Reeves Park residents will once again gather at the beach on New Year's Day for a time-honored tradition organized to help friends, family and fellow community members in need.
According to Bob Kelly, a Reeves Beach resident who has long advocated for a 9/11 memorial park on Sound Avenue in memory of his brother, firefighter Thomas Kelly, who lost his life on 9/11, the annual Arctic Dolphin Swim is scheduled for Jan. 1 at 1 p.m.
"In previous years, we have put this together to help out a family member or friend," Kelly said. "And to try to raise a bit of awareness toward an illness or a tough situation."
The event, he added, has always been low-key.
This year, Reeves Beach residents have decided that whoever plunges will do so to help whomever they choose personally -- their own "connection."
Those who need a person to support through the swim should contact Bob Kelly at bkelly911@hotmail.com.
The event, Kelly said, includes with prizes given out for best and most unusual swimsuit.
And not a full plunge is required, especially with plummeting temps. "Lots of folks just do a quickie, just toes in -- whatever works," he said. "There are no judges. It's fun."
