2016 Polar Plunge raises over $113,000

By Marianne Mueller

Reporter

LOVES PARK – Warm hearted teams and individuals were freezing for a reason on Saturday, March 4 as 450 people took on the challenge of jumping into the frigid waters of Olson Lake at Rock Cut State Park.

As everyone lined up a meaningful opening ceremony commenced. Hands were placed over hearts as Lisa Leombruni of the Rockford Park District lifted spirits with her rendition of our National Anthem. Interim Rockford Police Chief Pat Hoey grabbed everyone’s attention as he carried the ceremonial torch.

Original costumes such as a group of sharks representing the Knights of Columbus, super heroes, tutus, lab coats, and an the Itty Bitty Pool School’s “Under the  Sea” ensemble each added fun to the overall event.

Amidst cloudy skies, light winds moving, and temperatures heading toward 40 degrees action moved quickly resulting in all completing the plunge within a little over a half an hour.

This year marked the eleventh year of the Law Enforcement Torch Run Polar Plunge in the Rockford area; once again chaired by Deb Kelly. Behind the excitement was the goal of raising money to help Special Olympics. At an after plunge party, participants enjoyed refreshments and hot dogs, chips, cookies and water courtesy of Kiwanis Club members.

Organizer, Deb Kelly recognized all of the day’s sponsors giving special recognition to Geico who served as one of the main sponsors. All law enforcement, ambulance services, and Special Olympic Athletes were given kudos.

Global messenger Erica Denzler and Steve Freedlund gave a special insight to what Special Olympics is all about.

“I joined Special Olympics when I was eight years old, and have been an athlete for 37 years, said Freedlund.

“We have amazing coaches, and volunteers. I have bowled, played soccer, and have golfed,” Freedlund added. Last year we raised a total of $118,000 and this year our goal is $127,000. Money that comes in from events like the Polar Plunge goes toward game supplies, volunteer service, lodging, state competitions and food. On behalf of all of the 1,400 athletes I thank you.”

“I have been a Special Olympic athlete for more than 25 years. I have been on a swim team, played soccer, basketball, and have participated in snow shoeing and track.” said Denzler.” One hundred dollars can buy 25 award medals. Thank you for ‘freezin’ for a reason’,” lauded Denzler.

During the awards ceremony winners received a stuffed polar bear and other goodies.  Costume awards were earned by the Knights of Columbus sharks, Itty Bitty Pool School-Under the Sea and the Super Soaker Super heroes.

East High School made their district proud by receiving the “Cool School award bringing in a total of $1,590. The top individual team winner was Jeremy Sims who raised $2,372. The top law enforcement team was Team Shrinkage of Dixon. The top team was Da Polar Bears. Andy and Aaron of 23 News were noted for all of their support and as a high level media team.

Kelly announced that as of Friday evenings pre-event totals $113,226 had been raised.

The first Special Olympics games began via Eunice Kennedy Shriver on July 19-20 at Soldier Field in Chicago. That was in 1968. Since then programs have witnessed great expansion. Over the years thousands of children or adults with intellectual disabilities have been helped through these efforts.

Kim Louis (from left), Mark Batty and Ray Gutierrez from Rochelle Community Hospital feel the cold during the annual 2016 Special Olympic Polar Plunge held at Olson Lake in Rockford, IL. on Saturday, Mar. 5, 2016. Erik Anderson | The Post Journal