PENGUIN PLUNGE TO TAKE PLACE THIS WEEKEND

The sixth annual Penguin Plunge is set for Sunday, March 3, from noon to 2 p.m., at Nyack’s Memorial Park. This year, the event will raise funds for Isabella Ruggiero of Harrington Park, NJ and Max and Bree of New Hempstead, NY.

Isabella Ruggiero, a beautiful 4-year-old girl from Harrington Park, NJ, was diagnosed with a a rare autoimmune disorder. Specialists from Chicago and Memorial Sloane Kettering provide care and treatment for Isabella including a daily injection and chemotherapy. An accident in late 2012 caused Isabella’s mom’s paralysis. Yet, Isabella remains a happy child that inspires those around her.

Max and Bree Hershkowitz, fiercely independent 9-year-old fraternal twins from New Hempstead, NY, were delivered prematurely at 26 weeks. Max is partially paralyzed with Cerebral Palsy and a brain condition. Bree lost most of her small intestine. Both Max and Bree have learning challenges and have survived 20 surgeries overall. Still, “Don’t help me, I can do it!” is a favorite phrase often heard in the family.

“All of the kids that Penguin Plunge benefits are our family,” said Barbara Noyes, who plans this event. Anyone who wants to help the cause, but are weary of jumping into icy waters, can turn up to donate, watch others and grab food while listening to music and other live performers.

The participants get prizes for wackiest costumes and biggest group and a $20 donation gets a special event t-shirt. Those who brave the shiver in the river get an achievement certificate.

Other events include: Penguin Plunge Trivia Night also known as “Are You Smarter than a Fifth Grade Penguin,” is also scheduled for Sunday, February 24 from 3 to 5 p.m. at the Bourbon St. 132 Main St., Nyack. Restorative yoga is scheduled on February 27 from 7-9 p.m. at the United Methodist Church 130 Franklin Ave., Pearl River.

Contact Louise to reserve space 845-735-4188. Find out more about this cause by liking them on Facebook Penguin Plunge NY or www.penguinplungeny.com.

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