January 2013

12th Annual: LPBC Polar Plunge

Polar Bears = 440
Money Raised = $81,500

About a week before the Plunge it was NEGATIVE 25 DEGREES FAHRENHEIT and the lake was frozen....perfect polar bear weather. Fortunately, the extreme weather passed & Mother Nature gave a beautiful, yet chilly day to Celebrate Shrinkage.  As part of the celebration we had many new friends join the ranks of the LPBC Polar Bears and together we SHATTERED our previous fundraising record!  From the Plunge to the after party at Sedgwick's, it was an amazing day...and you all are the ones to thank.

The Plunge
We had a huge turnout for the Plunge with 440 Polar Bears.  While many people were scared off by the recent below zero temperatures, this group of 440 strong, along with their family & friends cheering them on, took full advantage of true polar bear weather.  There was a great mix of veteran polar bears along with many new faces.  We want to celebrate all of the veteran polar bears.  Thanks to them, the
LPBC Polar Plunge is truly developing into a Chicago tradition.  But, we also want to celebrate the 1st Timers, just to name a few:  Christian Angelopoulos, Steve Tooker, Rick Fezell, Andrew Wehr, Jane Quinn and Tori Smith.  Just like other events in your life, you'll always remember your first time.  Hopefully everyone has great photos and we encourage you to share them on the LPBC Facebook page:  www.facebook.com/LakeviewPolarBearClub.

Fundraising Report
An INCREDIBLE $81,500 was raised to assist with the financial challenges that currently face the Lynch & Quinn families.  With your generous donations the Lynch family can afford to provide Mary Cate the physical therapy & surgeries required to continue her development towards a healthy & normal childhood.  The donations will also help Peter Quinn as he continues on with physical therapy in his quest to walk again....and someday soon join us as a polar bear.  Your donations will also help the Quinn family afford educational opportunities for their son with autism. For these families the Polar Plunge is a life-changing event & everyone should be proud of what your participation has meant to them.  It is not limited to the financial side, but also showing them that there is a community who cares and is here to help.  Together we are making a difference in the lives of real families.