Polar Plunge raises money for Special Olympics

CEDAR CITY – Nearly 100 people jumped into icy water at the Cedar City Aquatic Center’s outdoor pool Saturday during the third annual Polar Plunge.

The purpose of the event is to raise money for the Utah Special Olympics. Bonita Hutchison, the development director for the Utah Special Olympics, estimated that the event brought in $5,000 this year.

Amy Bates, who serves as the head coach for one of Cedar City’s Special Olympics teams, expressed gratitude toward the participants and event organizers.

“Our team really appreciates the support,” Bates said.

Cpl. Shalon Shaver of the Iron County Sheriff’s Office jumped with her agency’s team. She raised $635, which was the most money raised by an individual this year. She also won the event’s costume contest in the category for women 17 and older, sporting a black and white tutu and a black T-shirt identifying her as a sheriff’s office employee.

“I’ve had a lot of support from the sheriff’s department,” she said, adding that families of department members also pitched in to help with fundraising, along with Sheriff Mark Gower and Jail Commander Bret Allred.

Shaver said Allred provided an incentive for department members to donate at least $2 to the Polar Plunge by offering them the chance to determine what kind of costume he would wear for the plunge. Everyone who contributed got together to decide on his attire for the event, which turned out to be an ensemble of flippers, goggles and floaties.

Terry Madlung, the owner of the Video Outlet in downtown Cedar City, said she jumped twice with her friend Tammy Melling.

Madlung said Melling approached her about participating in the event, and Madlung agreed to do it to support the Special Olympics.

“It’s a great thing,” Madlung said. “I’d do it again in a heartbeat.”

By Cathy Wentz – Email: cwentz@thespectrum.com

Original article from The Spectrum.
Article Link: http://www.thespectrum.com/article/20120122/NEWS01/201220325/Polar-Plunge-raises-money-Special-Olympics

By brett in In the News on January 23, 2012