The 45th Annual BEL Rotary Polar Plunge is in the books and what an incredible success it was! Retro TV characters from the Smurfs, to the Simpsons to the Flintstones and Mr. Rogers made an appearance and raised more than $50,000 for local charities and the work of BEL Rotary.
The local Rotary Club Presidents took to the icy waters. Ken Seim, Peterborough Rotary Club President, Dean Ostrander Kawartha Rotary Club President and BEL’s own President Shannon Junkin made a splash as the beloved characters of Gilligan’s Island.
President Shannon jumped for “Jude’s Joy”, an inclusive playground to be built on the beautiful Ennismore waterfront. Play is a fundamental aspect of childhood and child development, and supports cognitive, physical, social and emotional growth. “Every child has the right to a barrier free, inclusive playground”, said Junkin. “As I watch my own nephews grow and develop I can’t imagine what it would be like if they were unable to participate and engage in play. Inclusivity is important and a fundamental of Rotary. When everyone is included it adds to the strength of our society. This playground will make a difference”.
First time plunger Kara Murray was the not only the youngest plunger but also raised the most money as an individual! She took the jump with mom Jay who was doing her third jump. She made the plunge in honour of her Nana, Mary Lou Tryan who has been fighting a courageous battle with cancer. “Nana’s journey has not been easy, but day in and day out she fights this horrible disease. I was so proud to be able to do this for my Nan”. Kara and her mom jumped in support of The Canadian Cancer Society.
The best costume winners are the “loveable” Smurfs, the team from RE/MAX Hallmark and the most money raised by a team was the “Lead Slingin’ Dippers: from Savage Arms.
Thank you to everyone who made this such a huge success!!