By Steffen Klenk
President’s Day Weekend in Sea Isle City can feel like your typical summer holiday at the Jersey Shore. The sun is glistening along the sand and ocean, the promenade is packed with people, and the streets and sidewalks are filled with cars, pedestrians and passing Jitneys. The party kicked off on Saturday with an annual tradition that dates back over 26 years; the city’s annual Polar Bear Plunge.
Thousands filled the beach dressed for the occasion. Many showed up in their bathing suits, matching outfits, themed costumes and pajamas, ready for a brisk 30 degree dip in the Atlantic Ocean. Spectators cheered on the participants along neighboring beachfront homes and condos.
The following day, Sunday, saw over 3,000 people participate in the annual Polar Bear Run and Walk for Autism. This was the 12th year for the event, which has raised money for various Autism groups and organizations right here in South Jersey.
This annual event was founded by Mike Monichetti, Sea Isle resident and owner of Mike’s Seafood. He and his wife Jeannie have four children, two of which are on the autism spectrum. Since forming the run and walk, he has dedicated his life to helping those in the community.
Kevin Capone, spokesperson for the Polar Bear Run Walk, says the amount of community and business support has been impressive. “Every guy that works here (at Mike’s) gets behind this cause. We’re all brought into this in a way. Whether its local vendors or major companies, the amount of support we get is amazing.”
Governor Phil Murphy, and wife Tammy, made a special appearance for Sunday’s Polar Bear Run. The two caught up with the Monichettis’ prior to the event kickoff. He even participated in the run, clocking in at a time of 31:03.
Through the duration of the weekend, many gathered inside big heated tents outside of Sea Isle’s own LaCosta Lounge. The building opened in 1968 and has been well known landmark for generations of residents and visitors alike. Kevin Capone spoke about the partnership between Mike’s Seafood and LaCosta owner Jimmy Bennett. “Jimmy has always been generous to us; he is one of those guys who gives with his heart first.”
While the totals are still being counted from Sunday’s Run and Walk for Autism, it is expected that this year’s fundraiser will raise more than $100,000. Capone says “To have the end cap for this weekend be something that supports a super worthy cause is special.”
Steffen Klenk is a multimedia journalist. He resides in Ocean City and enjoys capturing the eclectic moments of shore life.
