New Castle News

Breaking News

Photos-Video

February 20, 2012

Photos, Video, Story: More than 80 take a Polar Bear Plunge at Lake Arthur

NEW CASTLE — On a typical day in mid-February, the Pleasant Valley Beach at Moraine State Park isn’t too crowded.

But Saturday wasn’t a typical day. It was the Lawrence County Habitat for Humanity’s second annual “Douse for a House” Polar Bear Plunge.

Eighty-six people braved the cold water this year, more than doubling the number of 35 participants from last year’s event.

Sheree Cunningham, affiliate manager at Lawrence County Habitat for Humanity, was thrilled with the number of participants.

“(It’s) better than I ever could expect,” she said.

Cunningham herself splashed through Lake Arthur with her father, Tom Walker, who at 77 years old was the oldest plunger of the day.

Kandace Kendall of Volant raised $150 for Habitat for Humanity and for the chance to plunge again after enjoying the event last year.

“It’s exciting,” said Kendall as she talked with friends.











Many participants arrived early to enjoy coffee and doughnuts, dance and to mingle with their co-plungers.

Todd Alexander portrayed Saturday’s polar bear and was among good company, as plunge participants showed off some humorous costumes including a penguin, a viking, Moses and Superman.

In team fundraising, “Charlie’s Cool as Ice” took first place, raising $1,786. Captain Phil Cunningham and his teammates shared some of their fundraising strategy, which included bugging their friends until they donated. The team laughed and wished to thank one of those friends, Bruce Nagy, for his contribution.

“I couldn’t have done it without my team,” Cunningham said.

Katie Grantz, 22, of New Castle took the plunge Saturday and said that despite the nice weather, the water was still “really really cold.”

“But once you’re out there, it’s not that bad.”

To find out more about Habitat for Humanity, visit www.habitat.org.

Text Only | Photo Reprints
Photos-Video
House Ads
Seasonal Content
Section Teases
Community Calendar
Loading…
Events by eviesays.com
Community News Network
Poll

Studies have shown that the three most difficult phrases for people to utter are “I love you,” “I’m sorry” and “help me.” Which is most difficult for you?

I love you.
I’m sorry.
Help me.
     View Results
Poll

Studies have shown that the three most difficult phrases for people to utter are “I love you,” “I’m sorry” and “help me.” Which is most difficult for you?

I love you.
I’m sorry.
Help me.
     View Results
Poll

Studies have shown that the three most difficult phrases for people to utter are “I love you,” “I’m sorry” and “help me.” Which is most difficult for you?

I love you.
I’m sorry.
Help me.
     View Results
Poll

Studies have shown that the three most difficult phrases for people to utter are “I love you,” “I’m sorry” and “help me.” Which is most difficult for you?

I love you.
I’m sorry.
Help me.
     View Results
Poll

Studies have shown that the three most difficult phrases for people to utter are “I love you,” “I’m sorry” and “help me.” Which is most difficult for you?

I love you.
I’m sorry.
Help me.
     View Results