Islanders take the Polar Plunge

Grand Island Dispatch, November 16, 2007

College and high school students made up a large part of the group that took the Polar Plunge into the Niagara River. Students from St. Bonaventure University, wearing their school’s tradition brown and gold colors, were one of the largest contingents.

Tom Ragan, left, and his radio broadcast partner Ted Shredd of WEDG-FM were on hand to support the Special Olympics and the Polar Plunge. Shredd was suitably attired for the 52-degree water.

The New York State Lottery’s Sarah Pringle announced the award winners for top fundraisers of the Polar Plunge. The New York State Lottery is a major sponsor of the Special Olympics.

Torchbearer Mike O’Bryan of the New York State Troopers runs alongside Trooper Rick Allen, leading the way to the beach at Beaver Island State Park. O’Bryan earned the privilege of leading the procession to the beach as the top fundraiser for the Polar Plunge, a benefi t for the Special Olympics.