Freezin’ for a Reason: Stony Point Seals Annual Polar Plunge Raises Money, Lifts Spirits

Story and Photos by Jess Warren

Neither snow nor frigid temps deterred Rocklanders from supporting the Stony Point Seals’ annual Polar Plunge. What better way to start off Super Bowl Sunday than seeing hundreds of residents from across the county witnessing volunteers run into the freezing Hudson River for a great cause? The Seals, who have held the fundraiser since 1999, take great pride in helping others who are ill and in recovery. As has been the tradition, the Rockland County Pipe & Drum ushered the brave plungers into the icy Hudson. 

With temperatures hovering in the 20’s, the charitable event began at 10:00 AM on February 13. This year, the Seals were joined by The Charity Chics, who sponsored a football fundraiser. The NAM Knights of America, MC – Hudson Valley Chapter also joined in, lending their support to the annual fundraiser.  Raffle drawings, which involved cash prizes and a 55” flat-screen TV, helped fill fundraiser’s coffers. 

The Immaculate Conception Men’s Club supported the charitable event by serving food and beverages. Donna Jean and other local residents baked a plethora of tasty treats for the residents who attended. All proceeds for this event will support three recipients: Jake (J.J.) Alongi, Noah Diaz and Thomas McGoldrick. 

Michael Lydon, a member of the SPS, wrote a letter on Facebook to thank all who attended the event: “Well, the 23rd polar plunge is in the books, and once again, we are humbled by the unbelievable support we receive each year. We would like to thank all the police, fire, ambulance department and all the county workers for their hard work.” 

Multiple small business sponsors included Babe’s Bar and Grill, MRGA, NAM Knights of America Motorcycle Club, The Cannon Man, Hollywood Screen Printing & Embroidery, and B’s Nest Deli. The Stony Point Police Department, Stony Point Ambulance Corp. and Wayne Hose Company were on the ground to show their community support and to provide protection for those gathered on the shore.

Michael Garabo, a local Stony Point resident, had nothing but uplifting thoughts on the event: “In this pandemic when everything else is divided, and the world seems to be divided — this small town can come together, and we thank God for that.” 

The Stony Point Seals welcome your support. Donations are currently being held on SPS’s website, https://www.stonypointseals.com. Forms of payment include Venmo, Paypal, and check by mail. 

Checks can be made payable to Stony Point Seals, Inc. and sent to P.O. Box 654, Stony Point, NY10980. Please include a memo – “2022 Plunge”. Using Venmo? Make your donation payable to : stonypointseals

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