Annual Polar Bear Plunge
(click on photos to enlarge)
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On Sunday, January 8th, 2017 the Smithtown Historical Society hosted its first annual Polar Bear plunge at Long Beach of Smithtown. This event attracted almost 2 dozen young people who took a plunge into the icy waters of the Atlantic. The temperature hovered around 14 ;)
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degrees and with the blustery wind it felt 10 degrees below zero. The water temperature felt warmer than the ambient air and it felt more comfortable in the water than out. Even the hardiest souls could only stay for a quick dip before running out of the water seeking the comfort of warm blankets and hot chocolate.
Among the daring plungers were Historical Society Executive Director Marianne Howard, Board Secretary Kathryn Tusa, Board Member Tom Hancock, and six staff members from the Smithtown Library. Mrs. Howard said, “This was my first time participating in a Polar Bear Plunge, and what better way to do that than the day after a blizzard! Thank you to the brave souls who plunged with me today in support of the Smithtown Historical Society. I could not be happier that they feel the Society is worth taking part in such a tradition and I hope they will join us again in 2018 along with many others!”
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We would like to thank our partner: Bill Professional Painting LLC for their support in organizing this event. The plunge was a huge success, and it encourages us to have more fun filled events throughout the year.
A special thanks to the Nissequogue Fire Department who were instrumental in making this event a success. We would also like to extend our thanks to the Town of Smithtown Parks Department, and the Smithtown Historical Society’s Board of Trustees, Staff, and Volunteers.
The Smithtown Historical Society works to preserve the historic properties in our town and we seek to expand and improve upon programs for both adults and children while sharing Smithtown’s rich history. All these activities require funding, and we have been fortunate enough to have the support of our wonderful friends and neighbors in Smithtown. Our community, which plays a vital role in supporting our cause and through the years, has helped build our Society.