Photos

 Polar Plunge nets $47,000 for Special Olympics

 BLOOMINGTON — Polar Plunge participants on Sunday (3/1/09) put thoughts of hypothermia aside to raise money for Special Olympics Illinois. 245 people took part in the “exhilarating” experience of taking a dip in freezing cold water at Miller Park Lake in Bloomington. Those participating were each asked to raise at least $75, and Katie Herriott, area director of the Special Olympics Illinois, said the organization more than surpassed its original fund-raising expectation. “Our goal was to raise $18,000 and we managed to raise $47,000,” Herriott said. “I’m still in shock from that and we are very happy with the turnout.” Scuba divers and EMTs were present during the plunge to make sure groups of 10 participants at a time were safe as they rushed out into the water. The Polar Plunge has been part of the Law Enforcement Torch Run, which raises money year-round for the Special Olympics Illinois.  This year the plunge was new to Bloomington, having been held previously in Peoria.

Participating for the Illinois State University FarmHouse Fraternity were President Pete Edlefson (green t-shirt) and Mike Bevier (white t-shirt/no shirt).  A special thanks goes out to State Farm Insurance, Systems Department employees who provided sponsorship for Pete and Mike.

         

        

        

     Other Plunge Participants