Rockland’s state legislators get dunked to raise funds for ALS research

BY MICHAEL RICONDA

NANUET – Rockland’s New York State representatives met at the office of Sen. David Carlucci on a muggy Wednesday afternoon for what could be called a “refreshing” break from the political grind, agreeing to be splashed with buckets of ice water to raise awareness and funds for research into Lou Gherig’s Disease.

Carlucci was joined by Assemblyman Ken Zebrowski and Assemblywoman Ellen Jaffee for the event. Each of the reps sat in a chair while they were doused with the ice water in a show of support for those suffering from the debilitating neuro-degenerative disease.

In accordance with the rules of the challenge, the three asked County Executive Ed Day and the entirety of the County Legislature to face the ice water in turn. The Legislators also collectively donated $100 to the ALS Association.

The viral trend began Peter Frates, a Boston area ALS patient and former captain of his college baseball team, asked fellow players to take the challenge. Since July 29, the Ice Bucket Challenge has vastly exceeded fundraising expectations and attracted a number of political and entertainment luminaries.

With participation from figures such as the Kennedies, Matt Lauer, Martha Stewart, Justin Timberlake and thousands more, the ALS Association has received $2.3 million since July 29. This is compared to $25,000 during the same period of time last year.