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A Visitor From the North Pole Joins Hope’s 2026 Polar Plunge

February 22, 2026

The North Warren High School Wrestling team and Santa — Members of the North Warren High School Wrestling team take the plunge alongside Santa, the ultimate Polar pro. Phot by Jane Primerano.

The weather wasn’t exactly polar for the 2026 Polar Plunge at Swayze Mill Park on
Saturday, Feb. 21.

But the lake water was cold. One plunger measured the temperature at 35.4 degrees. Fire fighters had to cut through the ice to create open water.

With firemen Justin Granitzski and Steve Pedersen in the water in their gear, 24 people ran in and out in their bathing suits.

Except for Santa who was in full costume. A member of the North Warren High School Wrestling team, Santa only identified himself at Santa. Other teammates made the plunge in mufti as did two coaches. This was the first time any team participated. Firemen discussed asking the Belvidere wrestlers to come next year.

The Sandyston Plunge Club came out in force in their matching red swim suits.
Deputy Mayor Terry Urfer and Committeeman John Kruk were plungers. Kruk has been on the rescue team in the past but was happy to plunge this year.

A black dog and people in bathing suits frolic in the water — Bennie and his mom, owner, Stephanie Krum of White Township, make their first plunge. Photo by Jane Primerano.

By far the most enthusiastic plunger was Bennie, a 3-year-old Labrador retriever who swam with his owner, Stephanie Krum of White Township who was making her first plunge. Bennie enjoyed it so much, he jumped back in the water.

The plunge benefits the Hope Volunteer Fire Department. Firefighters sold hot dogs and hot chocolate and collected donations from the public. Fireman Tom Oztruzyk said the public is very generous with donations. The department presented Santa the best costume award, and the Sandyston Plunge Club was recognized for its spirit.

The sponsors of the plunge are The Urfer Family, Engels Towing and Auto Repair, Bird Dog Coach LLC, OG Landscaping & Lawn Care, D&E Service Center, The Morgan Law Firm, Mayor McDonough and Family, Schoemer’s Landscaping, Servpro — Team Fabian, The Kruk Family, and the NJ State Police.

Jane Primerano, Contributing Writer

Jane Primerano is a veteran journalist covering Warren County municipalities, agriculture, and historic preservation. Her work has appeared in New Jersey Monthly, New Jersey Farmer, and more. A past president of NJ Press Women and SPJ NJPro, she lives in Hope Village and enjoys music, singing with the Warren County Community Singers, reading, and the Jersey Shore.