A beach day in January? For the 22nd year, the Chill’n for Charity Polar Bear Dip at Oakland Beach in Rye Town Park drew an enthusiastic crowd of participants and well-wishers. Some 200 people of all ages pulled off their warm clothes, rushed into the wintry waters of Long Island Sound, and ran back up on the beach, boasting big smiles. 

The event benefits three local charities: Soul Ryeders, Compassionate Care ALS, and Outreach Resurrection. This year’s event was dedicated to the memory of two local residents, Eugene Doherty of Mamaroneck, and Norbert Galligan of Rye. Doherty’s 11-year-old daughter, Emerson, boldly led the run to the water.