Polar Plunge a Success for Special Olympics

BY MELANIE BUCK –

The Hillbilly Healers were the top earners for this year’s Polar Plunge that took place on Saturday, February 27. The ten-member team raised more than $1,000 that was donated to the Polar Plunge, which benefits Area 14 Arkansas Special Olympics.

Organizer Elizabeth Thompkins said around $3,000 was raised in all by the several teams and individuals who vowed to take the plunge into the icy water.

The event has been held at Lake Wilhelmina in the past but was moved to the pool at the old Pine Bowl this year, and still presented that icy effect. Several were in attendance to take the leap, all in costume. There were super heroes, a cluster of grapes, Duck Dynasty look alikes, and even a polar bear.

The Hillbilly Healers team was comprised of employees of Ouachita Rehab Center and when asked why they participate each year, the answer was given by team member Robert Coleman ,who said simply, “Because we care.”

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Jeri Pearson

Jeri is the News Director for Pulse Multi-Media and Editor of The Polk County Pulse. She has 10 years of experience in community focused journalism and has won multiple press association awards.

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