Snowy, 32-degree day proves wet, wild & wonderful!

Last month’s Polar Plunge, benefiting the Special Olympics of Massachusetts, was off to a snowy start. Fortunately for the 200 plus spectators – including the 68 who hit the water – the weather turned to a blustery 32 degrees and sunny.

This was the second Polar Plunge for Methuen led by Methuen Police Officer Brandon LaFlamme who, along with eight other officers, took a dunk into the chilly tank known as “Bear Force One.”

Methuen High School cheerleaders lined the entrance leading up to the tank, rooting on the brave “Polar Plungers” which included students from MHS’ football and lacrosse teams including Coach Tom Ryan. Haverhill High wrestling students made a splash; City Councilor Ron Marsan again jumped in wearing a suit and tie. A group of friendly penguins even showed up.

“Thank you to residents, businesses and community partners for the support to this year’s Polar Plunge. Together we raised more than $21,000. With this total combined with last year, we raised over $50,000 for Special Olympics of Massachusetts,” said LaFlamme. “This was a team effort. This could not have been as successful if not for the community and businesses that help make this possible.”

He specifically thanked EJ Paving, Borislow Insurance, Orzo Trattoria, Delucca Fence, Mueskes Landscaping, Martineau Towing Service, Danny’s Auto Sales, Superior Dry Cleaners, One Stop Liquors, Pleasant Valley Landscaping, McDonald’s Restaurant, TGI Fridays, Texas Roadhouse and Cataudella Funeral Home for their generous contributions.

A big thanks to Methuen Fire Department, especially Firefighter Sean Wholley who was in the pool wearing an ice rescue suit for the duration, helping plungers out of the frigid water.

Awards went to those who raised the most funds for this event: Individual winner Methuen Police Officer Joe Alaimo brought in $1,580, while the Methuen Police Department was the top team winner after raising $4,600.

According to a representative from the Special Olympics, $1.3 million was raised last year by Special Olympics Polar Plunges.

Amy’s Plunging Penguins get ready to take the dive into the pool. Shown are (from left) Corey Coonradt, Christy Coonradt, Amanda Boivin, Shane Boivin and (front) Amy Boivin.

Team Methuen Police Department included (from left) Lt. Jim Gunter, Officer Mark Aiello, Sgt. John Delano, and Officers Brandon LaFlamme, Matt Tarness, Patrick Waldron, Joe Alaimo and Sawyer Bilich.