This year’s Special Olympics Polar Plunge was a little different. The reason? The Delaware River was frozen solid. While the theme of the plunge is Freezin’ for a Reason, you cannot jump into solid ice. So most of the plunge moved to Coca-Cola Park in Allentown. Since rooms were already booked for the leaders and coaches at the Grand Eastonian Hotel, the overnight plunges into a pool still took place in Easton. But by early morning, the stage was set in Allentown. Two large pools with platforms were assembled in the parking lot of Coca-Cola Park. Vendors and food trucks arrived, and the sound system was set up.

A costume contest set off the festivities. Dozens competed for the best costume. DJ Joe Franzo provided the music. The National Anthem was sung by firefighter Tyler Brown. Then came the speeches.

Jack Reinhardt of 69 News was the emcee. “Thank you to our very brave plungers. Over 600 plungers have raised 183 thousand dollars. Our goal is 190 thousand.” The top individual fundraiser was Samantha Ahern, $925. The top team fundraiser was a tie between Sheets and Team Caitylyn. Sean Scott was the top new fundraiser.

“I want to thank everyone personally, jumping into these pools goes a long way,” said Julie Benjamin, executive director of Specisl Olympics Greater Lehigh Vally and the Poconos. Our althetes participate in Special Olympics for free. Funds raised here pay for 86 events, uniforms, and more.” One of the more will be sending 15 Lehigh Valley Special Olympics competitors to the National Special Olympics competition in Minnesota this June.

The plunge began. One by one and two by two, even 3 by 3, the plungers mounted platforms and jumped into the pools, sometimes still in costumes. It added an element of fun. After all, the purpose of the Polar Plunge is to raise funds for Special Olympics programs here in the Lehigh Valley.

To make an individual donation, you can mail it to Special Olympics, c/o Colonial Intermediate Unit 20, 6 Danforth Drive, Easton.