Cairo-Durham Central School District

NEWS RELEASE from Cairo-Durham Central School District

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Cairo-Durham Central School District Announces Glenn Aragona as March 2024 “Mustang Monthly Alumni Spotlight” Recipient

CAIRO, NY, April 17, 2024 – The Cairo-Durham Central School District is proud to announce the March 2024 recipient of the “Mustang Monthly Alumni Spotlight” is Zoom Flume Water Park owner and operator Glenn Aragona (‘85). 

Following graduation from Cairo-Durham High School, Aragona received a bachelor’s degree in engineering from Rochester Institute of Technology and quickly joined his parent’s business, the popular recreational waterpark, Zoom Flume. Aragona credits his family, teachers and coaches in the sports of baseball, soccer and volleyball for instilling a sense of pride and a hard work ethic in him.

“When I look back at my experience at Cairo Durham, I can say it was pretty darn good. My teachers and coaches, who I am sure are no longer there, have been a great influence on me. I had an awesome group of friends and still see a few to this day. My parents supported me throughout my sports, music and activities while in school,” said Aragona. “I have to say that each one of my teachers and coaches taught me how to push myself to get to the next level.”

Giving back to the community, Aragona can frequently be seen donating to local organizations and groups, as well as providing opportunities for employment to young adults seeking a summer job.

“He has employed thousands of area teenagers, giving most of them their first job. He has supported area charities and teams with donations and prizes,” said nominator Denise Kerrigan. “By virtue of the Zoom Flume Water Park, businesses have been established and grown.”

Aragona recalls playing alto saxophone for the Cairo-Durham High School band and playing in several sectional playoff games for the Mustangs. He remembers vividly learning experiences that came with defeat to improve in all aspects.

“While playing soccer, occasionally, we lost a game. The following day after our loss, not only the coach would have us do sprints, but he had us de-rock our playing field. Now, who wants to pick up rocks and throw them over the fence?  Not sure if a coach could get away with that these days, but it taught us a lesson. This taught me how to play harder and be a team player. It not only worked with playing sports, but with life in general,” Aragona said.

Claiming the best part of his job being the satisfaction expressed by smiling families for the enjoyment provided by him and his staff, Aragona provided advice for Mustangs finding their way.

“It may sound like a cliche, but follow your dreams. It will not come to you, so you need to go out and get it,” said Aragona. “Keep in mind, life is not all about work. Finding time for fun and raising a family should be a necessity within your path. It is important to enjoy what you do for a living. When you wake up each morning, be ready to tackle the day. If you dread going to work each day, reassess things in life and find a better direction. You deserve to be happy and content.”

In an effort to bridge the community and the Cairo-Durham Central School District, the “Mustang Monthly Alumni Spotlight” was created to provide an opportunity for community members to nominate members of the Cairo-Durham Class of 2018 or prior who have made an impact in the community, embrace Cairo-Durham pride and serve as role models to future generations of Mustangs to be recognized on the District’s platforms.

Nominations for the April 2024 “Mustang Monthly Alumni Spotlight” are officially open and can be submitted at the link below by Friday, May 3, 2024 at 3 p.m. Past nominations will also be considered in the selection process. Click here to submit a nomination for April 2024.

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Photo: Cairo-Durham Central School District March 2024 “Mustang Monthly Alumni Spotlight” recipient Zoom Flume Water Park owner and operator Glenn Aragona (‘85). 

For further information, please contact:

Austin Crosier

Communications Technician/Specialist