The cold has settled in here and we are always looking for things to do to break up the monotony of the Winter. Check out these activities to make the most of the ice and snow!

Don’t Forget the First Annual Youth Ice Fishing Tournament in memory of Gerald “Jerry” Bruce Sheppard hosted by Smugglers Nob Rod & Gun Club on Saturday, February 5th from 8 AM – 2 PM on Mitchell Pond, Cochecton, NY. Bring the kids of all ages out for a fun-filled day of ice fishing (all kids fish for free). Food and beverages for all kids who participate, and all children will be eligible for prizes. Fishing regulations will be in accordance with the NYSDEC. Contact Harold “Boomer” Russell (845-583-6602) or Kevin Esselman (845-932-7829) with any questions.

Town of Neversink’s 1st Annual Winter Fest is Saturday, February 12 with a snow/blizzard date of Saturday, February 19th from Noon - 7 PM. With lots of fun for kids and adults of all ages! Food vendors, craft vendors and activities such as tubing, cross country skiing, sledding, snow painting, s’mores, music and much more!!!

Interested in trying snowshoeing? Snowshoeing is the perfect alternative to skiing when you’re lacking vitamin D this winter! Fortress Bikes in Hurleyville has snowshoes available for all sizes. Kids who are under 3 can ride along in a sled pulled by an adult (additional fees apply). Learn more: www.fortressbikes.com.

The SKI NY Passport Program-Kids Ski Free* is back for the 2021-22 Season! This year the pass is valid seven days a week except for holiday periods at certain ski areas as noted on their website (https://www.iskiny. com/ski-ride/ski-ny-ski-ride-passport-program) The program offers free skiing for your third and fourth graders with an adult purchase, it can be used up to two (2) times per participating ski area after a $41 application processing fee.

The Villa Roma Friday night skiing is back! With $20 lifts and rentals plus each lift ticket comes with a slice of pizza and drink.

The “Red Dogs” Football and Cheerleading sign-ups will be on 2/5 with a snow date of 2/12 at the Sullivan West Elementary School from 9-12. *Save $10 on early registration fees. Contact President Heather Han for more details or questions: reddogsorganization@gmail.com.

For informational purposes – the USPS is offering each residential address four free, individual rapid antigen COVID-19 tests. Simply go to the website to request your free tests: https://special. usps.com/testkits.

The Town of Cochecton also has tests kits available for pick-up at the Town Hall. Please contact the Town Clerk to arrange pick-up (845) 932-8360 Ext. 11

Stay warm, bundle up and remember Spring is just around the corner!

If you have a local business that would like to be spotlighted in an upcoming column, please get in touch! Please email jenn@jennpowelldesigns.com with any news, events, and happenings.