and if you see Greg or his supporters, stop and say hello. If you do happen to miss him, just look at the finish line. I know he'll be there. R YOU CAN HELP Homeward Bound Adirondacks is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization which operates through public-private partnerships. All donations are tax deductable. Your generosity is greatly appreciated and will make a difference in the lives of those who have given so much. Please visit www.HomewardBoundAdirondacks.org for more information. Wilderness Canoeing right out our door North Country Community College Malone • Saranac Lake • Ticonderoga In a Place Like No Other… ...A College Like No Other New York's Best Community College Washington Monthly Magazine St. Regis Canoe Outfitters Ltwt. Canoe & Kayak Rentals Over 100 boats available Quality Camping Gear Rentals By the piece or package Food Packing and Drops Transportation/Shuttles Guides/Instruction Free Trip Planning Outdoor Gear Shop Saranac River Base 73 Dorsey St. Saranac Lake, NY On the NFCT APPLY ONLINE! WWW.NCCC.EDU NO APPLICATION FEE Floodwood Outpost Floodwood Rd. at Long Pond Portage Lake Clear, NY 518-891-1838 ● 888-775-2925 www.canoeoutfitters.com info@canoeoutfitters.com 30 years and still trippin' LOCALadk Magazine Summer 2013 37

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